Between The Pages - Blood On The Chesapeake

Blood On The Chesapeake 

Randy Overbeck 

April 2019 

Wilshire, Maryland, a quaint shore town on the Chesapeake, promises Darrell Henshaw a new start in life and a second chance at love. That is, until he learns the town hides an ugly secret. A thirty-year-old murder in the high school. And a frightening ghost stalking his new office. Burned by an earlier encounter with the spirit world, Darrell doesn’t want to get involved, but when the desperate ghost hounds him, he concedes. 

Assisted by his new love, he follows a trail that leads to the civil rights movement, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and even the Klu Klux Klan. Then, when two locals who try to help are murdered, Darrell is forced to decide if he’s willing to risk his life—and the life of the woman he loves—to expose the killers of a young man he never knew.

Between The Pages 

A great mystery, ghostly haunting story. The plot is well-developed with a visual setting and interesting characters. As the storyline moves along, you become part of the story, wanting to help Darrell find evidence to help Hank find justice. Darrell is a likable lead, and Erin is a solid match for him. The romance element is low, but present enough to see these two characters grow closer. The cast of secondary characters each have their own unique part in the story that continues the development of plot. Readings from the diary hold a significant piece of the puzzle, and the hauntings are the spotlight. The historical aspects of discrimination were done well and created an emotional pull. While the story is long (not a one sitting read), you’ll keep turning the pages to discover who the villains are before they strike again. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Witch’s Quandary

A Witch’s Quandary 

Tena Stetler 

July 2021 

Gale's engagement is off because she refuses to leave her thriving business in Ireland to follow Dillon to Scotland. Her family and friends are on the emerald isle. Yet, when Dillon returns with the whole story and asks for her help, she must follow her heart. 

Becoming a Solicitor, then partner in the family law firm was never Dillon's dream. Now it's his nightmare. Called to Scotland, his father demands he take his rightful place in the firm or be disowned and disinherited. Something is terribly amiss in the firm and family. 

During Gale and Dillon's investigation, they discover the enforcer for the Demon Overlord is also delving into rumors the firm is acting illegally. Magic has been stolen, someone is being blackmailed, and a member of the Witch's council is corrupt. If Gale and Dillon want a life together in Ireland, they have to unearth secrets threatening to destroy the firm and family in Scotland. 

Between The Pages 

This story is a hit in so many ways! The cast is superb with each one well-developed from the main characters to the secondaries. The plot is fascinating with magic, romance, mystery, and action. The setting is captivating with Scotland and Ireland in the spotlight. Ms. Stetler pulls you into the story and holds your attention as the pages turn with ease from beginning to end. Gale and Dillon were perfect leads, but I enjoyed so many characters in this story, I can’t wait to see them in another book, especially Trouble! A magical, paranormal story you won’t want to put down. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Arresting Jeremiah

Arresting Jeremiah 

Amber Daulton 

October 2020 

Injured Parole Officer Jeremiah "Jim" Borden never expected Calista Barlow, the sassy blonde waitress he's craved for months, to ring his doorbell. She slips into his heart—and his bed—but he's obsessed with a gangland investigation that threatens his career and maybe even his life. 

Calista doesn't trust easily, not with a daughter to protect and the stalker who keeps calling her. After her violent ex-boyfriend returns, she finds solace in Jim's arms. 

Jim may have to forego his need for answers to protect the ready-made family he adores, but how will he and Calista escape an unseen enemy that is always one step ahead of them?

Between The Pages 

This is the second book in the Arresting Onyx Series. The story is fast paced and filled with action. Mix a hot bad boy parole officer and strong female lead and you get plenty of page-sizzling chemistry. It was nice to revisit Mia and Mason from book 1 (Jeremiah is Mia’s brother). This story is non-stop suspense with gangs, kidnapping, murder, and a stalker. Twists and turns to the very end. 

Rating 

4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - Guarding His Midnight Witness

Guarding His Midnight Witness 

Anna J. Stewart 

October 2020 

She knows what she saw… 

Can he believe her? 

Detective Jack McTavish can’t afford another slipup. So when artist Greta Renault claims to have witnessed a murder without a shred of evidence, he’s tempted to walk. Jack’s gut propels him to pursue this case—and his attraction to Greta. Soon, not only is his job on the line, but Greta’s life is, too…and only Jack can keep her safe. 

Between The Pages 

I was patiently waiting for Jack’s story, and I was not disappointed. He is the star in this book from beginning to finish. His bond toward Greta is captivating. Their chemistry is captivating. The many twists and turns had me compelled to keep reading. The extended cast from previous books were an added welcome. The comradery between the characters in the Honor Bound series is perfect. You witness their friendship and the strength they provide to newcomers. I could not put this book down. A great suspense/mystery read! 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Gone In The Night

Gone In The Night 

Anna J. Stewart 

October 2017 

A childhood terror rears its ugly head... 

Psychologist Allie Hollister is still haunted by the unsolved death of her childhood best friend. She never expects her past to meet her present when a young patient is abducted and the cold case is reopened. Allie knows she shouldn't get involved, but the child's uncle, firefighter Max Kellan, needs her as much as she needs him. 

Once, Max simply wanted to put his past to rest; now he demands nothing short of justice. As he and secretive, sexy Allie track a lethal criminal, their chemistry is an undeniable adrenaline rush. Their attraction will be put to the test when they confront their most dangerous threat yet: the truth. 

Between The Pages 

Gripping edge of your seat suspense! Twists and turns you won’t see coming. The author introduces another drop-dead handsome hero. Max definitely receives my swoon-worthy award. Allie and Max are captivating together. This story pulls the continuing mystery from books one and two and takes you to the top of the cliff. The author then leaves you hanging on the edge, waiting for the cast to unravel the case of Max’s missing niece as well as the horror of Allie’s past. The complete cast is beyond enjoyable. Their friendship and trust are unwavering. Such a great story that seamlessly answers all the questions with a tight ending. Another hit from Anna J. Stewart. The books in the Honor Bound Trilogy are perfect stand-alone titles, but I recommend entering this friendship from the beginning. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Reunited With The P.I.

Reunited With The P.I. 

Anna J. Stewart 

May 2017 

In this Honor Bound romance, a perilous change of heart looms for two former lovers... 

Exactly why should P.I. Vince Sutton take his ex-wife's case? Because she, assistant district attorney Simone Armstrong, put his brother in jail? Because the ambitious spitfire still drives him crazy? No, he'll take it because "The Avenging Angel" makes him a deal he can't refuse. Sparks fly when Vince works all-too-closely with Simone to locate her missing key witness...but in the process, they are drawn into a cold case. As much as he tries, Vince can't deny that he's never gotten over beautiful Simone, but can he admit his feelings to her--and himself? And can he save her from the danger that's heading their way? 

Between The Pages 

I was hooked on the Honor Bound series after reading book one, and book two did not disappoint. There is so much to like in this story. The cast is exceptional, and Vince is a welcomed addition. His character is captivating. He grabs your attention immediately. He’s also perfect for Simone. As ex’s, they already have chemistry, but they steam the pages as they reconnect. The author is a master at story telling. The plot is suspenseful as it weaves through a current mystery while leaving breadcrumbs on a previous cold case. A page-turning read I highly recommend. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - More Than A Lawman

More Than A Lawman

Anna J. Stewart 

November 2016 

Haunted by the death of her childhood friend, journalist Eden St. Claire has dedicated her life to catching serial killers--and she's always done so alone. But when the lethal murderer Eden is tracking puts her in danger's crosshairs, she agrees to accept protection from longtime friend Detective Cole Delaney. 

Cole has secretly carried a torch for Eden for years. She might not want to let anybody in, but the thought of losing her is unbearable. Passions flare as the threats intensify. Can Cole convince Eden to break her own rule to never fall in love...before the killer snuffs out their happily-ever-after? 

Between The Pages 

This book pulled me in on the first page with an icy hand! The visual story is so well told, I felt the chill. Lots of suspense kept the pages turning at a fast pace. A great cast of characters are introduced, and I studied each one to look for signs of them being the serial killer. The author did a great job of keeping me guessing. The twists and turns had me engrossed in the story, especially the clues leading to a murder from the past. Cole is unwavering in his friendship and feelings for Eden. These two were meant to be together. Book one in the Honor Bound trilogy has me hooked. I can’t wait to read the next one!

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Spirit In Time

Spirit In Time

Julie Howard 

February10, 2021 

Time travel isn't real. It can't be real. But ghost-blogger Jillian Winchester discovers otherwise when an enigmatic spirit conveys her to 1872 to do his bidding. Jillian finds herself employed as a maid in Sacramento, in an elegant mansion with a famous painting. 

The artwork reveals another mystery: Why does the man within look exactly like her boyfriend, Mason Chandler? 

Morality and sin live side by side, not only in the picture, but also within her. As her transgressions escalate, she races the clock to find the man in the painting, and hunt down a spirit with a disconcerting gift. 

But will time be her friend or foe? 

Between The Pages 

This book is part of the Spirited Quest Mysteries, and while I would have liked to have read the first book to learn more about Jillian’s and Mason’s early relationship, the story line runs well on its own. The time travel aspect was well-done with mystery and drama. The characters were entertaining. The historical setting was written masterfully to place you in the story as the author does a superb job with every detail of history. A couple of twists and turns has you anxious for Jillian and Mason to find a way home. An entertaining time travel journey.

Rating

4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - Mountain Blaze

Mountain Blaze

Debby Grahl 

November 2020 

Disillusioned by his wife’s betrayal, rodeo star Dillon McCoy comes home to the mountains of North Carolina to lick his wounds. When he agrees to take over the family ranch, the Lazy M, he’s unaware danger waits. 

Diana Thompson is having doubts about her engagement to Trent Sawyer. She agrees to leave Chapel Hill and spend Thanksgiving with her friend Jenn at the Lazy M. When Diana and Dillon meet, neither can deny their attraction, but both must resolve past relationships while fighting their growing desire. 

After Dillon turns down an anonymous offer to purchase the ranch, attempts are made on his life. When a body is found, Dillon sets out to discover who wants the McCoy land enough to commit murder. 

Between The Pages 

This book grabs you with its beautiful cover and the steamy romance has the pages turning with ease. Diana and Dillon have instant chemistry and a growing bond leading to forever, once they get past the hurdles standing in the way. The plot is an engaging mystery with twists and turns that has you guessing who is up to no good. A captivating read from beginning to end. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - A Legacy of Love and Murder

A Legacy of Love and Murder

Brenda Whiteside

March 2016

In Austria to meet her great-grandfather and explore his castle estate filled with priceless art, August Myer arrives to find he’s died suspiciously. As one of the heirs, her life is in danger, turning this fairytale Alpine adventure into a nightmare of veiled threats, unexplained accidents, and murder.

Inspector Tobias Wolf splits his time between his profession and fighting the spread of neo-Nazism. But when the beautiful, intriguing American crosses his path during a murder investigation, ensuring her safety challenges his priorities…and his heart.

When August learns the handsome inspector is concealing a personal involvement, and the death of her great-grandfather is somehow connected, she takes the investigation into her own hands. The outcome could be the death of both of them.

Between The Pages
This was such an enjoyable read. There’s a bit of everything – suspense, mystery, family drama, and a spicy romance. August is spunky and Wolf is incredibly charming. He is a tad older than she is, but they make a cute couple and have great chemistry. Though the person behind the murder is revealed early, the plot is engaging and keeps the pages turning with anticipating suspense. There’s a Nazi connection from World War Two linking to the castle, which was a good twist and made for an interesting read. This romance suspense is a hit.

Rating
5 Stars

Between The Pages - Southwest Of Love And Murder

Southwest of Love and Murder 
Brenda Whiteside
January 2015

Mystery writer Phoebe Anderson owes her success to killing her first husband on paper seventeen years earlier. Now someone has actually done it. When she decides to take a few days away on the ranch of her best friend’s brother-in-law, she doesn’t expect romance to find her...or murder to follow her. 

Mason Meadowlark is happy with his wild cowboy ways, avoiding love since the death of his baby and the end of his marriage twenty years ago. When Phoebe shows up, he fights to control his emotions but soon wonders if she just might be worth the risk of opening his heart again. 

With an obsessed fan close on her heels, Phoebe is thrown into her own murder mystery…and the next target on his list is Mason. 

Between The Pages 
A wonderful blend of romance and mystery. Phoebe and Mason have an instant spark and their romance is sweet even though there’s definitely some steam sizzling. Their chemistry is undeniable and so is falling in love for these two. I was rooting for them as soon as they reconnected. There is a good supporting cast such as Mason’s father, Dirk, and their family friend, Margie, who have a budding relationship as well. The suspense holds the attention as The Author continues to build his story. I had hoped to be guessing who the villain was, but I picked up on his identity very early in the story. The storyline is well done and the pace is smooth, leading to the disappearance of Mason, which is a great twist. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series.

Rating 
4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - The Art of Love and Murder

The Art of Love and Murder
Brenda Whiteside
April 2014

Lacy Dahl never questioned her past until the deaths of her adoptive parents and her husband. A husband who wasn't what he seemed. Her research uncovers secrets about the mother she never knew; secrets that dispute the identity of her father and threaten her life. 

Sheriff Chance Meadowlark is still haunted by the murder of his wife and the revenge he unleashed in the name of justice. When he meets Lacy he is determined not to become involved, but their pasts may make that impossible. As they move closer to the truth, saving Lacy may be his only salvation. 

Lacy begins to think the present is more important than her past...until Chance's connection to her mother and a murder spin her deeper into danger and further from love. Will the truth destroy Lacy and Chance or will it be the answer that frees them? 

Between The Pages
This book was such a great read, filled with edge-of-your-seat suspense. The story has a solid plot of mystery and never lost my attention as the pace flows as easily as the pages turned. Lacy and Chance have a connection to the past – Lacy wants to to know about her real parents and Chance wants to leave the past behind him. Their chemistry is undeniable, and I was rooting for them through each new twist. The author does a wonderful job of weaving a romance through a quest of the truth and murder. There’s a great supporting cast, so many who could rise as leaders of their own stories. I had a few questions at the end regarding Lacy’s mother, but maybe they will be answered as the series continues. This is book one in the The Love and Murder Series and I am looking forward to new twists and lots of mystery in book two: Southwest of Love and Murder.

Rating 
4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - If I Want You

If I Want You 
Rachel Brimble
November 2017

When local journalist, Tori Peterson, fails to prevent a child abduction outside her niece’s school, her horror and guilt sparks a vow to do whatever it takes to get little Abby Brady home to her parents. 

While Tori battles the vile memories of her own kidnapping as a child, she accepts the help of widowed father, Mark Bolton. As he and Tori join forces with the local police, their attraction and intimacy grows…along with their fears for Abby. 

Links are uncovered between Abby’s disappearance and Tori’s kidnapping, and Tori is forced to accept the monster who held her captive is back. But this time, Tori is all grown up, and there is no way she will let him hurt another little girl. 

Between The Pages 
Packed with drama and suspense, you’ll be thrown into this story from the first few pages. The author developed a solid plot. The combination of tension throughout the action and romance are all masterfully crafted. The cast characters are interesting and you’ll want to learn more about them as you receive hints of the kidnapper’s identity. I would have liked to have read the details behind the kidnapper’s obsession through their voice instead of the police, but the overall story line was captivating. A must read for readers who like a gripping suspense!

Rating 
4.5 Stars

Good Bones

Good Bones 
L. A. Kelley
May 2017

No matter how challenging the case, psychologist Katherine Fleming never shirks from helping a patient confront a painful issue. Her keen powers of observation and compassionate nature have eased many troubled souls, but a homicide detective with a buried secret of his own stirs more than just clinical interest. 

The first time Detective Jake Sumner spied the old house, he sensed the good bones. Little did he know the purchase of the property included an unusual tenant far from resting in peace. Can the new psychologist in town help him treat a ghostly trauma case or is his growing attraction to Katherine Fleming best left buried? 

With the help of a mysterious white cat and a mystic mirror, Katherine and Jake join forces to solve a murder. Can they stop a killer from claiming the next victim or will their investigation only lead them six feet under? 

Between The Pages 
This story has a little bit of everything: action, mystery, suspense, romance, and paranormal activity. The author grabs your attention in the first chapter and keeps you gripped to the pages. Jake and Katherine have a sweet chemistry from the moment they meet at the coffee shop. There are multi characters in this story, which could create some confusion, but the author does a great job of giving each character their own unique individuality; from the missing women, to the secondary cast of friends and co-workers, to the suspected killer, to Katherine’s Grampa’s voice, and to Whiskers – the cat you’ll want to cuddle. There are several scenes that make you laugh and many more that have you sitting on the edge of your seat. As the tension rises, you won’t to put this book down. The chase is riveting even after the killer is revealed. I highly recommend putting Good Bones at the top of your reading list. This book is a must read!

Rating 
5 Stars

Haunted Souls

Haunted Souls 

Kathryn Knight
June 2016

Four years ago, Emily Shea and Staff Sergeant Brett Leeds agreed to part with no strings attached. Sparks flew during their brief affair, but fate intervened, sending Brett overseas. When an unexpected pregnancy derailed Emily's own plans, her attempts to locate Brett were soon overwhelmed by the challenges of single motherhood. Now, Brett has returned home, and Emily is forced to share her secret. 

Despite feeling betrayed, Brett is determined to forge a relationship with their son, Tyler. As the former lovers battle both their inner demons and their mutual desire, another presence enters their lives—Tyler's imaginary friend. Soon, however, the chilling evidence points to a different conclusion: a ghost has formed a dangerous connection with their son. Emily's attempts to help both a lost soul and a friend in need spiral toward a deadly confrontation, and Brett must race to save Emily before he loses her again—forever. 

Between The Pages 
A second chance romance with two extra side plots. The connection of Emily and Brett is the main focus of this story as they renew their friendship and chemistry. However, the ghostly addition of their son’s imaginary friend was my favourite part of this story as it added an interesting mystery. The author also touched on a domestic abuse situation which was written well. The scenes with Tyler communicating with his imaginary friend are captivating, and the details behind the mystery hold your attention. The author does a great job of mixing a bit of haunting into a romance.

Rating 
4 Stars