ARC Review Beauty and the Billionaire by Hayden Hall

 

Beauty and the Billionaire by Hayden Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As this story starts and you meet Dominic you get a feeling that this story could be very dark. When Zain leaves with him I though I knew the direction this story was headed. But it turns into something very different. There is a lot of raw emotions in this story. The epilogue is a wonderful conclusion to the story. I received this ARC in exchange for a honest review.

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September 29 - October 13, 2024

 

Motorhomes, Maps, & Murder by Tonya Kappes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Once again the citizens of Normal, KY just want to enjoy themselves. But there is an escaped prisoner on the loose. When they find bodies the hunt is on. This book as a ton of surprises for Mae and her friends. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Canyons, Caravans, & Cadavers by Tonya Kappes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mae is being honored and everyone is having fun at Happy Trails. Once again we see Mae and her friends trying to solve the case before the town is in trouble. We also get to learn more about Hank. Does Mae have anything to the young people of Normal? #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Saul by Victoria Sue
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the love story of two people who are perfect fit. There is also some drama that gets in the way. We see Calvin having trouble trusting. It was hard to watch the missteps they both make. I love the sweet ending. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Hang the Moon by Alexandria Bellefleur
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Brendon loves the idea of love. He even created an app to help other people find love. But he hasn’t had much luck for himself. Then Annie arrives. Both feel an attraction and things seem to move fast. Annie has to decide if she can trust her feelings and Brendon’s words. I love the epilogue of the story.

 

View all my reviews Silver Spells by Kate Moseman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Luella has a very bad day at work that seems to be the catalyst for a whole lot change in her life. Her friends are also noticing changes in their lives. I like the way the story develops. I also like that her friends were included in the magic. This is a heartwarming story of family, friends, and magic. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Mason Dixon & the Wampus of Reeds Spring (Mason Dixon, #2) by Eric R. Asher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Once again we are joining Mason on his hunt for new cryptids. The story has danger of course but also tons of laughs. I love the idea that there could be more than we now about in wild areas. The whole cast of characters made these story so much fun. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Liz's Road Trip by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book ended up being much more than I expected. It was intense to watch Liz process everything new in her life. There were some moments that I wasn’t sure how things would end up. But the journey to the end was so worth it. Listening to the audio added to my enjoyment. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Bongo & Delilah Break Daytona by Winnie Winkle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story was so much fun. I can’t imagine finding a little green man in the back of my car. The characters are well written and I was very invested in them. I can’t wait to read the next book. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviewsNowhere, NJ by H.D. Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I had picked this book up to donate to a local book center but decided to read it first. I was blown away by the tension and action. It would seem Matt is just an ordinary business man. But there is so much more to him. I love the back and forth from the then and now. It has a wonderful ending. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviewsReal Trouble by Elle Keaton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Both the main characters are very intense and carrying burdens of the past. My heart went out to Dani who really just wants a normal life. We also see Soren do his job with integrity. The navigation of the story wound around the events and really draws you along to the very satisfying conclusion. The audio was a great way to enjoy this story. #CMCon25

View all my reviewsNothing But a Rakehell by Deb Marlowe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a delightful story. I love Gloria’s strength and they way Keswick brought out the best in her. There are also some really fun moments in the story. Best was the ways Gloria’s cleverness really saves the day. If you are lookin for a lighthearted romance with a bit of spice and drama you will love this book. #CMCon25

View all my reviewsForrest for the Trees by Kilby Blades
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sierra is such a strong character. She can take care of herself and her job. She is also compassionate. Forrest at first comes off as a bit arrogant but once you realize who he really is you start to see his strength. There are moments with a side of budding romance. Loved the epilogue. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Shattered Blood by Kevin A. Davis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’ll be honest this is not my typical read. It has way more graphic violence than I like. There are lots of threads to unravel as you read the story. But this story is well written and there is plenty of action. If dark paranormal mysteries is your jam you will love this book. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviewsSedona Sin by Lisa Kessler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Sedona Pack is working to bring itself together. Asher is unsure of his own feelings. Naomi is also navigating her life. The need to work together for a better life for all of them. I like seeing Asher growth as he moves toward his destiny. New threads to unravel as the series moves forward. #CMCon25

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September 16 - 28, 2024

 

View all my reviews My Daring Texan by Dakota Lacoy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

AJ has a big secret he’s keeping from his whole family. And given his brothers who could blame him. But then enters Carly taking shelter from the weather We get to see the fun of their reactions to each other as they ride out the storm. But AJ’s got stuff he need to figure out for himself before he has room for someone in his life. The audio version is fantastic. #CMCon25 

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Young Men in Love by Joe Glass
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I picked this book up at MegaCon last year and finally got around to reading it. It is a great collection of short comics of men in love. There is a lot of variety and the art is fantastic.


View all my reviews Learning to Change by M.A. Innes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Once again we see how unique the residents of the apartment building are. Dean, Tate, and Joel are figuring out how they fit together and what defines special. I enjoyed the whole story but there are some special moments that are just extra fun. Such as shopping at Target. I love that it is made clear that they really care for each other.

View all my reviews Romeo vs Romeo by Hayden Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It is wonderful to back at Neon Nights. Roman is always ready to fight for what is right. This time it is personal. It was great to see Everett emerge as a character growing through the story. There were a couple of times I got impatient and thought just get on with it. But the journey was worth the trip. This story has beautiful ending. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

View all my reviews Deserts, Driving, & Derelicts by Tonya Kappes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

We get to learn more about Mae’s life before she had an infamous husband. Her foster brother shows up. And of course a dead body follows. Another case for Mae to solve. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Forests, Fishing & Forgery by Tonya Kappes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mae is settling into her life in Normal, KY. Life is getting better. But every time she tries to have some special times there is another body to deal with. But she has her notebook and is ready to solve the case. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Christmas, Criminals, and Campers by Tonya Kappes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Christmas can be a special time of the year. Mae is enjoying her book club. They are looking forward to a surprise guest. In the meantime Mae has a less than welcomed surprise visitors at the campgrounds. And of course there is a murder to solve. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Broken Road by Sean Michael
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a sweet story of two men who have been best friends since forever. They story starts at a crisis point. Then we get to watch the two of them grow up in each other’s lives until we get back to the crisis. Over the years they have been circling around each other. I love the way the ending of this story wraps it all up

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Here's the wrap up for September.  Another great month of reading for the Coastal Magic Reading Challenge.  I read some additional books in series I enjoyed.  Plus I made time for some other books as well.  

August 22 - September 15, 2024

Well as summer slips into fall I've have past the 1/2 way mark in the authors for the Coastal Magic Reading Challenge.  I'm trying to read a least one book from each other authors.  And if I have time go back and read more of my favorite series or authors.  I always find some surprises.  Finding a book way out of my comfort zone and really enjoying.  Of course there a couple that even though really well written weren't my jam.  But that is a great thing about a challenge you at least take a taste of lots of different things.  Through the challenge activities I've really enjoyed getting to know the authors and the story behind some of their stories that make them even more interesting.  For more information about the Reading Challenge click.  And if you would like the chances to meet these great authors in person here is Coastal Magic Convention.  #CMCon25 #CMReadingChallenge

A Son for the Cowboy by Sasha Summers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Poppy is a strong woman who has built a life for herself and her son. I l like the fact that despite the circumstances she had never told her son negative things about Toben. I really like he took steps to show her that what he said was for real and he could be trusted. Story had a great HEA. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Honor and Wealth: Remy by Dahlia Rose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sinead is a strong woman who is raising 5 children on her own. Sometimes you need a little help which is how her world intersects with Remy’s world. It is life changing for them both. But there is a lot to work through both internally and by outside forces. I loved the strength and intelligence by all the characters including the children. This story has some very dramatic moments. #CMCon25

View all my reviews A Lowcountry Bride by Preslaysa Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Maya has a successful career on the rise but she must take care of her dad. This was the first choice of priorities she needed to make. So much continues to happen in her life that causes her to think about her priorities. There is a romance in the story with Derek but to me the focus of the story was Maya own internal struggles as she has to reevaluate her dreams and what it really means to be successful. I love the rich voice of the narrator as well. #CMCon25

View all my reviews The Scottish Rogue by Heather McCollum
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ll be honest I’m not a fan of historical romance but a challenge is a challenge. I was surprised by how much I loved this story. We get to see the strength it takes to be a woman when all is against you. I like how all the characters were allowed to develop through the story. It helps you to love or hate them as is their due. And while men will ride to your rescue sometimes you must take matters into your own hands. The narration was also well done. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Happy Is On Hiatus by A.C. Arthur
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is full of strong resilient women. The main character is Rita but it also includes her cousins who are like sisters. It also explores the importance of family in your life. We also see how sharing a meal can help build relationships and heal wounds. Great audio. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews The Mystery of Nevermore by C.S. Poe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love this book but it is hard to figure out how to review it without giving anything away. I love Sebastian’s curiosity. Calvin is working hard to solve the crime. They need to find all the clues in time. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews MAX ABADDON AND THE WILL: A Max Abaddon Urban Fantasy Novel by Justin Leslie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Max is about to turn thirty and thinking about what he should do next. And then his world shifts upside down. Things are really not what they seem. Max gets drawn into the intrigue of at whole new level. I love the blend of action and humor in this book. There is a wonderful and rich cast of characters. This is the first in a series. The main issue for this story get resolved but there is clearly more action to come. #CMCon25

View all my reviewsHoodoo Heaven by Reggi Dupree
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Gwen is on a mission to make it through her birthday. She has all kind of gifts which make her life interesting. I love her whit and sass. The ending is really a beginning of what life has in store for Gwen. I really love the narration of the audio book. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Beyond the Next Star by Melody Johnson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The story opens with Delaney in a frightening situation. Through the story we learn more about the events that led to that moment. There is also mystery and intrigue set in this new world. I really like how Torek treated her with kindness even before he fully understood what was happening. The audio version kept me engaged through the whole story. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Learning to Run by M.A. Innes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the way that these three men just fit together. I also like h ow Brady and Jude are becoming part of their family. I can’t image how crazy the next holiday meal will be at Brady’s mom.

 

View all my reviews Dark Moon, Shallow Sea by David R. Slayton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I picked up this book because I enjoyed the Adam series. This book is nothing like those books. Dark Moon is very intense with a feeling of darkness. Yet it was so riveting. and kept drawing me in. The ending was very well played. I truly enjoyed this story. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviewsJoshua's Rainbow by Victoria Sue
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is a journey to love. Daniel has been driven to the point of exhaustion. Joshua has been surviving. Rainbow Key itself is a character in this story being a safe space for all that land there. This story has some emotional ups and downs as well. I really loved the beautiful ending to the story. I can’t wait to read more of this series. #CMCon25

View all my reviews The Stars that Tremble by Kate McMurray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mike has been alone for a long time as he raises his daughter Emma. Gio suffered a crushing life change beyond his control. Each is living their own lives. Suddenly, because of Emma their orbits overlap which brings a change for all of them. There is some internal angst on both men’s parts and outside forces. But together they weather it all. I like teh simple but happy ending for both main characters. #CMCon25

View all my reviewsThe Guardian's Heart by Michel Prince
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was such a sweet story. There is love at first sight. This story has few moments of drama but mostly low angst. It is a great story of what it takes to make a family where love is the foundation. I enjoyed the audio book. #CMCon25

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August 3 - 22, 2024

 

The Cinderella Prince by Hayden Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It was interesting to see how both men were running in their own ways. You can also see how the neighborhood and it’s people are a part of the story. Cedric’s sister is a wonderful character as well. There is a lot for these men to work through as you get to the end of the story to find their HEA. Can’t wait for the next story in this series. I received an ARC in return for an honest review.

View all my reviews Learning to Walk by M.A. Innes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I loved the sweet build of the relationship of all three men. Once again the residence of the building prove how special they all are. I can’t wait until the rest of the family get together.

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Not a lot to post right now.  I am working hard to get more books done for the Coastal Magic Reading Challenge.  

July 11 to August 2, 2024

 

No Rings Attached by Mona Shroff
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story with a very dramatic moment. Sonny and Sangeeta decide a fake relationship is the way to go to fix everything. This sets off a whole series of events that seem to be spiraling out of control. I love the sweet way this story ends. The audio quality was well done. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews My Bold Texan by Dakota Lacoy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this sweet little romance. Paul is just helping out a friend and it’s life changing. I like Demi Lee’s stages of recover. I also like the narration of this story. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Reaper vs. Ripper by Stacey Rourke
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a short story that packs a punch. You see how hard it it to be a reaper of the worst souls. There are a few twists to the story as well. The audio was high quality. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews The Ranch Hand and the Single Dad by Jackie North
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Austin’s life is turned upside down when his wife divorces him. But the job of ranch accountant seems to be a good way to get a fresh start. Clay’s relaxed and friendly attitude is just what Austin needs. I like the sweet and easy feel of this story. It is low angst but full of feelings. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Mad About the Hatter by Dakota Chase
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story was a lot of fun to read. Alice’s brother is now in Wonderland. He has a grand adventure with the Hatter. This is a young adult books with some kissing and a couple of bad words. This is a delightful tale that I thoroughly enjoyed. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews A Fashionable Deception: A Contemporary M/M Steamy Romance Novella by Sera Taíno
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Milo is all business or at least he things he is. Alex is different in the way he reacts to Milo. this is a quick romance but you feel really good about the ending. I also liked the bonus story included at the end of the book. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Just a Little in Love by Victoria Sue
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

There is a lot of moments in Rowan’s life that will bring tears to your eyes. I loved seeing Gabriel’s views about his needs changing. The supporting cast add to the story. I couldn’t put this story down. #CMCon25

 
View all my reviews Whisk-y Business by Tere Michaels
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Instead of the girl moving to the small town and finding love this story get flipped. Poor Cam was in for quite a shock when Annalee bursts into his life. I appreciated Annalee’s strength and determination. So much is changing in their world but it is becoming a better place. I also love the little hints of magic in this story. Even the title and cover are very clever. #CMCon25

View all my reviewsBad Blood by Lucienne Diver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tori finds herself in the middle of a case that is huge. This story has a lot of danger and lots of action. It kept me on the edge of my seat. The audio was also well done. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Southern Howl: Magic and Mayhem Universe by H.M. McQueen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jane is back to visit family but things are heating up. Everyone is looking forward to the big gathering. Jane has some decisions to make. Southern Howl is a fun romp where everything works out in the end. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Disney Frozen Polar Nights: Cast into Darkness by Jen Calonita
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a great addition to the Frozen world. The sisters have a new emergency that it will take both of them to solve. There are dramatic moments and a mystery to solve. I really enjoyed this story. The audio version was well done. #CMCon25

View all my reviewsThe Christmas Accomplice by Hank Edwards
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the pacing of this story between Reece and Wilton. The rom-com elements of Dean showing up was fun. I also appreciate the fact that despite feelings they don’t rush into things either. This was a great Christmas in July choice for light hearted romance. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Phonebook by Amy Lane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ryan is working hard to provide for them. Scotty is missing him being home. But they find a creative way to stay in touch. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Four Corners by Kate McMurray
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The ending of the story is satisfying. The beginning chapters start with a lot of looking pack into the past which helps create the back story. Personally though I had a hard time connecting with these two men which is why I gave the book 3 stars. #CMCon25

View all my reviews A Lesbian's Guide to Women by Erica Lee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I decided to listen to this story because my daughter loved it and wanted me to listen to it. This story was so much fun. Poor Annalise is so clueless. Her family and friends are such great characters and add to the story. I like how Brinley starts to feel the change in her feelings. The narrator was really good.

 

View all my reviewsNo Rhyme or Riesling by G.R. Lyons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have been waiting months for the rest of Adam and John’s story. It was well worth the wait. These two men have been effected by the same events but in different ways. It was causing them problems in the here and now. But they work their way forward to a new beginning.

 

View all my reviewsHome by Cara Dee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dominic’s life had been hard and cruel. He has been forced to make decision for survival. I love the way Adrain becomes a part of his life. The back and forth to give space and time. And Thea is such a wonderful addition to the story. I love the touching ending to the story.

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It was a great month for getting more books read for the reading challenge.  I was also able to sneak in a few other books as well.