Nicole and the Unending TBR

For me there are two types of reviews that are hard to write.  One is a book you did not like and feel kinda guilty for not enjoying the authors hard work.  And the other is one so well written that you are struggling to find the words to adequately explain why you love it. This review is all about the latter. Stone was an incredible start to a series focused on the incredible Metcalfe family from the mind of Ronie Kendig.  This story features characters that are flawed, wounded and thrust into incredible circumstances that test thier character and force them to face some hard things.  It is something that Ronie Kendig has an incredible knack to bringing to her suspense.   The writing is right, lots of twists in a relatively short novel. But it works. It so works. This was one of my most anticipated reads of this year and she delivered! The issues she addressed are current and scary realistic.  Man, it was good. I could gush about it for a while. ...

When you pick up a Laura Frantz book you can always expect a story rich in historic detail and full of words that pull you into the setting. This book was no different.  Her writing is slow and melodic,  she takes you through the story at the same time as giving you a feel of the setting and surroundings.  This story features a second chance love story with a man who went to sea and the woman who stayed behind and became a chocolatier. The characters are well drawn and I feel the heroine in this story really as the most active in going after what she wants.  This romance is painted in the typical slow burn vibe that usually accompany this author's work. I personally felt like it was a little too slow for my taste, but it was well written. If you are looking for a slow, relaxing read to curl up with this may be the book for you. I received a complementary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own and completely honest .

I hardly ever read Victorian era novels,  yet when Mimi Mathews has I new book announced I definitely look forward to it! Siren of Sussex introduces to new characters (and brings in some old ones). Her characters always feel unique and in so many ways,  real. You feel the characters needs, wants, desires and fears. They act how you would imagine people of that age, yet in very interesting ways set themselves apart or stand out when their moment comes. I don't know how she does it,  but it works for me! The chemistry and forced proximity of this book definitely carries that distinct Mathews smolder.  Nothing too much, just the right amount.  I loved that this book featured a bay Andalusian stallion, on of my favorite horse breed! As always there was interesting history of the time and we got to see a bit of how it was for people of Indian descent at this time.  My only complaint was the presence of the mysticism and seances that took place during this book....