Audiobook Review: It Happened One Christmas Eve by Jenn McKinlay

It Happened One Christmas Eve
(A Museum of Literature Romance, Bk 3)
By Jenn McKinlay
Narrated by Sara Young 

Blurb: 
Claire Macintosh is about to get engaged to a man she doesn't love at the holiday gala she is hosting as director of the Museum of Literature. Her mother, Hildy Macintosh, has made it clear that if the museum is to continue to receive the enormous donations from the family trust that Hildy has approved all these years, then Claire must marry the man Hildy has chosen for her and start to produce some grandbabies. At forty and single, Claire feels she has no choice. But when the horse and carriage arrive at the gala with the driver dressed as Santa to deliver Claire's engagement ring, she just can't go through with it. She hijacks the horse and carriage with Santa still on board and escapes!

Reporter Sam Carpenter thought he was being so clever convincing his friend to let him step in as Santa so he could get up close and personal to the subject of his upcoming magazine exposé. He is completely unprepared for the events that unfold and finds himself dashing through Central Park with a runaway would-be fiancé. Now the only way to save his story is to broker a deal with Claire Macintosh. In exchange for his help in getting her to her cottage in Maine by Christmas Eve, she'll grant him an exclusive interview. As their journey takes a series of unexpected twists, turns, and misadventures, both Claire and Sam realize that there's more than their careers on the line. And it's going to take a Christmas miracle to find their happily ever after.

©2022 Jenn McKinlay (P)2022 Dreamscape Media, LLC

Available for purchase at

Audible | Kindle

Viviana's Review: 

This was a short and fun listen!! Perfect to get that serotonin us book lovers need and love! It's charming and gives you a vintage Christmas story feel. Filled with clever dialogue, witty characters and gives you that fill good vibe. As its usual when a novella is well written, you are left wanting more!!  

I was thrilled when I learned that the heroine was older as that's not a 'norm' in romance!! However, I did roll my eyes at the heroine being 40 and still being totally controlled by her mother. I hoped it wouldn't become a weak heroine needing a man to sweep her off her feet when she is more than capable of saving herself. THANKFULLY, it wasn't. 

I loved Sam and how creative he was with solving issues and also how he showed Claire she was more than capable of being her own woman and didn't need her mom's approval nor controlling her. 

Jen did a great job narrating the novella. Subtle changes in cadence and tones giving each character their own voices. 

Overall, it was a great holiday novella! 

Rating: 4.5 Stars - I REALLY LOVED IT

Disclaimer:

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

Audiobook Review: Angelbound by Christina Bauer

Angelbound (Angelbound Origins, Bk 1)

By Christina Bauer

Narrated by Christina Bauer

Blurb: 

Eighteen-year-old Myla Lewis is a girl who loves two things: kicking ass and kicking ass. She's not your everyday quasi-demon, half-demon, and half-human, girl. For the past five years, Myla has lived for the days she gets to fight in Purgatory's arena. When souls want a trial by combat for their right to enter heaven or hell, they go up against her, and she has not lost a battle yet.

But as she starts her senior year at Purgatory High, the arena fights are not enough to keep her spirits up anymore. When the demons start to act weird, even for demons, and the King of the Demons, Armageddon, shows up at Myla's school, she knows that things are changing and it is not looking good for the quasi-demons. Myla starts to question everything, and does not like the answers she finds. What happened 17 years ago that turned the quasi-demons into slave labor? Why was her mom always so sad? And why won't anyone tell her who her father is?

Things heat up when Myla meets Lincoln, the High Prince of the Thrax, a super sexy half-human and half-angel demon hunter. But what does a quasi-demon girl to do when she falls for a demon hunter? It's a good thing that Myla is not afraid of breaking a few rules. With a love worth fighting for, Myla is going to shake up Purgatory.

©2014 Monster House Books LLC (P)2016 Monster House Books LLC

Available for purchase at

Audible | Kindle | Amazon Paperback | 

Viviana's Review: 

A new to me author and I am so glad I picked it up. I'm a lover of Fantasy Romance but was a wee bit hesitant as it's a YA, but I quickly fell in love! It's an interesting storyline. Slow paced at the beginning due to world building and so is the slow burn of the romance. WORTH THE WAIT!! Truly!!

Prepare yourself as this is the sort of book that is going to make you want to grab every single title in the series and devour them all... immediately!! From the creative twists in the world building, to characters that are lovable, you want to befriend and those that you totally understand why they must be gone! 

FYI - as this is the first book in the series there is a LOT of information that is needed and the 'norm' in many fantasies, sci-fis & PNRs. 

The author Christina Bauer also narrates the book, which to be honest, made me raise and eyebrow and think "okaaayyy". I was extremely pleasantly surprised! I liked her voice!! She can totally have a career as a narrator if she wanted to!! 

As much as I liked Christina's narration, the one character voice she did that just grate on my nerves was Cissy. There was a deep "Valley Girl" accent that was just too much and takes you out of the story. It wasn't consistent either. Some time it was heavily done and others, it started off soft and then BAM there it was... ugh. That was the only thing I had issues with. 

Totally grabbing the next book in the series! 

Rating: 4.5 Stars - I REALLY LOVED IT

Disclaimer:

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

Audiobook Review: Spellbound by Dannika Dark

Spellbound
(Crossbreed Series, Bk 8)

by Dannika Dark

Blurb:

Niko is caught in a powerful spell that was cast from the very book he sought to protect. Trapped between life and death, his chances of returning look grim.

Gem is determined to set things right. Armed only with her innate knowledge of language, she begins her daunting quest to break the diabolical spell… no matter the cost. When an irreversible action unleashes a new threat, Keystone scrambles into action. Lives are at stake as the team scours the city in search of an elusive foe.

A bond forged in secrets. A courageous sacrifice. Will Gem succeed at her daring attempt, or will she inadvertently destroy them all?

The clock is ticking in this riveting installment of the USA Today bestselling Crossbreed series.

Available to purchase at 
Audible | Kindle | Amazon Paperback | iTunes | Kobo | Nook 

Viviana's Review: 

Dannika does it again! She brings the readers along the journey of the characters and leaves them wanting more!

SPELLBOUND begins where we left off in the previous book MOONSTRUCK. Nikko is a sort of sleep like state and Gem continues to search for a way to awaken him. 

As we’ve come to expect from Dannika’s books, the banter between characters is fantastic and the moments of humor that is weaved throughout the story not only makes the reader smile but makes you fall in love even more with the characters and the stories!

Narrator Nicole Poole continues to knock it out of the park with her stellar performance!! She is truly one gifted and talented narrator! 

Overall, fans of the series will enjoy getting to know better two of their favorite characters, who up til now have been rather mysterious. Now we must patiently wait for the release of the next book!

Rating: 4.5 Stars - Really LOVED IT! 

Audiobook Review: The Slow Burn by Kristen Ashley

The Slow Burn
(Moonlight and Motor Oil Series, Book 2)
by Kristen Ashley
Narrated by Lance Greenfield & Stella Bloom

Blurb: 
Tobias Gamble knew from a young age precisely the kind of woman he was going to make his. She was not going to be like his mother. She was going to be like the mother he claimed.

In other words, she was going to be just right.

And when Toby returns to his hometown of Matlock, Kentucky and claps eyes on Adeline Forrester, he knows she’s the one.

The problem is, his brother Johnny has a new girlfriend. And Addie is her sister. Last, Toby would do nothing to hurt Johnny’s chance at happiness.

Toby hangs around town to get to know the woman Johnny fell in love with. He also hangs around to get to know Addie.

But he’s fallen hard, and he knows the best thing for him—and Addie—is for him to leave.

Addie Forrester is thrilled her sister Eliza found a good, solid man. Johnny Gamble is the salt of the earth. The best guy in the world.

The best except for his brother, Toby.

Toby doesn’t know it, but Addie’s fallen hard too. He’s perfect, except for the fact that he’s hands off and it’s torture, being friends with Toby when she wants so much more.

Addie also has a lot on her mind. She’s got bills to pay, her young son needs food, Christmas is coming and her job at the grocery store just isn’t cutting it.

Toby is steering clear of Addie. Addie is steering clear of Toby. But everyone around them knows this is the slow burn.

Because just like Eliza and Johnny, Addie and Toby were made for each other.

Available for purchase at 

Audible | Kindle | Amazon Paperback | Nook | Kobo

Viviana's Review:

OMG I LOVED this book so much!! This is a great series filled with characters you'll love!! Kristen gives us fantastic stories and THE SLOW BURN doesn't disappoint! We met Toby & Addie in the first book and immediately wanted them to get together & get their HEA together. Well, now we have it!

This story has little angst (which is a breathe of fresh air) and lots of traditional Kristen elements (e.g. strong heroine, alpha male, steamy/hot scenes, great banter and a strong sense of family) which always makes for a great book. BONUS that this was in audio narrated by Lance Greenfield & Stella Bloom. Oh... and prepare... there will be tears! 

Narrator Review:
I love Lance and Stella individually and when they are paired together its perfect! I couldn't imagine any other narrators performing THE SLOW BURN. They both are brilliant and bring an extra element of emotions that totally tug at your heart.


Overall, this was a great ending to this series and it does not disappoint!!

Rating: 4.5 Stars - I REALLY LOVED IT

Disclaimer:

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Audible in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

Audiobook Review: Gimme Some Sugar By Molly Harper

Gimme Some Sugar 
(Southern Eclectic #3)
By Molly Harper
Narrated byAmanda Ronconi

Blurb:
Lucy Brewer would never have guessed that her best friend, Duffy McCready (of McCready’s Bait Shop & Funeral Home) has been in love with her since they were kids. Fear of rejection and his own romantic complications prevented Duffy from confessing his true feelings in high school, so he stood by and watched her wed Wayne Bowman right after high school. Wayne had always been a cheapskate, so it comes as no surprise when he suffers a fatal accident while fixing his own truck.

Even as her family and friends invade Lucy’s life and insist that the new widow is too fragile to do much beyond weeping, Lucy is ashamed to admit that life without Wayne is easier, less complicated. After all, no one knew what a relentless, soul-grinding trudge marriage to Wayne had been. Only Duffy can tell she’s hiding something.

In need of a fresh start, Lucy asks Duffy to put his cabinet-building skills to use, transforming the town's meat shop into a bake shop. As the bakery takes shape, Lucy and Duffy discover the spark that pulled them together so many years ago. Could this finally be the second chance he’s always hoped for?

Once again Molly Harper “writes characters you can’t help but fall in love with” (RT Book Reviews) in this charming and entertaining love story.

Available for purchase at

Audible | Kindle | Amazon Paperback | Nook | Kobo 

Viviana's Review:

OMG This series needs to be made into a movie and/or TV show!! Seriously!! Between the great mixture of humor and romance, you have a fantastic supporting cast of characters that literally make you want to move to Lake Sackett, GA and become friends with the entire McCready clan!!

I stayed up til 2AM to finish listening to this story because I wanted to know what came next! However, you end up also falling for the characters and you don't want it to end and you can't put it down!

I've been hoping that Duffy would get his own book! I was so happy to see glimpses of the potential story to come while listening to "A Few Pecans Short of a Pie (Southern Eclectic #2.5)" and when the blurb for "Gimme Some Sugar" was released... woohooo!!

GIMME SOME SUGAR is full of the great characters we've have come to love in Molly Harper's stories! Add a sprinkling of humor, a dash of sass and a great helping of wonderful storytelling and you have this delicious creation that is the Southern Electric Series. 

Oh... and some of the sayings!!! LOVE them!!! Need to start writing them down!!

I love Amanda Ronconi and her performance is great!!! I will say that GIMME SOME SUGAR would have been phenomenal if it was performed as a duet with a male narrator! Especially since Duffy has such a large part in this story! 

Overall, this series continues to rock and leaves you wanting more!! What would be even better? If this series was made into movies and/or tv series! Hey PassionFlix, I'm talking to you!!! 

Rating: 4.5 Stars - I REALLY LOVED IT

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook from the Audible in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review. 

Audiobook Review: Next In Line by Amy Daws

Next In Line
(Wait With Me Series, Bk 2)
By Amy Daws
Narrated by Teddy Hamilton & Erin Mallon

Blurb:
What happens when the cute mountain man you made out with in an ice fishing shack turns out to be your brother’s best friend?

A whole lot of awkward, that’s what.

Maggie’s mind is reeling when she discovers the guy she became tangled up with at Marv’s Bait & Tackle isn’t a stranger like she thought.

The big snag: Sam and Maggie’s chemistry is hot enough to melt ice, which makes keeping their secret far more difficult than either expected.

Especially when one of them decides they want this arrangement to be more than just a catch and release.

Available for purchase at 

Audible | Kindle | Amazon Paperback

Viviana's Review:

I was looking forward to the second installment as I really enjoyed "Wait With Me", which was filled with humor and fun characters! Bonus that the narrators totally rocked! So when I learned that 1.) there was a second book featuring Sam (the best friend of Miles, hero of bk 1 AND the manager of Tire Depot) and 2.) that both Teddy & Erin would be returning as the narrators! 

NEXT IN LINE was utterly fun to listen to! Sam and Maggie have great chemistry but they also develop a bond/friendship throughout the book. You will instantly love Sam and how we meet Maggie is great. She is spunky and seems to be able to hold her own (more on that later). It was a real "meet cute" scenario which totally works! 

Sam is totally swoon worthy and has several great qualities. You end up totally rooting for him and wanting him to get his HEA. Maggie is someone who remains in her comfort zone and self declares to hate change. She is also very focused and a complete planner, where Sam is, while also focused, he is more laid back and a man that enjoys the simple things. The two seem like complete opposites, but you know how the saying goes!

The one thing I had issue with is that though this is set up as "can't be together because he's her brother's bff/she's the little sister of the bff" trope, however, the plot is all about Maggie trying to get her ex-boyfriend to take her back by proving she is more adventurous and not "basic". Personally, I think this would have been a much better book if she was trying new things to find herself or prove to herself that she can do things out of her comfort zone. NOT to get a guy back, which made her look weak and basically lame. This isn't what I want for my heroines, since alternative reasons could have worked so much better, especially if the trope is meant to be the "brother's bff/bff's little sister". 

With that being said, I really enjoyed the story overall. Amy does a great job of adding humor in places that not only work perfectly but also in places that is unexpected. Several smiles and giggles occurred while listening and a few laughing out loud as well!

Narrators Review: Teddy and Erin together make a great narrating dual! They each provide the characters with their own voices, tones and personalities, which makes for a great listen! I still totally crush on Erin's male voice and LOVE what Teddy does for the female characters voice! How narrators perform the opposite sex voices can make or break a book! The more I hear Teddy narrator, the more I become a fan and love his performance. 

Overall, this was a very good listen and I will say that Amy did a fantastic job of giving her readers/listeners a glimpse into the next book in the series which I'm dying to see how it turns out!! Hello... Dr. Dick!! OMG I totally busted out laughing and that's all I'm going to say about it!!

If you have never read any of Amy's books I highly suggest starting out with this series as it showcases her talent for humor in romance and you'll love the characters! BONUS that the narrators are totally awesome!! 

 

Rating: 3.5 Stars - I liked it

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook from the author in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review. 

Audiobook Review: Dominate by Amy Daws

Dominate

(Harris Brothers Series, Book 5 )
by Amy Daws
Narrated by Will Watt and Piper Goodeve with special guest Charlotte Cole

Blurb:
The anticipated conclusion to the Final Harris Brother duet.

To dominate one’s heart is to truly be free.

After the harrowing attack against Gareth and Sloan, there are more than just physical wounds that must be healed. Recovering and moving on from their dark pasts is the only way they can truly find their bright futures.


Who will surrender? And who will dominate?

Available for purchase at

Audible | Kindle | Amazon Paperback

Viviana's Review:

This is the end of the Harris Brothers series and everything was wrapped up nicely. DOMINATE started right where we left off in SURRENDER and as this is the second part of the overall story, you have to read part 1 before jumping into this title. 

As in the first book, there were great characters, fun moments and more steamy moments. The Harris brothers are so funny! Love their dynamic. Same for the secondary characters. 

Audiobook Review: Love and Other Wild Things by Molly Harper

Love and Other Wild Things
(Mystic Bayou Series, bk 2)
by Molly Harper
Narrated by Amanda Ronconi & Jonathan Davis

Blurb:
Available in audio first, this hot, hilarious stand-alone will keep you wildly entertained!

Welcome to Mystic Bayou, a tiny town hidden in the swamp where shape-shifters, vampires, witches, and dragons live alongside humans. The town formed around the mysterious energy rift in the bayou, which helps keep the town’s magic in balance. But lately the rift has been widening and destabilizing - threatening to send the town’s magical population into chaos.

Energy witch Danica Teel has been sent by the League to figure out what’s going on, with the help of bear-shifter Mayor Zed. While working on the case, Zed falls head over paws for Dani, but she’s reluctant to engage in anything beyond a roll in his cave. Dani’s family is counting on her to get the job done, and she has no time for distractions. But when an ominous presence begins stalking Dani through the bayou, they’ll need to band together to make it out alive.

Available for purchase at 

Audible

Viviana's Review:

OMG! LOVED LOVED LOVED this book! Story is filled with great characters, dialog and plot! And Zed... everything I hoped for and then some! This was a treasure to listen to!! Molly continues to write stories that leave you wanting more! LOVED AND OTHER WILD THINGS was also filled with laughs!! Loved that we also got to reconnect with Jillian, Bael, and many of the Mystic Bayou residents. 


Narrator Review: 
Amanda Ronconi & Jonathan Davis did a fabulous job with their performance. I really wished this was performed in duet vs. dual as the book lends itself perfectly for it. Each provide the characters their own unique tones and voices bring them to life.


Overall, this series continues to bring wonder to the listeners and I cannot wait for the next installment! A complete joy to listen to!!

Rating: 4.5 Stars - I REALLY LOVED IT

Disclaimer:

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Audible in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

Audiobook Review: Surrender by Amy Daws

Surrender
(Harris Brothers Series, Book 4 )
by Amy Daws
Narrated by , Will Watt and Piper Goodeve with special guest Charlotte Cole

Blurb:
One night of complete surrender is all it takes.

Gareth Harris is Manchester United's reclusive star defender. He has control over all aspects of his life. But a lifetime of supporting his siblings and filling in for an emotionally absent father has taken its toll.

Sloan Montgomery is a clothing stylist whose world was turned upside down when she found herself pregnant and moving to Manchester with a man who was never supposed to be her forever. Now recently divorced and struggling with shared custody of her daughter, control is a fleeting concept for this American living in England.

Both Gareth and Sloan are in need of a release. A moment in time where they can forget about their pasts and family pressures...and just...surrender. No one could predict what happens when both of their defences are down.

Surrender is part one of the Final Harris Brother Duet and concludes with Dominate. This duet is a great listen on its own, but to maximize enjoyment, check out the first three brothers books in Challenge, Endurance, and Keeper.

Available for purchase at

Audible | Kindle | Amazon Paperback

Viviana's Review:

I've only listened to one of the previous stories in this series so I had an idea about 'moody/mysterious Gareth" and of course with the mystery comes the "ohhhhh can't wait" moment, right? lol The good news is that you don't have to read/listen the previous books in the series to fully understand/get this one. Amy, the author, does a great job of introducing the family in a way that its not overly done nor get you lost. So feel free to dive right into this book!

Audiobook Review: Boy Toy by Sarina Bowen & Tanya Eby

Boy Toy
(Man Hands Series, bk #3)
by Sarina Bowen & Tanya Eby
Narrated by Teddy Hamilton & Tanya Eby

Blurb:
A brand new romantic comedy from your favorite snort-laughing duo!

Liam
The moment Sadie Matthews walks through the daycare center door, I feel my world tilt in her direction. Again. I fell for her when I was fourteen, and I’m still not over her. Problem: she still thinks of me as a teen she used to babysit. But I’ve learned a few things about pleasing a woman in the last fifteen years. I can’t wait to show her how good it could be. I need to move quickly before I lose her again. This is more than a game to me, but I still plan to win.

Sadie
I’ve just survived the worst year of my life. As a single mom of twin toddlers, I don’t have time for a man. I barely have time to finish a thought. Who knew that Liam McAllister would grow up to be so devastating? He’s everything my husband was not: tall, built, and willing to have a tea party with my girls.

I can’t possibly get involved with him. He’s too young for me. Too handsome. But he’s so persuasive...

Available for purchase at 

Audible | Kindle | Amazon Paperback | Kobo | Nook 

Viviana's Review:

I loved the first two books in the series and automatically added the third to my TBL (to be listened) list and couldn't wait!! We get blurbs and more info on the book and I'm totally still eager to listen to Boy Toy. Fast forward to release day of the audio and that puppy got downloaded and began to listen! While the male narrator was changed (and I LOVE Luke Daniels in this series), I was totally more than fine with Teddy Hamilton taking the reigns! Loved his performance and I think he was the perfect fit for Liam's character.

While this installment is not as funny as the previous two, its still hilarious and you will catch yourself laughing out loud. Part of the humor is Sadie's reaction to Liam and their chemistry. Boy Toy uses one of the many taboos in the romance genre... the older woman/younger man. Usually the age difference is a lot however, in this case its not. Sadie is 5 or 6 (sorry can't remember specifically) and that's not a huge/big difference at all. This 'issue' of the Sadie being older was repeated a lot and it wasn't necessary. Honestly, I would have thought that Sadie having two children (twins - totally cute & adorable) would have been a bigger concern or topic and its mentioned once but made more to be about him being a young 29yr old.... This is why my rating isn't a 5 Star but less. It was a bit much. Otherwise, totally loved it!

I LOVED Liam! He was a great mix of sweet, smart, sexy, caring, etc. and I simply loved how he pursued Sadie even when things hit the fan. He knew what he wanted and wasn't shy about letting her know. In fact I LOVED that it was the male that realized and vocally shared that he wanted more!

Sadie was a hoot! I feel so bad for her and what she's gone through. I can relate to 'not being as young as we used to be' and wanting to be just as attractive as others may remember... but life is life and she finally comes to turns that as long as she is happy and the one she is with loves her and finds her attractive, then that's what's matter.


Narration: OMG - Both Teddy & Tanya KILL it!! Their performance elevated the already great story to one that you'd want to listen to again and totally recommend to everyone!! Each gave their characters their own tones making and just brought them to life. Their comedic timing is spot on as well! Teddy is fast becoming one of my favorite male narrators!

Overall, I loved it (except for that age thing) and I'm sad that this is the end of this series. I'm hoping that maybe Sarina & Tanya will do a spin-off series based on Liam's siblings.... maybe... perhaps... wishful thinking! Seriously though, I'd love to listen to their stories!!

 

Rating: 4.5 Stars - Really Loved it!!

Disclaimer:

I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook from the publisher, Blunder Woman Productions in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review. 

Audiobook Review: Bro Code By: Kendall Ryan

Bro Code
By Kendall Ryan
Narrated by: Ava Erickson and Jacob Morgan

Blurb:

There’s pretty much only one rule when you’re a guy.

Don’t be a douche.

Turns out, the fastest way to break that rule is to fall for your best friend’s sister.

Ava’s brilliant, sharp-tongued, gorgeous, and five years younger than me.

She’s the sexual equivalent of running with scissors. In a word, she’s dangerous. And completely off-limits.

Falling for her could ruin everything.

Yet I can’t seem to stop, even when her company is threatened by a lawsuit, and my promotion hinges on representing the opposing client—and winning.

I can’t see a way out of this mess that doesn’t end in a broken friendship, a broken heart, or a ruined career.

I may have broken the bro code when I fell for Ava. But do I have the balls to handle what comes next?

Available for purchase at 

Audible | Kindle | Amazon Paperback 

Viviana's Review:
I've listened to a handful of duet narration and they have been good/ok, however, this one is showcases duet narration done right! The story was a fun listen! I enjoyed that Ava & Barrett were friends and that it wasn't an "insta-love". I will say that the whole "I can't be with her because she's my bff's sister/I can't be with him because he is my brother's bff" got a tad bit 'old' as it was repeated often though out the book..... as if the reader needed a reminder, several times over.

There was lots of great conversations/banter and the main characters have great chemistry. Some moments were very sweet and yes, there are plenty of sexy moments too! There are lots of fun family moments and you can see there is a great dynamic between them all.

As with any romance, there has to be a conflict/obstacle for the main characters to overcome. In this case, the "bro code" isn't the only one. Not going to provide spoilers, however, I did wish that there was a bit more groveling done and not as quick to forgive.


Narrators Review: 
Love narrator Jacob Morgan and though I've never listened to Ava Erickson before, I will now! Their performance was superb and listeners will love them!

Overall This was a really good listen and if you have never listened to a duet narration, this is one of the ones I'd recommend you start with.

Rating: 3.5 Stars - Really Liked It!

Disclaimer:

I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook from the Inkslinger in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review. 

Audiobook Review: CAKE:The Newlyweds by J. Bengtsson

CAKE:The Newlyweds
(CAKE series, bk 4)
by J. Bengtsson
Narrated by Andi Arndt & Joe Arden

Blurb:
You thought their story was over...but a love like theirs has no end.

Fate doesn't own Jake McKallister. At least, that's what he tells himself. Life is better than ever. He's at the top of his game, performing to sold-out crowds the world over. He has his health and a solid, fun-loving family to keep him grounded.

And he got the girl - the beautiful, quirky girl he's just made his wife.

Yes, life is good. If only fate would stop screaming in his ear.

Lucky is the best word for Casey McKallister. She has an awesome support system, a nerd's dream job at a prestigious accounting firm, and best of all, she's married to the hottest rock star to ever roam the Earth.

Yes, life is perfect...until it all comes crashing down around her.

They say love conquers all. That's what Jake and Casey are counting on.

Available for purchase at 

Audible | Kindle | Amazon Paperback

Viviana's Review:
I love this series and listened to all of the previous audiobooks. When I learned that J. Bengtsson had written a fourth book that circles back to the original couple, Casey and Jake, I immediately thought "oh awesome novella"! Turns out it a full length book! I was also a wee bit apprehensive to listen to this because the first time around with Jake and Casey was so perfect, I didn't want to be let down.

I did enjoy this audiobook overall! We got to hang out with the awesome McKallister family (love them) and got some to be there for some things like the wedding and the honeymoon and their life afterwards. Again, I liked and enjoyed the listen. However, I had a bit of an issue with the beginning... there's a bit of a jump in "timeline" and you're wondering what the heck is happening and why is Casey behaving the way she is. We learn lots of stuff as we listen to the book. With that said, there were a LOT (way to much IMHO) of instances where Casey shares with us her thoughts on how gorgeous, sexy, incredibly irresistible Jake is. Whether this is the first book in the series you read or if you've read all of the books in the series, one thing Casey does best is tell us how damn sexy, hot, gorgeous Jake is! I mean, I get it.... the man is FINE!! This felt like a filler in many instances and it felt a bit like a drag to the story as well. I found myself NOT devouring the audiobook or unable to put it down. It took me MUCH longer to finish this title than the previous books in the series and that left me feeling meh during the listen. During this part of the book, Casey's behavior was 'not her usual' and seemed off. We later learn why and we get a better understanding but

The good news is that as the book progress it gets better and what we're used (great bantering, moving storyline, plot that progress, etc.) re-emerges and all the reasons we love the series returns. 

The Narrators: 
OMG - they freaking rock! Truly kept this book going for me during the "meh" parts. Their performance conveyed the emotions the author was writing into each of the characters and story. Joe's performance of Jake was spot on! His comedic timing superb and heart wrenching when needed. 

Overall I enjoyed this installment though I think it could have been much better without the fillers. It may have been great if it was a novella or a shorter book. I do hope J. Bengtsson writes a few more books with the remaining McKallister family. I believe the majority of readers/listeners will love it.

Rating: 3.5 - I really liked it. 

Disclaimer:

I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook from the author in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review. 

Audiobook Review: Man Card by Sarina Bowen and Tanya Eby

Man Card
(Man Hands Series, Book 2)
By: Tanya Eby & Sarina Bowen
Narrated by: Luke Daniels, Erin Mallon


Blurb:

A sexy new stand-alone comedy.

Ash

I still don't know how it happened. One minute, I was arguing with my arrogant competitor - our usual trash-talk over who deserves the larger commission. But somehow, I went from throwing down to kneeling down.... It can never happen again. I don't even like him. He's too slick. He's a manipulating, mansplaining party boy in preppy clothes. So why can't I get him out of my head?

Sebastian

There are two things I know without question. One: Ash and I are destined for each other. Two: never trust a man with a unibrow. Ash is my missing my piece. She's the sweet cream to my gourmet espresso. And nothing gets me going faster than her contempt for me. They don't call her the Ashkicker for nothing. Eventually I'll win her over...if my past doesn't ruin everything first.

"This book is what other romantic comedies should aspire to be when they grow up." (Romance Rehab)

Available for purchase at 

Audible | Kindle | Amazon Paperback  

Viviana's Review:

OMG! I haven't laughed this much while listening to an audiobook in a long time (if ever)! LOVED the characters (all of them) and the hero and heroine are not only physically attracted to one another (LORDY do they have chemistry) but they have a mutual respect for each other.

The banter between Ash and Braht is bloody brilliant and entirely entertaining! I also LOVE how it seems like the character is talking to you.

This story has it all; great characters (you'll fall in love with them all), romance, humor, steaminess, dialogue and a great ending!!

OHHHHH and the narrators! Both Luke Daniels and Erin Mallon nailed it!! Their performance was phenomenal, which elevates an already great story!

Can't wait for the next book!!!

Rating: 5 Stars - LOVED IT

Disclaimer:

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Blunder Woman Productions in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

Audiobook Review: Dane's Storm by Mia Sheridan

Dane's Storm
By: Mia Sheridan
Narrated by: Lance Greenfield & Erin Mallon

Blurb:

Available in audio first, a gripping, exquisitely romantic new stand-alone by New York Times best-selling author Mia Sheridan!

Dane was her first kiss and the only man she ever loved...until their marriage crashed and burned. Now Audra has built a quiet life for herself running a flower shop she's put her whole heart into. But Audra is left reeling when an unexpected circumstance brings Dane back into her world. He's still as breathtaking as he ever was, and he still affects her more than any man she's ever known. Yet learning to trust him again could be a matter of life and death....

When Dane offers to fly his ex-wife from California to Colorado to help correct a wrong, he never imagined the harrowing twist of fate awaiting them. When their plane goes down in the snowy mountain wilderness, Dane and Audra are stranded, with no one to turn to but each other. Will their second crash end their lives - or save their souls?

Available for purchase at 

Audible

Viviana's Review:

This audiobook had a lot.... a lot of emotions, a lot of strengths, a lot of chemistry & steaminess and a lot fo great writing. I've only listened to one other Mia Sheridan book (Stinger), which I really enjoyed and have added the rest of the titles in that series to my TBL mountain! The opportunity came up to review this one and add the awesome narrators and it immediately became a "giveme giveme giveme" sort of moment! LOL

I really enjoyed the story overall. Both the hero and heroine are great characters that are well developed and continue to grow. The readers get a little bit of everything... romance, suspense, thrill, second chances, steaminess, etc.

With all the awesomeness aside, there is something I want to address. This book contains an emotional trigger..... usually books contain 'warnings' when it comes to extreme bondage or PTSD or acts of violence. I know/understand that sometimes, if a warning is included, it may be a spoiler. As someone that has gone through the same situation as Audra, I think the author did a great job on handling the situation and emotions. It was a bit of a bang and again... emotional trigger. I would have been better prepared to handle/react to the topic. I still would have wanted to read it and would have.

Narrators Review:

Both Lance & Erin are two of my favorite narrators so when I learned that they had teamed up to narrate DANE'S STORM, I just had to listen. Their performance was awesome and brought the characters to life. They each provided the characters and the situation with emotions that pulls at the heart strings.

Overall, a great story filled with heart and one that listeners

Rating: 4 Stars - I loved It

Disclaimer:

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Audible in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

Audiobook Review: Wanderlust by Lauren Blakely

Wanderlust 

by Lauren Blakely

Narrated by Richard Armitage and Grace Grant

Blurb:

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Lauren Blakely comes a sexy new standalone romance...

The first time I met him, his sexy British accent almost talked me into giving him my number on the spot. The second time, he nearly charmed the panties off me with his wit. Then I learned he's the key to success in my new job in Paris. The man who tempts me into fling-worthy dirty daydreams has turned out to be my personal translator, and his accent is the hottest thing I've ever heard.

My mantra is simple -- Don't mix business with pleasure. I do my best to resist him as he teaches me how to converse with my co-workers, navigate the metro and order the perfect bottle of wine at dinner. But I also figure out how to tell the charming and clever man what I most want to say -- that I want him to take me back to his flat -- tonight.

Except there's a catch...
***
One more assignment before I take off on my big adventure...
And it involves the toughest work ever -- resisting the fetching American woman I spend all my days with. But you know what they say about best intentions. Soon, we're spending our nights tangled together, and I don't want to let her go. The trouble is, my wanderlust is calling to me, and before we know it I'll be traveling the globe to fulfill a promise I made long ago.
What could possibly go wrong with falling in love in Paris? Nothing...unless one of you is leaving.

Available for purchase at

Audible | Kindle | Amazon Paperback |

Viviana's Review:

I LOVE Lauren's books! She's my "for me" aka pleasure reads! I always find a great mix of humor, romance and steaminess! She also has great taste in narrators!! This is important as we know that narrators can make it or break it when it comes to their performance. So imagine my glee when it was shared that the narrators for WANDERLUST were Richard Armitage and Grace Grant!!

I'm a fan of Richard Armitage... I LOVED him in North & South (BBC Mini Series), Robin Hood (BBC Series), MI-5 (BBC Series) and in the Hobbit movies! He has the look, acting skills and the voice!! MAN THAT VOICE and of course ACCENT! With all this fangirling occurring ... I've never listened to an audiobook he's narrated. So I was excited that he would be narrating Lauren's book.

This was a great story! Its a bit of a slow burn in that the hero & heroine do get to know each other before becoming intimate and I really enjoyed that. Their conversations were entertaining and they definitely had chemistry.

Lauren did a phenomenal job describing the Parisian setting! It was a perfect mix of information and details so the readers could visualize it and see it from the heroine's perspective!! So well done, that I'm sure many of her readers are now looking into booking flights to visit Paris!

Joy and Griffin were absolutely adorable. As I mentioned, they had chemistry and lots in common with enough differences to keep things interesting.

Narrators Review:

Grace Grant is a great narrator and her performance here showcases her skills! I think Richard did a great job as well, just not sure if it was a proper match... I mean... don't get me wrong. He has a damn sexy voice, I just think maybe it sounded a bit "older" than the characters's age.... Will readers enjoy it, totally!


Overall, this is a great story that all of Lauren's readers (new and old) will enjoy! It has a little bit of everything and you can totally tell that Lauren LOVES Paris and she did a lot of research!

Rating: 4 Stars - I Loved It!