Saved By A SEAL by Cat Johnson

While I did enjoy reading (well, technically listening to the audio) Saved by a SEAL, and there were lots of good in it, I don't think this was a good fit of a story for me - and maybe it was because I mostly only listened to it while I was driving to/from work, so the constant start/stop left me feeling a bit disconnected to the story and characters. I also think it's more a "my personal taste/preferences" thing that made me not really connect with the story- I'm sure others will enjoy this wholeheartedly. I also wasn't a huge fan in the narration of it - which may have also affected things for me.

Missy was awesome in knowing herself, being able to fight through her insecurities, and being willing to chase down what she wanted. However that same assertiveness also made me wince at times (although Zane seemed to like it, and that's what matters, yeah? lol). She also had a heart of gold in wanting to teach the girls in Nigeria and doled out forgiveness which softened me towards her.

I loved Zane's sense of protectiveness and how his integrity refused to follow through on a bad decision. However, dude was quite the jerk a few times and even though he won Missy over, and even though I kinda softened towards him with some of his actions in Nigeria, I still wasn't as drawn to him as a hero as I wish I could have been.

I loved their first date and how they were able to build off their past connection. And I loved the moments in the truck together. But I also felt the kidnapping and rescue was a bit anti-climatic and wish more time would have been expanding upon that instead of the repetitive internal dialogue from both Zane and Missy.

If your looking for a SEAL story where the emphasis is more on the relationship and less on the action (suspense) and enjoy an assertive heroine and a hero who has some jerky moments he's gotta sort out, this would be a great fit.

SEAL for Hire by Trish Loye

Combining sizzle hot connection with an intense story line, Seal for Hire delivers a powerful punch.

I loved the adventure/suspense - it kept me intrigued and turning the page without seeming too ott. The history and desire between Ryan and Sutton sparked brilliantly from the moment they saw each other (and not in person). They needed to find their compromise, balance, and figure out how to get on the same page, and watching that work itself out was a treat. Of course, Ryan having to hunt down Sutton the fugitive was an interesting twist.

Despite my growls with some of Sutton's choices, like Ryan, I persevered to see below her persona to the real Sutton.

This was my first Trish Loye story and I look forward to discovering more of her stories, specifically if Dante has his own book yet.

Courting Anna: Women of Destiny by Cate Simon

With engaging characters and terrific world building, Courting Anna quickly captured my attention and kept me coming back for more till I reached the last page.

I loved the presence Anna had - she knew her strengths and weaknesses, had confidence in herself, and embraced who she was, even as much as it went against the "norms of society" at that time. It was fun being in her shoes and facing some of her challenges.

Jeremiah Brown was appealing in his sense of honor, loyalty, and risk taking. He was immediately drawn to Anna but knew that no matter how much he may be intrigued by her, some things weren't meant to be. However, he's also a stubbornly determined man and decided she was worth the time and whatever risk to keep her in his life - I think he really liked the challenge in Anna.

The two complimented each other well with what they needed and gave to the other, and their unspoken deeper connection. There were also several secondary characters who played significant rolls, growing along with the main characters and providing their own surprises, both for themselves and towards Anna and Jeremiah.

If you're looking for a book that features a strong heroine, a charming hero, a touch of mystery, a challenging relationship/setting, interesting drama and twists, and a happily-ever-after, this book will satisfy!

Yesterday's Flame by Livia J. Washburn

With a tiny dash of mystical, Livia Washburn delivers an engrossing story filled with history and charm.

To keep herself safe from a fire disaster, Annabel seeks out refuge in a cave. However, her safe harbor turns out to be a time portal that whisks her back in time to 1906. It was a blast watching her acclimate to her surroundings - from the way she talked to how she dressed, to how women were perceived and how she should behave. Annabel quickly figured out how to toe the line between who she was as a woman, and who she needed to be to not get tossed in the asylum! She had no problem with pushing boundaries and proving herself, even to the delight and frustration of the man who caught her attention.

Cole Brady is a mix of refinement and down-to-earth gentleman. Balancing both the burden of a wealthy business and the calling of a fireman, finding Annabel at her most vulnerable allowed him to be exactly what she needed. He had his hands full with her and knew from the first moment he saw her, she was someone special to him - he just didn't know what to do with her all the time, as she wasn't like any other woman he ever encountered - and became a challenge he enjoyed.

I loved watching history come to life around the characters, and thus myself. In fact, I ended up googling more pictures and articles just to keep learning more. :)

Mix in a wonderful setting of early 1900s San Francisco city with real life history, a touch of suspense, and a lot of charm, you'll enjoy Yesterday's Flame.

Longing for a Cowboy Christmas - an anthology

This is a wonderful collection of Christmas short stories - each one giving a couple hour dose of a feel-good story to snuggle up with. I totally read this book out of order, going first with the stories I was looking forward to the most and working my way through the rest, and not being disappointed in any of them!

Christmas in Paradise by Rosanne Bittner
I was so thrilled when I found out we were getting more of Sage and Maggie from Paradise Valley (one of my favorite RB books)! I had faith going in I'd love the follow up to their story, and I wasn't disappointed. Sage is still all protective of Maggie, and patient with her as she's settling into her spot as his wife. He knows he's got a treasure in her and makes sure she knows it deep down. Maggie is still as sweet, determined, and strong, as much as she's vulnerable and struggles with some insecurities. But Sage won't let those fears keep their grip on her. Loved the touch of adventure and drama, and the beauty of their Christmas miracle, both in seeing them settled, and in seeing their happily-ever-after come full circle. Honestly, this just made me want even more of their story, and I'd love to see a sequel novel someday for Sage and Maggie and their family.

A Christmas Wedding by Linda Broday
Christmas in Hope's Crossing, pouring out good on people who deserve all the good they can get! Loved getting to know Rebel even more, watching her big heart dig deep to find joy and spread it around. And then Travis finally getting the new start he needed and finding his way home again to wrap his family up in his protective arms and shower them with love. Add in some breath-catching moments and some giggles along with a few tears, and you get a sweet addition to Linda Broday's Outlaw Mail Order Brides series. So glad that there's more coming for this town and hopefully we'll get to see more of Rebel and Travis in future stories.

Through the Storm by Amy Sandas
Through the Storm starts off with a sweet, slow burn that builds to an inferno, keeping you needing more. George is fully captivated by Lucy when he first meets her, and fate helps to bring her back to him. George is an interesting character with his charm and gentleman ways mixed in with outlaw edginess. Lucy is an adorable mix of sweet and capable, the best match for George! Loved watching the embers of their attraction grow into a steady burning flame. This story probably surprised me the most in how much I ended up enjoying it!

A Fairy Tale Christmas by Leigh Greenwood
This is a super sweet story of a man and a woman who both desperately need something the other can provide, but fears and plans and a touch of stubbornness get in the way. Nan desires a family with everything she has, but isn't willing to settle for less than what she deserves or wants. But she does know how to open her heart and grasp to what she is given. Will has a mapped out plan for his life, even if he's struggling with some of the consequences and hanging onto the past. Luckily, a winter storm, the love of a child, and some words of wisdom combine to grant dreams and love to three people who deserve their family and own special happily ever after.

A Love Letter to Santa by Margaret Brownley
Holly and Tom's story melted my heart with all the joy and goodness that Christmas can bring. Holly brought a smile and cheer to a town that was hurting, and wiggled her way into the heart of a man who was lost. Loved her heart and charm. Tom proved to be a man worthy of his Holly, and had a heart of gold as well. This story left me with a few tears but a heart overflowing with good. Definitely a Christmas story to experience! Also, despite being a short novella story, I felt like I got all the feels for a full length novel!

One Snowy Christmas Eve by Anna Schmidt
Evie and Collin's story is one of second chances, letting go of pride, and chasing down your hearts' desires. A little bit of fate stepped in to give them the opportunity needed to reflect on the past, where they're at now, and grasp hold of what they still want now. Toss in a little meddling and a leap of faith and you have a delightful Christmas blessing story! I loved how we got flash backs of their history, giving us a deeper sense of their connection and showing what was worth fighting for.

This is a collection of Christmas shorts not to be missed!!

Phillip by Cristin Harber

From the moment Phillip and Ashley's eyes meet after years apart, their insta-connection with deep roots erupts back to life, blazing through past and present heartwrenching burdens to a place of healing and contentment.

Ashley struggles with breaking fully from the expectations of others and living up to impossible standards pressed upon her. Feeling her helplessness and pain, it's beautiful to watch her break her way through those chains and find herself. It's always a journey, and feels neverending, but you can see Ashley finding her way.

Phillip has his own set of burdens and pain to carry, and like Ashley, while his eyes came opened to seeing reality and the truth, it still is a long journey to healing, but one he takes on and finds a place of peace.

I adore how these two are total opposites, but yet they match up, filling up the missing parts of the other. Phillip had me melting with his pursuit of Ashley and tenacity to dig in and claim her and not let her go. Ashley had me cheering with her fight and resolve to make it through, even as much as she could also run away. I mean, who doesn't need an escape at times?

Blending some giggles with heart touching truths and sweet moments, this story delivers on all the feels, giving a sense of hope, healing and acceptance.

Securing Piper by Susan Stoker

All I got at the moment is....

utterly loved every moment! And Ace now ties for first with Dax with favorite SS hero.

Love, compassion, courage, forgiveness, protectiveness, determination, love. all the good stuff.

Quiet Man by Kristen Ashley

Overall, I super enjoyed this story. Love the easy, love the strength, love the nuggets of goodness, love the spark and connection, love the attraction and digging in deep, love the cameos and love the love poured out in all the ways!

There was some little things that I wished was more/different that kept me from OTT lovin' this story, but those are simply my wishes/preferences and not everyone elses. And that's okay. Everything else worked, and it was fun to get a new KA book, so it's still a win!

Her Ruthless Protector Her Ruthless Protector by Caitlyn O'Leary

Written filled with adventure, drama, and cute flirty fun, Her Ruthless Protector is sure to satisfy!

I loved the way Kane and AJ connected and interacted, and seeing AJ through Kane's eyes - that was a powerful thing to experience and let sink into me. I loved seeing how they could each hold their own, but yet, were amazing partners, both in the bedroom and out. AJ complimented Kane well with her backbone, her smarts, and her heart.

Seeing this is a military story as much as a romance story, bullets fly and bad guys abound everywhere, giving just the right amount of suspense and anxiety. Dealing with the enemy and the powers-that-be, and choosing what is right over what is ordered, and showing what having your brother's back truly mean, the military story line packs a punch.

Mix together the twist and turns, tear-filled moments, steamy moments, and laughter-ringing times and you've got another awesome Caitlyn O'Leary story to escape into.

Catching Him by Aurora Rose Reynolds

This book couldn't have been more perfect for me than if Leah's name was Michelle! (although my boss's name is Tyler, that could be weird....) I adored every little bit and piece and word of this story. From the laugh-out-loud moments, to the rocky, heart-twisting moments, from the anxious moments to the swoony moments, from the first meeting to the happily-ever-after - Catching Him provided everything I need and wish for in a contemporary romance story.

Tyler was my kind of perfect alpha hero - strong, protective, patient, but definitely take no crap and determined. Flawed and real, but yet forgivable and lovable. Leah was sweet, smart, just dorky enough and just sassy enough, strong and vulnerable, and her own special version of flawed and real and beautiful that makes you either so easily identify with her, or need a girl like her in your life.

This story takes the best features possible for characters, setting, and world building and arranges them masterfully. I wanted to start to reread the story before I was even a quarter of the way done just to make it last longer and soak it in more! Catching Him quickly became one of my most beloved and treasured stories I look forward to revisiting often.

I'm delighted this is the first of a series and I hope the rhythm, the feel, the atmosphere continues to flow through the following books.

SEAL Hard by J.M. Madden

SEAL Hard blew me away with it's intense story line! From the first page through to the end, the momentum never let up and I didn't want to stop - I had to know what happened next - so I didn't! lol

I adored how Jack was so devoted to Andrea, and the depth of his loyalty, respect, honor, and protection was for her (and the family). He was willing to do anything and everything to protect Andrea. And even though he needed some "permission" or "encouragement" to know he could fully embrace what he was feeling, he totally had that awesome alpha vibe.

Andrea was, for me, almost the perfect mix of strong and vulnerable - as she needed to be as a SEAL wife, and then getting her new hea in a former SEAL. She didn't back off from doing the right thing, and she pushed through whatever was tossed at her. She was the perfect match to Jack.

Then the suspense plot line - holy cow! Twisted, heavy, harsh, and anxiety-ridden, it kept perfect pace with the hea story line and provided the nudges needed for Jack and Andrea to get on the same page.

I definitely want to check out more books by JM Madden after this! Amazing!

Her Steadfast Hero by Caitlyn O'Leary

I read this book back in 2018, and then listened to it as a reread in 2019 -and fell more in love with it the 2nd time!

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I genuinely loved David and Sarah's story - the glimpse back at their beginning, and just how much time has gone by to get their second chance at their hea. The instant re-connection and honest communication did it for me. David had such respect, care, and bossy protectiveness towards Sarah, and she was sweet, compassionate, and just what David needed in his life. Add in the drama of the natural disaster paired with bad guys galore, and toss in a swoony Navy Seal team as backup, and you have a perfect mix of adventure and love in a short story that doesn't feel rushed.

Loved it!

p.s. and if you listen to it, omgoodness do I love the narrator's deep voice and the way he brings the story to life!

Until December by Aurora Rose Reynolds

Simply ADORED December and Gareth (and Max and Mitchell's) happily ever after story! A rocky beginning gives way to a steady foundation, an easy-going relationship, a heat-fueled connection, and a sweetness Gareth and his boys desperately needed and deserved - and a strength and protection that December needed.

With just enough drama, lots of laughs, and a deep sweetness that made it so very easy to connect to, this book quickly became one of my favorite ARR/Until stories. Definitely not one to miss!

I love the lessons of family, of giving (of oneself, not materially), and of peace.

Paradise Valley by Rosanne Bittner

Rosanne Bittner's long awaited return-to-publishing book just knocked my socks off!!! I've enjoyed all of her books I've read so far, and have numerous of them on my keeper shelves - where this one is now as well!!

I loved how Maggie was both strong but yet vulnerable. Sometimes the way she talked made her sound younger than what she was age wise, but her actions/thoughts the rest of the time made up for it. And I love how Sage interacted with her - was impressed by her spirit and strength, but at the same time knew she needed him to protect her.

I so enjoyed towards the end when the ex-wife showed up - I knew I would have reacted the same way Maggie did and I was glad to see how Sage dealt with his ex (I sure was hoping he'd do what he did!)

I'm so looking forward to reading more of RB's books - and hope that more and more of her older ones come out on kindle!