Christmas in a Cowboy's Arms - anthology

A Chick-A-Dee Christmas by Rosanne Bittner
This was a great Christmas story, and actually for me it became the pretty red bow to tie up the Outlaw Hearts series with. So many smiles and sweet moments mixed in with the ever present dangerous adventure of being a part of the Hawkner family. I'm always gonna love Jake, Randy, and their family. This story warmed my heart and filled me up!

The Christmas Stranger by Linda Broday
Woohoo! We get to go back to the Lone Star Ranch!! The Men of Legend series is one of my favs of Linda Broday's stories and getting to get another little bit of time with them is always welcome. Hank and Sidalee's story overwhelmed me with feel good! Despite it's short length, this felt like a full length book and their hea was perfectly done. And gotta give some lovin' to Beau -- he kinda stole some scenes. 

A Texas Ranger For Christmas by Margaret Brownley
This is the first book I've read by MB and I'm impressed! Sadie and Cole's story swept me away with how simple and beautiful and heartfelt it was. This was another short story that managed to grab my attention and deliver the feel-goods and connection I need in my stories.

Father Christmas by Leigh Greenwood
Joe and Mary (haha, I'm ashamed to say how far I was into the story before I caught onto their names!) and Sarah's story totally sucked me in and gave me all the warm fuzzies I love to have. Plus good ol' Samson and the rest of the creatures made for awesome 2ndary characters. Sweet story and I'm looking forward to discovering more of Leigh Greenwood's books.


Working my way through the stories....

TBR:
A Christmas Reunion by Amy Sandas

A Christmas Baby by Anna Schmidt

The Last Outlaw - Rosanne Bittner

Outlaw Hearts book 4

Deep breath - wow!! What a story! The Last Outlaw stole my breath and wrecked my heart and mended it all and gifted it back to me better than before. This definitely is an intense, emotional, but yet beautiful and satisfying read.

Jake and Randy have been through so much, and this shows just how deep and strong their love for each other are, and how a deeply devoted relationship can carry the other through the toughest of situations. Jake has gown and changed for the better in his older years, and was finally able to find a way to defeat the demons that have been chasing him his whole life. Randy also was able to recover from the events of book 3 and become the strong matriarch of the family she was destined to become. 

I'm just simply overwhelmed with this story - from the highs and lows, the sweet soft moments to the intensely terrifying ones, from the laugh-and-shake-my-head to the swoony-melt-my-heart moments - this book delivers it all! From the first pages of Outlaw Hearts to the last pages of The Last Outlaw - Jake Harkner and his Randy and their family will embed themselves deep within your heart and you will refuse to let them go. 

I'm very much looking forward to one of the final glimpses into the Harkner's lives with the Christmas Story that's coming out soon! Jake and his sweet Sadie Mae?? I'm ready! haha!

Love's Sweet Revenge - Rosanne Bittner

Outlaw Hearts book 3

How do you know you've encountered a book that will leave you breathless and satisfied, but yet turn around and make you intensely crave more? When you start re-reading the book before you've even got a third of the way through! And that's what happened to me with the 3rd book in Jake and Randy's story. Seriously, I was re-reading entire chapters and going back through to favorite sections just because I just didn't want to leave that moment in time yet and wanted to make my escape into the Colorado mountains with the Harkners last as long as possible. And it was the best experience! I had a 2 week book hangover from Love's Sweet Revenge and I'm still having a hard time settling into any new books and having them feel "good enough" after this.

I am finding the older I get, the more I seek out and enjoy books written about older characters - whether they're starting over with a new relationship or if they've been together for decades and have some new trials to face together. That's one thing I love about Rosanne Bittner's books - she has this ability to write beautifully epic stories that span all ages and show that love grows more beautiful and strong as the years go by.

Jake Harkner at any age is an incredible force to be reckoned with. I can't tell you how many times I was swoonin' over how his presence flowed out of the book and throughout my house. The intensity he has towards loving and protecting his family is a sight to behold. He has done so much growing and changing - it's been a pleasure to be a part of his journey. I think I've lost a bigger part of my heart to him and not sure I'll ever recover -- or want to! 

Randy still is my heroine soul-mate. I love her mix of strength, sassy, and vulnerability - the way she holds herself together, but yet is dependent on being held in return. She has this natural balance to her that while yes, she can take care of herself, she needs to be taken care of as well, and the people she's surrounded by sense that and give that to her. She in turn gives so much to her husband and family and the bond they all share and continue to mold and solidify is all in thanks to her. I want to be her. 

I love the family dynamic with their kids, Lloyd and Evie, and their spouses and all the grandkids. Family and love is a huge theme and it's definitely shown and developed throughout the entire series, but even more so in LSR. I adored getting to have the 2ndary storylines of Lloyd and Katie, Evie and Brian, and their kids. 

Rosanne Bitter has a way of drawing me so tightly into the story and painting her characters so realistically that for the time I'm reading, I'm fully invested in the story. I feel every emotion the characters are. When they hurt and struggle, I am in pain. When they rejoice, I'm on an excited high. When they play and joke, I'm laughing along with. When the worse happens, I'm feeling as abandoned and lost as they are. Very few authors can give me a new reality, and RB gives her readers that time and time again.

This is not a book to be missed, whether you read this alone, or after Outlaw Hearts and Do Not Forsake Me. Although you definitely will get a better experience if you start at the beginning, you will not be lacking anything if you jump in with this book first (and then go back and get the others, of course!). I am looking forward to many rereads of the first three books and am already getting anxious waiting for The Last Outlaw (book 4) coming Sept 2017. Thank goodness there's another story coming because my craving for more will finally hopefully be satisfied. (ha!)

Do Not Forsake Me - Rosanne Bittner

Outlaw Hearts book 2



I can still see the bookshelf in the library when I was a teen and pulling down a worn copy of Outlaw Hearts by Rosanne Bittner. It was the first adult romance book I remember reading. And from that moment, Jake and Randy have always been a constant favorite; Jake being someone I compare other heroes to. I was thrilled to discover when Outlaw Hearts would be released in Kindle format, Rosanne would also be releasing a sequel (Do Not Forsake Me) and then shortly after that, it was announced a 3rd book to make a Jake trilogy would be released. I was over the top excited to get more of Jake and Randy's story!

Once I got started reading Do Not Forsake Me, I struggled with putting it down... I just *had* to know what happened next! And what a ride I took! *swoon* Between feeling the intense love and desire and possession from Jake, the sweet enduring love and devotion and strength from Randy, the giggles from Little Jake, the nail-biting-edge-of-my-seat overwhelming feels from the adventures and trials and scares.... I was all over the place and loving every second! There's so much good feels that if I really tried to explain how much I loved this story, I'd be giving it all away. You just have to read it for yourself and fall in love with them too!

"Who do you belong to?"
"Jake Harkner."
"You bet your ass. I own every beautiful inch of you."
"And I own you, Jake Harkner."*swoon* 

This is definitely Jake's story - healing, forgiveness, redemption, beauty. 

The ending was perfect in that you know it is a HEA for now, but you also know which door is open for the last book (Love's Sweet Revenge) in the trilogy. There's just a bit more to work through before Jake, Randy, and the kids and grandkids all get their forever HEA. 

Thank you, Ms. Rosanne, for the escape you provided with Jake and Randy - I love them even more now than before. And I'll anxiously but patiently wait till September 2016 for Love's Sweet Revenge!

Outlaw Hearts - Rosanne Bittner

Outlaw Hearts book 1

I read this book a long time ago as a young teen, loving the story then, and recently decided to try to find the book and re-read it again... and let me tell you - I fell in love with Jake and Randy all over again!!! While I have found several favorite books over the years, Jake and Randy's story will always remain at the top!

Rosanne Bittner has a way of weaving a story into your heart so that you can't help but love the characters and feel like you truly know them! I love that their story wasn't just about them meeting, falling in love, then getting married at the end with a quick-peek epilogue into their future. She takes us through 20+ years of marriage, and introduces grandkids, making the story (to me) feel so much more complete! I love how not only we saw good times for them, but we also get to experience the real struggles that they faced together - and how their love was able to push through it all!

I didn't realize until "meeting" several of Rosanne Bittner's heros how one could "fall in love" with a fictional hero - but Jake definitely "stole" a part of my heart. And Randy - well, I'll just say that I'd love to have her strength and attitude!

This is one of Rosanne Bittner's stories you don't wanna miss!!!

Reread June/July 2015 for Do Not Forsake Me's release. Still over the top in love with Jake and Randy!

The original cover that I still love too! :)

Wildest Dreams by Rosanne Bittner

I'm loving that Rosanne Bittner is starting to put her older novels out in kindle format - and I hope she continues because she writes some of the best historical romance novels I've found! I only read a couple of her books way back when and it wasn't until this year that I rediscovered her and was thrilled to read Wildest Dreams!

One reviewer mentioned that this wasn't much of a romance novel - and I'd have to disagree. Yes, it isn't the typical story where most of the book is dedicated to the falling in love part and ends at the wedding with an epilogue glimpse into the future. You do get to experience the falling-in-love part, however, this book spends most of the time focusing on their lives from the wedding on - and the romance and how their love grows through the years. Trust me, the romance is there and honestly, I enjoy experiencing books where the story continues way past the wedding. That's where true love is forged in steel and where romance blooms to it's fullest. Luke and Lettie are two of my favorite RB characters and this book will always remain on my keeper shelf! How they work together to build their family and cattle-empire and what they face to make those dreams come true will keep you enthralled from the first sentence to the last page!

Thunder on the Plains by Rosanne Bittner

I was so excited to find a couple of Rosanne Bittner's older books were coming out on kindle (I sure hope more keep coming!) and grabbed this one. I thought it sounded familiar (like I must have read it years ago), but it was foggy enough in my mind I got lost in it like I would any new-to-me book.

I loved this story and how Sunny and Colt meet and keep finding each other. My only complaint is that I wish it didn't take them so long to finally get and stay together... but anything worth having is worth waiting for, right??? :)

Keep these oldies-but-goodies coming! These are the kind of darn good stories we want to read/see today!

Desperate Hearts by Rosanne Bittner

Desperate Hearts is the story of Elizabeth/Emma running away from a horrible event and finding herself the focus of the very swoon-worthy vigilante sheriff Mitch Brady.

Emma delighted me in her innocence and desire to find a way to protect herself, despite her inability to fully do so. But when she finally realized she had someone to lean on and help carry her burden, she fully gave of herself and her heart. She also learned not to worry about what others thought of her and who was truly "proper" to be friends with.

Mitch's unwavering desire to claim and protect Emma (and really, his heart to protect *all* women) and his commanding presence captured my heart and endeared him to me tightly. I loved being there to watch him be the tough, strong, alpha man, but yet know when and how to treat Emma with tenderness.

I have only a few authors who I enjoy reading historical romance stories from - and Rosanne Bittner continues to remain at the top of the list! I love how she draws me in, makes me fall for her characters, places me firmly in another time and place, and leaves me with a smile on my heart. Thank you, Rosanne, for another beautiful story!!

Fast Fury by Kaylea Cross

 

(DEA FAST #5)

It's been a while since I read a Kaylea Cross book -- not for lack of not wanting to, but you know those tbr piles grow quickly. When I saw the excerpt KC shared on her website for Fast Fury, I knew that I'd have to read this one ASAP. And I'm so thrilled I did. Even not reading any other of the DEA Fast books, I followed along well and now I'm more anxious to catch up on the other's stories and am looking forward to others.

I adored Abby and Kai's hea. Their connection sparked off the pages and the way they read each other and cared for the other and took care of the other was beautiful to experience. Throw in some family drama, a drug cartel, and a few more twists and turns and your breath will stutter in your chest and you gotta work to not read too fast and miss something.

I love the feeling I get from reading Kaylea Cross's stories - from the swoony-happy-sigh heas, to the emotions I face with the antagonists - and I'm looking forward to making my way through more of her books.

Gabriel's Law by Cheryl Pierson

Brandon and Allie's story swept me away from page one. The history these two had formed a bond that years of separation couldn't break, and it was detailed so well that the instantaneous connection that flared flowed perfectly with the rhythm of the story. Brandon's strength and determination complimented Allie's to where they were able to share the same dreams and watch them grow. I loved how they communicated and shared with the other. And as I've begun to expect from Cheryl Pierson's writing, there were several twists I wasn't quite expecting, but loved how it all worked out!

Another awesome winner from Cheryl Pierson!!

Dawn of Surrender by Liliana Hart

(MacKenzie World; The MacKenzie Family #12.8)

Absolutely stinkin' loved it!!

I have forgotten how big of a story Liliana Hart can write into a small package! I loved going back in time and seeing a couple already married who were determined to find a way to make their marriage and love work. Cole and Elizabeth swept me away with their love for each other and how well they completed the other.

While I have read a handful of LH books in the past, the Dawn of Surrender renewed my desire to go back through the MacKenzie Family and other series of her's and see what else she's got to share with me!

Choosing Bravery by Jacqui Nelson

 (Lonesome Hearts, #3)

This was a fun, unique, short story telling the hea of Lachlan and Elodie (Yellow Feather). I enjoyed watching these two as they sorted through their feelings and learned to fully trust each other and put their pasts to rest. There was quite a bit of smoke and mirrors and intrigue mixed into Lachland and Elodie's journey through the depths to discover what was true and real and important. Oh, and fireflies. Can't forget them. ;)

Following Faith by Jacqui Nelson

Following Faith

(Lonesome Hearts #2)
(currently only available in the Journey of the Heart anthology)

Despite the short length, this story packed a punch. The way it flowed and the words used drew me in and captured my attention fully. Loved getting to see Faith find her happily ever after with Eagle.

Between Heaven and Hell by Jacqui Nelson

 

(Lonesome Hearts, #1)

You know it's going to be a good book when you only finish chapter 1 and you know that you know this is one destined for your favorites shelf!

This book gave me all the FEELS: heartbreaking tears to sighs of relief (even just from the prologue!), anxiousness to elation, from "grrrr I wanna shake you, will you just get it together!?" moments to SWOON, thud moments, Hannah and Paden deliver it all! The backstory as it's slowly exposed, the bad guys' motivations and actions (and trust me, there's more than what meets the eye at first!), the surprises and twists, the adored secondary characters and plot lines, it all just adds to the beauty and filled my heart to overflowing with satisfied warmth.

I absolutely love the way Jacqui Nelson uses words to build her world. Her writing voice connects deep within me and draws me so tightly into her story that I simply just didn't want to let go and escape from her world. I think I've found another favorite author! :)

One of my favorite quotes that just made me stop. breathe. and then have to reread over and over again (and you'll understand when you come to it too!):
"But know this, if I have to kill someone to keep you safe, I will."
....happy sigh....

Beautiful Bad Man by Ellen O'Connell

(Sutton Family, #1)

Oh my! I adore Caleb and Norah's story! The way they connected to each other and learned to trust in each other was so heartbreakingly and sweetly touching. They both had some demons that the other was perfect to help deal with and put to rest -- and how they accepted the other as they were, not demanding the other change who they truly were (and for all that other stuff, figured out what was really right/wrong/important/not) -- deep breath! Love!! Definitely a book that made it to my favorite shelf and one I'll want to revisit again!

The Coppersmith Farmhouse by Devney Perry

(Jamison Valley, #1)

Fun story with lots of sweet moments and lots of twists. I enjoyed getting to be with Georgia and Jess (and Little Bit!) as they got their hea. I went from happily riding along with them (sweet girl with just the right amount of sass and backbone and swoony alpha male) to nail biting at the end when everything started wrapping up. Definitely a great story to spend time reading!

Capture My Heart by Rosanne Bittner

Rosanne Bitter continues to capture my heart with each new story she writes, and I find myself always wanting more, never wanting the story to end.

Capture My Heart takes us on Two Wolves and Claire's journey to their happily ever after, fighting prejudice, lies, evil, and even their own hearts for a time. I loved Two Wolves - his attitude and strength in knowing who he is and what is true and right, and proving to Claire and himself over and over again, he's the man for her. Claire had an inner strength that complimented Two Wolves and she quickly found herself by his side, the perfect match for him. As I often find myself when reading RB books, I was swept away by the love story and then later I would be peeking through my fingers needing to know what happened next, but yet, not wanting them to have to experience the scary and bad stuff - although without all that, we'd not see how they came through the other side, stronger and more in love than ever.

While the historical setting made my heart ache, RB delivers a history lesson about our American West in an enjoyable way. I can't help but hurt seeing that even after all these years through to today, the same hatred and prejudice is well and alive today.

Texas Passions - Rosanne Bittner

Hawkins book 2

I don't always find a sequel to be a favorite - especially not over the first part of the story, but Rosanne Bittner sure breaks my mold on this one! Don't get me wrong, I love the first part of John and Tess's story (Texas Embrace - you really can't miss out on reading it) - but I find myself enjoying this glimpse into their lives years later better than the first. There just seems to be something so powerful about the "as long as we both shall live" kinda love that is often left out of stories now days.

The drama, adventure, love and emotions with these two will keep you on the edge of your seat from the first page to the last! John is one of the best heroes (handsome, strong, real manly)- willing to do anything and go to any length to protect his family, and I just can't help but admire Tess and her strength and love she has for her man and children!!

This book will always be on my keeper shelf! 

Texas Embrace - Rosanne Bittner

Hawkins book 1

Rosanne Bittner is one of my favorite authors - not everyone can write a love story that is so powerful and real (and not all just about lust). She again wraps me up into her character's lives to the point they become real to me.

John and Tess's story - how they meet and how their love grows despite the hardships - is hard to forget. But what I think is most beautiful is the way John loves on Tess and teaches her to love him after they're married. The drama, adventure, love and emotions with these two will keep you enthralled! John is one of the best heroes (handsome, strong, real manly), and I just can't help but admire Tess!

Texas Passions is a sequel to this book - I was so glad to discover there was a bit more to John and Tess's story. I love it when authors extend love stories well into married life. There just seems to be something so powerful about the "as long as we both shall live" kinda love that you miss out on otherwise.

Titanium Security series by Kaylea Cross

          

These are amazing stories in an amazing world created by the amazing Kaylea Cross!! I love all her stories - the details, the heat, the adventure - I'm sucked in and don't want to escape!!

Out of all the books in this series, Sean and Zahra's story is my favorite. Sean is one alpha hero that I fell for hard and wish he was mine. :)

Tactical Strike by Kaylea Cross

(Bagram Special Ops, #2)

I've said it before, and I'll say it again - Kaylea Cross's stories are one of my top go-to whenever I want a RS that I know will give me exactly what I want - the perfect amount of heart, love, action, and suspense!

Bagram Special Ops is one of my favorite series of her's and it's because of how real she brings this story line to life. She's somehow managed to put more research and detail into this without losing the romance or the real.

I love Ryan's attitude and how he wouldn't let anything stand in his way to Ace - including Ace herself. And Candace - well, she was one tough, strong chick and definitely needed someone like Ryan - but only in a way that enhanced her, because she could hold her own.

I think the action scene in the Afghan mountains is one of my favorite bits of this story!!

You cannot go wrong with this book!

Lethal Pursuit by Kaylea Cross

(Bagram Special Ops, #3)

Have I ever mentioned that Kaylea Cross is one of my top favorite authors? Well I'm shouting it out again!! You don't want to miss out on any of her stories, but *especially* this one! I had a feeling before I even started reading this book that my heart would break and be beautifully put back together - and I was not wrong! Jackson and Maya's story is definitely my favorite of this whole series, and one of my top favorite of Kaylea's couples.

This book touched on some scary hard issues that while I know are a reality, I think we all kinda try not to think about it. This book PUT ME IN THE MIDDLE of the terror (more than just one kind!) and very gently led me through. Jackson and Maya's story is beautiful to watch unfold throughout every nightmare and every triumph.

I cannot express clearly enough my love for Jackson and Maya. You just need to experience their story for yourself and feel the intensity and beauty for yourself!

Wallflowers: Double Trouble by CP Smith

(Wallflowers Series #2)

These Wallflowers!! My goodness - they do need heroes in their lives to help balance out their fearlessness and protect/save them from the trouble they seem to have fallen into in their lives. It's crazy to think about how between book 1 and 2 there's only been a few weeks time gone by, and these girls some how manage to find themselves stumbling into some pretty intense situations one right after the other and still manage to get swept off their feet and fall in love. I'm almost nervous about what the next week (book) will find Poppy leading the Wallflowers into -- these heroes of theirs need some sleep and recovery time! (he he he! okay, maybe not Devin. Or Bo. ;) )

Anyways -- I absolutely LOVE Double Trouble and getting to really dive into Bo and Sienna's relationship, see them begin to really heal from their pasts, and find a connection that they both have been craving and needing desperately. Love how the sparks fly between them, heating up the pages, and not just between the sheets. I have pages of convos between them, and between the Wallflowers highlighted simply because of the beauty and love and connection that's shown in all the relationships. These themes of loyalty, friendship, healing, laughter, and love continue to be weaved through the series and it keeps getting deeper and better as we go. Oh, and the plot twists!? haha! They keep you guessing up to the very end!

You don't want to miss out on Bo and Sienna's story, however you'll want to be sure to read Wallflowers: Three of a Kind first because Double Trouble picks up right where Three of a Kind leaves off and the story arc continues.

I'm lovin' the set up for Poppy and Nate's story and am patiently (but also excitedly anxious) for the remaining Wallflower to find her HEA.

Wallflowers: Three of a Kind by CP Smith

(Wallflowers Series #1)

This book.... oh, this book! :) It's good. Extraordinarily good.

Very few authors can pull off what CP Smith does for me in each and every book: believable insta-love, swoony alpha heroes, and relatable and loveable heroines.

I loved seeing Cali and Devin fall for each other and overcome the obstacles thrown in their way. I laughed and cried, rejoiced and hurt with them through it all. I was so drawn into the story that I really felt like I became Cali (being a wallflower myself, she and I have similar hearts) and loved being pursued by Devin and finding an inner strength and courage. All the words of wisdom provided from multiple sources touched my heart and encouraged me, too. I was fully lost in the story and so did not want to leave Savanah and Cali and Devin's presence.


Another love for this story: the trio of women who built a friendship to last! There's more than just a love story between Cali and Devin, there's also a friendship love story being built with the 3 women that has a strength and beauty all it's own!

If you're looking for a story that delivers all the feels, gives you depth, and sweeps you off your feet, look no further!

A Reason to Live by CP Smith

(Reason, #3)

CP Smith has done it again! She's written a heroine I can't help but bond with and a hero I can't help but swoon over!!

I enjoyed how in this one there's a bit of a different feel to it - Sage pursues Shane more at the beginning while he works through his thing, but once his eyes are opened to what's in front of him, OH MY, watch out!! There's also a little bit more of a serious under-tone to this story as compared to the others in the series (which totally works for this couple), but it's balanced out nicely with the appearances of Maxine (GOD, I love that woman! I so want to be her when I grow up!), Max, Mia, and (squee!!) Jack and Jenn. But this story nicely finishes out the series and leaves a satisfied feeling in my heart.

There's a couple of sweet twists I wasn't expecting that made my heart burst with happiness. There was also a few scary-wasn't-quite-expecting-that moments too. Shane and Sage delivered on all the feels: I giggled, cried, swooned, freaked, shivered, lost my breath, got it back, and lost it again.

CP has a habit of providing some nuggets of truth in her stories and she didn't fail to include them in here - what's important in life, how you see yourself, among a few others. It's those deeper things that help made a d*** good story all the better!

This is definitely not a book to be missed!! It was a wonderful escape and a journey I'll willingly take over and over again. Beautiful way to tie everyone and everything together!!

A Reason to Kill by CP Smith

(Reason, #2)

This is the first book I read by CP Smith - and it won't be my last!!! I loved everything about this book: from the alpha male-ness in Max, to the girly sassy-ness and strength in Mia, and the amount of drama and tension was the perfect amount - just enough to make the story enjoyable! Max and Mia have earned a place on my favorites book shelf and I look forward to getting to know more of CP's characters (especially Jack from book 1) soon!!

A Reason to Breathe by CP Smith

(Reason, #1)

I absolutely loved Jack and Jenn's story! There were so many twist and turns and surprises in this story that once I got started I really struggled to put it down! Watching how Jack and Jenn fell for each other, how Jack pursued Jenn, and getting such a full look into their lives (loved how the epilogue tied things up so sweetly) - this book melted my heart and they've earned a spot on my favorites shelf!!

Property Of by CP Smith

Sigh.
Breathless.
Heartbreaking moments.
Overwhelming beauty.
Fully soul satisfying.

That's how I felt as I turned the last page of Property Of.

Ever since I heard that CP Smith was coming out with a new book, I've been on pins and needles waiting on it -- and she completely exceeded my expectations with this. Dallas constantly kept sweeping me off my feet. Nichola endeared herself to me as I identified with her in so many ways. Watching their dance around each other and how their relationship grew and overcame the challenges faced satisfied almost every fav thing I look for in a book.

Loved getting to know the BFFs and the siblings - and laughing at all their antics. The twist and turns with the suspense kept me nervous and guessing -- and full of shivers when seeing things from the villian's pov.

Dallas and Nichola have totally dug in deep into my heart and will have a permanent spot on my favorites list. Definitely recommend this book!!! If you're looking for some fun, some scary, some swooning - look no farther!

Restoring Hope by CP Smith

January 2017 reread - fell in love all over again with Hope and Nic!!!

Original review:

I loved everything this book! It's got such a heart-breakingly beautiful, deep meaning behind the story and it all comes out wonderfully! From the AWE-I-wanna-soak-it-up moments between Nic and Hope, to the UGH-I-wanna-shake-somebody moments with Kat, from the angst-y moments to the suspenseful moments, from the hot and steamy to the melting-so-sweet! C.P. Smith nailed this story and I can't wait for the next ride she takes me on!

C.P. Smith definitely has her own voice and way to tell a story, but if you're a fan of Kristen Ashley - you're going to love any/all of C.P. Smith's books! Their men are kick-@$$ alphas. Their women are tough and sweet. They know how to tell a story and keep you enthralled.

I definitely highly recommend this book!

FRAMED by CP Smith

CP Smith again delivers a book packed with all the feels! I was totally on board for a great story to escape into by the blurb, but by the end of the first paragraph I was completely hooked! I had to know what happened and see how Kade makes it through the challenge set before him. Throughout the story Kade continually made my heart twist - whether from hurting along with him or swooning from his intensity. I think Kade is one of my favorite Alpha males. His connection to Harley and the lengths he went to to protect his woman - you can't get much better than that!

Harley quickly won me over as a favorite heroine. Her strength and stubbornness and willingness to do whatever it took to help Kade made me want to have just a bit of her personality in me. Her heart is huge and her head was (usually) on straight. The depth of her feelings for Kade and how she showed it was beautiful.

I really cannot say enough for Kade and Harley's connection. There was just something there that drew me in and made me believe that they were perfectly meant to be.

CP Smith took me on a journey through this story that I just couldn't get enough of -- I so didn't want it to end. The excitement and nail biting from the suspense part of the story, the swoons from the romance part of the story, the laughter from the different story threads (secondary characters and a favorite movie theme -- trust me, you read it, you'll understand better what I'm meaning): she delivered on them all!!

So, saying all that.... what are you waiting for? Quit reading the reviews and go get your book and experience it for yourself! This is definitely a story not to be missed!!!

Luke: A Scrooged Christmas by CP Smith

Are you looking for a short, swoony, easy-to-read Christmas story that's heartwarming and fun and has a positive message? Then you want to get Luke!!!

Luke has a very good (heartbreaking) reason for being a Scrooge. But when he collides with Anna, his walls start to crumble... and quickly! Anna is definitely his angel and helps light the path he needs to let go of the past and lead them to a treasured future together.

For this being a short story, so much beauty was packed inside that by the end it felt like a full length book. I can't wait till it's time to revisit Luke and Anna's story again and be swept away.

Targeted by Kaylea Cross

 

(Hostage Rescue Team #2)

Kaylea never fails to write a story that for me hits all my buttons - just the right amount of adventure, romance, drama, and heart. In Targeted she also brought me to tears with a couple particular scenes Tuck's dad that just made the story all that more full and beautiful. I love how Tuck pursued Celida and how Celida finally allowed herself to fall into Tuck. I also enjoyed getting a glimpse into Bauer and Zoe's story - which thankfully comes next!

Marked by Kaylea Cross

(Hostage Rescue Team #1)

Kaylea is one of my go-to authors whenever I'm needing a military/law enforcement style romantic suspense. With this new series she's again giving me exactly what I want: just enough mystery/suspense, just enough romance (the kind that grows and is truly felt), and just enough fun and excitement!!

I love 2nd chance stories and that's what Kaylea brings us with Jake and Rachel. They met a couple of years ago but for various reasons drifted apart. Then someone enters Rachel's life putting her in a position to need Jake's protection. I loved being there as they caught the bad guys and grew closer again. Their relationship didn't feel rushed and I loved all the yummy tension between them.

I'm looking forward to the next books in this series.

Disavowed by Kaylea Cross

(Hostage Rescue Team #4)

Disavowed is absolutely amazing!!!

Kaylea Cross again knocked her book out of the park by giving us the perfect mix of romance, adventure, sexy times, and suspense. She had me sobbing by the middle of the prologue and kept me intensely hooked with the Bourne-type adventures B and Matt lived through.

2nd chance romances have to be written *just so* in order for me to fall in love with them and believe that the ghost of the dead spouse isn't still hanging over their heads. And Kaylea succeeded 110% there with me! You felt the love Matt had for his first wife in the prologue, but also saw how he was able to process her death and acknowledge that he can still love Lisa, and yet still find love and happiness again with B.

Also, if you've read her Titanium series, you'll love seeing how the guys show up and help save the day!! Sigh, Sean! Love you, man!!

Awesome storytelling by an amazing author! I'm looking forward to the next book in the series, and honestly, it can't be written and on my kindle fast enough! haha!

Hunted by Kaylea Cross

(Hostage Rescue Team #3)

Another amazing book brought to us by Kaylea Cross!!

Bauer and Zoe stole my heart from page one! I knew from book 2 that I would enjoy their story and I was not disappointed in the slightest! This book just became my favorite of the series! It also includes some cameos of some of my other favorite characters of KC - which was just the icing on the cake.

I totally swooned over Bauer and adored Zoe! Watching how they grew closer and gave to the other what they needed was amazing. There was just the perfect amount of action, suspense, fun, sweet, and spicy with these two.

Bauer and Zoe also gave me one of my favorite scenes - I'll probably always think of Bauer whenever I do (haha! or see!) push-ups. ;)

Sweet Danger by Cheryl Pierson

Oh my goodness. Talk about a romantic suspense adventure!! A minute after finishing the book and happy sighing, I dived back in to reread a few favorite scenes. I couldn't quite leave after how wrapped up I was in the book. 

Intense, twisted, sweet and touching, its all packed together in one awesome package.

Even though I didn't want to stop because I just had to see how it would all work out, I needed to pause several times through the book just to catch my breath, and not necessarily in the way you think. Cheryl Pierson put some glimpses of humanity into characters you'd not expect, delivered punch after punch of surprise and shock, and fully fleshed out a believable happily ever after story. What makes this even more awesome, all this was contained within a few short pages with the majority of them dedicated to about a 30 hour period. That's good story telling.

Mail Order Brides for Sale: The Remington Sisters - anthology

What a fun concept!! Four sisters find themselves being sold off to four men by their unscrupulous step-father. And these men don't appear to be the most upstanding of gentlemen either. So instead of facing a future bought and paid for, they gamble on an unknown future as mail order brides, hoping they didn't land in a worse situation. 


LIZZY by Livia J. Washburn 
Lizzy's story threw me off kilter at first, as who her intended was wasn't playing the part how I thought he should be. The twists and turns made this a pleasantly surprising and cute story! 

Lizzy's story threw me off kilter at first, as who her intended was wasn't playing the part how I thought he should be. And what poor Lizzy had to go through?  Goodness!! The twists and turns made this a pleasantly surprising and cute story!  I was tickled watching her adventure unfold.

BELLE by Jacquie Rogers 
What a cute and fun story about Belle and her groom, who found himself unexpectedly married! But together they went with the flow of things and built their happily ever complete with a ready-made family. 

This is such a cute and fun story about Belle and her groom, who found himself unexpectedly married! Belle rallied so well after finding out her original intended was murdered and faced his replacement.  I fell in love with their insta-family and how well Belle handled herself with all the loops thrown at her. Cord was pretty sweet too - after soberin' up! Together they made a great team to build their happily ever.

SABRINA by Cheryl Pierson 
Sabrina's story starts with a mistaken identity that flows into a new life on a ranch in Indian territory. Intense family drama leads to healing, along with old feuds settled. Sabrina and Cam's life starts up fast and doesn't let up! 

Sabrina's story starts with a mistaken identity that flows into a new life on a ranch in Indian territory. Intense family drama leads to healing, along with old feuds settled. Sabrina and Cam's life starts up fast and doesn't let up! I adored their story!! 

LOLA by Celia Yeary
Lola finds herself married to a Texas rancher and thrown into the adventures of ranch life during a range war. She also finds herself in a war for her husband, in more ways than one. As Lola and Jack struggle to find their hea together, more dangers arrive threatening to take their future away. 

Lola finds herself married to a Texas rancher and thrown into the adventures of ranch life during a range war. She also finds herself in a war for her husband in more ways than one. As Lola and Jack struggle to find their happily-ever-after together, more dangers arrive threatening to take their future away.  Hang on! It's quite the adventure!!  And you may find yourself wanting to snuggle under the stars too!

Overall, this was a fun series of books to read and get lost in.




Blogged over at:
http://prairierosepublications.blogspot.com/2018/03/lookin-for-mail-order-bride.html

The Half-Breed's Woman - Cheryl Pierson

Amazon - The Half-Breed's Woman

Blurb:
U.S. Deputy Marshal Jaxson McCall tracks runaway debutante Callie Buchanan from Washington, D.C., into the unforgiving badlands of Indian Territory. But once the sparks fly between them, can he bring himself to take the beautiful young woman in to face an attempted murder charge? Callie's greedy stepfather, a powerful government official, has his own plans for her—a fate much worse than jail. Jaxson must protect her at all costs—even if it means his own death—or losing his heart to “The Half-Breed’s Woman”

My review:

5+ stars! I loved this story!

One of my sweet book-friends had encouraged me hard to read a particular book by Cheryl Pierson. As spring cleaning bugs had bit me at that same time, I happily discovered I already owned one of her books. So, being the defiant person I am (ha!) instead of reading the specific book recommended, I decided to crack open the cover to The Half-Breed's Woman and see what was so good about Cheryl Pierson's stories. I didn't read the blurb as it would have seemed at some point in the past (ahem, 3 years ago) I thought it sounded good enough to purchase - I just dove right in. Well....... I'm almost in pain realizing I have had this breathtaking story sitting on my kindle for years without experiencing the treasure I had!

 I found myself lost in the story of Jax and Callie from the very first page. It was a struggle to put down the book for any reason, including sleep! I was transported into the story as Callie, running away for my life and having Jax rescue me... or maybe not.... My emotions rocked me like a roller coaster, from laughter (oh, did Jax have a smart mouth on him!) to fear, from swoon-y moments to growl-y moments. I refused to acknowledge their story would end eventually and found myself around half way through wanting to start over at the beginning just to re-experience it all and make it last longer (which I did actually do). And let's just say, there's more twists and turns and surprises in this story than I was expecting to encounter, but it all fit so perfectly together!

 I loved how despite Callie's young age, she was smart and adult about things. I kept forgetting how young she truly was with the way she handled herself - she was the perfect mix of innocent vulnerability and courageously strong. I fell in love with her just as much as I did Jax. And Jax??? (deep sigh) That man's found a permanent place in my heart. The way he pursued, protected, and loved Callie stole my breath. The way he was a man, knew himself, and grew as a man, made me fall that much more for him.

Don't be like me and put off reading this story. I loved it and if you're a fan of historical westerns, real men and stories that protect your heart as they sweep you away, you don't want to miss out on this.

Savage Secrets by Cristin Harber

(Titan, #4)

Wow. I literally finished this book just a few minutes ago and was feeling totally at a loss for words on what to say.... I absolutely *LOVE* Rocco and Cat (Kitten!!) While I love all of Cristin's books in the Titan series, I'm thinking Rocco and Cat stole first place (well, at least till I re-read any of the others and they take first place till the next... haha!) in the Titan corner of my heart!

I love the beauty of how their relationship grew - some things instant, others a steady, deep growth. I love how Rocco took care of Cat and never gave up on her. I love how Cat was both a lady, but tough, but vulnerable, but kick-butt!

There was a certain moment where I felt like my heart was torn in pieces, but the beauty and healing that came from it....

Cristin - thank you for sharing Roc and Kitten with us. I am never disappointed whenever I escape into Titan world!!

Winters Heat by Cristin Harber

(Titan, #1)

What can I say besides I love Colby and Mia!!! From the first sentence Cristin Harber hooked me and before I knew it I was swooning over Colby!!! The dialogue kept me entertained, the tension between the main characters kept me intrigued and the adventures kept me on the edge of my chair!! I couldn't have asked for a better alpha hero or a more perfect leading lady.

“I’m a lot of things, doll. But worried about getting hurt ain’t one of them. Now, if you don’t mind, feed me macho sh*t or shut that pretty trap of yours.”

Cristin Harber rocks with her voice and stories she shares!! I love the rough badass men and sweet strong ladies she shares with us. So far every book of hers I've read, I've loved and has found a place in my heart and on my forever favorites shelf.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*

I reread this story often and I still can't get enough of it!  I adore Colby and Mia!! #MrsColbyWinters #theothermia

Only Forever by Cristin Harber

(Only, #4)

What a great ending to a great series!!! I adored Gray and Emma's story from the beginning and each new chapter kept getting better and better!! This final volume kept up the same tempo and easy but yet surprising story! Cristin continued to provide twists and turns I wasn't expecting, kept giving us lots of good stuff, and kept the drama/suspense at the perfect level! Gray and Emma hold a special place on my fav shelf and I can't wait till I get to revisit them again!

Only for Him by Cristin Harber

(Only #1)

Only an excellent story-teller and talented author could take two of my not-my-ideal-storylines and make me absolutely and completely fall in love, adore what is happening, and want more! haha! It's absolutely official - Cristin Harber can write anything and I'll read it and fall in love! Granted, some characters/books may still burrow deeper than others, but she's my new KA-like author.

From the beginning, Cristin built a world that sucked me in quickly and shook my emotions up. I love seeing the sweetness of young love and the world that was weaved around Gray and Emma was beautiful! (which really displays her talent because I pass on most all high school/college aged books) I found myself looking at how far I'd gotten in the story and getting upset because the ending was coming too quickly! I wanted more! :)

Warning: This is part one of a multi part story, which means, there is a cliff hanger ending (which is one of my not-favorite things, especially if I'm caught unaware). However....... part 2 will be released very soon after part 1 so there isn't that huge of a wait (thank goodness!) And the way Cristin wrote it -- I don't think I would have wanted part one to end any other way!!

I love the mystery, drama, sweet, and heart Cristin poured into Gray and Emma! And I am on pins and needles waiting for their conclusion! You definitely don't want to pass this story up!!

Sweet Girl by Cristin Harber

(Titan, #1.5)

Oh. My. Goodness. Can Cristin Harber tell a story!!! I fell in love with Cash and Nic in Garrison's Creed and was thrilled to learn that Cristin intended on giving us a prequel to share their history.

I knew from reading Garrison's Creed that Sweet Girl wasn't going to have an HEA - we get that in GC - and because of that I was a mix of thoroughly enjoying the beginning stages of their relationship and anxiously wanting to avoid the pain I knew was coming at the end. I loved experiencing the story from both Cash and Nic's POV - and while I thought that I'd be more emotionally drawn to Cash's reaction at the end... it was Nic's actions at the end that completely gutted and crushed me! However, I'll take the pain because the beauty and the fun of the good times (and their first date!) made up for it!

Thanks, Cristin, for sharing this prequel with us!! Whether it's read after or before Garrison's Creed, Sweet Girl enhances and provides a stronger emotional depth and connection to Cash and Nic. I couldn't help but appreciate the drama and the connection between the two of them in Garrison's Creed after experiencing Sweet Girl.