A Kiss Under the Northern Lights by Susan Carlisle


A Kiss Under the Northern Lights by Susan Carlisle
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

A CONNECTION TO STAY FOR?

When Dr. Trice moves to the far north of Iceland, she’s looking forward to immersing herself in her job and getting away from her painful past. She’s nervous, but her temporary colleague Dr. Drake Stevansson is happy to show her the ropes. Drake has the looks of a real-life Viking, and a way of making Trice feel safer than she ever has before. Their snow-melting desire is undeniable, but Drake is leaving. So what happens when stolen glances turn to fiery kisses that threaten to derail both of their plans?

Two doctors who deserve a happy ending surrounded by gorgeous vistas.

I love the work of Susan Carlisle. She’s one of my favorite authors and I can’t wait for her next book. When I see a new one’s out, I jump. This one was definitely worth the wait.

Dr. Trice and Dr. Drake are a good combination. I loved them from the beginning and rooted for them to get together. They’re developed and well-rounded characters. I could see them as I read the book and got emotionally involved with them. I didn’t want the story to end. It’s a feel good plot and one I want to revisit often.

If you’re looking for a great book for a chilly night, then this one is the one for you.

Vow of Revenge by P Rayne


Vow of Revenge by P Rayne
Publisher: Avon Books
Genre: Romance, Contemporary, Dark Mafia Romance
Rating: 3 Stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Mirabella La Rosa
When my father arranged for me to marry the heir to the Costa crime family, I swore I’d do anything to escape that fate. I have more to offer than being some man’s arm candy and producing heirs. Marcelo Costa might be my fiancé, but he’ll never be my husband.

So when he and his father are killed in a car bombing, I consider myself lucky. No longer will I have to go from being a mafia princess to becoming a mafia wife, I can now attend the Sicuro Academy—a private college created for mafia children like me.

But all my plans come to a screeching halt when Marcelo shows up on campus alive and well, seeking revenge on those that crossed him.

Marcelo Costa

The look of shock on my fiancée’s face when I walked into the classroom pleases me more than it should. Mirabella made it clear she didn’t want to marry me, but at the moment I have a bigger issue on my hands—revenge on whoever killed my father. Once I mete out my own particular brand of justice, I’ll remove Mirabella from campus and make her my wife.

And no amount of pleading on her part will change my mind.

Two opposites who shouldn’t attract, but do.

Mirabella and Marcelo are two people who shouldn’t get together because she isn’t interested in being his wife. Until she has no choice. She heads off to college and wants to move forward with her life after the death of her father. She doesn’t want to be a mafia wife. He can’t see her as anything else.

I liked the combination of the two characters. She’s just as strong-willed as he is and determined to not be with him as much as he’s determined to have her. I liked that they were thrown together, but I wasn’t a fan of the almost insta love aspect. It’s not my favorite, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a great story. Others will absolutely love it. I also had a hard time with her being so young–fresh off to college–and in such a position with Marcelo. She had moments of such maturity, then it switched. This story wasn’t as dark as I’d expected, either. Those looking for a dark romance might want to keep that in mind. If you’re new to dark romance, this is a good one to dip one’s toes into.

If you’re looking for two characters that aren’t what they seem and show growth throughout, then this might be the story for you.

Cross My Heart by Roxy Sloane


Cross My Heart by Roxy Sloane
Publisher: Avon Books
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Mystery/Suspense/Thriller
Rating: 4 Stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

“Oxford, England. The city of dreaming spires, dark secrets… And desire.”

Anthony St. Clair. The future Duke of Ashford. A reckless enigma… and my greatest temptation.

I’ve come here, to Oxford University, on a mission—to uncover the truth about what happened to my sister—no matter the cost. Until I meet him…

Saint is my passport to a sensual world of wealth and privilege, but something wicked is lurking behind these ivy covered walls. Secrets these people will kill to protect.

Loyalty is everything to them… but will it be my ruin?

Full of twists and turns!

She wants to know what happened to her sister. Then she meets Saint. Her world gets turned upside down and it’s spicy.

The characters are developed and interesting. I have to admit, Saint wasn’t what I expected. Then again, the whole story wasn’t one I expected. I’ve never read a book considered dark academia, but I did like the atmosphere evoked. It was heavy and dark, but yet intriguing. Now, back to Saint. I wasn’t sure what I expected—stodgy maybe, but he’s certainly a ladies’ man. I liked his unabashed quality. Tessa, on the other hand, wasn’t my favorite character. I hoped she’d be stronger in many ways. I can’t put my finger on it, but I just thought she could have more backbone. That’s not to say it’s a bad read. It might not be my cuppa, but it could certainly be others. It’s hot and steamy.

One note, it does end on a cliffhanger, so be warned. The other note is that this is the first book in a trilogy, so answers may certainly come from the second and third books. I’m glad for that.

If you’re looking for a sexy read for a cold evening, then this might be the one for you.

The Accidental Sisterhood by Julie Edelman


The Accidental Sisterhood by Julie Edelman
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Women’s Fiction, Contemporary, Mystery/Suspense/Thriller
Rating: 3 Stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Jules Malone has sworn off love after two failed relationships: one with an abusive fiancé whom she calls her white knight-mare, and the other with a nice-but-boring ex with whom she co-parents their son, Max. But then one fateful Christmas Eve, Jules meets Sean, a twinkly-eyed charmer with a captivating smile and an unexpected invitation. Despite Jules’s efforts to stay guarded, she finds herself irresistibly drawn to him.

As their relationship deepens, so does Sean’s unpredictable behavior. He misses Jules’s calls, changes plans abruptly, and hangs up quickly when she enters the room. One night after returning home from a charity meeting, she finds Sean missing and blood everywhere. Panicked, she’s about to call 911 when she hears a phone ringing on her patio. It is Sean’s. By the time she gets to it, the caller has hung up. Multiple texts follow-as does Jules’s journey of shocking discoveries. The first? That she is one of four women sharing full lives with Sean.

But it is the devastating secret these women uncover together that leads to a resolution none of them could ever have imagined…and to the power of sisterhood.

A woman trying to rebuild her life and finding out that life is more complicated than she ever believed.

I did like that this story involved real life situations. I picked up this book knowing full well there might be trigger warnings. Jules is a woman navigating life after two men that weren’t her dreamy forever man. She’s trying to raise a son and get through life. It’s not easy. But her exes aren’t the half of it. She meets Sean. He’s the one she thinks she’s looking for.

I could identify with her need to slow down with Sean. Been there, done that on my end. I liked that she was relatable in that way. I also liked that she wasn’t perfect. Finally, a few characters that aren’t perfect, but aren’t so flawed it’s hard to get behind them. I liked Jules. I will say Sean’s antics could be a struggle for some readers and might trigger them. He’s not what he could be, and it helps to layer the story, but again, might bother some readers.

That’s not to say this is a book to skip. Far from it. Pick this book up knowing there might be some angles that are difficult, but it’s worth the read. The difficulty makes the story more memorable.

Check it out.

Once Upon a Christmas Kiss Collection by Ciara Knight, Brenda Lowder, Susan Carlisle, Terra Weiss, Susan Sands, Christy Hayes


Once Upon a Christmas Kiss Collection by Ciara Knight, Brenda Lowder, Susan Carlisle, Terra Weiss, Susan Sands, Christy Hayes
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Contemporary, Holiday, Romance
Rating: 4 Stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

You’re cordially invited to the charming town of Cherry Creek, Tennessee, where the legendary book—Once Upon a Christmas Kiss—promises true love to the one who possesses it during the holiday season.

Don’t miss this collection of unique, romantic novellas by six different authors about women who’ve been given the gift of romance. In one story there is a hint of mystery, in another, comedy, and in others, a touch of drama. No matter the story, you are assured a happily ever after.

Who knows, you might be the next to find Once Upon a Christmas Kiss in your stocking.

Included in this

Once Upon a Christmas Reunion by Ciara Knight
Broken hearts reunite for a second chance at love on Christmas night.

Once Upon a Christmas Treasure By Brenda Lowder
When Amelia enlists former best friend Oliver to help her hunt for a legendary book for her sister, she doesn’t know finding the treasure might mean losing her heart.

Once Upon a Christmas Promise By Susan Carlisle
Two emotionally scarred hearts mend through the promise of love.

Once Upon a Christmas Secret By Terra Weiss
To uncover the deepest secret of her late best friend, Dawson must volunteer for the holidays with her nemesis, Sawyer, and do good for the community… and maybe her heart too.

Once Upon a Christmas Wish By Susan Sands
Star-crossed lovers reunite with the help of a little Christmas magic.

Once Upon a Christmas Party By Christy Hayes
Two young millennials find love with the help of a Christmas legend, meddling grandparents, and a well-placed sprig of mistletoe.

A book to guide them all? I love it!

When I saw this collection, I was all in. I wanted happy-ever-afters and I got them. Each story is great on its own, but as a group, they’re fantastic. The writing was wonderful and I was pulled right into each tale from the first. I couldn’t put this collection down.

I particularly liked the idea that whoever possessed the book would find love. How cool is that?

Susan Carlisle’s story was my favorite. I love her writing and how the story simply unfolded perfectly. Brandon and Laurel don’t seem like they should fit together, but the author writes them in ways that I had to root for them. They were great together, even when they weren’t getting along. I liked that.

If you’re looking for a collection to warm the body and soul during the holiday season and prove that love does exist, especially with a little magic, then pick up this collection today. You won’t regret it!

Falling for the Trauma Doc by Susan Carlisle


Falling for the Trauma Doc by Susan Carlisle
Kentucky Derby Medics, Book 1
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Romance, Contemporary
Rating: 4 Stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

It’s off to the races with Susan Carlisle’s latest Harlequin Medical Romance as a physician’s assistant and trauma doc treat patients at Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby…while trying to resist each other!

THE MAN SHE SHOULDN’T FALL FOR!

Callee needs to move on from a huge loss, and the way to do that is to armor plate her heart. So when trauma doc Langston arrives at her clinic to temporarily conduct research, she knows she’s in trouble. Not only is he helpful with patients, but their chemistry is electric! Is Langston the guy to take a leap with, when he isn’t planning to stick around?

She wants to make a difference and he’s not ready to settle down, but when they meet the chemistry is off to the races.

I’ve already mentioned before that I love the work of Susan Carlisle. I’ve read all of her books and couldn’t wait to get my hands on this one. I’m glad I did. The writing sparkles and the characters are great. I couldn’t put it down.

Callee wasn’t interested in human medicine, until circumstances changed. Langston is there to conduct research. These two probably shouldn’t work out, but they balance each other well. I liked the banter between them and the way the story developed. It wasn’t quick, which is great. The story had time to unfold and I ate up every page.

If you’re looking for something sweet and unique, then this is the book for you. Callee and Langston are my favorites. Check it out!

Second Chance for the Heart Doctor by Susan Carlisle


Second Chance for the Heart Doctor by Susan Carlisle
Atlanta Children’s Hospital
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 4 Stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Will the children’s cardiologist put his heart on the line for the new pediatric nurse? Find out in Susan Carlisle’s latest Harlequin Medical Romance story.

Risking his locked-away heart…

After his ex ran off with his best friend, cardiologist Jenson’s sole focus is his small patients. But the fireworks that erupt when he meets dedicated nurse Bayley are too powerful to ignore… Both are determined to put their jobs ahead of romance, but beautiful Bayley continues to captivate him. Is the guarded doctor ready to embrace a second chance?

Tough circumstances, but tender hearts.

I love the works of Susan Carlisle and will auto-buy her books. This one was no exception. I loved the storytelling, the characters and the developments.

Bayley and Jenson are great together. They’ve been through a lot of tough situations, since both work in the children’s hospital setting. They’ve seen some beautiful things, but also some horrors. How they handle them and navigate love are the true balancing act.

The author writes these characters, who could be jaded and negative, in a very positive way. I rooted for them and wanted to see them get together. I got emotionally involved from page one.

If you’re looking for something tender and sweet, then this might be the book for you. Recommended.

The Duke’s Proposal for the Governess by Eleanor Webster


The Duke’s Proposal for the Governess by Eleanor Webster
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Historical, Romance
Rating: 4 Stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

A wedding to save her from scandal

A bride to save his heart?

After the death of his beloved brother and mother, Randolph, the Duke of Elmsend, feels his life is empty. So, he’s in no mood to entertain the rambunctious Harrington family while they’re in London. Then he meets Abigail, their governess. When her reputation is in jeopardy, he does the unimaginable—propose! But whilst Randolph can offer her a ring, can he ever offer her a real marriage?

Two people who never would’ve found each other realize they’re meant to be.

I loved this story because it showed that love isn’t conventional. Randolph wasn’t looking for Abigail when he met her. Wasn’t expecting to fall in love. But anything is possible.

I loved that this book was well-written and fast-paced. I wanted to know what would happen to the characters and couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. Abigail and Randolph are sweet and perfect for each other. They’re great characters and it was fun following their story.

If you want a happy ever after that’s not run-of-the-mill, then pick this one up. I loved it.

Gratitude: A Way of Life by Louise Hay


Gratitude: A Way of Life by Louise Hay
Publisher: Hay House
Genre: Non-Fiction, Self-Help, Contemporary
Rating: 3 Stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

New York Times bestseller, Louise Hay, has gathered the insights and collected wisdom of some of the most wonderful teachers and writers she knows…people who have demonstrated the power of gratitude in their own lives.

Gratitude is an inspirational book meant to highlight all the wonderful things in your life to be grateful for.

Renowned contributors share their understanding of the practice of gratitude with Louise… and with you. Including:

• Dr Wayne W. Dyer: “Gratitude: One of Life’s Miracles”
• Dan Millman: “Transcendental Gratitude”
• Bernie S. Siegel, M.D.: “Gratitude: A State of Mind”
• Amy E. Dean: “Gratitude Is Awareness”
• Susan Jeffers, Ph.D.: “Noticing the Abundance”…and many more!

If you need a pick-me-up, then this might be the book for you.

Gratitude is the thing you need when you’re down. It sounds odd, but it’s true. Be grateful for all the things you have and even the things you don’t have. Maybe there are terrible things happening in your life. This book helped to open my eyes that sometimes the terrible things are gateways to better things. It’s true. Be grateful for what you have and you’ll see you have a lot.

There are little essays and this ventures into the inspirational at times. It’s good. It works. Give it a try. The dose of positive will help.

If you’re looking for something positive to give you a lift, then give this book a try. You’ll be glad you did.

Two Boys Kissing by David Levithan


Two Boys Kissing by David Levithan
Publisher: Ember
Genre: LGBTQ, Contemporary, YA (Ages 14+)
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Based on true events—and narrated by a Greek Chorus of the generation of gay men lost to AIDS—Two Boys Kissing follows Harry and Craig, two seventeen-year-olds who are about to take part in a 32-hour marathon of kissing to set a new Guinness World Record. While the two increasingly dehydrated and sleep-deprived boys are locking lips, they become a focal point in the lives of other teens dealing with universal questions of love, identity, and belonging.

Two boys kissing and so much more.

This book has been singled out as something to be banned, but I disagree. This book was fantastic. Yes, there are two boys kissing in this book, but it’s so much more. I liked the variety in the book, the characters and the tone. This isn’t an easy book to read. The author tackles hard topics–boys kissing, transgender issues, depression and thoughts of suicide. It’s not easy. But it’s worth the read.

I liked the various characters and seeing how they handled different situations. My favorite characters are the ones who came before, the ones telling the story. Their wisdom and wistfulness, along with their frankness, was the best part. They don’t mince words and I loved it. I liked the commentary.

This is a book everyone should read at some point. It’s sweet at times, endearing, sad and heartbreaking, but it’s realness is what really shines through. Recommended.