Been Away

I have read so many other books that are not listed on this blog and I am afraid that it would take me a year just to put them on here and review. I have had somethings come up which has kept me from making my daily-weekly post about the new books I have read but I am going to try and get back on here and introduce some more of the books that I have loved to read so far!

Out of the Shadow by J.S. Winn

Book Synopsis:

Out of the Shadow tells the story of two women drawn together in the present to uncover a crime from the past.

Having survived a rape and her husband's murder, all Becca Rosen wants to do is move on with her life, but how can she when she's being stalked by a psychopath with an attitude - and an agenda. The police are no help because they're convinced, with her history of mental illness, Becca has faked the rape to get away with her husband's murder. On top of that, Becca has begun to have flashbacks and nightmares of childhood abuse, possibly at the hands of the rapist. Not knowing where to turn, and feeling like she might go crazy again, Becca hires Psychologist, Sarah Abrams, to help her unearth who's behind the crimes of the past....and the present.

Three men come into Becca's life around the same time. While each of these men has his charms, Becca can't be certain whether any one of them is the real killer. Or could it be someone else? Together Becca and Sarah start on a course of hypnotherapy to discover the abuser's identity. Will their work reveal the real killer before it's too late, or will Becca once again fall prey to this demented criminal?

Book Review:

All I can say is WOW!!! This book was amazing!!! I really had no clue who the psychopath was till the last few pages...Oh and the ending was even more off from what I thought....talk about awesome!! It has been awhile since came across a book that had me guessing and changing my answers several times and keeping me confused all through the book.

This was my first book by this author and it will not be my last. I am really looking forward to reading more books by her!!!

I really liked how the story was told through the victims therapist. It gave a different edge to the writing style. It made it a lot more believable. I felt so much pain for the Becca/Rachel....she had to endure so much and a lot of it on her own....Reading this book has really made me want to look into understanding psychology more....it is truly interesting how our own minds can close out so many things that were hard for us to deal with.

Winn did a wonderful job of writing this story. It was written very well with hardly to no grammar issues at all. It was the right length and had just the right amount of detail in the story. I started this book early afternoon and finished late afternoon today.....I couldn't put it down, it had me captured since the first page.

You definitely have to get this book and read it!! You will not be disappointed and it will have you sitting on the edge of your seat and wondering what will happen next!!!

Mary O'Reilly Series by Terri Reid

Series Synopsis:

Dying is what changed Mary O'Reilly's life. Well, actually, coming back from the dead and having the ability to communicate with ghosts is really what did it. As a third-generation Chicago cop, Mary knew the risks of being a polic officer and didn't hesitate to step between a drug dealer's bullet and her beloved older brother, Sean. But instead of "going to the light" when she died on the operating table, she was given a choice - a choice that would change her life.

Now, a private investigator in rural Freeport, Illinois, Mary's trying to learn how to incorporate her experience as a Chicago cop and new-found talent into a real job. Her challenge is to solve the mysteries, get real evidence (a ghost's word just doesn't hold up in court), and be sure the folks in town, especially the handsome new police chief, don't think she's nuts.

Throughout her adventures, Mary is aided by many colorful characters. Together, they work to solve mysteries so spirits with unfinished business can move on. These mysteries take them to all parts of rural Northwest Illinois and Chicagoland area.

Book Review:
 

I can’t say enough about this series. I was hooked them minute I read the first chapter in Loose Ends (the first book of the series). It had suspense, romance, thrills and paranormal beings. To me that is a good combination for a book, lol. That is all my favorite genres!

Terri Reid really knows her stuff and the writing was amazing. It flowed really well and kept me excited throughout the series. I like the fact that the romance between Bradley and Mary was not an immediate one, like so many other romances I have read it. It felt more natural and realistic.

All the characters in this book (well the good guys, lol) were awesome, there wasn’t one page that I didn’t read that would not have me laughing. Each one had their own unique way of being….well…a smart ass, haha!! J Mary was the best at the smart witty comments!! I could see myself really being friends with her if she was real, hahaha!! Oh and Bradley, yummy and what a sweet heart!!

Because there are ten books in this series so far, I decided it would be a lot easier to just write one review for the whole series.  Each book had a different story but the whole series seemed to mesh together by the way the stories would flow to the book. I really liked how the characters were strong and confident but also had their times of weakness. When you have characters that never show weakness it can kind of gets a little boring, but that was not an issue with this series.

There were times I had gotten a little emotional with the series. Mary was so compassionate about her goal in helping others, both in the life and after death. I loved how the main characters in the series were a big family, not by blood but by friendship. It is so hard to find that kind of friendship. Each character was just as fun and loving as the next and I loved every minute of it.

I guess I can say the one thing I had a little issue with this series was the constant repeat about the characters within each book, I think it finally died down after book five. I could see it going to at least book two but the constant reminder through the rest of the books was about to drive me crazy. I was reading a series so I know about the characters background by end of book one, but I just skipped over the reminder introduction in the books and it was not big deal. Other than that little detail and a few grammar and spelling issues (which was not very many) was really the only thing I had against the series.

If you like a little mystery, crime solving, danger, paranormal and a sweet simple romance, then you will really love this series. I am so glad that I was able to read them, I actually finished all ten books in a week’s time. I just couldn’t put them down. Go out and get the books I know you won’t be disappointed!

Chasing Justice by Danielle Stewart

Book Synopsis:

Piper Anderson has been given a fresh start in the picturesque town of Edenville, North Carolina. But her plans of settling into a normal life are derailed when she witnesses a prominent judge in her community committing a violent assault. Running from her own past and fueled by a passion to make the judge answer for his crimes, Piper is forced to decide if she'll play by the rules or achieve justice in her own way.

Complicating things further, Piper finds herself fighting a powerful attraction to rookie cop, Bobby Wright. Although she's increasingly enamored with bobby, his staunch belief in the justice system is in stark contrast to her own. She may not share his opinions about the effectiveness of the law, but she certainly can't deny how safe she feels when she's in his arms or how every kiss leaves her desperate for more. 

For Piper,  the idea of finally living an ordinary life with a man to love is tempting. However, fate keeps placing the judge, quite literally, in her path. Will she decide the only way to win is to be as wicked as the judge, but with righteous intentions? And more importantly, will Bobby choose to let her go, or follow her as she crosses the line and takes justice into her own hands?

Book Review: 

First off, I am just going to scream about the ending!! How can you end it like that, there is no closer I need more!! I wanted the progression between Piper and Bobby!! Damn cliffhangers, hahaha!!! It is going to drive me nuts waiting for the second book in this series, specially when she ended it on such an a crazy event!! I have got to learn to wait till all the books are out before reading, I guess I enjoy torturing myself, lol!!

Okay on to the review, so let me think.....

I really enjoyed this story, everything by the way it was written to the characters in the book. It had a great story line and it flowed very nicely. I also enjoyed that you got to see different POV's from the characters, I can not say enough of how much I like multiple POV's. It just really helps the book become more real and it also helps the reader to understand where the character is coming from and how they feel about things. There were very few errors if any with grammar or spelling, but like I have said in previous reviews that I do not base my review off grammatical errors, we are all human and we make mistakes. As long as I can read the story and understand it I don't care.

Poor Piper, the pain and horror she had to endure in her past growing up and to hold it in and deal with it all herself was just to much. I felt so bad for her, to think you are alone in this world and not have anyone to turn to talk to about it. How she even stayed sane is beyond me. She is strong but also weak. She just needs someone to believe in her and not run away from her when her past is revealed. Definitely emotional time in the book when she finally tells Bobby what happened.

Bobby, nothing like a man in uniform, lol!! He is such a loyal and caring guy. Everything about him is just sweet and hot. He tries so hard to make sure everything is done by the law the way it is supposed to be done, but only to have it thrown back in his face and to be punished by it. He never gives up and his worry for Piper is so strong. He stands by her when he knows the worst and that is a big plus in my book. Everybody needs a Bobby in their life.

Betty and Jules are just to much, their personalities and the things they say had me laughing. They are not afraid to speak their mind and are willing to go the extra mile to make you feel welcomed. They are strong women who fight for what is right. They had a really sad loss 10 years ago and have never been able to really get over it, but they strong and hope that one day justice will be served.

Michael, what can I say, just that he is super hotness! He is a lawyer who fights for whats right. Unfortunately, he is in the same boat as far as getting screwed over by the judicial system as Bobby is. He is a good friend to Piper and helps support her the best he can. 

This book had some harsh crimes that came about and some might be a little upset about the whole situation, but what I liked is the fact that Piper, just a standard civilian, was willing to take on this load of in justice and bring the evil monster down. I just wish more people would be willing to take the effort to help those in trouble and stand up for what is right instead of turning their back on it. No I don't think that people should take the steps that Piper did in the story as in real life you may not be as lucky, but there are other ways to show your support.

The book was great and I can't wait for the second one to come out. I so want to see the progression between Piper and Bobby....I feel that I was teased to much in this book, haha! This is my first book by this author and I am looking forward to more of her books as she releases them. If you want a little crime solving, suspense and a little bit of romance all mixed into one, you will enjoy this book, it is worth reading!

Spirits in the Trees by Morgan Hannah MacDonald

Book Synopsis:

SOME FAMILY SECRETS ARE BETTER LEFT BURIED!

An abandoned house, a psychotic killer, and a victim reaching out from the grave. A woman must unearth deadly family secrets before she becomes a ghost herself.

Madeline Anderson goes to Isabelle Island, Washington, to sell a family home abandoned over forty years before. Bizarre things occur the moment she steps on the property. Inside the dilapidated old house, items move about of their own accord. Strange noises come from empty rooms. She has a vivid, recurring dream of a woman running for her life. The wind rustling through the trees sounds like urgent, murmuring voices. When the cacophony dies down, one single word emerges: MADELINE, MADELINE, MADELINE.

At first, Doug Lindstrom, the hot fireman helping Maddy restore the old home, doesn't believe anything is going on. He's certain Maddy is jumping at shadows because she heard the local kids call the house haunted. That is, until he witnesses horrific violence himself that he can't explain away. After Maddy's life is threatened not once, but twice, Doug vows there will not be a third time.

EVIL DOES EXIST.

While searching for answers, Maddy uncovers astonishing secrets about her aunt's past. Finding more questions then answers, she digs deeper until she stumbles across evidence of a cold case involving a serial killer nicknamed The Seaside Strangler. Together, Dough and Maddy must unmask a killer. The lives they save just might be their own.

Book Review:

Where to start with this book, hmmm!! It was extremely creepy and so flipping real feeling!! I was having a hard time trying to keep my heart from racing out of my chest with each page I turned. I loved everything about this book, from the start to the finish....well maybe not the first chapter, it was really sad...but after that it picked up, still a little emotional from Maddy's memories. I had no idea where this book was going to go, I loved the fact that I couldn't put it down!!

After dealing with the lost of her husband and child in a house fire, Maddy takes up helping her grandmother with her great-aunt who has taking a turn for the worse. After discovering the deed to a house her great-aunt lived in, that was supposedly sold along time ago according to her grandmother, she sets off to fix up the place to put on the market. There she meets Doug, complete hotness in one package, she begins with his help to complete renovations on the bungalow. Weird things start to occur almost immediately and Maddy finds herself fighting for her life every day she stays in that house.

The book was in multiple POV's and I loved it. It helps to relate more to the character if you get to see what they are really thinking. The connection between Maddy and Doug is not immediate but it does gradually grow with each page you read. I loved the fact it wasn't a complete love at first site like some books I have read. This connection seemed more real. The details in the story really helped you visualize the scenes and the horror that Maddy was dealing with by being in that house. There would have been no way I would have stayed in that house after the first night of hearing voices or even with the whole swinging door issue!!

I do believe that there are ghost that walk among us and that do reside in places, but I have not experienced any and really don't want to, haha!! Specially if they are anything like the ghost that lives in the house!! I actually had a hard time trying to figure out who it would be, but in the end was surprised to know there were other factors involved.

This was my first book by this author and I really look forward to reading more by her, she really has a way of capturing the reader and bringing the story to life. The story line and plot was well written and had just the right amount of details without being overboard. If you like paranormal/thriller/murder/romance all in one package then you will love this book. I am looking forward to the next book!

The Huntress by Dorothy McFalls

Book Synopsis:

It's nothing personal.......

Blond, beautiful bounty hunter Vega Brookes is on the hunt for her latest skip trace. Her prey, ex-special forces officer Grayson Walker, is ruthless, a killer. She shouldn't feel attracted to him. Even so, the closer she gets to finding Grayson, the louder her instincts shout that things are not what they seem.

It's only murder.......

Grayson Walker is dangerous....and determined. Someone is killing those closest to him, and he's desperate to find out why. When a firecracker of a bounty hunter comes close to capturing him, he fights back and ends up shooting her. Yet not even a gunshot wound can cool the sparks that fly between them whenever they're together. Soon, his life turns into a deadly race to earn Vega's trust, track down a killer, and avoid falling in love.

Book Review:

OMG!! I did not see that coming at the end of the book! Wow, total surprise for sure! Okay on to my thoughts of this particular book, lol! It is by far the darkest, most disturbed, and overall most disgusting piece of literature I have read, haha!! I don't know if I should be ashamed for saying that I really enjoyed this book. Might make me seem a little out of whack for liking such a messed up book. This is actually a complete opposite on the books I read but I have to say I will be adding more into the mix. I like the whole thrill experience  and keeping me guessing as to what the next page holds.

Carolyn McCray has amazing style of writing, she knows how to keep you on the edge of your seat!! This was my first book I have read by her and I have to say was really impressed with how well written it was. I also like the fact it has multiple POV's which is awesome because you get to see more incite into the characters. There were a couple points I got confused as to who's POV it was, but it all worked itself out after a little while.

I definitely have to say that no one under the age of 18 should read this book. It was very disturbing and extremely graphic. If you have a sensitive tummy to blood and guts, wouldn't recommend either. I was actually able to download a few more of her books and I am looking forward to reading them! If they are anything like this one, I know they will be good! I know one thing, they are not books I will read right before bed time, haha....definitely creepy!! Pick this up and read for you will not be disappointed at all!

Fresh Meat by Carolyn McCray

Book Synopsis:

What do you get when you put 8 serial killers in a dungeon together, besides mayhem? Now add in some very feminine fresh meat and see what happens! Meanwhile on the outside a just off mental illness leave detective is desperately searching for a shy, missing woman. Will he find her before she is just another statistic?

Book Review:

Okay so I will say this is the first book I have read by this author and the first book I have read that is of this genre, I guess you could put it that way. I am not sure where to start on this review, I am afraid if admitting how much I really liked this book will make me a tad bit strange to some viewers, lol. I have to say though I did! Not because of the gore or the serial killer part but because of the way the book was written. I was on the edge of my seat for the whole entire thing. I loved it so much I finished it in a few hours because I couldn't put it down, I needed to know what was going to happen on the next page.

I will say this book is not for the fainthearted or people with sensitive stomachs, there is a lot of blood and gore and some really disturbing mental pictures will protrude through your head as you read. I would also say no one under 18 should read this book either. It can be very graphic and not suitable for the young.

I was actually looking to change up from constantly reading romance novels, even though I enjoy them I needed to something to add a little more thrill in the mix. I came across a post talking about this book and decided I would give it a try as I liked the what the synopsis read. Was I ever surprised at how much this book would capture my attention. Carolyn McCray is a great writer and has a great sense of skills to be able to bring you into a story. She knows how to keep you jumping from one thought to another, you never really know what the actual answer is to the story till the very end. Oh can I say, OH.MY.GOD, on that ending!!! I was definitely not expecting that at all, was completely thrown for a loop with the turn of events. I LOVED IT!!! 

I am looking forward to reading more of her books, I was able to snag up a series packet for free and I look to starting!! If you are looking for a thrill with a little bit of horror mixed in by all means you should check this book out, you won't be disappointed!

Dark Passing by Liz Schulte

Book Synopsis:

Mary Nelson's murder shocked the small town of Jackson. The vibrant, young college student disappeared on her way home. A week later her body was found in the trunk of a burning car. No suspects. No evidence. No case.

Ella Reynold's life had finally turned around. With a new book released, the past safely tucked away, and a burgeoning romance, she begins to live again. Then a plea from a woman whose daughter's murder remains unsolved ignites Ella's curiosity - and drags her back into the dark world she fought so desperately to escape.

Curiosity turns to obsession as Ella inches closer to the truth - and the murder begins to claim new victims.

Book Review:

This is the second book on the continuation of Ella's story. The first book was called "Dark Corners," and was an amazing read, the book was truly creepy and kept me looking over my shoulder at any noise that was made. I read the first a couple months ago and decided that I would finish this book. Again I am not surprised by Liz Schulte writing. I have read many other of her books and have loved every single one of them. 

In "Dark Passing," Ella has found herself involved again in another murder. After a year of trying to find her husband's killer and dealing with a haunted house in the process, she about lost herself completely. She had finally gotten her life back and was finally living again with the help of Detective Gabriel Troy. Now she is not so sure she will be able to pull herself out again if she gets to deep in the murder of a young girl.

Again, Liz Schutle had me jumping from one character or the other trying to pick blame and the whole time it was the one character I didn't put to much suspicion in....I had my doubts but didn't feel it would have gone that way, but boy did it ever!!

I love how the author can keep me guessing till the end of the book on what is the actual truth. She did this also with Book 1 of the Ella Reynold's Series! I had no clue till the very end who was the bad guy. Oh and talk about spooky, her books can give me the creeps sometimes on how real they feel. I am sure I will have a little issue trying to sleep tonight and not picture the beings that were within this story, lol.

I have read several other books by Liz Schulte and I can honestly say that I have not been disappointed yet. I am just hoping she writes another book about Ella because I could definitely use some more of Gabriel ;-)

You should definitely check out this series and Liz Schulte other books as well, you will not be disappointed!! :)

Restore Me by J.L. Mac

Book Synopsis:

Navigating the world alone is all Josephine Geroux has ever known. Life altering tragedy struck early on for her. She endured an admirable struggle through her youth and learned the hard way how to adapt and survive. She managed to arrive at adulthood in one piece spite of it all.

After such chaos, maintaining a life free of complications is a priority for her. Everything changed when a man with amber eyes came through her door and claimed her heart. She fell hard in more ways than one. The pull between Jo and Damon seemed like fate bringing things circle.

With another devastating loss looming, Jo fights to hold on to the very thing that brought her to her knees. She finds herself torn between a  promising future and clinging to a devastating past. But that's not the most worrisome problem on her hands.

She must convince more that just herself to let the past stay in the past, where it belongs, but on her journey to find closure and resolution, she does the exact opposite. An old wound caused by a heinous act becomes exposed for what it is. The truth is catastrophic and Jo is helpless, watch as the ruins of her fragile world endure more turmoil.

Can something conceived from tragedy and malice end well? Can something so completely poisoned conquer adversity? Jo is left to make a decision; accept the circumstances she finds herself in or fight with unwavering ferocity to restore what has been damaged.

Book Review:

Oh my!!! Better be prepared to shed some tears in this one. What an emotional roller coaster. I about had a heart attack when I first started reading, I was not liking where the story I thought was going, thankfully, it didn't! I would have stopped reading immediately, lol.

My heart was aching through a lot of this book, the guilt that poor Jo was feeling about how everything went down. I don't know if I could have had the strength to pull myself through. She never gave up, she put forth her hard stubbornness to get her through it all. I envy her in her determination to not give up.

I have to say though I was a little disappointed because I felt it was too short. I still enjoyed the story but definitely needed to be longer. I am excited though to see what the next book holds. I feel there is going to be a little revenge from Edward. I am totally going to go insane waiting for the next book. Hopefully I won't have to wait long.

I guess the overall review would be....great story that continued from "Wreck Me" but wish it was longer. I enjoyed the fight that Jo had to make things better, the will to never give up. Makes me realize just because something seems to far away to come back doesn't mean you give up. I wish that the next book was already ready because I think it is going to be exciting to see what Edward has in-store for everyone. I love the characters and I love the fact you can feel the emotions that roll off of them. I definitely would recommend the book as it was a great read and just be prepared, this book was a little emotional both sad and happy moments.

Wreck Me by J.L. Mac

Book Synopsis:

Life can be cruel. People can be ruthless and evil. The world can be cold and uninviting. No one knows these things better than Josephine Geroux. By her own definition, she is a twenty-five year old "nobody with nothing," and she is content to stay that way. Growing up an orphan has made her tough and indifferent to the people around her until she meets a strangely familiar man with a face that haunts her for reasons she can't understand.

Despite the pain that will inevitably ensue, she makes it her mission to discover what parts of her tragic puzzle she is missing. On her journey to discovering why she feels an alarming connection to an absolute stranger, her greatest fear is reawakening the demons and darkness from the past that will surely overtake her if she lets her guard down.

Little does Josephine know that the past should be least of her worries. She is toying with a man who has already broken her heart once. She just doesn't realize it. Although she makes it a point to avoid interactions with others, Josephine's life becomes entangled with the enigmatic stranger. Before she realizes it, she has given herself over to the one person who is close enough to wreck her.

Book Review:

OH. MY. GOD!!! Talk about an intense book!! The emotions that played through it were insane and I could feel each and everyone!! This book had me laughing and crying and swooning all in a matter of pages!

Holy hotness, Damon!!! Talk about a mixture of crazy emotion toward a male character, everything about him was insanely hot!! I wouldn't mind running into a Damon and enjoying some of the things he is so...well.....amazing at!! ;-)

I felt so much for both Jo and Damon and the sad background of their youth. Both dealing with some serious sadness about life. I felt my heart tug a few times when Jo opened up about her suffering she went through as a young girl. You really don't get to much of Damon's past till closer to the end of the book and then you really understand his ways a little more. 

What a great read and talk about a cliffhanger......NOOOO!!! I can't wait to get a hold of the other book to get back into the story to see what happens with Damon, and to see what will progress between the two of them.

I actually plan on re-reading this book as the next installment actually came out today, so I want to refresh myself and be able to flow back into the story!! Thankfully, I didn't have to wait to long for the next book, compared to some of the others I am still waiting for. I don't know why I continuously pick books that I have to wait for the next one to be released. I am just torturing myself. Specially when I have a feeling this next book is going to be even better than the first and then I will have to wait again for the third book to be released, ugh the torture, hahaha!!!

If you have not read this book yet, I highly recommend you purchase it!! You definitely won't regret it!!

Better off Dead In Deadwood (Book 4) by Ann Charles

Book Synopsis:

One dead body. One century-old haunted opera house. One zombie musical. One pissed-off detective.

Will Violet "Spooky" Parker keep her tail out of trouble or will she end up as one of Deadwood's walking dead?

Book Review:

This is book four in the series and I am so upset that this is the last one for awhile that I will be able to read. Looks like won't have a new one out till 2014. Oh the agony!!! How am I going to survive not reading about Violet's adventure and whether or not everything works out with her and Doc.

In book four of the series, we find Violet dealing with the loss of her boss. She was found at the bottom of a mine and Violet knows it wasn't just an accident that somebody had murdered her boss and she intends on finding the killer. 

This book had a lot more back and forth between Violet and Cooper (the detective) and I loved every moment of it. She is one feisty lady in this book and I have grown to like her even more! 

On top of her trying to figure out Jane's killer she is still trying to get the sale of the hotel to grow through with her latest client, but she is finding herself being pulled into something that may just be the end of her. There are a lot more supernatural beings in this book and there is more mystery leaving you wanting to hurry through each page to find out what happens next.

It is hard to really throw a review out because I don't want to give anything away as to what happens in each of these books in the series. Just know that there is more friction between Doc and Violet, a new character comes in later on in the book and Cooper has a little anger management issue he needs to work through. Oh and Harvey, just is Harvey it just gets a lot more fun!

I am not to happy about the cliffhanger she left at the end of this book, it is so not fair!!! Don't bring in something like that and then not have another book for me to read right after this one, hahaha!! Just hateful!! 

This book kind of had me creeped out a little more than the others, there were some paranormal creatures added that would make the hair on the back of your neck stand up, least it did mine a couple times and again I found myself looking over my shoulder and trying not to stare in the dark places of my house, hahaha!! Can we say chicken, most definitely. Ann Charles is an awesome writer and I look forward to starting her other series "A Jack Rabbit Junction Mystery!"

I really recommend this series, you will not regret reading these books and you will be wanting more from this author. The stories are well thought out, the characters are very realistic and the mystery/suspense will drive you insane!! Oh and be prepared to be a little spooked from Violet's adventures with the dead!! Go out and purchase this series now, you won't regret it!!!

Dead Case in Deadwood (Book 3) by Ann Charles

Book Synopsis:

"Nothing good ever happens at the butt-crack of dawn. No doubt, the headless corpse on the autopsy table in front of me would agree." --Violet Parker

Real estate agent, Violet "Spooky" Parker stumbles upon a body-part theft ring at the local funeral parlor and suspects her caustic coworker has a hand in it -- or maybe a foot. Can Violet discover what's in the crates the crooks are sneaking out of the mortuary in the dark of night? Or will she end up in one of them herself...in pieces?


Book Review:

OMG!!! Just when I thought the series couldn't get any better Ann Charles brings it in this next book! I love this series!! Well Violet Parker is at it again and this time looks like she has gotten herself into something much bigger than she realized!

The book is another page turner I kept bouncing back and forth of who could be responsible. Just when I thought I had it, another twist is added...Ann Charles has got a way of keeping you guessing till the last minute! And wow, was I not expecting to get that kind of ending! I am liking where she is taking the story, definitely adding a lot more spook to it!!

The characters are getting more witty in comments as well and I am loving every bit of it. This book had me laughing constantly but also had me spooked and watching over my shoulder, hahaha....

I really enjoy how the author made the characters more realistic, there isn't any quick falling in love, there is constant tension between both Doc and Violet, along with Cooper (the detective trying to solve all the cases). There is no love triangle, which is a plus! I just wish though that things would get a little more going with Doc and Violet, haha....they are finally connecting better, so I am hoping in the next book they will finally be together but I don't want it to be perfect, I like a little drama between the characters, and that is what I am getting. Makes the story fun!!

If I had to say who my favorite character out of this series is, would be Harvey, that man has me rolling on the floor laughing with his funny way for charm and his constant remarks about anything and anyone! He is not afraid to say what he thinks, plus he makes a mean molasses cookie...haha!!

I am excited about starting book four of the series because I know it is probably going to be just as great or even better!!

Optical Delusions in Deadwood (Book 2) by Ann Charles

Book Synopsis:

Someone is spreading rumors around Deadwood that Violet Parker likes to chat with dead folks.

With her reputation endangered, her bank account on the verge of extinction, and her career at risk of going up in flames, Violet desperate. When the opportunity to sell another vintage home materializes, she grabs it, even though this "haunted" house was recently the stage for a two-act, murder-suicide tragedy.

Ghost or no ghost, Violet knows this can't be as bad as the last house of horrors she tried to sell, but sexy Doc Nyce has serious doubts. Her only hope of hanging on to her job is to prove that the so-called, ghostly sightings are merely the eccentric owner's optical delusions.

But someone-or something-in the house wants Violet stopped....dead.

Book Review:

This is the second book in the Deadwood Mystery Series and I have to say I liked it even better than the first! It was another page turner through and through.  Violet really knows how to get into trouble. She was very persistent in this book. Not willing to give up on trying to make things right and get the truth out. So again she finds herself in danger.

OMG!! Can we say Harvey is crazy!! I laughed so hard every time he opened his mouth. I would so love to have a Harvey in my life. He just pops whatever he wants to say and doesn't give a damn what others think. He definitely brings some fun to the book.

I have really enjoyed these books so far because of they contain both humor and suspense. It is great to take a book serious sometimes but it is even better to have a few laughs with it to. Ann Charles gives you both and she really makes you feel like you are in the story. 

Oh can we say serious tension with Doc and Violet. They finally are making it further with their feelings and I just hope it continues. Violet is so worried about her friend Natalie and what will happen if she finds out that her and Doc have been seeing each other since Natalie made claim to him in the first book. Sometimes you just have to fight for what you want and because Natalie and Doc never officially were together I don't see this as cheating or crossing a line other than the fact I really think that Violet needs to tell Natalie. Maybe that will happen in the next book.

I am really glad that Doc's secret was exposed a little more in this book and that you can understand a little more of what is going on with him. He has fully come clean to Violet about his abilities and I hope that Violet doesn't get stupid with all this information she has received by messing up there growing relationship. I want them to be together, they fit well!

I am just having to much fun reading this series. It is a fun-filled series filled with smart-ass personalities, suspense and sexiness all rolled into one hell of a series. You will love every moment, it will make you laugh, say "Oh My" and have you wondering what will happen next. I would highly recommend for you to grab this series and start reading, you definitely won't regret it that is for sure!!

Nearly Departed In Deadwood (Book 1) by Ann Charles

Book Synopsis:

Little girls are vanishing from Deadwood, South Dakota. Fearing her daughter might be next, single mom, Violet Parker, is desperate o find the monster behind the abductions. With her savings dwindling and just three weeks left to sell her first house or lose her Realtor Job, Violet is ecstatic when a  handsome jeweler hires her to sell his century-old Victorian masterpiece, until she sees the dilapidated dwelling. 

Now, if she could just convince her only buyer to stop rejecting vintage homes as if they're haunted. Short on time and long on worry, she refuses to give up her dream of a fresh start in Deadwood. But with a malicious coworker trying to get her fired, a secret admirer sending her creepy messages, and a sexy stranger hiding skeletons in his closet, will Violet end up as one of the Deadwood's dearly departed.

Book Review:

So I guess I can say I really and truly loved this book! I ended up reading in a few hours and of course part of that time was when I should have been sleeping. Every time I got to a new chapter I told myself I would put it down but I didn't and then 2 am comes around and I finally finished it with a WTF! I was completely taken back with the way everything came out. Talk about a page turn, there were so many twists and turns in this book it kept you guessing who was the actual killer.

Violet Parker moved to Deadwood to live with her Aunt Zoe to start over after several crappy relationships and a piece of crap job. She wanted a new start a chance to watch her children grow up. She was given a chance at Calamity Jane's Realty but had only a few more weeks to complete the sell of a home or she was going to see all her dreams of starting over go out the door. 

Her first client that comes through the door is Wolfgang Hessler, his family owns the jewelry tore in town and he is wanting to sell his mother's home before he goes back to San Francisco  Violet was definitely not expecting the condition of the house, it was really run-down and need a ton of work. But desperate for a sale she takes on the house. The feel of the house was really creepy to me and I wasn't even there, lol. I knew the story was going to be based a good amount around the creepy house so I was excited to see where it was going to go.

Shall we moved on to Doc, I say so! He moves next door to her realty company and the first time she runs into is when she trips over his box of books, from there he comes in requesting her services for helping her find a house to buy. But there is something strange about him, besides his hotness he has a secret and he does his best to keep that secret, but Violet is persistent nd is not willing to give up on finding out what he is hiding. 

This book was great, I really loved the way it kept me glued to each page wondering what was going to happen next, just when I thought I figured it out, it would completely change the direction. I did eventually figure out closer to the end but I did not realize how dark and disturbing it was. I like the fact there is a twist of paranormal in it, one of genre I enjoy reading about. One thing I know for sure I will not be reading the rest of the books at night as some parts were a little creepy, haha!!

Harvey was had my sides in stitches, what a funny old man. He kept the story light and fun. Between Violet and Harvey's back and forth smart ass remarks and her Violet's kids you were giggling in scenes that should be full off worry.

I don't think there was ever a point in the story where I didn't feel like I was a part. I just hope that the story goes with Violet and Doc becoming a pair. There was so much sexual tension, well just tension all together, between them, it would drive anyone insane. I was thinking back on the story to see if there were any annoying parts and I have to say that there wasn't one point that I got annoyed with the main character. She wasn't whiny and didn't complain much, she seemed sometimes to have a few airhead moments, but who doesn't have those.

I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the rest of the books in the series. Ann Charles is a great writer and she brings the story to life. There were a few grammar and spelling issues but I don't judge a review off of that. I would definitely recommend this book and the series. I don't think you will be disappointed at all.

The Lonely by Tara Brown

Book Synopsis:

The truth is subjective to what the lonely lets in.

Emalyn Spicer has lived with it for a long time. She thinks it goes back further than her memories do. She knows it goes back further than the OCD.

When she arrives at college, her OCD's and the lonely refuse to let her have her wish to be normal.

When she meets Sebastian and starts to fall for him, she lets herself believe it's possible to outrun the things chasing her from the past. But how to you get away from the things inside of you? How do you run from yourself?

Just as she gives up and succumbs to the lonely, the unthinkable happens. She finds herself once again trapped in the dark, once again held against her will.

This time she meets the lonely head on. In the darkest corners of her mind, she discovers there is more to her world than she ever imagined. She discovers that the lonely is there for her, protecting her from herself and her secrets.

How far would you go to find yourself?

Book Review:

Wow! So where to start with this book review. I am trying to find a way of going into what I feel about this book and not give away a lot of what happens in the book. I have mixed emotions about this book. It was a well written piece and Tara Brown did a great job keeping you locked into the situation that was going on in the book. It was a dark piece, not as dark as some that I have read, but still dark. I found myself torn between liking the book and really just not wanting like it. Just when I felt like I was going to put it down and not complete it I was pulled in by another change.

I really don't know what to say about Emalyn, except she has definitely problems that she herself doesn't know how to fix. I felt sorry for her, I felt her pain of not knowing if she would ever be normal again. She was always on guard, always flipping out at the smallest sign of change. I really thought things would be good for her when she met Sebastian. I did at some point finding myself getting really annoyed with her, just like I wanted to slap her and say "get over it!" But it is hard for a person who has suffered so long in the dark to actually do that. So I had to let myself be patient with her as she made her journey.

Like others that have posted on reviews the story takes two directions. The change in the story happens after the kidnapping of her and her driver Stuart. That is where you learn new things about Emalyn and realize that somethings were false. It switches to a different level after that and a different story line, at least that is what I thought. At first I really didn't see where this other story was going with her but towards the end it all made sense.

By the end of the book I was actually glad I had stuck through and read it all. It turned out to be a great book and I learned that sometimes in life you should just be grateful for what you have and that you can not change the past, you just have to learn to live through it and move on. 

"The Lonely," will mess with your mind and have jump from one lead to the other not knowing really which directions is up or down. You get lost in the characters and at some point you wonder if you will ever get out. I really enjoyed the book and think that if given the chance you might to. I think everyone could connect with Emalyn in some point of their lives, I know I can, maybe not by going through the ordeal she did but just sometimes wondering if you can escape the lonely that takes over.