What a great month of reading I had! I am super excited to share my thoughts on the books I devoured!
I am a huge fan of Mae Clair’s writing and thought I had read everything she’d written until I ran across this book. And I’m glad I did!
Caithelden Breckwood is a tortured soul, carrying the weight of guilt for the death of his best friend. But they were only kids and all because of his family wealth and family name. Now he’s an adult with a set of steel bars around his heart and a new last name leaving behind all association to the Breckwood family. The only one he lets in is his young son, Derrick. He’s fiercely protective, determined that what happened to him will not ever happen to his son.
However, when he is hired as a Private Investigator to get to the bottom of who and what is sabotaging Stone Willow Lodge, he comes face-to-face with his past including the one woman he has always loved. Veronica is not prepared to face Caith again. The wound he left on her heart is permanent. As the events that occur at the lodge escalate into an all-out attack, Caith and Veronica are swept into a nail-biting journey that also finds them still deeply attracted to each other and often winding up in each other’s beds. The child, Derrick, plays a big part in helping each of the adults in this story heal and forgive.
I loved all of the characters, but especially Caithelden’s mother, Morgana, who is fascinated by myth and magic. The family drama that unfolds is believable as personalities clash and old issues arise. I rooted for Caith and Veronica all the way. That kind of love cannot be denied. The book came to a more than satisfactory conclusion. If you love a good mystery mixed with a steamy romance, you will love this book. I highly recommend it!
I enjoyed catching back up with the characters I met in other Wounded Hearts books. It was like visiting old friends. The always tough SAC agent, Amanda Rhinehart, is seven months pregnant as a result of an illicit affair with a previous member of her team, Adam O’Connor. Adam has no idea she is pregnant or even where she is. At the end of the last book, she left Texas. But as circumstances arise that force Amanda to seek out Adam and other team members, for their own safety, there is no avoiding the fact that she is pregnant with his child.
The author did a great job of layering this story with high-profile drug cases as well as the complex personalities of the characters. No doubt this pregnancy has softened Amanda and cracked her hard exterior, yet she refuses to let Adam in or even admit to him the baby is his. They are both denying their love and it takes some pretty drastic measures to get past the barriers they’ve put in place. The other characters in the story, Maggie, Frank, Cameron, Emily, and a new character, Brianne, all play important roles. The jury is still out on Cameron. One minute he seems like a good guy and the next he’s evasive and hard to read. I look forward to more with him. To me, the story came to an abrupt end. I would like to have seen the reunion with Adam and Amanda rather than being told about it. But that is my only critique. If you like layered characters and plots, you will enjoy this book! It’s a quick easy read.
If I could give this book ten stars, I would. I loved Willie before I read this book, but I love and respect him even more after reading it. As the title suggests, this is a compilation of letters from Willie – Letters were written not only to people living but many who have passed on. He even wrote a letter to his famous guitar, Trigger, to his audiences, his children, and to his heroes. The book is like a chronological recap of his life from early childhood in Abbott, Texas to today, dealing with the pandemic, politics, climate change, and a plethora of other immediate issues. But through it all, he is positive and upbeat. He lists Gene Autry’s Cowboy Code in a letter to Gene Autry (a boyhood hero). This code is one we would all benefit from if we lived by it.
One of my favorite passages in the book is in the chapter he wrote about all the frequent rumors that circulate about his death. He says: “The question is not: Which one of us is going to die tomorrow? The question is: What am I going to do today? Remember my song, “Three Days,” which helped kick off this book? There are only three days – yesterday, today, and tomorrow. And there’s only one of those we can do anything about. So let’s go earn our day. Let’s do our best to enjoy life on this side of the dirt.” Such words of wisdom.
There is also a chapter on the Power of Positive Thinking that I found uplifting. Visualization and positive thinking are the keys to a happy productive life. I believe it! Included with these letters and chapters are many song lyrics scattered throughout the book. I highly recommend this for anyone seeking self-improvement or if you just love Willie!
With a hexed small town named Knotty, a sexy neighbor named Jason, and an inherited haunted house, I knew I was in for a real treat with this story. Remington never planned to return to the place where she grew up in an orphanage, but when her best friend, Beth, dies and she inherits a house, how can she stay away?
It mattered not that the two friends hadn’t spoken in years. The bond remained. And when Beth makes herself visible to Remington, the story ramps up. Armed with a book of spells, Remington embarks on the journey to becoming a full-fledged spell-casting witch. Ever seen a dog that meows? Perhaps some of the spells need a little tweaking.
This author has such a knack for writing quirky, steamy stories, and this one is the best I’ve read so far. The characters are charming, if not a bit eccentric. The ghosts that roam about are entertaining at the least. But the sparks that fly between Remington and Jason literally turn into visible streams. The story takes a dizzying array of twists and turns, with a surprise ending that I could not have predicted. There is a good bit of humor in this story and I laughed out loud more than once. If you want a sexy easy read that will entertain and distract you, this story is for you.
This was such a realistic story. The author obviously has some first-hand insight into the ruthless cutthroat world of the music business.
Krystal King has grown up on the stage and in the spotlight, with a father who was a country music giant. She, her sister, and her brother make up The Three Kings and produce hit after hit. But Krystal is broken inside, while outwardly, she’s tough as leather. And when a newcomer is brought in after winning a talent show, she is not happy about being forced to allow him to record a song (her song) that means the world to her. But the record label insists. And not only insists that she give him the song to record, but that her sister will sing the duet with him, not her. The hurt and betrayal go deep. But Emmy Lou, Krystal’s twin sister understands and fakes a sore throat, forcing them to let Krystal sing with Jace Black. Krystal wants to hate him and tries to find every reason to do so.
But Jace is a gentleman through and through. And he’s overwhelmed at the opportunity he’s been given to work with his idols, having signed a contract to open shows for them. He’s finally out of the oilfields and living his dream. Now he can make a better life for himself and his little sister whom he takes care of. Neither Krystal nor Jace are prepared for the intensity of the chemistry between them.
Krystal suffered sexual abuse at the hands of a man whom everyone thought was a family friend (even called him uncle). And although it’s been years, the deep scars have never healed. Krystal is convinced she is so flawed no one can ever love her. Jace is determined to prove her wrong.
Her resistance is strong, but he is stronger.
This is such a good story with a realistic view into the world of stardom, life on the road, and a family that survives whatever is thrown at them. The characters are believable and the world-building is great. If you love a highly charged romance with lots of obstacles, this book is for you, and especially if you are also a music fan!
This book is the first installment in a series of monthly novelettes from this author and I found myself immediately drawn into Emlyn’s world. The author did a great job of setting the scene. Emlyn is gifted but must keep her gift hidden or face banishment from a strict religious community ruled by the brethren. Women have no value except for childbearing and serving.
Only her mentor knows of Emlyn’s gift and is helping her develop and grow under the ruse of teaching her to read and cipher numbers. This segment of the story is told from Emlyn’s point of view so we see her encounter with a large white wolf through her eyes, as well as the ghosts that appear before her.
The author leaves lots of teasers and foreboding of things to come. “Winter is coming,” is a phrase that echos in Emlyn’s mind. Preparations must be made.
I look forward to the next segment of Emlyn’s journey.
The world-building in this segment of this series is fantastic. The way the author describes the village, the inn, the characters, and the landscape, I am there. I could smell the biscuit the cook gave to Emlyn while her father bartered for her. And what a shock for the child to realize he wanted to get rid of her. At first, I hated him for that, but given the restrictive and zealous religion they are bound under, he actually wanted to protect her. After all, she must be a witch if she can see spirits. Emlyn’s home life is torturous with a sister who is hateful and spiteful and a brother-in-law she is terrified to be alone with. This segment of the story gave us a deeper look at the fantasy world and its inhabitants. I particularly loved seeing more of Zasha and her companion, Tajin. Emlyn is a mere child, but she is an open channel to the spirit world. I have no idea what will become of her, but I will keep reading to find out! This story is addicting. Each segment is a quick easy read and well-written.
Sounds like an amazing bunch of books to read, Jan! Mae’s books and Jacquie’s books are always amazing. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. <3
Truly my pleasure, Colleen! Thank you for stopping by!
Anything written by Mae, Jacquie, or Teagan is a yes for me, but I’m willing to branch out and check the works of Sasha, Lisa and Turk. Thanks for sharing the excellent reviews, Jan.
I totally agree with you, Mark, about Mae, Jacquie, and Teagan. I was really impressed with Sasha’s writing and I will definitely be reading more of her work in the future. Thank you for stopping by!
You chose wonderful books. I think, these can be read exactly in the order presented here. 😉 Thank you for the lovely reviews, Jan! xx Michael
Thank you, Michael! They are all great reads! I appreciate you stopping by and leaving a comment!
:-)) I am honored, Jan. Thanks for the reviews. xx Michael
Thank you SO much for reblogging, Michael!
:-)) I am honored to do, Jan. Have a nice rest of the week. xx Michael
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Thank you, Michael, for reblogging!!
These are great reviews, Jan.
Thank you for stopping by, Robbie!
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Fantastic reviews to share, Jan! Thanks for sharing the love. 🙂
My pleasure, Natalie! Thank you for stopping by!
Wonderful selection Jan and thanks for the introduction to some new authors… great to have reviews for Cafe authors to share in updates.. ♥
Yay, Sally! I love discovering new authors and especially when they wow me with their work. I’m glad you found some new reviews to share! Thank you for stopping by!
Wow, that’s a whole lotta reading girl. Some fab books and reviews and glad I already have a few of them awaiting me. <3
Lol, Debby. I do love to read! Thanks for stopping by and Happy Reading to us all!
Wow, Jan, you did have a great month of reading. I like the monthly post round-ups. There are always a few books I’ve read, a few sitting in my kindle, and some new authors and their books that I’m unfamiliar with. I always walk away with one or two. Great reviews. Congrats to the authors!
Oh how wonderful, Diana. I’m glad you enjoyed the post and discovered some new authors. Thank you for stopping by!
What a fabulous selection, Jan! I’ve been reading Dead of Winter, and I totally agree, but I’ll be checking the rest of the books as well. Thanks for sharing it!
Thanks Olga. I agree about all these great books. I’m wowed to be in such company. Heartfelt thanks for being part of the Journeys. Hugs on the wing.
Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment, Olga! I’m happy you discovered some new books!
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What a great selection of books and wonderful reviews, Jan. I have some on my Kindle. Thank you for sharing. 🙂
Thank you for stopping by and sharing, Miriam!
You’re welcome, Jan!
Holy Hannah! My name on the same headline as Willie Nelson. I never thought to see that day. Hey wait a minute, reviews too? Jan, you treasure!
I’ve worked so hard on Journey 9 throughout the past week. Right now, you’ve made it worthwhile. I’m officially a happy-tired.
So many wonderful books here — I’m honored to be included and even more so that you’re part of the Journeys of “Dead of Winter.”
Like you, I had somehow missed this volume from Mae. And Jacquie’s books are always something to look forward to. Plus you’ve shown me more new-to-me authors and books! There’s so much wonderful reading ahead. Hugs on the wing!
Lol, Teagan! Your comment made me chuckle. Yes, my dear, you are on the same headline as Willie Nelson, and deservedly so! I hate that I got in so late on the Journeys of Dead of Winter, but I’m going to catch up! Great story! I’m glad you found some new books to add to your TBR pile! Thanks for stopping by! Hugs back to you!
I’m just thrilled that you enjoyed them, Jan. Plus, this way you don’t have to wait. 😉 Stay happy and sassy.
What nice reviews, Jan. I enjoy reading Mae and Jacquie’s work, but am always looking expanding my reading list.
Wonderful, Michele. I hope you found something that appealed to you. Thank you for stopping by!
You’ve been a busy reader.
And what fun reads, Craig! Thank you for stopping by!
Thanks for this wonderful review, Jan! I’ve read everything (I think) of Mae’s and loved them all. Willie’s book sounds so good, and I need to start on Teagan’s series soon. Wish there was a way to slow down the clock, lol
Lol, Jacquie. Yes! I wish we could slow down the clock too, but all we can do is keep going. Thank you for stopping by!
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I stumbled across a lovely review for Secrets, Lies & Alibis on Jan K Sikes​’s always interesting #blog- check it out!
You read some amazing books, Jan. Great reviews.
Thank you, Darlene!
I do love to read!! Thanks for stopping by, Darlene!
Great reviews, Jan! I fiund one to add to my Halloween reading list 🙂 I loved Mae’s and Teagan’s books and have Willie’s on my TBR list. Plus, I’m catching up to book eight in Wounded Hearts series, on book six now.
Thanks for stopping by, Denise. I would like to go backward and read the entire Wounded Hearts series since I came into it in the middle. Oh, for more time to read!
Never enough time to read everyone we want!
I’m glad you’re enjoying the series, Denise, thank you!
Excellent books, Jan. I totally agree with you about Shasha Summers’ Jace. I’m still in book hangover I think. I instantly fell in love with Jace Black. Oh man! He was a hottie and went from being an oilfield worker to an overnight sensation. Wish I could meet him person. HaHa! I look forward to reading Mae’s, Lisa’s and the others. They look sooo good. Love your choices, Sister.
Thanks for weighing in on Jace, sister. Yes, he was a hottie, but also one of the good guys that’s almost too good to be true. He had the patience of a saint! Safe travels to you today! Love you!
Thank you for sharing your reviews on these obviously super reads, Jan.
My pleasure, John! Thanks for leaving a comment!
😊
Goodness! Lots more books added to my reading list, Jan! Thank you! 🙂
Lol, Mary. Your comment made me chuckle. The never-ending TBR list…I know I will not live long enough to ever read everything on it because I’m always adding more. What a joy in life to be able to read so many different kinds of books!
Great list of books. I didn’t know about Willie Nelson’s book. I really like that man, also. In the fullness of his life, it doesn’t matter that he cheated on his taxes or slept around on his wife (both which lots of people do). We’re all flawed and despite those, he is an inspiration. Thanks for sharing that.
Lol, Jacqui. I love your comment. Willie is just one of those people that we can forgive and still love him. And that’s the way life is supposed to be. Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment.
I hope I didn’t sound harsh. I actually like that he accepted who he was, understood it, and lived his good life without judging himself. A model for all of us.
What a pleasure to find Myth and Magic included among your reviews, Jan. Thank you so much! I’m delighted you enjoyed the story, and thrilled to be featured with so many excellent authors Jacquie’s work is always stellar,and everything I’ve read by Teagan is so imaginative. The lines you included from Willie Nelson’s book really gave me pause. Definitely how we should approach life. These all sound like wonderful reads. Congrats to all the authors and thanks for sharing!
I couldn’t believe that somehow I missed Myth and Magic, Mae. I thought I’d read all of your work. I enjoyed it immensely and find myself still thinking about the characters. I agree about Jacquie and Teagan. I’m glad you enjoyed the reviews. Thanks for leaving a comment!
Thank you, Mae! You know I’m your #1 fan, too <3
<3
Mae, your books really are exceptional. I’m looking forward to adding this one to my Mae Clair collection. Hugs.
Aww. You’re so sweet. Thanks, Teagan! 🙂
Fantastic reviews, Jan! Thanks so much for sharing!
It is truly my pleasure, Jill! These were all great reads!
You’ve been busy reading, Jan! I’m thinking I have Mae’s book on my Kindle, but I’ve forgotten about it. Now I have a treat waiting for me. I’m super behind on Teagan’s series – haven’t even started it yet. Wonderful reviews!
That happens to me all the time, Teri. In fact, I will see a book on someone’s blog and go to purchase it, only to find that I already did. 🙂 I am still way behind on Teagan’s series, but they are quick 30 to 40-minute reads and I already bought the next two. Thanks for stopping by!
Wow, Jan! I hope you love them. Journey 3 is still one of — might be my favorite. Other people choose differently, but that one always clicked with me. I think #3 has a little more of me in Emlyn than any of the others. Hugs.
You’re so kind, Teri. The beauty of that is that there’s more to read at once, and/or you don’t have to wait for the next installment. I’m looking forward to your Bad Moon Rising event in October! Hugs on the wing!
Jan, I’m just getting back to reading books and blogs after a bit of a hiatus, so your reviews were a treat! I, too, love Mae Claire’s writing, so Myth and Magic is now on my tbr list. Jacquie is a writer I’ve been wanting to sample, and I’m a huge Willie fan. Thanks for sharing this line-up of great reads, Jan!
Hi, Maura Beth! It’s great to see you pop up here today. I’m glad you enjoyed the reviews. I know you will enjoy Myth and Magic and Jacquie is a fantastic author, so any book of hers you choose, you will be delighted. Thank you for stopping by!
Thanks for your interest, Maura Beth!
Great reviews, Jan. You have me wanting to read Willie’s book as well as some of the others. I’ve read and enjoyed Myth and Magic.
If you decide to read Willie’s book, you will not be disappointed. I’m glad you enjoyed the reviews and here’s to many hours of happy reading!! Thanks for stopping by, Joan!
Wonderful reviews, Jan. Mae is an auto-buy author for me. I’ve read everything she’s ever written and love it all. Jacquie’s work is always a delight. Teagan’s imagination is off the charts. I haven’t read anything by the other authors, but I can feel your enthusiasm for all the work you read. Thanks for sharing.
Yep, Mae is an auto-buy author for me too, and can’t wait for her to release something new!! (Hint, hint, Mae) I’m glad you enjoyed the reviews, Staci, and thanks for stopping by!
Thank you, Staci! I love your work, too 🙂
Aww. Thank you, Jacquie. 💕
Thank you kindly, Staci. From your wonderful mind, that’s a huge compliment. Hugs.
I don’t think anyone ever said that about my mind before. I’m humbled. Thanks, Teagan! 🤗
I didn’t know Willie Nelson published a book this year. I’m a WN fan. Your description of his letters sounds just like his song lyrics. Great reviews!
Thanks for your comment, Priscilla. Yes, Willie said he wanted to take advantage of the downtime due to COVID, so the book was his stay-busy project and it’s wonderful!
Great reviews, Jan. You’ve had some good reading. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Always a pleasure, Harmony! Thanks for stopping by!