Just Joe - Carla Cassidy (HQN - Apr 2013)

Series: More Than Words

Stacy Donovan is willing to do whatever it takes to save her charity, Bounties from the Gardens. Families in need are counting on her organization for fresh fruits and vegetables. Running the charity has always been Stacy's dream, and if winning a local dance competition will keep her dream alive, that's what she'll do.
 
After years of being consumed by work, Joe Carpenter has discovered a new passion: giving back to the community. He's started to volunteer at Bounties from the Gardens, and he's falling for the beautiful, dedicated Stacy. But Stacy is so focused on looking after her charity, she might miss the fact that Joe is just the person to watch over her heart.

Heartwarming short story about a woman who has closed herself off to love and the man who shows her what she's missing. Stacy had a difficult childhood that motivated her to found a charity devoted to feeding the hungry. Later she experienced a heartbreak that had her giving all of her attention to her charity. Now she is struggling to keep the charity afloat during tough economic times. Her best option is winning a local dance competition, though she isn't confident of success. Adding to her stress is Joe, a new volunteer. 

Joe is a successful businessman whose recent loss has him determined to find balance in his life. The premise of Stacy's charity appeals to him, and he settles into a regular volunteering schedule.
 
Stacy and Joe get off to a rough start. Stacy has seen more than her share of wealthy volunteers who stick around for a few days and are never seen again. She believes Joe is another one like that and isn't particularly welcoming to him. Meanwhile, Joe is immediately smitten by Stacy, whose beauty and dedication speak to him. His requests for dates get shot down until he gets creative in his attempts to spend time with her. I loved that first picnic breakfast he surprised her with. She slowly lets Joe get a little closer to her, but her trust issues run deep, and she fights her growing feelings for him.
 
I loved Joe's patience and persistence. Stacy brought a light to his life that had been missing for a long time. He works hard to show her how good they are together, but she is a hard nut to crack. Then a misunderstanding resurrects Stacy's trust issues, and she shuts him out again. I ached for both of them as Joe is understandably hurt by her accusations and Stacy feels betrayed. As Stacy realizes what she's been missing out on and what Joe means to her, she takes a hard look at her life and attitude. I loved the ending and seeing Stacy finally risk everything for love.
 
The dance contest segments were interesting. I loved seeing Stacy's progress from struggling with the dance and her confidence to feeling like victory was possible. The dance contest itself was terrific, with an unexpected twist at the end.
 
I liked Stacy's charity and enjoyed seeing the people that it helped. I also enjoyed reading about the fantastic group that inspired this story.

Vanessa's Guardian - Josie Jade, Regan Black (Calamitte Jane Pub - Jan 2023)

Series: Never Too Late for Love (Book 1)
 
Some people wait their entire life for their ship to come in, not realizing they’re standing at the airport.
 
At least that’s how Vanessa Hamilton feels when it comes to romance. In her late 40s and divorced, she’s decided the traditional happily-ever-after route just isn’t for her. And she’s perfectly fine with that.
 
When her doctor suggests a vacation to help her de-stress and get her blood pressure under control, she decides on the remote island of Heartbreak Key off the coast of Florida. Just her, the beach, and a bunch books...what could go wrong?
 
Stumbling onto drug runners? Check.
Tropical storm? Check.
Hoss, the gruff former Navy SEAL who definitely does not help her blood pressure settle? Triple check.
 
Trust hasn't come easy for Vanessa since her divorce, but Hoss—despite his scars and tragic past—is showing her heroes do still exist. Maybe her ship was just a little late coming in.
 
But it’s never too late for love...

Terrific book that caught my attention from the beginning and kept me hooked to the end. At just over one hundred pages, it was the perfect length to make a short flight go by even faster. I loved that the main characters are older (late forties and early fifties), showing that love and adventure aren't just for the young.
 
Vanessa is a successful real estate agent who has been ordered to take a vacation by her doctor. She needs rest and relaxation to destress and lower her blood pressure. Heartbreak Key should be the perfect location with its lack of internet and cell service, and she plans to lie on the beach and read. Almost falling off the boat as she arrived was not the start she wanted, but being rescued by a good-looking bystander wasn't so bad.
 
Hoss is a former SEAL who retired to Heartbreak Key after his last mission went horribly wrong. He's haunted by the memories of his lost friends and tends to keep to himself. He's unexpectedly drawn to the tourist he rescued and isn't too happy about it.
 
I liked watching the relationship develop between Hoss and Vanessa. The sparks were there from the moment they met and grew even stronger when they shared a dance later that evening. But Vanessa is wary and pulled back before it could go any further. Her life becomes more complicated when she witnesses some drug traffickers at work, and she suddenly finds a target on her back. Hoss is in the right place at the right time to save her life, and they take refuge in his house while a tropical storm batters the island. They know the bad guys are still out there, and Hoss is determined to keep her safe. While trapped together during the storm, the sparks between them burst into flame, and they give in to their attraction. They grow closer as they deal with the danger, and when it's all over must decide if they want to end things or see where their blossoming relationship goes. I loved their drama-free discussion and frank talk about what they each wanted. The ending was terrific, and I loved their big moment.
 
The suspense of the story was fantastic. Stumbling over the drug traffickers was terrible luck, and trying to do the right thing got her into even more trouble. I felt her fear as she tried to escape from the men determined to kill her. I loved how Hoss happened to be there when she needed to be rescued. There were some tense moments as they evaded the gunmen and took refuge in Hoss's house. They had to wait out the storm while they figured out how to get Vanessa off the island safely to report to the authorities. The intensity ramped up after the storm, and I loved how Hoss and Vanessa worked together. The twists and turns of their escape kept me on the edge of my seat as I watched them struggle to make their getaway. The final confrontation was a nail-biter.
 
Hoss's friend and fellow SEAL Cameron plays a significant role in the book. I loved how he teased Hoss about Vanessa and gave him some good advice. I liked how they used their SEAL experiences to work together during the trouble. I'm looking forward to getting to know him better during the next book.

Decoding the Truth - Julie Miller (HI #2111 - Dec 2022)

Series: Kansas City Crime Lab (Book 2)
 
This crime lab tech has enemies.
And one wants her dead…
 
A vicious hacker has KCPD lab tech Chelsea O'Brien dead in his sights, and Robert "Buck" Buckner won't let his personal heartbreak prevent him from keeping her safe. But the sparks between this reserved ex-cop and the warmhearted Chelsea are as hot as the trail they're tracking. Can their mismatched skills outwit a killer -- and help them risk their guarded hearts?

Terrific book. I've been looking forward to Chelsea's story since her appearance in the previous book (K-9 Patrol). She is the quiet computer geek who works her magic in the background, providing critical information that helps solve crimes. For the past few months, Chelsea has been helping retired cop Buck Buckner search for his missing son during her free time. She gets suspicious when her investigations suddenly show Bobby's DNA appearing at multiple crime scenes, and that's when her life becomes very complicated.
 
Buck's son disappeared four years earlier, shortly after he turned eighteen. Buck blames himself and hasn't given up searching for him. He appreciates Chelsea's help and cherishes their friendship. He is also very protective of her and steps in when she starts receiving threats.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Chelsea and Buck. Chelsea is an introvert who, thanks to a sexual assault when she was a teen, avoids most men. A problem with her previous employer added to that issue. Since beginning to help Buck eleven months earlier, he is the only man she feels safe around. Their friendship is important to her, so she has done nothing about her growing feelings for him. Buck has always found Chelsea sweet, and her quirks are endearing. So why is he suddenly seeing her as a sexy woman? Between the difference in their ages and his refusal to believe that he deserves anyone's love, Buck is determined to ignore those changing feelings.
 
I loved the opening scene. Chelsea's rambling call to Buck when she finds information about Bobby is amusing, and Buck's reaction to where she is speaks to his growing feelings for her. As they worked together to unravel the mystery surrounding Bobby's disappearance and the threats against her, I enjoyed seeing them take care of each other. Chelsea watches over Buck like no other ever has, and Buck not only protects Chelsea from danger but also shows her that he likes her just as she is. Because Chelsea was aware of her feelings long before Buck, she frequently felt frustrated by how he treated her, but she also didn't want to risk their friendship by pushing for more. It took patience for her to finally break through Buck's resistance.
 
It took a while for Buck to accept that Chelsea's feelings were not gratitude for his protection. He doesn't have much confidence in his ability to give her the love she needs. I loved his gentleness with her and his understanding of her past and how it influences her actions now. He fights hard against his feelings but ultimately has to admit they belong together.
 
The suspense of the story was great. It started with Chelsea's ongoing search for Buck's son and how his DNA began appearing at crime scenes. Right after that discovery, she received a message to stop what she was doing, and someone shot at her. If Buck hadn't been with her, she would have been killed. Chelsea becomes suspicious about the sudden spate of DNA matches and becomes the target of an online stalker. I could feel her frustration at the stalker's constant harassment and her suspicion that he was involved with the DNA manipulation. I loved watching her work to stop him and identify him. The tension ramped up as she got closer to doing so. The final confrontation was intense and well done, with a believable climax.
 
The other part of the story is the search for Buck's son. I loved watching Chelsea's efforts to cut through the layers of concealment to find the truth. Buck's determination to make things right with Bobby was heartwarming, and I loved how he refused to give up. There were some interesting twists in the search. The ending was great. I especially enjoyed seeing Chelsea have to break through Buck's protectiveness to see the truth staring him in the face.
 
I can't wait to read the next book in the series. 

Dockside Danger - Carol Ericson (HI #2116 - Jan 2023)

Series: Lost Girls (Book 3)
 
With innocent lives on the line
Trusting each other is their only chance…
 
LAPD detective Jane Falco knows a recent murder is no open-and-shut case. She doesn’t need FBI agent Tim Ruskin back in her life to complicate the investigation—and reignite still-dangerous sparks between them. But to stop a vicious human trafficking ring, Jane and Tim must gamble on each other—and an endgame impossible to survive…

Terrific continuation of the series. Here we have Jane, a recent transfer into this division of the LAPD. An unpleasant reputation has followed her to her new position, and she is stuck dealing with "domestic" situations instead of sinking her teeth into meatier cases. Having a partner, Damon, who is rarely there, doesn't help. When she suspects her latest case is not the open-and-shut one everyone thinks it is, she's determined to find the truth. Matters become complicated when FBI agent Tim Ruskin intrudes on her investigation.
 
Jane and Tim have a history. They met and had a relationship when he was undercover, and she didn't react well when she discovered his deception. Once someone has broken her trust,  it isn't easy to get it back. But when she learns that her murder victim may be tied to a Russian-mob-backed human trafficking ring, she'll take a chance on working with him.
 
I liked watching the rekindling of the relationship between Jane and Tim. He has missed their closeness and chemistry and wants to be together again, and Jane is wary and prefers to keep him at arm's length. Working with each other to solve the case allows Tim to show Jane how he feels and to earn her trust again. Jane is reluctant to risk her heart on him again, but the sparks between them are hard to deny. It doesn't take long for Jane to realize that her feelings for Tim had never died, despite the betrayal she felt. But they must survive their investigation before they can see what the future holds for them.
 
The suspense of the story was excellent. It started slowly as the background developed, but it took off when Jane and Tim began working together. There are questions about whether the victim was a pawn or a player and her link to the trafficking ring. Every clue they uncover seems to lead to more questions and an unexpected development. As their investigation narrows in on the ringleader, the danger to them intensifies. Flying bullets and being run off the road indicate they are on the right track. I liked the teamwork Jane and Tim exhibited and their respect for each other's abilities. The final confrontation was a nail-biter with its twists and turns as they raced against time to save a group of women destined to be shipped out of the country.
 
I also enjoyed seeing characters from previous books make appearances. JMac from the Kyra and Jake series encourages Jane, and Billy also gets his two cents in. I'm looking forward to the final book in this series as Billy finally gets his story and his dearest wish.

Chasing Christmas Eve - Jill Shalvis (Avon - Oct 2017)

Series: Heartbreaker Bay (Book 4)
 
Meet cute...
 
Run for the hills -- temporarily. That's Colbie Albright's plan when she flees New York for San Francisco. Wrangling her crazy family by day and writing a bestselling YA fantasy series by night has taken its toll. In short, Colbie's so over it that she's under it. She's also under the waters of a historic San Francisco fountain within an hour of arrival. Fortunately, the guy who fishes Colbie out has her looking forward to Christmas among strangers. But she's pretty sure Spencer Baldwin won't be a stranger for long.
 
Make merry...
 
Spence's commitment to hiding from the Ghosts of Relationships Past means he doesn't have to worry about the powerful -- okay, crazy hot -- chemistry he's got with Colbie. Just because she can laugh at anything, especially herself... just because she's gorgeous and a great listener…just because she “gets” Spence immediately doesn't mean he won't be able to let Colbie go. Does it?
 
…and hope for a miracle.
 
Now the clock's ticking for Colbie and Spence: Two weeks to cut loose. Two weeks to fall hard. Two weeks to figure out how to make this Christmas last a lifetime.

Fun trip back to San Francisco and the magical fountain of love. I've been looking forward to Spence's story and loved that he found someone so perfect for him. Spence has a big heart that he hides behind a loner façade. He is a brilliant inventor who gets lost in his work, which has been the death of several relationships. Having decided that love and work don't mix, he has written romance out of his life. His friends are his family, and that's enough for him until he collides with Colbie.
 
Colbie is the famous author of a young adult fantasy series and the glue that holds her family together. When the stress of writing a new book and wrangling her helpless family members gets too much, she runs away from home. Thanks to an unforeseen series of events, she ends up in San Francisco instead of a tropical island. The next thing she knows, an out-of-control dog knocks her into a fountain, and she's pulled out by the best-looking man she's ever seen.
 
I loved seeing the relationship develop between Colbie and Spence. The sparks flew between them from the moment Spence pulled Colbie out of the fountain. She so enchanted him that he acted entirely out of character, from rescuing her from the fountain to renting her an apartment in his building. Colbie was just as attracted to Spence but wary. She's only in town for three weeks for rest and relaxation and to get her writing mojo back. Spence suddenly finds himself willing to put his work aside to help Colbie fulfill her bucket list of things to do while in San Francisco.
 
Neither Colbie nor Spence is interested in a relationship. Colbie has too much on her plate, and she won't be around for long. Spence's aversion to relationships is well known. But nothing says they can't indulge in a fling while she's there and enjoy each other's company. I loved watching Spence come out of hiding and take pleasure in surprising Colbie with various activities. The serious and introverted workaholic becomes a bit more social, and his friends are stunned by the changes they see in him. Colbie has been so immersed in her writing and caring for her family that doing fun things for herself had never been possible until she met Spence. I loved the friendship that grew between them and how easily they understood each other. Neither gets bent out of shape if one gets lost in a project or a moment of inspiration.
 
I loved their time together and seeing them learn to balance their lives. It doesn't take too long to realize they want more togetherness. But neither is ready to risk rejection by saying anything, as each assumes that the other is still in "fling" mode. Then a misunderstanding makes things awkward between them, and Colbie plans to leave early. The scene before she leaves is heartbreakingly emotional as Colbie allows her fears to keep her from admitting what she wants. Just a few days apart, and some kick-in-the-pants conversations with those who love them make Spence and Colbie realize what they've given up.
 
I loved the ending and seeing Spence and Colbie let go of their fears and find joy together. The scene at the pub was fantastic, with not just an emotional reunion but a funny reminder of just how well Spence understands her. The epilogue was terrific, with a surprise from a sweetly awkward Spence.
 
One of the things I love about this series is the close group of friends that it is centered around. Each has their unique quirks and personalities that make them real and relatable. In this book, Elle was one of my favorites. She is very protective of Spence, which makes her suspicious of Colbie, especially considering Colbie's secretiveness about some things. Colbie eventually wins her over just by being herself, and in the end, she and Elle are friends. I liked how accepting of Colbie the whole gang was, especially when they saw what she meant to Spence. I also loved Eddie, the homeless man who hangs out in the courtyard. His advice to the residents is always spot-on. There was a revelation about Eddie and his past that I never saw coming but made his advice to Spence especially poignant.

A Match to Fool Society - Laura Martin (HH #1697 - Jan 2023)

A convenient arrangement…
…a complicated attraction
 
Jane Ashworth dreams of being an author, yet Society insists she become a debutante -- so play the game she must! Jane finds an unlikely ally in notorious rake Tom Stewart. As a new guardian to his nephew, Tom is out of his depth and intent on remaining a bachelor. They agree to fool society with a pretend courtship, but both are unprepared when the lines of their agreement start to become blurred…

Excellent book that caught my interest from the beginning and held it to the end. Jane is not your typical debutante. Though she was sent to London to find a husband, her true ambition is to find a publisher for the children's books she has written. While looking for one of the publishers, she encounters Tom, a recent acquaintance, who is horrified to find her in that neighborhood and escorts her home.
 
Tom has cultivated a reputation as a rake, all in the name of avoiding marriage. He stays far away from young women and the Marriage Mart, believing marriage is not for him. He likes his life - doing what he wants when he wants. Then he comes home one day and finds that he is his nephew Edward's guardian.
 
Both Jane and Tom want to avoid marriage. Tom needs help with his nephew, and Jane needs help finding a publisher. When Jane, who has several younger siblings, offers to help Tom with his nephew, he reciprocates by offering to help her find a publisher. Jane and Tom enter into a pretend courtship to facilitate spending time together and protect themselves from matchmakers. Neither expects the feelings that spring up between them.
 
I liked seeing the relationship develop between Jane and Tom.  Their connection was immediate, bonding over their lack of interest in marriage. It didn't take them long to become friends, finding it very easy to talk to each other. Tom envies Jane's easy manner with Edward and pays close attention to her instructions on how to get to know the boy. Jane can talk about her writing ambitions with Tom. But the more time they spend together, the more their fake relationship feels real. Each finds themselves thinking of their little group as a family. Jane realizes she's falling in love with Tom but doesn't believe he feels the same way. Tom fights his growing feelings for Jane, convinced he's incapable of caring for another person (his reasons are heartbreaking). Tom offers to do the honorable thing when their growing attraction causes a compromising situation. But Jane refuses to settle for a loveless marriage. It takes an eye-opening conversation with his best friend for Tom to see the truth, but it is nearly too late. I loved seeing Tom's determination to make things right. It wasn't easy, and Jane made him work for it, but seeing them come together was terrific. I loved the epilogue and catching up with them a few years later.

Lakeside Mystery - Carol Ericson (HI #2088 - Aug 2022)

Series: Lost Girls (Book 2)
 
He'll have to trust a woman who knows too much
To solve his biggest homicide case yet
 
LAPD detective Denver Holt doesn't know what to make of true crime blogger Ashlynn Hughes -- no matter how attracted he is to her. The stubborn writer has inside information that can help him crack his biggest homicide case yet. But as anonymous tips carry them further into danger, Denver wonders if he can keep a target off Ashlynn's back…or if she'll be silenced for good.
 
Good book that sucked me in from the start and kept me hooked to the end. Ashlynn is the sister of murdered crime blogger Sean Hughes (The Bait) and is determined to keep his blog going. She receives a tip about a submerged car with a body in the trunk and investigates. When she finds the car where her tipster said it would be, she calls the cops. LAPD detective Denver Holt is the one who is sent to investigate.
 
Denver wants to make the Homicide/Robbery division. He's not too happy to be stuck looking into a submerged car or dealing with the pushy woman who discovered it. But when her insistence that he check the trunk turns up a dead body, he has a lot of questions. Something about her story doesn't add up. When he is assigned to investigate the case, she's the first one on his list to interview.
 
Denver was not happy to discover that Ashlynn is not only a true crime blogger but the sister of Sean Hughes. He and Sean had a history, and he believes Ashlynn is cut from the same cloth. But he also can't help worrying about her safety. Denver follows her when she goes to meet her contact and is there to save her when she is attacked. At that point, they decided it would be best if they worked together. Neither expected the attraction that flared between them. Denver was protective of Ashlynn and frequently frustrated by her fearlessness. They grew closer as they worked together. I liked how Denver began to respect Ashlynn's capabilities and understand what motivated her. I also liked how Ashlynn started to see her actions through Denver's eyes and think about their effects. I enjoyed how Denver caused Ashlynn to think about her future. Though there are no big declarations at the end, there is a clear intention to see where their relationship goes.
 
The suspense in the story was excellent. Most of their leads came from tips from Ashlynn's blog. Her determination and fearlessness make her take chances while investigating those tips. As she and Denver get deeper into the investigation, Ashlynn's actions put a target on her back. There were multiple twists in this story that kept me guessing as to who the murderer was. The final confrontation kept me glued to the pages until it was all over.

Secret Alaskan Hideaway - Karen Whiddon (HRS #2212 - Jan 2023)

He has no name, no memory
…and a secret past.
 
Who's the man Dr. McKenzie Taylor rescued from drowning? He has total amnesia -- but senses that someone wants to kill him. Grateful that the good doctor has decided to protect him in her remote Alaskan cabin, “John Doe” joins her to delve into the mystery of his identity. As they become dangerously close, he discovers why their lives are in horrific danger.
 
Good book that kept my attention from start to finish. The book opens as Kenzie, the new doctor for Blake, Alaska, is on the road headed for her new home. A native Texan, Kenzie is a little unnerved by the remoteness and wonders what she's gotten herself into. Cautious in the pouring rain, she's following the car ahead of her when she sees it go out of control and plunge off the bridge and into the river. She stops her car to see if she can rescue the driver.
 
When the man emerges from the water, his size makes Kenzie a little wary, but her medical training overcomes it. She's stunned that he has no memory of who he is or what happened. With no other real options, Kenzie takes him home with her. Her "John Doe" doesn't remember anything about himself other than an overwhelming feeling that he is in danger.
 
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between John Doe, whose name turns out to be Brett, and Kenzie. While still cautious, Kenzie feels Brett is one of the good guys. As they spend time together, tiny pieces of his memory return, such as his love of cooking. I liked how appreciative he was of Kenzie for allowing him to hide out at her place while he recovered and that he repaid her kindness by cooking for her. Kenzie came to enjoy having someone waiting for her when she got home. There are some sweet moments between them during those times. Sparks of attraction began to build. Then Brett's memory returns, and he knows why he was so sure he was in danger - and that he'll do anything to make sure Kenzie is safe. I liked watching them grow closer and share those peaceful evenings. I especially liked that no big misunderstanding drove them apart at the end, just the realization that they belonged together.
 
The suspense of the story was good, though low-key until the end. Kenzie and Brett keep his presence secret while waiting for his memory to return. This turns out to be a good thing when strangers come to town asking questions. The tension builds as Brett's memory starts to return, and we get a glimpse of what he's been through. There is an attack at the cabin that reveals an unexpected adversary.  There are a couple of twists leading up to the final confrontation. I loved how the townspeople supported Kenzie and shaped the resolution of that confrontation. I did find the ending anti-climactic for both Brett's and Kenzie's situations.

Deadly Chase - Marie Ferrarella (HRS #2184 - June 2022)

Series: Cavanaugh Justice (Book 45)
 
A deadly case…
That's purely personal.
 
The Moonlight Killer has robbed LA detective Gabriel Cortland of everything. So when the murderer begins to prey on his new hometown, the lone-wolf cop is hot on the criminal's heels. Dismayed to be paired with unfailingly upbeat Shayla Cavanaugh on this case, Gabriel is surprised to discover how well they work together on and off duty. Together, can they finally bring the terror to an end?
 
Good book that hooked me from the beginning and kept me engaged to the end. Gabriel just transferred to Aurora from LA. He previously worked on the Moonlight Killer case until his wife became one of the victims. After trying to drown his grief, he pulled himself together, determined to find the man responsible. After months of inactivity, Gabriel is convinced that the killer has relocated to Aurora, "the safest town in the state," and it's only a matter of time before he strikes again.
 
Shayla is the youngest of the Cavanaugh-O'Bannon branch of the family and a brand new addition to the detective branch of the Aurora PD. She is well-known in her family for her upbeat personality and tenacity. The first thing she notices about Gabriel is the sadness in his eyes, and she feels compelled to try to help him. She asks the Chief of Detectives to partner her with Gabriel.
 
I enjoyed seeing Gabriel and Shayla together. Gabriel is a loner, consumed by his need to bring the Moonlight Killer to justice and guilt over his wife's death. The last thing he wants is a partner, especially one always so cheerful! Every time he tried to shut her down, she simply changed directions and kept up the positive outlook. I liked watching Shayla wear him down on everything from eating to taking a break and getting some rest. She also knew the importance of their investigation and was with him when work needed to be done. Neither one expected the attraction that flared up between them. Gabriel was stunned to discover that he could have feelings for someone else. I liked that there was no "insta-love" between him and Shayla, just an acknowledgment that they wanted to see where their relationship would go.
 
The suspense was excellent. The killer struck again almost as soon as Gabriel arrived in Aurora. His frustration over the lack of clues was evident as he and Shayla looked at current and past cases. Then one piece of evidence opened the door to a new line of investigation. I was surprised that Gabriel didn't make one significant connection, but I chalked it up to his mind being on another part of their questioning. Shayla caught it, though; she and Gabriel were convinced they had the right guy. The final confrontation was a nail-biter but had a great resolution. I was incredibly proud of Gabriel and his self-control.
 
One of the things I always enjoy about the Cavanaugh books is the closeness of the family. Their love for each other is evident in the teasing and support they provide. With so many Cavanaughs scattered throughout the APD, it is always fun to see a partner's reaction when a Cavanaugh picks up the phone and calls this cousin or that sibling for a quick answer to a question. Gabriel was no different. Also, with Gabriel having no family, he has no concept of what a group such as the Cavanaughs is like. His nervousness as he and Shayla arrived at Andrew's was adorable, and I loved watching him become part of them.

One Night Only - Jayci Lee (HD #2919 - Jan 2023)

Series: Hana Trio (Book 2)
 
Will giving into passion free them from their secret…
Or cost them everything?
 
Making beautiful music is what chamber violinist Megan Han lives for. But one night with a seductive stranger and a surprise pregnancy could jeopardize her hard work. Especially when that handsome stranger turns out to be Daniel Pak, CFO of her father's company. The only choice for these star-crossed lovers is to keep their fling -- and Megan's pregnancy -- a secret. But when passion reignites, will they risk one more sweet symphony?
 
Good book. Megan is dedicated to her music career as a violinist with the local chamber music organization. She also has secretly prepared a more modern electric violin piece. As the book opens, she is on her way to performing it for the first time at a club. Unfortunately, she runs out of gas on the way. She's rescued by a handsome stranger who sticks around for her performance. On an emotional high, Megan gives in to the attraction that flares with her rescuer, and they spend a passionate night together, then part ways.
 
When Megan discovers she's pregnant, she has no way to contact the father. Being a single mother was never in her plan, but with her family's support, she can handle it. I loved how Angie and Chloe were so excited to become aunties. Megan is more worried about telling her father, a very traditional Asian father. That worry intensifies when she meets Daniel, her father's new CFO - and the father of her baby! What will her father do when he discovers the link between his daughter and his protégé?
 
Daniel is stunned when he discovers that the woman he couldn't forget is his boss's daughter. His shock is multiplied when she informs him of his impending fatherhood. He immediately proposes marriage and isn't happy when Megan turns him down flat.
 
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Megan and Daniel. Megan rejects Daniel's marriage proposal because she refuses to marry without love. She had the example of her parents' marriage and won't settle for anything less. Daniel doesn't believe in love. His experiences with that emotion show that it isn't real or doesn't last. His mother abandoned Daniel and his father, and Daniel's college girlfriend left him for his roommate.
 
There is also the issue of revealing Daniel as the father of her baby. Worried about her father's reaction, Megan concocts an elaborate scheme to solidify Daniel's position in the company so that her father won't fire Daniel when they reveal the truth. Complicating matters, the attraction between Megan and Daniel is irresistible. Giving into it is just one more secret to keep.
 
It was hilarious that Megan's father kept playing matchmaker for them. He wasn't subtle about it. Between their stolen times together and forced times together, Megan and Daniel had time to get to know each other. It doesn't take long for Megan to realize that she loves Daniel, but she wants her love returned. It is clear that Daniel is falling for her, too, but he shuts down that train of thought when it happens. He allows his fears to push Megan away. 

After the confrontation with Megan's father reinforced their differing opinions on love, I ached for them both. But all was not lost, as support and advice came from an unexpected source. I liked how Megan and Daniel looked at their own failings and realized they had to fight for what they wanted. I loved how Megan's dad had one more trick up his sleeve, giving them a chance to make things right. I loved the ending and seeing Megan and Daniel finally showing their vulnerabilities while looking forward to a future together.

Do You Take This Baby? - Wendy Warren (HSE #2579 - Oct 2017)

Series: Men of Thunder Ridge (Book 3)
 
Marriage is in this playbook!
 
Football champion Ethan Ladd planned to spend the off-season dating beautiful women and living the good life. Until his ailing infant nephew is thrust into his care. Despite his best efforts, social services doesn't believe Ethan is up to the task. It's fourth and long…and the offense has a loaded diaper. Time to pull out a trick play.
 
Marry Ethan Ladd? They dated once. It was so bad, people are still talking about it. But after Gemma Gould's failed engagement, a temporary husband and baby may be the closest she ever comes to having her dream family. Gemma agrees to play until Ethan wins custody. But when he makes a play for her heart…will they score a touchdown for love?
 
Good book. The story opens as Gemma is helping at her sister's bridal shower. Gemma is the type of person who helps others, often to her detriment. She feels she ruined Elyse's wedding gown shopping experience and will do anything to compensate for it. During the shower, she ran into Ethan, a local football hero and her worst high school memory. She always feels awkward around him, while Ethan enjoys teasing her. Then he gets a phone call and abruptly leaves.
 
Ethan has the reputation of being a carefree bachelor and player. Then social services calls, and he finds himself caring for his baby nephew. Ethan is overwhelmed by Cody's unique needs and faces the possibility that Cody will be taken from him. His only hope is enlisting Gemma's help.
 
I liked Gemma and Ethan. Gemma has a big heart and takes care of the people she loves. She also has a self-esteem problem, especially after her broken engagement.  When Ethan proposes a temporary marriage until he has custody of Cody, she thinks it is her best chance to have a family of her own. Ethan is a good man who is caught in a tough situation. Complicating the need to care for Cody, Ethan is hiding a secret that could change everything.
 
I liked seeing the relationship develop between Ethan and Gemma. Their high school history wasn't the best. Gemma had a crush on him, and Ethan was a teenage jerk, embarrassing them both. I liked how they owned up to their mistakes and moved on from them. Once Gemma heard how Ethan ended up with Cody, she was compelled to help him. His appreciation was honest, and I could see his relief and the hope she gave him. But the real kicker came when he begged her to marry him, giving him the backup he needed to retain custody.
 
Living together and caring for Cody was like a dream come true for Gemma. It was easy to forget that it was supposed to be temporary until he could find his sister and reunite her with Cody. Ethan also gets into the family feeling but won't believe it can last. He feels that Gemma is way out of his league and that she would not stay with him. Despite their fears, their feelings for each other continue to grow. I loved that Ethan saw Gemma for the terrific person she was and saw no need for her to change. Gemma won my heart with her matter-of-fact acceptance of his secret and her desire to help him conquer it. But Ethan has a blind spot regarding his sister and doesn't listen to Gemma when she tries to get through to him. I ached for them both after the argument that drove them apart. It takes an eye-opening discussion with his sister for Ethan to accept the truth. I loved his return to Thunder Ridge and Gemma. He did an excellent job of groveling to get back in her good graces and for them both to admit their feelings for each other.
 
The epilogue was terrific, and I loved seeing their family a few years down the road. 

The Wedding Ranch - Nancy Naigle (St. Martin's - Dec 2022)

When Lorri Walker's husband gifted her with a mastiff puppy on Valentine's Day, she believed he was recommitting himself to their marriage after going astray. Six months later, he left both her and their dog for someone else. Since her recent move to Dalton Mill to unbraid herself from the past, Lorri's graphic design business is now flourishing, her growing mastiff, Mister, has plenty of space to romp, and her ex in Raleigh can fade to a distant memory.
 
Ryder Bolt is haunted by the tragic loss of his wife and young son seven years ago. Thankfully, ranching keeps Ryder busy, and spending time with his niece and nephew -- whose venue, The Wedding Ranch, has become a popular tourist destination -- keeps him from getting lonely.
 
When Lorri and Ryder met, love was the last thing they were looking for. When they're together, smiles come easier and burdens feel lighter, and both are embracing the possibility of something deeper.
 
But when a long-buried revelation surfaces, the fate that brought them together threatens to tear them apart.
 
This was a sweet, heartwarming story about two hurting people. The story opens with Lorri, whose fifteen-year marriage to Craig is in trouble. But when he brings her an adorable mastiff puppy, she believes things are on the mend. She's blindsided six months later when he leaves her for the puppy trainer. Lorri decides the best thing she can do is move away from the memories and start over, where she can rediscover who she is. So she takes Mister, the dog, and moves to the small town of Dalton Mill. I loved the vivid descriptions of her home, her renewed passion for painting, and the joy she gets from the slower pace.
 
Ryder is a man buried in grief. His wife and son were killed by a drunk driver seven years earlier. He stays busy working his ranch and spending time with his sister and her family. For him, family is everything, including helping his niece and nephew with their new event venue - The Wedding Ranch. Ryder also feels resentment toward his parents, who sold off some of the family lands to a developer, land that he feels should have been his.
 
The first few chapters were slow as they covered the breakup of Lorrie's marriage and Ryder's grousing about the land. My interest picked up as Lorrie settled into her new home and adjusted to the slower pace. I loved her decision to go to the county fair and the methodical planning of her schedule so she could see as much as possible. I laughed out loud at her first-timer experience with cotton candy and her fascination with the 4-H show. All the new experiences so consume her mind that she doesn't know she's in the path of a runaway steer until Ryder knocks her out of the way.
 
Ryder is unexpectedly drawn to Lorrie, and rather than help her up and send her on her way, he offers to show her around the fair until she is fully recovered. They find it incredibly easy to talk to each other, especially once each has assured the other that they aren't looking for a relationship. They agree that a new friend is nothing to sneeze at, so their friendship is formed. Watching them find reasons to spend time together, all in the name of "friendship," was fun.
 
Ryder finds himself more caught up than usual in Ross and Reece's plans at The Wedding Ranch. When a secret celebrity wedding is booked there, Ryder turns his house over to the wedding party. I loved the closeness between Ryder and the "kids" and his belief in their dream. His willingness to step up and help in any way is sweet. A little drama is attached to the wedding when he jumps to conclusions about Lorrie's presence there, but it is dealt with quickly and realistically.
 
I liked watching Ryder and Lorrie grow closer. It is clear that their feelings are changing and becoming deeper. Ryder's grief begins to let up a little, and everyone notices that he's smiling and laughing more. My heart broke for him as he told Lorrie about what happened and his feelings of guilt over it. Ryder listens as Lorrie speaks to him about her estrangement from her parents because of her brother's poor decisions and their enabling of him. She's never grieved his death because of her anger. But just as Lorrie is ready to confess her feelings, a devastating discovery threatens to drive them apart. Each must look at their past and decide whether the past or the future is more important. These scenes were both heartbreaking and uplifting, and I ached for both. Of course, love wins out, and I loved seeing them come together.
 
The epilogue was a terrific wrap-up to the story. I loved their plans and seeing their changes as they moved forward. Ryder's big scene was fantastic and was the perfect ending.

Alpha Tracker - Cindi Myers (HI #2080 - July 2022)

Series: K-9s on Patrol (Book 4)
 
A dangerous mission…
Might just offer them a second chance.
 
After lawman Dillon Diaz spent one incredible weekend with a mysterious woman, he's shocked to encounter her months later…when he's assigned to rescue an injured hiker in the mountains. And stunning Roslyn Kern has news that will change his life. Now, battling a fiery blaze and an escaped fugitive, it's up to Dillon and his K-9, Bentley, to protect long-lost Rosie -- and Dillon's unborn child.
 
Like the other books in this series, this one grabbed my attention at the beginning and kept me hooked to the end. The story opens as Roslyn, a Chicago DJ, returns to Idaho to find the man with whom she shared an intense weekend five months earlier. She has something to talk to him about and is very nervous about it. To postpone the inevitable, she sets out on a hike with friends. She becomes separated from them while taking pictures and sprains her ankle as she tries to get back to the trail. With a forest fire raging not too far away, she's worried about getting out.
 
Dillon is a police officer and search and rescue team member with his dog Bentley. It is his day off, which he spends part of trying to track down the woman he can't forget. After hitting more dead ends, he decides to take a break and go for a walk with Bentley. Before he can leave, he gets a call about a missing hiker, and he and Bentley join the search. Imagine his surprise when he discovers the lost hiker is his "Rosie."
 
Roslyn is shocked when she realizes her rescuer is the man she came to find. Initially, things are pretty awkward between them as Dillon fights his anger over how she ghosted him after their weekend. For Roslyn, this was not how she wanted to tell him he would be a father. But the two will have to get past the awkwardness and work together because a change in the fire's direction means they have a longer walk to get back to civilization.
 
I liked seeing the rekindling of the relationship between Roslyn and Dillon. Once Dillon overcame the shock over her pregnancy, he was determined to show her they belonged together. He has no trouble picturing their future as a family. Despite her continuing attraction to him, Roslyn is wary of committing to anything. She was burned in her last relationship and isn't sure she can trust her judgment. I liked how Dillon's patience and care helped ease her fears. But it takes surviving a dangerous situation for Roslyn to take that leap of faith. I loved the hospital scene at the end and seeing Dillon and Roslyn embrace a future together.
 
The suspense of the story was terrific. Neither Dillon nor Roslyn knew as they made their way back to civilization that an escaped murderer was also trapped in the same area. Roslyn is unaware that she caught him in the background of one of her photographs, and he is determined to keep her from sharing that photo. She and Dillon get a feeling of being followed but aren't sure until Anderson tries to steal her camera during the night. They become more cautious after he gets away from Daniel's pursuit. The tension ramps up as they are on the lookout for another attempt. I was glued to the pages when it came, as Anderson was a desperate man willing to do anything to avoid going back to prison. The confrontation was intense, and I loved how it went down.
 
Meanwhile, the missing hiker and the escaped convict draw much attention back in town. With Dillon cut off by the fire and little cell service, the Jasper police cannot let him know they may be in danger. I could feel their frustration as their investigation leads them to believe that Anderson is in the same area as Dillon and Roslyn, but a visiting Federal agent tells them otherwise. Fortunately, Brady and Ava trust their instincts and make their own plans.
 
The media are also all over the story of the missing hiker. Roslyn was a famous DJ back in Chicago when she got caught up in a media firestorm after she ended her engagement. After seeing the wild speculations some of them came up with, Roslyn's desire to keep a low profile was understandable. I liked seeing the Jasper cops deal with them.
 
Captain Rutledge continues to be a thorn in the department's side. His arrogance is maddening, and his dislike of the K-9s continues to rub others wrong. I loved seeing Emma from the Canine Academy tear him a new one after an especially egregious action. His press conference was infuriating, particularly when he made statements about his future role in the department. I want to see him knocked down a peg or five before the end of the series.

The Duke's Protector - C.H. Admirand (Dragonblade Pub - Dec 2022)

Series: Duke's Guard (Book 2)
 
London’s most sought-after modiste’s shop has been broken into…but only Lady Aurelia’s gowns have been destroyed…
 
A formidable foe resurfaces as vile and vicious slander spread through the ton. The target—Earl Lippincott and Lady Aurelia…
 
Sean O’Malley, head of The Duke’s Guard at Lippincott Manor in Sussex, is sent to London to investigate the latest attack on the Duke of Wyndmere’s family. Accustomed to putting himself in between danger and those he vowed to protect, O’Malley has been shot at, earned cracked and broken ribs, cuts, and bruises. It is part of the job. When he rescues the modiste’s petite seamstress—a beauty with blue-black hair and eyes the color of melted chocolate, he is awed by her bravery and spirit and unable to forget her smile.
 
Mignonette de Chauret loves working for Madame and is temporarily living in the back room of her shop. Her nightmare returns when the shop is broken into--again, forcing her to hide in the false bottom of an old wardrobe. A blond-haired, green-eyed giant of a man dressed in black from head to toe pulls her free. Mignonette is drawn to the handsome Irishman and feels safe in the shelter of his arms.
 
As O’Malley lays the groundwork to expose the culprit bent on destroying Earl Lippincott and Lady Aurelia, he is attacked outside the duke’s townhouse. His arm flayed open to the bone, the threat of infection and the reality he may lose his arm changes everything in a heartbeat. His vow to protect and provide for the lass who has stolen his heart has him asking the duke for a favor…
 
Mignonette must make a choice: Follow her heart and the Irishman who holds it in his hands or help him heal and return to her life working for Madame.
 
This series is linked to the Lords of Vice series that came before this series. Those books were about the Duke of Wyndmere and his family members, with the O'Malleys and their cousins as secondary characters providing needed security. In this series, the main characters are the guards, their work for their employers, and the love they find along the way. I loved looking at events from the commoner's point of view.
 
As this story opens, Sean O'Malley is sent from Sussex, where he works for Earl Lippincott, to investigate the source of salacious rumors about the earl's wife, Lady Aurelia.  Sean is there to investigate when the gowns the lady ordered are destroyed during a break-in at the modiste's. He meets one of the seamstresses, Mignonette, and is immediately taken with her and impressed by her bravery and spirit.  When the shop is broken into a second time, Mignonette hides in the false bottom of a wardrobe and is rescued by Sean.
 
I loved watching the interactions between Sean and Mignonette. Sean is a protective man who can't stand by and watch if he can find a way to help. When she is injured during the second attack, he sweeps her off to the duke's townhouse, where she can heal, and he can watch over her. Sean tends to be high-handed in his actions, doing what he thinks is best. Mignonette appears to be a doormat at first, going along with everything. But once she starts to recover, her natural feistiness reasserts itself. I loved seeing this tiny woman stand up to the big, tough Sean and have him falling over himself to make things right.
 
When Sean is badly injured in a knife attack, it is Mignonette's turn to take care of him. The situation is dire, with the loss of his arm or death a real possibility. I loved Mignonette's determination to save the man and the arm. Seeing her ride herd on the stubborn Irishman was great fun. Sean worries about being able to protect her and settles on the best he can imagine - marriage. If something happens to him, she'll have his family and his employer to watch over her.
 
I loved the development of the relationship between them. The connection between them is immediate and strong. Sean's protectiveness was sweet, as was how he tried to anticipate her needs. Mignonette's life had not been easy, and she feels safe and cared for with Sean. It's no surprise that she fell in love with him, but she thinks that she isn't good enough for him. It's easy to see that Sean is in love with her, too, but he doesn't recognize his feelings. I enjoyed seeing Mignonette's fiery feistiness appear as she settled into her marriage with Sean. There were times when he had no idea what he'd gotten into, but he was happy. I liked how everything came together for them at the end, and I look forward to seeing more of them in future books.
 
The suspense of the story was good. I could feel the earl's frustration over the rumors that maligned his wife and his inability to stop them. I liked seeing Sean and the others proceed with their investigation and discover who was behind it. Unfortunately, without proof, there wasn't much they could do. An intense scene near the end with one of the co-conspirators unexpectedly puts Mignonette in danger, though she also prevents a tragedy. I suspect that the perpetrator of the trouble will still be a problem in the next book, and I can't wait to see how that one goes.
 
I loved the closeness among the members of the Duke's Guard. They are all related, parts of a big Irish family. Some of their interactions are hilarious with how they tease each other and fight at the drop of a hat. But no matter what, they are always there to back each other up, whether in battle or love. I also like the mutual respect they have going on with their employers and other investigators. 

Starlight and the Christmas Dare - Michelle Major (HSE #2948 - Dec 2022)

Series: Welcome to Starlight (Book 7)
 
She isn’t the only one looking for a fresh start…
 
Guardian of his teenaged half-sister, glassblower Chase Kent is determined to steer his sibling onto the right path. But volunteer counselor Madison Maurer knew that he was missing that path by a long shot. So when Chase is injured in an accident right before Christmas, Madi opens her home to both brother and sister. She finds herself falling for Chase—and hoping he might open his heart, if only to discover the family he didn't know he was missing…
 
Terrific book that I could not put down once I started reading it. Though part of a series, this book can easily be read as a standalone. I loved revisiting Starlight and seeing characters from earlier books and was very happy to see Madison get her own story.
 
Chase is a famous glass artist known for being anti-social and grouchy. Because of events from his childhood, he has thick walls around his heart. After the deaths of his estranged father and stepmother, Chase became the guardian of his teenage stepsister, Stella. He feels completely overwhelmed and unsuited to the task, especially when she gets into trouble at school. Then an explosion in his studio leaves Chase badly injured, needing rehab and help.
 
Madison is the chef at Starlight's popular bar and restaurant. She, too, is known for the abrasive personality that protects her heart. She grew up with a negligent mother and the need to protect her little sister, Jenna. She blames herself for failing Jenna when she needed her most. She tries to make amends by helping Jenna with kids in need at the teen center. She connects with Stella, who reminds her of herself at that age. Though Madison takes her life day-by-day, when Stella calls in a panic after Chase's injury, she is there to help.
 
I loved watching the developing relationships in this book. Chase and Madison believe they are terrible people who aren't good for those they care about. Stella is lost after her parents' deaths and needs to feel that someone cares about her. The relationship between Chase and Madison was fun to watch. Chase hates needing her help, and his initial resentment is obvious. Madison doesn't hesitate to call him out on his attitude, and their snarky interactions are amusing. Though neither one believes in love or the spirit of Christmas, they find themselves partners in their desire to give Stella a good holiday experience.
 
I loved seeing the changes in Madison as she grew to love Stella and Chase. I laughed out loud at her coworker's statement that hugging her has progressed from hugging a porcupine to hugging a hedgehog. I loved seeing her open up to her friends and Stella and let them into her heart. Acting like a family with Chase and Stella has her hoping for something she never believed possible - a family of her own. Her feelings for Chase grow stronger when the sparks between them become too much to resist.
 
Chase was a harder nut to crack. He is so convinced that he is incapable of giving Stella the life she deserves that he considers transferring guardianship to another person. His actions show that he loves Stella and wants what is best for her, but he can't see that he is it. The same goes for his relationship with Madison. He'll admit to the attraction but believes that anything more is impossible. I wanted to shake him when he let his fears come between them. It takes an honest conversation with Stella (finally!) for him to see what is really important. An unexpected event adds some drama to the ending, but Chase's big moment with Madison is sweet and adorably awkward.
 
I look forward to future Starlight books and seeing more of these characters.

Most Eligible Cowboy - Stacey Kennedy (HD #2912 - Dec 2022)

Series: Devil's Bluffs (Book 1)
 
“Yeah, cowboy, we've got a deal.”
And a very real fake engagement!
 
Being named Texas's Sexiest Bachelor is the opposite of fun for divorced rancher Colter Ward. So when old friend Adeline Harlow shows up determined to land an exclusive interview, they strike a deal to form a fake relationship. The one flaw? Everyone believes they're headed for happily-ever-after! But with Adeline returning to New York and Colter's family needing him in Devil's Bluffs, where will they end up?
 
Terrific book. Colter has been having a tough year. He's still reeling from his divorce, his father's health is rapidly declining, and since he was named Texas's Sexiest Bachelor, the women won't leave him alone. He can't even drink a beer at his friend's bar without constantly being propositioned. As the book opens, he's unsuccessfully trying to drink in peace. Just as he's chased one woman away, another appears at his elbow.
 
Adeline has returned to her hometown to write a follow-up story on Colter. Years ago, she was his little brother's babysitter and had a massive crush on Colter. She hopes to use that connection to get the story that will guarantee the promotion she wants at work. She's also happy to get out of New York for a while, away from the memories of her broken engagement.
 
The first meeting between Colter and Adeline had me laughing out loud. Colter's frustration is evident as he deals with the woman coming on to him, only to be accosted by yet another woman.  But this one is different. Her reaction to Colter's nonavailability statement was hilarious, and his response to who she was set the tone for their relationship. I loved their conversation about her determination to get the interview with him and Colter's flash of inspiration on how to help them both. It didn't take much to convince Adeline to pose as his fake girlfriend in exchange for the interview, but neither expected the surge of attraction as they sealed the deal with a kiss.
 
I loved watching their relationship develop. Thanks to the Olympic-level gossip chain in the small town, Colter and Adeline find themselves spending more time together than expected. Their friendship grows as they find they have a lot in common, and their attraction grows along with it. I liked the scenes where they opened up about their pasts, fears, and plans for the future. But the more time they spend together, the harder it is to remember that the relationship isn't real and that Adeline will be headed back to New York.
 
Just as Colter and Adeline begin to realize the truth of their feelings and consider possibilities, tragedy strikes. Colter's fears and guilt come rushing back to the surface, and he pushes Adeline away. I wanted to shake Colter for his jerky behavior and felt that he deserved the misery he felt. Both have some serious thinking to do about what they want and some past issues to confront before they can move ahead.  I loved the ending and the result of those actions. It was great to see that both Colter and Adeline were willing to make changes, and I loved how they worked out the perfect solution.
 
I loved Adeline's twist in her follow-up article on Texas's Sexiest Bachelor. I didn't see that coming and laughed out loud at the results. The final chapter is a terrific lead-in to the next book, and I can't wait to read it.