Between The Pages - The Whisper of a Kiss

The Whisper of a Kiss

Kathy Otten 

July 2025 

Alexander Worthington understands he will eventually succumb to the same evil madness that consumed his father. Despite a strict regimen he’s unable to stop his decline. Desperate, he contrives a plan to make certain he will never become that man. 

Ivy is a prostitute. Facing the possibility of death at thirty in a back-alley crib addicted to opium and covered with pox, she has a plan to save herself. But she needs money. 

When Alex comes to her rescue one morning, he sees the perfect person to help him execute his plan. He promises a sizeable payment if she’ll become his wife, Annali. 

She agrees, but Ivy’s been with many men. What will happen to Alex’s plan if her secret is discovered? 

Between The Pages 

The Whisper of a Kiss by Kathy Otten is a compelling historical romance that delves into themes of redemption, identity, and the fragility of hope. With an engrossing storyline and richly developed characters, the novel draws readers into the lives of Alexander and Ivy/Annali, two broken souls bound by desperation and an unconventional arrangement. The author’s writing is emotionally resonant, balancing drama with tenderness, and supported by a strong cast of secondary characters. While the narrative touches on sensitive topics, they’re handled well, adding depth to an already gripping tale. A true page-turner, leaving you wanting more after the final chapter.

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Lights, Camera, Christmas Town

Lights, Camera, Christmas Town

Anna J. Stewart, Beth Carpenter, Cari Lynn Webb, Cheryl Harper, Leanne Bristow, Liz Flaherty, Melinda Curtis, and Tanya Agler 

October 2023 

What could make the holidays in Christmas Town even more magical? The arrival of a TV movie’s cast and crew to recreate one of their most beloved couple’s happily ever after! 

The snow is falling, the chestnuts are roasting, and Posey’s peppermint pies can’t keep up with demand! But there’s also mischief afoot as filming begins. Someone keeps sneaking Elmer the Elf into scenes, the town is buzzing with romantic gossip, and the Knotty Elves once again turn their creative endeavors from knitting to helping others find true love. 

Between The Pages 

Eight stories by eight different authors, yet the reading is smooth and connected. The plot is surrounded by a movie filmed in Christmas Town. New and old characters are spotlighted, each interesting and well-developed. The Knotty Elves are key to each story. The stories have a mixture of humor, drama, and lots of romance. This collection of stories is perfect to get you into the Christmas spirit. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Their Surprise Island Wedding

Their Surprise Island Wedding 

Anna J. Stewart

September 2023 

Could her fake boyfriend 

Be her true love? 

Her sister’s Hawaiian dream wedding is a nightmare for water-phobic, workaholic Marella Benoit—especially when a breakup leaves her without a plus-one. Laid-back surfer Keane Harper is a sun-bronzed distraction. From stargazing to zip-lining to snorkeling with manta rays, Keane is showing the big-city girl how to have fun. And posing as her boyfriend for the wedding may be the adventure of a lifetime—together! 

Between The Pages 

This is the second book in the Hawaiian Reunions series, but it stands well on its own. The author has a great writing style that grabs your attention in the first chapter and holds onto you throughout the story. The plot is engaging with not only a picturesque Hawaiian setting but also interesting and fun characters. Keane and Marella have great chemistry that is instant and believable. The rest of the cast is equally enjoyable with scene stealers like Noodle and Grandma Pippy. The author is a master at visual writing, placing you on the beach and sailing on the ocean. This must-read story is filled with romance, drama, and humor. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Steinar

Steinar 

Mary Morgan 

January 2024 

Descended from the mighty Somerled, Lord of the Isles, Steinar MacDougall’s supremacy over the seas is fierce. On a quest for King William, he is captured by the enemy and presented with a favorable opportunity. Yet Steinar soon realizes his greatest threat comes from the woman who hides behind the mask of a warrior, and the quest for control might send them hurdling into the abyss of the sea. 

As leader of the Serpents, Inga the Ruthless travels beyond the isles bartering for goods with her brothers. After rescuing the feared Pirate Wolf during a storm, she surrenders her trust to the man and his inner wolf in order to claim the lost treasure of Odin. Though the journey is fraught with dangers, Inga fears her heart might be the one in peril, leading her to make the ultimate sacrifice. 

Will the sea be their salvation or doom them to a watery grave? 

Between The Pages 

Steinar is book three in The Wolves of Clan Sutherland, and while Magnar and Rorik, from books one and two, make an appearance in this story, Steinar is a star on his own. This Viking, historical romance also includes a paranormal theme and a lot of steam. The author wrote the perfect story for Steinar. He is a true hero and likable immediately. He teams up with Inga the Ruthless who is a strong female lead. The plot is a page-turner from the first scene. The author spins a tale that grabs your attention and throws you into the stormy seas onto turbulent lands. Ms. Morgan is a masterful visual story teller who places you in her stories with the characters. Drama, action, and surprising twists put this book high on my recommended reading list. Enjoyable from beginning to end. 

Rating

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Winter Solstice in the Crystal Castle

Winter Solstice in the Crystal Castle 

Jennifer Ivy Walker 

November 2023 

Gabrielle is a flame haired, fire hearted French princess who dreams of becoming a Valkyrie warrior queen like her Viking ancestors from Normandy. Sent to Paris to learn the proper etiquette for a future French queen, she is called home to le Château de Beaufort for a forced marriage to a man she loathes when her father the king’s precarious health takes a sudden turn for the worse. 

Chivalrous, solitary knight Sir Bastien de Landuc suffers an impossible love for Gabrielle, the unattainable princess he can never have. Without a title of nobility, he is ineligible to compete in the tournament for her hand in marriage, despite his unparalleled equestrian skills and inimitable swordsmanship. 

Yet, Yuletide wishes for a wondrous winter solstice in the glorious Crystal Castle might make impossible dreams come true. 

Can the valiant knight win the coveted hand of his Viking Valkyrie? 

Between The Pages 

This medieval historical romance provides a great cast of characters, many from the author’s trilogy series, The Wild Rose and the Sea Raven. And while this book stands well on its own, being familiar with the cast is beneficial. The story was shorter than the previous books, which I enjoyed as it reduced a lot of descriptive narrative that can sometimes drag the plot and read. This book had well-developed characters, interesting plot details, and beautiful settings that kept the story at a steady pace. The visual is masterfully shown, placing you in each scene. Romance, drama, and action fill the pages and make this read enjoyable. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Promise Me Christmas

Promise Me Christmas 

Gini Rifkin 

November 2023 

The nights are growing longer, and the winter snows are coming—Darkenwald Castle is under siege. 

Lord Guy Blackthorne is prepared to lay down his life for his children, his wife, and all who seek his protection. But as renegades, mercenaries, and political intrigue surround his ancient family stronghold, he’s forced to stay his hand against those who would dare to attack his fortress. 

As supplies and hope dwindle, Lady Vespa fears Yule will not be one of good cheer, and the children shall have no gifts this year. At least she and Guy have one another, for that she is thankful. But there are few private moments to share their love, and every endeavor to satisfy their passion is interrupted when the enemy attempts to invade the castle. 

On Christmas Eve, when a battle to the death begins, Guy faces his greatest challenge. Now Vespa’s wish for a happy Yule celebration turns to a prayer for her beloved’s safety. 

Between The Pages

This medieval historical romance was a captivating read. I enjoyed the twist of having the main characters married. Their lives were already intertwined, but during war-filled times, they had to always be prepared to defend their home and livelihood, which created a distance they longed to fill. The plot and characters were well-developed, giving the story a smooth reading flow. The author has a great descriptive voice that places you in the scenes. Guy listening and taking Vespa’s ideas into consideration on how to help defeat the enemy shows his love, devotion, and respect for his wife, which strengthens their relationship, and makes this story a perfect holiday read. I highly recommend picking up a copy of this book. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Her Island Homecoming

Her Island Homecoming 

Anna J. Stewart 

May 2023 

If she stays… 

Will he stay too? 

From sand in his shoes to a gecko eating his dinner, Theo Fairfax is way outside his comfort zone in Hawai'i. Sent to convince pilot Sydney Calvert to sell the tour company she just inherited, he finds himself being won over by the tight-knit community, the natural wonders and Sydney’s free-spirited beauty. Could exploring their growing feelings lead to a future as magical as a tropical sunset? 

Between The Pages 

If you’ve always wanted to visit Hawaii, this is the book for you. The author takes you to the picturesque setting visually and physically. You’ll feel the heat on your face and the sand between your toes. She welcomes you to the town of Nalani and introduces a wonderful cast where you’ll soon feel a part of their Ohana. The story was filled with emotion and fun. Sydney was a strong and likable heroine. But Theo, who was a fish out of water, was completely charming. You can’t help but smile when he befriends Noodle. The storyline was captivating and has you anxiously awaiting the next book in this new series. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Wyoming Christmas Reunion

Wyoming Christmas Reunion 

Melinda Curtis 

November 2022 

A love that never died… 

Could be rekindled this Christmas 

Helen Blackwell never stopped loving horse trainer Nash…even when she divorced him. When the stoic cowboy bets the ranch on her winning a cutting horse competition—and she’s terrified to ride—she wonders if there’s any hope for them. Renewing the love between them may take more than a moment under the mistletoe. But working together could heal past hurts and give their five-year-old son his Christmas wish! 

Between The Pages 

The fifth and final book in the Blackwells of Eagle Springs wrapped up the series perfectly with a Christmas bow. While this book is a stand-alone story, I would recommend reading them in order to fully connect with this family. Nash and Helen were destined to be together, and their love shows on every page. The scenes of Nash helping Helen overcome her fear of horse riding were endearing. The whole series is all about family and this book really enhances their bond and they even take in a straggler. One of many highlights in this story was Denny’s voice being more prominent, which allowed the reader to get to know her better. This story flowed seamlessly with the books before it. Each book is independent, but the five authors make it feel like they are one writer. They take readers into their world, introduce them to the characters, and welcome them into the Blackwell family. Well done. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Her Favorite Wyoming Sheriff

Her Favorite Wyoming Sheriff 

Cari Lynn Webb 

October 2022 

She keeps finding trouble… 

He keeps finding her 

Adele Blackwell Kane can’t seem to not get arrested. In fact, the pretty widowed mom of twin girls might be Sheriff Grady McMillan’s favorite not-quite-a-criminal. But keeping Adele out of trouble is hard work—especially when Grady wants out of Wyoming for good. When Adele decides to rescue the town from developers, Grady wonders if his quirky felon might be stealing his heart, too… 

Between The Pages 

Her Favorite Wyoming Sheriff was one of my favorite reads so far this year. The author told a story filled with laughter, heartache, drama, and the sweetest romance ever. As soon as you open the pages of this book, you’re immediately transported on an emotional rollercoaster. You’ll smile, laugh, and shed a few tears. The Blackwells never let their readers down with plenty of commotion, and Grady had family issues of his own. Adele and Grady were an endearing couple, and her twin girls, Ivy and Quinn, were scene stealers of cuteness. The series is reaching its peak with an anticipated finale coming. Thankfully Denny has Big E and her family in her corner. I highly recommend this book. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Wyoming Rodeo Rescue

Wyoming Rodeo Rescue 

Carol Ross 

September 2022 

Will a Wyoming cowboy…

Rescue her heart? 

Famous equestrian Summer Davies travels to Wyoming to escape a scandal…and rescue Levi Blackwell’s rodeo. When she arrives early, the only place to stay is with the ornery—and gorgeous—cowboy. Their commitment to making the rodeo a success, and Summer’s affection for his young daughter, draws them together. When he learns about her past, will he still want her help? Or will he end up chasing her away? 

Between The Pages 

The third book in the Blackwells of Eagle Springs series was such a sweet story. The author’s storytelling draws you into the pages and provides a visual of the scenery and characters. Levi and Summer are solid leads and Levi’s daughter is adorable. The farm includes a variety of rescued animals, which were an enjoyable addition to the story. I’ve never heard of a Barndominium/Barndo, but now I want one. I recommend this heartwarming story that brings the reader closer to solving the mystery of who wants to put Eagle Springs underwater. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Wyoming Secret Proposal

A Wyoming Secret Proposal 

Amy Vastine 

August 2022 

Can a secret Vegas wedding… 

Survive in Wyoming? 

Social media influencer Harper Hayes never wanted to marry. So how did drop-dead gorgeous cowboy Wyatt Blackwell end up as her husband in Vegas? Now Harper’s in Wyoming, trying to convince her gun-shy groom to stay married for at least a month so she can save face. But marrying a Wyoming Blackwell comes with a whole lot of complications. Especially when Harper falls for her handsome new husband…for real. 

Between The Pages 

This story had such a fun plot of how opposites attract. Harper is a social media expert and Wyatt knows nothing about it, which had many scenes filled with humour. His easy-going personality to stay married and to go along with posing for Harper’s pictures, made him a perfect hero. This book dives a little deeper into the Eagle Springs Blackwell siblings, as well as Harper’s relationship with her mother. And watching Denny and Big E slowly reconnect is enjoyable. While each book in this series can be read as stand-alone titles, I really enjoyed how book two flawlessly flowed from book one. A great weekend read. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Wyoming Promise

Wyoming Promise 

Anna J. Stewart 

July 2022 

A reunion with a twist… 

May save the day! 

After a near-fatal day on the job, firefighter Ryder Talbot's finally back in Eagle Springs, Wyoming, and ready for a new start with his daughter. Seeing Corliss Blackwell again stirs up old feelings he tried to leave behind. Now that Corliss needs his help to close a deal on a loan that will save her gran’s ranch, can he finally prove they’re worth taking a chance on? 

Between The Pages 

As a huge fan of the previous Blackwell books, I was looking forward to visiting Eagle Springs, Wyoming. This new spinoff series introduced Elias Blackwell’s sister, Denny, who has her own share of stubborn Blackwell grandchildren. The plot was exceptional as was the complete cast of characters. Ryder's and Corliss's romance was endearing, friends forever and finally realize there’s more than friendship between them. Meeting new Blackwell family members was enjoyable, as was getting a small peek at past characters. But the highlight was Big E’s return and his emphasized presence made this story a page-turning hit. With plenty of family drama and an added mysterious twist, I’m hooked and hanging out in Eagle Springs to read what happens next. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - An Alaskan Family Thanksgiving

An Alaskan Family Thanksgiving 

Beth Carpenter 

October 2022 

His task was simple… 

Until he met her. 

Adam Lloyd has one job: revitalize the newly acquired failing seniors’ apartment complex in picturesque Palmer, Alaska, by Thanksgiving. Falling for vivacious activities director Sunny Galloway and having his love of photography reawakened by her precocious daughter wasn’t part of his plan. His failure would mean eviction for the tight-knit residents and unemployment for Sunny. But even if he succeeds, he can’t stay in Palmer—can he? 

Between The Pages 

Book ten in the Northern Lights series is a sweet and heartwarming romance. The cast is entertaining with Adam and Sunny, Sunny’s adorable daughter, and the Mat Mates. They even have a Scrooge type of character who turns out to be a kind soul and helps save the day. There is a true sense of community within the senior’s residence that warms the heart. The story reads at a good pace but fuels heavy emotion during a crisis. Be sure to have a tissue or two nearby because those scenes are so endearing, you’ll smile and shed a tear at the same time. If you’re looking for a book to read on a lazy afternoon, I highly recommend this one. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - The Runaway Rancher

The Runaway Rancher 

Leigh Riker 

June 2022 

A new start… 

Or a place to hide?

To the townsfolk of Barren, Kansas, ranching foreman Gabe Morgan is a tall, lean and rugged Texas cowboy. No one knows who he really is. But when Gabe agrees to help stylish librarian Sophie Crane “cowgirl up,” hiding his past feels almost impossible. Because Gabe’s falling hard for Sophie. And keeping his secrets safe could mean losing everything, including the woman who’s roped his heart but good!

Between The Pages 

Book ten in the Kansas Cowboys series is all about the storyline. The characters in Ms. Riker’s books are always interesting, and Gabe and Sophie are no exception. Their interaction and budding romance were sweet. But this story is captivating and plot driven. The drama behind Gabe’s past is intriguing, grabbing your interest and keeping you absorbed in the pages until his secret is revealed. A second romance simmers in the background but soon fizzles out. Could that be a peek into book eleven? I am looking forward to finding out. 

Rating

5 Stars

Between The Pages - An Alaskan Family Found

An Alaskan Family Found

Beth Carpenter 

June 2022 

A temporary summer arrangement… 

Or their new forever? 

Alaskan peony farmer Caleb DeBoer can barely keep up with the weeds—let alone his willful teen daughter and being short-staffed at the start of wedding season. Luckily, sunny counselor Gen Rockford could really use a summer job and a place for her girls to live. Now what began as the perfect solution for Gen and Caleb is transforming into one unforgettable summer. But will one little secret ruin it all? 

Between The Pages 

I’m happy to be visiting Alaska again within the Northern Lights series. This story was captivating from the first chapter. The cast of characters are charming, from Caleb and Gen to Caleb’s daughter and Gen’s daughters. There’s even a dog named Thor and two delightful kittens, which appear on the beautiful cover. As a fan of flowers, having a plot set around a peony farm was fun and interesting. You could almost smell the flowers. This second chance story is filled with heartwarming emotions. There’s even a surprising twist when an adoption record is found. I’m staying in Alaska for a while and looking forward to reading book ten, An Alaskan Family Thanksgiving. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Heart Restrained

A Heart Restrained 

Jennifer Wilck 

March 2023 

Caleb Zeno, a wealthy and successful media mogul, refuses to allow emotions into any aspect of his life, especially his entertainment corporation. When his company’s lifestyle website runs into competition from a small boutique company, the most logical solution is to buy out his rival. 

Fiona Hamilton’s lifestyle website succeeds due to her loving and caring treatment of her clients, who have become like family to her. She has no desire to sell to anyone, much less a tattooed, muscled, automaton. 

At odds professionally, Caleb and Fiona come together as a favor for Caleb’s sister. Sparks fly and sexual chemistry abounds. But Caleb can't let go of his abusive past and be the man Fiona needs, and she is unwilling to risk independence and financial security for anything less than a perfect happily ever after. Can they put their differences aside to find a viral kind of love? 

Between The Pages 

This book was such a good read. The plot was solid and filled with a heavy punch of emotion. Caleb struggles with his father’s abusive impact on their family, which created a hero whom readers want to see happy. Fiona is a strong lead and brings colour to Caleb’s life. Their chemistry sparks the moment they meet. The dialogue is fun and moves the story at a smooth pace. This is the third book in the Scarred Hearts series, and while I would have liked to have read the first two before this one, Caleb and Fiona stood well on their own. However, I enjoyed this book so much, I now want to read about Caleb’s friends, Simon and Ted, and I hope there will be another installment with Alex. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Cowboy’s Homecoming

A Cowboy’s Homecoming 

Leigh Riker 

July 2021 

Can she show him how to be a rancher…

And a family man? 

Noah Bodine is paying the price for missing his sister’s wedding by temporarily running his family’s Kansas ranch. But the corporate cowboy is way out of his element. Thankfully, neighbor Kate Lancaster is there to help, though the pretty single mom isn't pleased to spend time with Noah. She still blames Noah for her husband’s death. That is, until Kate’s little boy decides to make Noah his new best friend…and changes both Kate’s and Noah’s meaning of home. 

Between The Pages 

I hadn’t visited the Kansas Cowboys for a while and I have to say, it’s good to be back. This is such a good series and book nine hits the mark on the heartwarming factor, making you smile, laugh, and want to grab a tissue. Both Noah and Kate are perfect leading characters, and Kate’s son, Teddie, was an adorable addition to the cast. The author weaves a plot that captures the attention in the first chapter. When Noah’s brother goes on an impromptu vacation, Noah is left to manage his family’s farm. Add in a sick foal, characters healing from loss, a small background romance, and plenty of family drama, you have a story filled with emotional ups and downs. This is the ninth book in the series, and with book eleven releasing at the end of this month, I already have book ten loaded and ready to read. 

Rating

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Saddled Hearts

Saddled Hearts 

Jan Sikes 

October 2022 

Colt Layne owns the Layne Horse Sanctuary. He lives an idyllic life, between caring for the animals and playing music with his band. That is until a stranger appears with unreasonable demands. When someone murders the man, Colt is arrested. He's been framed, but by whom and why? He needs to talk with his deceased grandfather. But that's impossible. Or is it? Sage Coventry is gifted with the ability to communicate with the deceased. Skeptical but desperate, when Colt consults with her, he gets more than messages from beyond the grave as she breezes into his heart with sweet patchouli fragrance and tempting lips he longs to kiss. The race against time to clear his name and save the ranch launches them on a mission that brings shocking revelations.

Between The Pages 

What a wild story! This book was a great read from start to finish. The author drops the reader smack-dab into the picturesque setting of a horse ranch where you visualize the horses grazing in the fields. The hero, Colt, instantly captivates your attention as he cares for and ‘speaks’ to the rescued horses he rehabilitates in his sanctuary. Sage is a wonderful addition, and their chemistry sparks. Her mystical gift was interesting and fun to read. The plot is filled with twists and turns of drama and mystery, and each chapter ends on a dangling hook. The author pulls you deeper into the story each time the villain strikes another blow. This story has the perfect balance of romance, friendship, action, and riveting suspense. What a great ending to the White Rune series, which I highly recommend. 

Rating

5 Stars