Between The Pages - Somebody's Baby

Somebody’s Baby 

Leigh Riker 

October 2024 

The Bull Rider and the Bookworm… but don’t opposites attract? 

With her PhD degree almost in hand, Dakota Farrell never expected to have temporary guardianship of her newborn niece—and, sadly, she can’t care for the adorable preemie much longer. But how to find the baby’s father? When her now-dead sister’s diary leads to the man who abandoned her, Dakota despises him on sight. Is he really who she thought he was? Or the surprising love of her own life? 

Bull rider T.J. Sinclair insists he never met Dakota’s wayward sister, never mind his becoming a surprise daddy. As part of a dynasty of rodeo stars, he’s headed this season for a first world championship, not a readymade family. But suddenly that shiny gold buckle isn’t all that’s on his mind. The sweet baby is hard to resist, and so is Dakota. Still, she must be wrong about him… Only what if she’s not? 

Finding the truth may mean risking more than T.J.’s best rodeo season; at exactly the wrong time, he just might lose his heart. And could Dakota really give up the child she already loves to someone else? Or are they both looking for the wrong thing? 

Between The Pages 

This contemporary western romance was a captivating read. Several years following Danny Boy with Erin and Danny Sinclair, Somebody’s Baby is about their son T.J. T.J. and Dakota stole the pages with their undeniable attraction and infinite love for sweet Lily. The author provided a closer look into the family drama of the Sinclairs, including a side story about T.J.’s uncle’s troubled marriage. Filled with likable characters, emotional pulls, a seamless plot, and smooth dialogue, this story was an enjoyable page-turner. The added mystery over who Lily’s father might be was an interesting spin and a fun bonus. Looking forward to more from the Sinclair Cowboys. 

Rating

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Danny Boy

Danny Boy 

Leigh Riker 

October 2023 

She wants him to stay. He wants the world. Erin Sinclair has loved her bull rider husband Danny all her life. She just can’t live with him. Or watch him one more time try to kill himself on a one-ton bull. All pragmatic Erin ever wanted was for him to be there for her and their seven-year-old son, to build a life together. Was that too much to ask? Apparently, it was, and she and Danny are now separated. Will he ever come home to Paradise Valley? To stay? Or has he chosen his dreams of a gold buckle over their family, their marriage? And Erin’s love? 

His estranged family means everything to Danny Sinclair. His love for Erin is forever. But the memories of a long-ago tragedy on the Montana ranch where he grew up are too painful to face. And Danny still carries the blame. The rodeo circuit was to be his lifeline—except that along the way he seems to have lost Erin and their son. What if he could go home again? Yet an eight-second, heart-stopping ride and the promise of a championship seem far safer. Because first, Danny would have to forgive himself. 

Between The Pages 

This contemporary, western romance was a great read. Following the novella, Wanted! One Cowboy for Christmas, this book continued Erin and Danny’s love story, which involved a lot of push and pull. Past loss, the hunger for a championship buckle, and family drama fueled this story from start to finish. With a solid cast, including Timmy, who stole many scenes, the author added two equally enjoyable side romances, as well as a visual voice that places you in the small town of Paradise Valley. Looking forward to the next book in The Sinclair Cowboy Series. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Wanted! One Cowboy for Christmas

Wanted! One Cowboy for Christmas 

Leigh Riker 

November 2022 

Erin Brodey has loved Danny Sinclair for most of her life. As kids their close friendship sustained them in difficult times, even tragedy, but their feelings for each other have since become much more than friendship, and this Christmas a starry-eyed Erin is hoping for a ring. The commitment from Danny that he doesn’t seem willing to make. Will the happy Christmas she wants with all her heart come true? Or will Danny choose rodeo over her, over them, and a loving future together? 

Between The Pages 

This short story is the prequel/back story to Danny Boy, and the cover is captivating. The author introduces readers to Erin and Danny, their relationship, and their family history. The story has a lot of heart and drama. While the story is short, the author provides a seamless read with a solid plot and a good cast of characters. After reading this book, you’ll want to know what happens next. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Cowgirl Never Forgets

A Cowgirl Never Forgets 

Melinda Curtis 

July 2024 

Even the best cowgirl falls… 

When it’s the right cowboy.

Rodeo cowgirl Maggie Blackwell doesn’t need her estranged family. She’s got Clem Coogan—her best friend, rodeo buddy and absolute rock. But when a rodeo accident leaves Clem with a terrible concussion, he’s convinced they’re a romantic item…and proposes to her. Now until his memory comes back, Maggie’s playing along. But can she keep this headache from turning into heartache for both of them? 

Between The Pages 

The first book in the Blackwell Belles series sets a high bar for the rest. This is a sweet and fun story. Maggie and her best friend Clem are adorable together. They know each other so well, except for feelings they’ve kept hidden. Stuck in an RV with Big E, Denny, Maggie’s mother, and an adorable pup, could be a recipe for disaster for Maggie and Clem, but there are many laugh-out-loud moments as well as heartfelt conversations. The addition of Clem’s family (adopted and real) adds to the reading enjoyment. Highly recommended, and looking forward to reading how Big E and Denny bring the Blackwell Belles together. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Christmas Storm

A Christmas Storm 

D.V. Stone 

December 2024 

An early storm is brewing in Upstate New York, and military wife Lacey Prescott is caught unprepared when it turns into a blizzard. Defeated by her own lack of preparation and the recall of her husband’s Christmas holiday leave, her joy in the season is replaced by bitterness and anger. 

In an unexpected turn of events, Lieutenant Matthew Prescott’s leave is reinstated. But the journey home is not an easy one since a Nor’easter stands between him and his family.

Amidst the storm’s fury, Lacey gets a glimpse of the past, present, and possible future, while Matt gets assistance from a mysterious stranger. 

In a heartwarming story of determination, the resilience of the human spirit, and the unexpected kindness of strangers, the possibility of a Christmas reunion brings a sense of hope with a message of love and support from friends and family that embodies the true spirit of Christmas. 

Between The Pages 

This holiday story set during a winter storm was a feel-good read. The Scrooge-like premise gave Lacey a glimpse into her past, present, and future, and (like Scrooge) allowed her to grow from the experience. On his way home, Matt met a quirky, angelic character that added a bit of fun. The put-a-smile-on-your-face story was well-written and was filled with heart and faith. This book can be read in one sitting and was an enjoyable dickens of a read.

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Caught By The Cowgirl

Caught By The Cowgirl 

Tanya Agler 

April 2023 

She’s got a knack… 

For roping in hearts.

For rancher Will Sullivan, nothing is more beautiful than a Colorado sunrise…until Kelsea Carruthers shows up at his ranch, wanting to lease his land. But Will has plans for his struggling ranch that don’t include the gorgeous, quirky Southern belle. Now Kelsea is quickly learning how to be a true cowgirl—even as she steals everyone’s hearts. And this gruff, set-in-his-ways cowboy might just be falling the hardest. 

Between The Pages 

This story was sweet and heartwarming. The character development of Will and Kelsea was masterfully written. They were likable and had undeniable chemistry. The author added notes of humor to the story and created a visual tour of the ranch with a picturesque setting. A secondary cast of interesting and enjoyable characters made this book a must-read. I look forward to reading more from this author. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Baby on His Doorstep

A Baby on His Doorstep 

Leigh Riker 

March 2023 

His surprise baby… 

Could be her saving grace. 

Workaholic veterinarian Max Crane has sworn off entanglements. Then he wakes up to an infant on his doorstep—and a note saying the tiny girl is his. With his ex MIA, Max hires Rachel Whittaker as his live-in nanny. The grieving widow has her own reasons to keep their relationship professional, but when tongues start wagging, a fake engagement seems the perfect solution. Until they both start falling for the baby…and each other. 

Between The Pages 

Book eleven is the end of the Kansas Cowboys series and leaves you wanting more. Max and Rachel front the finale on a sweet yet sad note. Their romance is endearing, and little Zoey is adorable. The plot not only takes you on their journey together but also provides an update to past characters and introduces lots of little cowboys and cowgirls. There was even a blossoming romance on the side. The Kansas Cowboys was an entertaining series I highly recommend. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Falling For the Cowboy Doc

Falling For the Cowboy Doc 

Cari Lynn Webb 

June 2023 

Can the rodeo cowgirl… 

Win his love? 

Professional roper Maggie Orr needs to secure a national sponsorship. And orthopedic surgeon Grant Sloan could derail her plans. Falling for the cowboy doctor is a distraction she can’t afford… Plus their careers are taking them in opposite directions. But from picnics to stargazing, Grant is reminding Maggie that there’s more to life than winning in the arena. Can they rewrite their dreams to include each other? 

Between The Pages 

This small-town, contemporary romance was a delightful read. The author invites you to Three Spring, Texas, and makes you an honorary resident. The story was visual, emotional, and uplifting. You’ll root for Maggie and Grant from the moment they meet. The complete cast was equally enjoyable, from Maggie’s sister to Grant’s brothers and grandfather. This story had a strong sense of family connections with a little drama and lots of fun. There was even a secondary romance. This is book four in the series, which like a lasso, will rope you in from beginning to end. Looking forward to reading book five. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Lillie By Any Other Name

A Lillie By Any Other Name 

Virginia Barlow 

August 2024 

Disguised as a boy to escape her uncle and his assassins, Rebecca Lillian Van Rassner runs a trapline with her father in the Canadian northwest. Yearning for her old life in New York, love, and a husband, she gives up all hope, until a handsome mounted police officer stumbles upon their cabin. And captures her heart with his mesmerizing blue eyes and heated kisses. 

Officer Max Calhan patrols the extreme north to bring villains to justice and discovers a wispy boy who transforms into a beautiful woman filled with surprises, secrets, and dangerous relatives. Determined to find the truth, Max discovers there’s more to Lilli than just a name. 

Between The Pages 

This historical romance is a page-turner. The engaging story has a well-developed plot with lots of emotion, drama, action, strong characters, and a visual setting. Lillie and Max have a sizzling connection, leading to some steamy scenes. The author holds the readers’ attention from start to finish, adding a surprising twist near the end. For fans of historical romance, this book is a must-read. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Murder Under The Mistletoe

Murder Under The Mistletoe

Liz Fielding 

November 2023 

Abby Finch arrives at the old church hall armed with festive mistletoe and holly, ready to decorate. But within moments of her walking through the door, tragedy strikes . . . 

Edward Marsh reaches to test the antique star at the top of the tree. There’s a fizz and the lights go out. Abby hears the sickening thud of a body hitting the floor. When the lights turn back on, Edward is dead. It soon becomes clear it was no accident. 

The real victim should have been Gregory Tatton. Dapper silver fox. Popular with the ladies of the seniors’ lunch club. A known blackmailer . . . 

Abby is desperate to find out the truth, but putting herself in danger isn’t on her Christmas wish list. 

Who’s been naughty? Who’s been nice? Who’s hiding the fact they’re a murderer?

Between The Pages 

This cozy mystery was an engaging read, a page-turner, and a great who-done-it murder. There is a large cast of characters to keep track of, but reading the first book in the Maybridge Murder Mysteries series is helpful to get to know everyone. This book added a little more romance between Abby and Jake. Jake is one of my favorite characters. He provided a bit of humor to the story and emotion as he bonded with Abby’s children. The well-developed plot holds your interest from beginning to end.

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Murder Among The Roses

Murder Among The Roses 

Liz Fielding 

April 2023 

In the peaceful Cotswolds village of Maybridge, you wouldn’t expect to find a dead body in the rose garden. And certainly not two. 

Abby is horrified to discover the bones of a baby buried under a rose bush. It’s in the garden of her soon-to-be ex-husband Howard’s family home. 

She immediately calls the police. But she can’t get hold of Howard. He’s off on a jolly with the woman he’s got pregnant. 

And then, just two days later, Abby finds Howard himself. Lying dead in the very same rose garden. Throat slashed with her own garden spade. 

Now Abby is the prime suspect. 

Between The Pages 

This was a compelling cozy murder mystery. The plot was well-developed with twists that upped the suspense. There was a large cast, leading to forgetting what role some of them played, but the main characters of Abby, her family, friends, and the police were interesting. The author pulls you into the storyline, leaving clues of who the murderer is along the way. However, with many possible suspects, you’re still guessing, which added to the enjoyment of the read. The ending was engaging and makes you anxious to read the next book in the Maybridge Murder Mysteries Series. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Cowboy Thanksgiving

A Cowboy Thanksgiving 

Melinda Curtis 

August 2022 

A holiday visit… Or a season for love? 

As an orphan, Maxine Holloway has never known what “family” truly feels like. That is, until Max and her daughter spend Thanksgiving in Second Chance, Idaho, with the boisterous and prominent Monroes—including ridiculously handsome cowboy Bo Monroe. For the first time ever, Max doesn’t feel like an outsider. But can she let down her guard enough to let the Monroes—and especially Bo—be her home beyond the holidays? 

Between The Pages 

Writing this review comes with mixed feelings…thrilled to have read such an enjoyable book and sad it’s the end of a series. This book was such a fun read, riddled with humor, family drama, emotional scenes, and the best family reunion ever. Bo was the final Monroe to find his happy-ever-after, and Maxine and her daughter were the perfect match for the handsome bachelor cowboy. Engaging scenes capture the reader from beginning to end, putting a smile on your face and a tear in your eye. The challenge of games was fun, bringing out the whole family of Monroes. You reminisce with all your friends from past books and make some new ones because the author invites the reader into Second Chance. I highly recommend A Cowboy Thanksgiving as well as the complete Mountain Munroe series. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Healing The Rancher

Healing The Rancher 

Melinda Curtis 

May 2022 

Some scars are skin-deep… 

Others run deeper. 

Widowed rancher and gruff single dad Finn McAfee hides behind his scars. That is, until city gal Kendall Monroe arrives, determined to learn everything about ranching. But while Kendall definitely doesn’t fit in, her infectious energy seems to touch the lives of everyone she meets—including Finn and his little girl. Now everything Finn cherishes could be unraveled by the one thing he thought he’d lost forever: love. 

Between The Pages 

Healing the Rancher is book eleven in the Mountain Monroes series and rises to the top of my favorites. The storyline is captivating, as are the two main characters who have instant sizzle the moment they meet. They couldn’t be more different. Finn has physical scars and Kendall has emotional ones. Together they are the perfect match. The newcomers adding to this series’ cast are Finn’s adorable daughter and a group of endearing misfits. The author is a master storyteller of mixing punches of humor and emotion into her romances. This is a book you'll want to non-stop read...it's that good. Highly recommend. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Cruel Charade

Cruel Charade

Alana Lorens 

July 2024 

Miami attorney Bet Lenard has had a rough year. She’s battling an unknown illness that drives her to drink to cope with her pain. Her lawyer husband has divorced her and taken the best part of their business, their home and their children. On the night of May 16, 1996, Bet finds herself in the Everglades in the middle of the night, drugged, lost and next to a burned car with a dead body in it. 

Hoping she’s hit bottom, Bet must drag herself out of her living hell and discover who tried to kill her. Was it her ex-husband, not satisfied with stealing everything that mattered? An angry client, unhappy with the outcome of their case? Her best friend’s husband, livid that Bet’s restraining order kicked him out of her life forever? Police officers fuming that Bet helped a client convict a dirty cop who was their friend? She has no idea. 

As she tries to sort out the motives behind her would-be killer, even more suspects come to light. The only thing keeping Bet sane is her relationship with her therapist, who encourages her to struggle and survive, despite everything that’s gone wrong. How will Bet discover the truth and bring her enemy to justice before they strike again and, this time, succeed? 

Between The Pages 

This murder mystery was a great suspenseful who-done-it. The plot was well-developed, and the cast of characters was interesting. Bet held the lead superbly on her own. She has traveled a bumpy road with more down moments than up but still kept her head high. There was so much to like about this story filled with humor, tension, and drama. Bet reciting her senses to ground her was an enjoyable bonus. The story dipped from present to past to fill in the blanks so it’s not a quick read, but the author’s long list of suspects will keep you reading and guessing until the end.

Rating 

4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - Pieces of Blue

Pieces of Blue 

Liz Flaherty 

July 2024

Life comes in shades of blue... 

Self-imposed loner, Maggie North, has worked for bestselling author Trilby Winterroad her entire adult life, starting as simply his assistant and ending up as his ghost writer. Through ups and downs--including a divorce from an abusive husband--he has been the one person on whom she could always rely. So when Trilby dies suddenly, Maggie finds herself adrift, not sure what she’ll do or where she belongs in the world any longer. And the confusion continues when she discovers he’s not only left her his beloved dachshund, Chloe, but a house she knew nothing about, on a lake she’s never heard of. 

It only takes one visit for Maggie to fall in love with both the house and the small lakeside community. The longer she’s there, the safer she feels and the more her life begins to expand...as do her feelings toward her friend and Trilby’s attorney, Sam Eldridge. 

But is she really safe? Or are the glistening pieces of her new life about to shatter as an old danger returns?

Between The Pages 

Pieces of Blue was such a good story that you won’t want to put it down. The plot was heart-wrenching yet uplifting. When Maggie’s employer and friend dies, she’s lost professionally and personally. She inherits a house in Harper Loch, and she soon finds a home, friends, and herself. A bit of suspense adds to the drama with Maggie’s abusive ex-husband lurking about. The pieces of blue found throughout the story are fun, and Maggie’s unexpected second chance at love with a friend is charming. This book was an enjoyable read, and what a beautiful cover. Hoping for more from Harper Loch. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Small Town Fourth of July

A Small Town Fourth of July 

Janice Carter 

June 2024

His return sets off fireworks… 

But will it blow up her dreams? 

When Theo Danby returns to Maple Glen to sell his inherited land, Maura Stuart panics. Selling the land could endanger Maura’s beloved donkey therapy business…and expose her secrets. Her only hope is to rope Theo into helping with the Fourth of July festival and make Theo fall in love with their small town. But if she trusts him with the truth, will he stay…or will she lose everything? 

Between The Pages 

A Small Town Fourth of July is the first book in the Home to Maple Glen series and was indeed a heartwarming read. There was a great cast of characters, including the donkeys. Theo and Maura had a lot going on individually. Theo wants to reconnect with his son and sell his family home, and Maura’s focus is on saving her donkey therapy business. Their attraction from the past is soon rekindled. The twists of a loan and a festival made this book an interesting and enjoyable read filled with family drama, a sweet romance, and adorable donkeys. Looking forward to revisiting Maple Glen. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - The Witch of the Breton Woods

The Witch of the Breton Woods
Jennifer Ivy Walker
July 2024

Traumatized by horrors witnessed during the Nazi invasion of France, a young woman retreats to the dense Breton woods where she becomes a member of the clandestine French Resistance. When she finds a critically injured American paratrooper whose plane was shot down, she shelters the wounded soldier in her secluded cottage, determined to heal him despite the enormous risk. Ostracized by villagers who have labeled her a witch, she is betrayed by an informant who reports to the Butcher-the monstrous leader of the local paramilitary organization that collaborates with the Germans. As the enemy closes in, she must elude the Gestapo while helping the Resistance reunite the American with his regiment and join the Allied Forces in the Battle of Brittany. Can true love triumph against all odds under the oppressive Third Reich?

Between The Pages
Fans of history will thoroughly enjoy this story. The author spins a fictional tale that portrays the realism of something that might have taken place. The characters are well-written, and the scenes are vivid. Some readers should take caution of details from a graphic torture scene, but it shows the horrendous cruelty that took place. The author did a wonderful of telling the story of two people finding love during a time filled with conflict and war.

Rating
5 Stars

Between The Pages - Sunset Ledge

Sunset Ledge 

Darlene Deluca 

June 2024 

Jack Armstrong lives like a recluse on his Texas ranch. In the difficult years after his wife’s death, he goes through the motions of life and wants to be left alone. 

Caroline Tate, a widowed ecology professor, arrives at the ranch for a much-needed break and to take nature photos for her sabbatical project. But relaxing is a challenge when she finds herself at odds with the curmudgeonly cowboy who owns the place. 

Jack generally steers clear of the guests, but this time, it’s not so easy. Vivacious Caroline doesn’t fade into the background. This city gal comes with pearls around her neck, a big red flower on her floppy hat, and way too many questions. Her self-assured, adventurous spirit gets under Jack’s skin, and she soon stirs feelings long dormant inside him. 

Between The Pages 

This story is a charming read. Both widowers, Jack and Caroline, aren’t looking for love but their connection is undeniable. The characters are well-developed and interesting. The secondary cast is enjoyable and adds an element of family connection. The reader gets a great visual of the story through the author’s descriptive voice and Caroline’s camera lens. Sunsets on a ranch and a set-in-his-ways cowboy equals a win-win read.

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - The Cowboy Meets His Match

The Cowboy Meets His Match 

Melinda Curtis 

February 2022 

She could never love a cowboy 

Until she does… 

Racing boat captain Olivia Monroe never imagined breaking up with the ocean and starting a fake relationship with too-charming cowboy Rhett Diaz. Now her family's insisting Olivia and Rhett take an adventurous road trip as a “couple.” Only somewhere between zip-lining and rappelling down a waterfall, Olivia's rediscovering her courage—and dangerous new feelings for Rhett. But how can a sailor love a landlocked cowboy…especially one with secrets?

Between The Pages 

It was great to return to Second Chance and the Monroe family, and while this book took place on the road, it was equally enjoyable. Olivia and Rhett were fun and entertaining. They had great chemistry and their interaction and nicknames for each other were highlights in the story. Another highlight was Sonny with his advice and inspirational T-shirts. There was even a mention of a Blackwell. This book was filled with adventures and lots of humor. I highly recommend getting to know the Munroe family. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Surprise Second Chance

A Surprise Second Chance

Anna J. Stewart 

March 2024 

Could a secret… 

Bring them together? 

Lush rainforest, magical sunsets and a welcoming community—Nalani has everything botanist Daphne Mercer needs…except the only man she ever loved. Griffin Townsend broke her heart years ago. Now he’s in Hawai’i on vacation, a single dad with two kids. Daphne is charmed by Griff’s little family, and he longs for a second chance. But will she forgive him when she learns his true reason for seeking her out? 

Between The Pages 

This heartwarming story is all about second chances. Daphne and Griff get a second chance after someone’s meddling forced them apart years ago. Daphne is a strong leading heroine. She doesn’t hold a grudge against Griff for dumping her, her relationship with his children is endearing, and she has recovered and made a new life for herself after a disastrous family fallout. This is book three in the Hawaiian Reunions series, which is all about family and friends. The author hooks readers with an exceptional cast and a setting that can be felt physically and visually. I recommend escaping to the island of Nalani. 

Rating 

5 Stars