Book Review: Unearthed (Spector Inc. Ghost Hunter Series) by JerriDrennen

128 Pages

Published July 21, 2013

Genre: Paranormal, Sci-Fi, Romance

My Review:

Cody and Jack joined forces about seven years ago and formed Spector Inc., Cody was just out of high school and Jack was 10 years his senior. Spector Inc. wast started with just a single camera and one EMF. The line of work that they were in, traveling was a necessity, and unfortunately business was not very lucrative, they needed funding!! Jack was approached by their biggest benefactors wife. Sex in exchange for continual funding. Of course this was not an offer he could refuse. Eventually Jack put his foot down and walked away, of course that meant that they would loose their funding. 

Spector Inc. needed to find a way to stay afloat just long enough to have some sort of footage to present for the forum that was about a month away, hopefully winning the Ghost Hunter of the Year Award. 

Lila, was a had her own little B&B and was finally to the point of expansion, the Monclair Inn was her family legacy, she knew that an addition would create room for more guests and that meant more money. Once the excavation began, things began getting a little.....weird. Strange things began to happen in the Inn. One day, Lila was doing laundry in the basement and was approached by a ghost. 

Jack and Cody, hungry for a case, began investigating a farmhouse. While they are there they decided to stat at the Inn. 

Both places are haunted. Connected by something happened between these two families over 70 years ago. Now it is time to find out what happened, and help these ghost find peace. 

I usually do not read paranormal type books, but I cannot resist a good romance story. This book has ghosts, love, passion, sadness, lost innocence, great suspense, anger, and shocking page turners! 

Goodreads.com description:

Uncovering a ghostly secret, one skeleton at a time.

After years of investigating paranormal activity, lead ghost hunter, Jack Trader has little to show until, at an abandoned farm house in the boot-heels of Missouri, he and his partner record the presence of an angry specter. When the time approaches to show their proof, somehow it’s been erased, forcing them back to the house to try and re-film the footage.

Renovations at Lila Monclair’s successful bed & breakfast bring more than dust, noise and boot prints to the halls of the Inn. A ghostly figure, in the form of a mysterious, dark-haired woman in 40’s style dress keeps frightening off guests. As word spreads of the possible haunting, a number of reservations are canceled. Now Lila’s worried she could lose everything.

Jack and Lila are seduced by these star-crossed ghosts, each in search of the other. Together, they play out the nightmare that tore the two soul’s apart more than 70 years ago, while the budding romance between them is threatened by an indiscretion of Jack’s that has Lila questioning if he's even worthy of her love.

About Jerri Drennen:

Jerri Drennen is an author of romance suspense and contemporary romance. All her books are available on Amazon. She was raised on a farm in a small town in Minnesota where she acquired her love of storytelling. After meeting her husband, she relocated to his hometown in Missouri where they now live with three of her four children and two grand kids. Her children call her the crazy cat lady.

My favorite quotes:

"That's easy for you to say. I'm being possessed by a ghost. You were screwed by one. Which Spector would you prefer."

Watching as he walked down the hall to his room, Lila took in a shattered breath. Hard to believe that in such a short time, her whole life had changed, and all because Jack had come to rent a room at the Inn. Since that afternoon, she'd come to realize she hadn't been living her life at all. She'd been sleepwalking through it. Now she wanted to do much more than that.

Purchase Unearthed

My interview with Jerri Drennen

Book Review: Bully ( Fall Away Series) by Penelope Douglas

Bully ( A Fall Away Series)

By Penelope Douglas

Published June 17th, 2013

Pages 290

 What would you do if your best friend turned in to a monster? No literally a monster, but someone you grew to hate, hide from....someone who you just do not recognize anymore? 

"His jaw clenched, and I noticed how how chin lifted slightly as if he had just put on his "bully" mask. I couldn't seen to catch my breath"

Tate and Jared were neighbors and at one point they were best friends until that one summer that changed their lives forever. Jared changed. He can back from visiting his father, and his mother found escape in a bottle. He made his main mission in life to completely humiliate her. Rumors, teasing and taunting  were just a few of the things that she had to endure during high school. Tate had the chance of a lifetime to study abroad for a whole year. A full year away from Jared, no more looking over her shoulder anymore. 

Jared indulged in my misery like it was candy. He had fed me to the wolves time and again, reveling in the unhappiness he caused. Jared, my friend, was completely gone, leaving a cold monster in his place.

Her year abroad is now over and she is back to finish her final year of high school. Something in her changed. She is now stronger, she will no longer be a meek timid girl! She is now ready to face her BULLY. 

"You're a coward. The only way you can feel like a man is to pick on me. But you're  going to have to get your kicks somewhere else now."

Through out this book you will fall in love with the characters. You will love Tates new found strength, you will hate Jared, then you will love him. This story is one emotional roller coaster but soooo worth it! Penelope Douglas knows how to write a great story!!

Taking a long breath, my eyes narrowed at him. "You've already made me cry countless times." I raised my middle finger to him slowly, and asked, "Do you know what this is?" I took my middle finger and patted the corner of my eye with it. "It's me, wiping away the last tear you'll ever get."

One night Tate discovers Madman (Jared's dog) whining and scratching at his front door. She went next door to see if anyone was home to let him into the house. The house was black and no one was home, she tried to door handle and to her surprise it was open. She opened the door and what she found was nothing less than shocking. 

Once my gave met his, it was impossible to look away. His eyes were like a cover of a book-giving you hints but not the whole story. And I wanted to know the story. If I searched his eyes long and hard enough, maybe what I craved would seep out.

Secrets are discovered. Tears are shed. But can years of hurt be forgotten? Read it to find out!!!

My name is Tate. He doesn't call me that, though.

He would never refer to me so informally, if he referred to me at all.

We're neighbors, and once, we were best friends. But then, one summer, he turned on me and has made it his mission to screw up my life at every opportunity. I've been humiliated, shut out, and gossiped about all through high school. His pranks and rumors got more sadistic as time wore on, and I made myself sick trying to hide from him. I worried about what was around every corner and behind every door. 

So I left.

I spent a year studying abroad and bathed in the freedom of life without Jared. Now I'm back to finish up high school and get the hell out of here forever. I'm hoping that after a year of breathing room, he's moved on and forgotten all about me. 

But even if he hasn't changed, I have. I'm not interested in avoiding him or turning the other cheek anymore. We're going to go head to head, because neither of us wants to back down.

"Yesterday lasts forever. Tomorrow never comes. Until you."

He was like an animal sinking his teeth into a juicy kill. One of his arms wrapped around me, while the other held my face. He guided our every moment. When he pushed, I surrendered.

Penelope Douglas is a writer and teacher in Las Vegas. Born in Dubuque, Iowa, she is the oldest of five children. Penelope attended the University of Northern Iowa, earning a Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, because her father told her to "just get the damn degree!" She then earned a Masters of Science in Education at Loyola University in New Orleans, because she HATED public administration. One night, she got tipsy and told the bouncer at the bar where she worked (yes, she was drunk at work)that his son was hot, and three years later she was married. To the son, not the bouncer. They have spawn, but just one. A daughter named Aydan. Penelope loves sweets, the show Sons of Anarchy, and she shops at Target almost daily.

https://www.facebook.com/PenelopeDouglasAuthor

Until You (A Fall Away Series 1.5)

By Penelope Douglas

Published December 4th 2013

Pages 368

Have you ever been so angry that hitting things felt good? Or so numb that you actually felt high? The past few years have been like that for me. Traveling between fury and indifference with no stops in between.

Some people hate me for it, while others are scared of me. But none of them can hurt me, because I don't care about anything or anyone.

Except Tatum.

I love her so much that I hate her. We used to be friends, but I found out that I couldn't trust her or anyone else.

So I hurt her. I pushed her away.

But I still need her. The sight of her centers me, and I can pool all of my anger into her. Engaging her, challenging her, bullying her...they are my food, my air, and the last part of me that feels anything human.

But she left. She went to France for a year, and came back a different girl.

Now, when I push, she pushes back.

Rival (A Fall Away Series #2)

By Penelope Douglas

To be Published August 2014

Madoc and Fallon. Two estranged teenagers playing games that push the boundaries between love and war…

She’s back.

For the three years she’s been away at boarding school, there was no word from her. Back when we lived in the same house, she used to cut me down during the day and then leave her door open for me at night.

I was stupid then, but now I’m ready to beat her at her own game…

I’m back.

Three years and I can tell he still wants me, even if he acts like he’s better than me.

But I won’t be scared away. Or pushed down. I’ll call his bluff and fight back. That’s what he wants, right? As long as I keep my guard up, he’ll never know how much he affects me….

Review by Rene

Purchase The Fall Away Series

Book Review: Crazy Maybe by A.D. Justice

396 Pages

Published January 8th, 2014

Buckle up because you are in for a thrill ride! This book sucked me in from the turn of the first page and continued to get better as I read. I love books that have alternation POV's, you get a more intimate look into the characters life, feelings and you connect with them on such a deeper level. 

Andi works at Tough Enough Gym for the past 7 years. One of the most sought after gyms by up and coming fighters because of Mack Weaver, the owner and famed boxing trainer. She lived in foster care since she was six after the tragic death of her parents. She became emancipated at the age of 16 and Mack took her under his wing.

Luke has a great family but they do not approve of or support his dream. They are ashamed of him because he did not follow their path of white collars. Luke turns to the only man he knows that can help make his dream of becoming a professional boxer a reality, Mack Weaver. 

I can say that this is not your typical romance story! Sexy, tattooed bad boy that has been hurt and no longer does relationships. Be prepared for romance, mystery, drama, suspense and make sure you have some tissues handy!!!

My rating: 5 Stars 

Andi Stone is a strong, smart and independent woman, thanks to the help of a famous boxing trainer, Mack, and his protege, Shane, who have respectively been like a father and brother to her. But that wasn't always the case. Andi never knew what a “normal” life was like. Having been raised in foster care from the age of six after the death of her parents, Andi became emancipated at 16 after an especially horrible incident forced her into a psychiatric hospital. 

Luke Woods, the family black sheep and street-brawler, is determined to be a successful professional boxer despite his family’s protests. He needs Andi’s help to get there. The wedge between him and his family over his past relationship issues and career choices is not easily overcome. Luke must learn to face the past mistakes, fears and demons that constantly plague him. 

Fireworks and passions quickly ignite between Andi and Luke in the midst of the chaos that surrounds and threatens them. She never revealed the secrets and lies that have plagued her, but when she publicly inherits her family fortune, the living, breathing past comes back to torment her and threaten all that she holds dear. For the first time in her life, Andi must learn to rely on someone else to love and protect her or risk losing the man she loves. 

Sometimes love isn't enough. Sometimes it’s all you need.

He looks at me like I'm a predator that's about to pounce and devour me whole.

Neither of us are moving or even smiling but I fell the electricity arcing between us as he moves closer and closer.

The more I learn about her, the more complex she becomes to me, and the more irreplaceable she becomes, too.

From now until I die, whatever hardships we face, we will face together, side by side. You will never fight alone. There is absolutely nothing I wouldn't do for you. I love you with everything I am, baby.

We've all done things we regret. What matters is how we heal the ones we've hurt. Some say it should come easy if it's real love but that's just not true. Love is never easy - love hurts sometimes. It causes insecurities and jealousies. Relationships take work - love takes work. And happiness requires forgiving others.

Once in a lifetime, you may find someone who can give you everything you've ever wanted. A man who can fulfill every desire, grant every wish, provide everything in the world and make every dream come true. Once in a lifetime, that person comes along and when you find him, you'd better hold onto him as tightly as you can.

For some, normal is over-rated. For others, normal is the greatest unknown.

I'm With you - Avril Levine

Stupid Girl - P!nk

Buttons - Pussycat Dolls

Beautiful With You - Halestorm

Familiar Taste of Poison - Halestorm

Crazy in Love - Beyonce

For My Sake - Shinedown

Just A Fool - Christina Aguilera & Blake Shelton

Umbrella - Rihanna

Indestructible - Disturbed

Gunpowder and Lead - Miranda Lambert

If Today Was Your Last - Nickleback

I am happily married to a wonderful man and we celebrate our 24th wedding anniversary this year.

We have two sons in college and we are so proud of them both!

I work full time as a manager but write as a means to escape into another world. I have loved books for as long as I can remember. That was a trait passed on to me by my Daddy. I remember spending many hours in book stores growing up.

I hope you enjoy the stories and will go on these journeys with me!

Goodreads  //  Twitter  //  Facebook  //  Amazon

Other books by AD Justice

Book Review: Safe & Sound by T.S. Krupa

Safe & Sound
By TS Krupa
Published December 31,st 2013

Pages 313
Review by Rene

I could not put this book down! I was hooked after the first few pages. My eyes burned from trying to stay up all hours just to read it. Through the tears I pushed myself to continue to read it. 

Jill and Jay were meant to spend their entire life together, then tragically Jay was taken from her. This is an amazing written story on her journey after his death. How does one survive after loosing the man of your dreams so horrifically? Where do you find the strength to get out of bed in the morning? Where do you find the desire to move on? 

This story is not only about a loss of a loved one, its about a person overcoming grief and finding herself. Learning that letting your heart heal will open doors to new love. You will fall in love with Jill, she will become a friend to you, and you will go through every experience side by side. What is a good book with out a little thrill....do not miss out on this amazing story filled with so many emotions: sadness, anger, anxiety, fear, obsession, and love. 

When Jill met Jay Greenfield she knew she had found her forever love. She was a kindergarten teacher, he was a high-powered attorney and their lives were perfect. But when a tragic accident takes Jay’s life, this young bride is left to pick up the pieces. 

Jill finds herself a young widow facing multiple decisions she thought she had a lifetime to decide. With support from her childhood best friends, Lanie and Stella, Jill attempts to piece her life back together. With nightmares plaguing her dreams and the struggles of constant grief over Jay’s passing, Stella and Lanie keep near constant vigilance over her. 

In the process of settling the estate, Jill learns that her husband was not quite the man she thought he was. She finds herself transported to the small beach town of Oak Island, North Carolina. But the fairy tale ending she envisioned no longer exists. She must face the reality that Jay is gone as she finds herself having a chance at love one more time. 

Safe and Sound follows a yearlong journey of love, loss, friendship, and conquering the unexpected

"Peace my love," I whispered and tilted the canister into the wind, which wisked around and carried the ashes over the water.

"How do you pick up the pieces when your future was stolen from you but you still have your whole life ahead of you?"

"One year ago today was the worst day of my entire life. I lost my best friend and the man I loved, the man I promised to love until death. It shattered me. I wasn't able to cope and I carried that with me for a year. But I am a stronger person today than I was then, and I'm finding a way to move on."

T.S. Krupa was born in New Haven, CT. She was raised in a blended Polish-American household. She has one younger sister who currently lives abroad with her husband and daughter. T.S. Krupa earned her Bachelor's degree at Franklin Pierce University, Master's at Texas Tech University and will earn her Doctorate of Education from North Carolina State University in 2014. She played field hockey at Franklin Pierce University for four years and is in her sixth year of coaching a local club team. She currently resides in North Carolina with her husband and dog.

Goodreads  //  Website  //  Twitter  //  Facebook

Book Review: Goodbye Caution by Jacquelyn Ayres (#1 Lost & Found Series)

Goodbye Caution (Lost & Found Series #1)

Jacquelyn Ayres

Pages 482

Published November 26th, 2013

Goodbye Caution is such an amazing story that is about a young woman named Becca Campbell who is trying to create  a stable life for herself and her daughter.

Becca is the proud owner of a B&B. She is also the mother of a beautiful 10 year old daughter Morgan. Like most women she is a true believer of waiting for the perfect prince charming, who looks like Christian Gray,  to come along. Unfortunately not everything in life starts as planned, Becca was abused by her ex husband, who has been MIA for the last few years and has since been declared dead. She also suffers from PTSD because of the years of abuse that she has endured. 

Greyson James is the nephew of Hazel, who comes to visit his aunt for a few weeks. Greyson is the epitome of sexy and being from England he also has a very sexy British accent among many other great qualities. 

How can you not love a sexy man who wants to come in and swoop you away? Rich, caring and very easy on the eyes!

This book is not one that you can afford to miss! The is thrill, drama, sexy banter, love triangles, kidnapping, and so much more! I cannot say anymore without giving it away. 

Becca Campbell is a mother, friend, and widow to a war hero (may he rot in hell). She just wants to raise her daughter right and keep her bed-and-breakfast afloat in this economy. Her traumatic past leaves her with no desire for a relationship—until Grayson James walks through her door. He’s not the type of man you can easily say “no” to. Becca can’t quite understand the pull she feels toward him. But then his controlling nature starts to push her away—and into Ray McNeil’s comforting arms. Which is right where Ray has always wanted her.

Who will Becca choose?

Will she finally give in to her feelings for Ray, or continue the tumultuous relationship with Grayson? Only one thing is certain—either choice will mean saying goodbye to caution. 

Warning: This book contains some disturbing situations, dubious consent, strong language and violence.

10% of the proceeds from this book will be donated to YWCAUSA.org to help abused women and children.

Princess Sybil is singing, "I know you; I walked with you once upon a dream." Submissive Sybil walks out in her panties and gray tie, asking him to sign the fucking contract.

God, if I wanted to sleep with someone that looks like a ten year old boy, I would've been a gay pedophile. I love a woman with curves. A little extra healthy meat on the bones-something to grab on too.

Wow. That was so intense...with our clothes on! I may go into cardiac arrest when we actually have sex.

Throw caution to the wind, darling, because this is the real thing. It's love at first sight. It does exist.

I am a Domestic Engineer (born and raised in NJ) whose sole responsibility is to guide three young impressionable kids into becoming phenomenal adults. This challenging, yet rewarding work requires a lot of love (coffee), patience (wine) and determination (periodic exorcisms). I work all of this magic in the beautiful state of New Hampshire.

Before becoming a Domestic Goddess (not really), I spent over a decade working in the medical field where I wore more hats than the Queen.

I have had a love for the written word and the great escape it provides since I was a little girl. When I wasn't reading about people and the places they lived, I was creating my own characters and adventures. Finally, I have been putting a pen to paper allowing my characters to come to life. When I don't have a pen and paper in hand, you can often find me laughing at the conversations my characters are having in my head.

  

Twitter  //  Facebook  //  Goodreads  //  Amazon

Book 2 Goodbye Secrets Review Coming Soon