Reviewed by Natasha Jackson for Readers' Favorite

Camden is the story of two brothers, Cam (Camden) and his twin brother Pierce, who couldn’t be more different on the outside. Cam rocked the bad boy look while Pierce was pure Brooks Brothers, but still they became partners at a firm called The Skin Agency, which was created to keep the rich, famous and infamous free from kidnappers, blackmailers and extortionists. Mostly. But one night things go wrong when a burgeoning pop star, Yara Bujold, goes missing. It changes everything for Cam and Xio Axelrod did a fantastic job of showing just how much he was affected by that night. He was tortured and guilty before leaving the agency to work at a bar he owned, and then…in walks the dead pop star he’d helped destroy.

I’ll admit that I wasn’t sure about Camden at first. Even though his guilt was palpable almost from his first appearance on the page, in my view he was still a pretty bad guy and the more I learned about what happened to Yara, the more that belief stuck. Yara was strong and tough and vulnerable at the same time, so basically she was the kind of heroine you have a really good time rooting for. When Yara and Cam first shared a page, the chemistry was so hot and sizzling, it leapt off the page. Xio Axelrod did a really good job illustrating the inevitable tension between them as the chemistry turned to more. The best thing about this story in my opinion is Yara. She wasn’t a dumb heroine who constantly put herself in danger to find the truth. She was smart, calculating, and cleverly stayed out of sight while she set her plans in motion. Xio Axelrod is a new author to me but Camden is a good, fast read that held my attention from beginning to end.

Reviewed by Grant Leishman for Readers' Favorite

Lily Reid, the only daughter of an eminent physician, had dropped out of medicine during her residency and had instead focused her life and career on helping medical professionals deal with the overwhelming stress, depression and incredibly high suicide rate that so often is the bane of the medical profession. In The Burnout Cure by Jill Blake, Lily believes vehemently in her advocacy and is a determined, strong and independent woman who has no desire or plans for a long-term relationship or a family. Her work and her passion to help medical professionals is her life. Wolf, a doctor, had it all - drop-dead gorgeous, he lived his life according to his own dictates. He loved women, but he didn't want a relationship. Sex was fantastic, but who wanted to over-complicate it all with feelings? Wolf was of the old school of thought. "If you can't hack the pace of medicine, then look for another job." He looked at medicine like a soldier looks at Special Forces. It takes a special breed of man or woman to be a medical professional. "Suck it up!" was his opinion. When Lily and Wolf meet, the physical attraction is undeniable, but they are so far apart in their views, can anything ever develop?

The Burnout Cure by Jill Blake has absolutely no pretensions. It is pure, light-hearted romance (chick-lit, if you like), but what I loved and what lifted it above your normal hospital, steamy romance story was the seriousness and importance of the backstory to the two characters. Clearly depression, stress and suicide is a major problem within the medical profession and Blake has cleverly used the romance between Lily and Wolf to highlight something she feels strongly about. This is still a story about two disparate people, with virtually nothing in common, who find themselves deeply physically attracted to each other, but the subtext gives it so much more depth. There is the full requisite of hot and steamy love scenes, which are totally necessary and, I might add, extremely well written by Blake so as not to be over-emphasised or incredibly crude as can often be the case. I'm probably not the target market for this kind of steamy romance, but I was certainly glued to the pages and dying to know where it led us next. This is an excellent read and well above the usual hospital romance pap that can be so repetitive and boring. An excellent read from Jill Blake.

Reviewed by Heather Osborne for Readers' Favorite

Secrets Hidden in the Glass by Cate Beauman is a romantic suspense novel and a part of the Carter Island series. Callie Davis, a world-renowned stained-glass artist, is in desperate need of a break from her hectic Manhattan life. Carter Island seems like the perfect place to disappear for a few weeks. What she didn’t expect was to fall in love with not only the island, but the handsome sheriff, Nate Carter. Despite the idyllic setting, there is one thing Callie cannot escape—her abandonment as a child by her mother. As old memories begin to surface, sparked by her surroundings, new leads develop in the long dormant case, leaving Callie and Nate wondering what really did happen to her mother all those years ago?

Having read Ms. Beauman’s Bodyguards of LA County series, I was very excited to delve into a new world by an author I had previously enjoyed. This novel presented like a slow burn, with the story developing day by day as Nate gains Callie’s trust and their relationship blossoms. I loved the supporting characters and the descriptions of the island setting. It was nice to read something so thoroughly written, with all the nuances of Callie and Nate’s relationship, and the impact of Callie’s childhood, fully fleshed out. As with her previous series, Secrets Hidden Behind the Glass by Cate Beauman offers readers the chance to really get to know a set of characters and their surroundings, while still offering a suspenseful and engaging plot. I will definitely be following the Carter Island series with great interest.

Reviewed by Lisa McCombs for Readers' Favorite

When Neil left her for a younger woman, Samantha Decker did not know how to react. A dedicated wife, and mother of teenage Cody, that’s all she knew. All she had to know. Suddenly she is thrown into the position of counselor to her son and fallen woman to her Catholic family. Not only were the Deckers ferociously Catholic, Samantha’s mother and her grandmother were evidently extremely judgmental. Sunday dinner consisted of a barrage of her mother’s negative comments surrounding Samantha’s life, and a constant sprinkling of “holy” water from Mimsy’s sacred stash. Samantha does her best to be a strong parental influence, to the point of shaming her ex into being more a part of his son’s life. Then the web begins to tangle. A one-time babysitting gig reappears in Samantha’s life, leaving a shamed Samantha writhing in guilt. Mix that with her recent contact with her favorite author, Autumn Moone, and Sam isn’t certain which way to turn.

Fiercely honest, brave but lighted-hearted, The Sidelined Wife: More Than a Wife Series Book 1 by Jennifer Peel is one of the best romance novels I have read in a long, long time. Peel’s ability to include laughter in this dark side of marriage is highly effective. The Decker family represents every family of a divorced child. Peel’s narrative is fast-paced and believable while the dialogue, especially between Samantha and Reed, is fun and filled with the age-old yearning of two unlikely lovers. Is Samantha a cougar, or is it acceptable to fall in love with a younger man?

Reviewed by Deborah Adams for Readers' Favorite

Escape Clause by Mary Billiter is a nice vacation/beach read for contemporary romance readers to enjoy on a lazy day. Single mom Kelsey Donigan is just settling into her new life on the Oregon coast when news comes in that her job, and the hotel she’s working for, might not last. Oliver Carlyle works for the rival hotel, but that doesn’t mean he wants to see the Point Resort go under. When Ollie and Kelsey meet at the local historic lighthouse on a publicity adventure, sparks are flying from the start. The two are opposites in most ways, but each one brings to the table something the other can’t help but be drawn to. Through misunderstandings, legal shenanigans, and family feuds, they decide to block out the naysayers and go for love.

In Escape Clause, Mary Billiter hits a lot of great notes, as our two main characters have fun and distinct personalities. Kelsey’s free spirit attitude contrasts well with Oliver’s buttoned-up lifestyle, but they both have the interests of the other in mind which makes for a healthy balance. Escape Clause readers will enjoy the sweet relationship between Kelsey and her 6-year-old son and later the bond her son forms with Ollie. Ollie’s family will drive you crazy and leave you amazed at the patience of the protagonist. If you are looking for a sweet read where love prevails and the good guys win, you will find what you are looking for in Escape Clause by Mary Billiter.

Reviewed by Lisa McCombs for Readers' Favorite

Very early in life, Katharine Firestone realized her existence was jaded beyond repair. Daughter of a ruthless Hollywood agent, Kat’s earliest memories are filled with hours of toe-bleeding ballet, ridiculous figure conscious dieting, and extreme routines not normal for any normal child. If her mother, Cynthia, really wanted to know of her daughter’s preferences, Kat would undoubtedly confirm that she was quite content with life as a bartender at one of LA’s swankiest night clubs.

But Cynthia is relentless and when Katharine finds herself at another unwanted audition, she is firmly aware that she is not acceptable for the part for which she is reading. She is not at all aware of the fact that reading for just another cheesy vampire script will change her life. At least that is what Wyatt Hastings of the network owning Hastings tells her following her disastrous performance. She is not to be the next television sensation. Wyatt Hastings has marked her for the lead in a big screen film. He sees her gritty fire and feels her passion that will perfectly complement co-star Grayson Dunn. The man who broke her heart years ago. The man Kat firmly swore to hate for all of eternity.

The Monday Girl (The Girl Duet, Part 1) by Julie Johnson is packed full of energetic dialogue and amusing situations, even if you are not a Hollywood star! Johnson’s delightful incorporation of current events invites the reader to become part of the writing process with familiar references. My only complaint is that it ended too soon.

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

Giving new meaning to “off the charts,” Stepping Stone: The Stone Series, Book 2 by Dakota Willink is one of those novels that make you want more the moment you read the last word. The novel moves the story of Krystina Cole and Alexander Stone forward and takes us on a journey with them. Krystina and Alexander both have a dark past that they cannot fight off. Krystina knows that her past has damaged her and no one can help her get over it, but her. She can love, but only to a limit. She cannot let herself go and delve deep into love. Even if she wants to, she cannot help it.

Alexander Stone knows that he loves Krystina and he wants to give this love a chance. Even if it means that he will have to share his dark past with her, he will do it in a heartbeat. He knows that she is his salvation and his way out of this dark life. Together, they are ready to give themselves a chance and make it work; however, is it possible? But fate has other plans for them. What can they do when the universe is conspiring against them?

This novel was intense! I loved it and I loved the sizzling hot chemistry between Alexander and Krystina. Both of them were trying equally hard (although Alexander takes the brownie points for being an awesome guy!). I loved how after resisting, Krystina took a chance, finally working with Alexander to make it succeed. I cannot wait for the next novel in the series because this is now one of my favorite novels this year! So romantic and awesome!

Reviewed by Susan Sewell for Readers' Favorite

Out Of The Box Everlasting by Jennifer Theriot is an intense romance novel about a middle-aged couple who are giving themselves another chance with a loving relationship. The newly engaged Olivia and Ash are just returning from a ten-day trip to Paris. They are planning on going to their newly renovated condo and visiting Olivia's pregnant daughter. On their arrival at the Houston airport, they receive an alarming phone call. A critical accident has occurred and the repercussions from it expose secrets and reveal a hidden indiscretion. This new element in their family changes the family's perspectives and how they view their relationships. Olivia is still reeling from the feelings of inadequacy in her previous marriage and, taking offense, she runs away. While Olivia seeks to find herself, Ash is desperately searching for her. Apprehensive and agitated, will Olivia allow Ash back into her life? Will they be able to reconcile their pasts and have a future together?

Out Of The Box Everlasting by Jennifer Theriot is the third Out Of The Box novel. In this book, Ash and Olivia's individual tainted histories have come to haunt their present. Before they can move ahead to their future, Olivia and Ash must resolve their pasts. They have to confront the painful memories of their former marriages. Olivia is a passive aggressive person and has to be in control, believing that her first husband walked over her. Even though she doesn't realize it, she tries to take charge of everybody else's lives so that she feels safe. Ash is an amazing and loving man who cares very much about those around him. Although he has the ability to be a powerful person, he is easily manipulated by those who are closest to him. He loves so hard, that he sometimes gives too much. Olivia and Ash have been deeply injured by their previous spouses and this is the story of how they put their unhappy experiences behind them and start over. This is a beautiful story about a second chance at love, and I recommend it to all those who love second chance romance novels. However, I must give a word of caution; this book contains very graphic sex scenes and is not suitable for anyone under the age of eighteen.

Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

The Friar is a romantic suspense novel written by Samantha Cole. Sage Hammond was determined to keep her husband’s family horse ranch a going concern, even though the stillborn birth of a colt the previous season had made keeping up with mortgage payments a challenge. Ever since her husband died two and a half years ago, she had been both mother and father to her two small children, as well as a full-time rancher with a 150-acre spread specializing in breeding Appaloosas. Evan and Maddie Tanner were extended family who had been working with the Hammonds since her husband had been a boy, but the ranch needed at least another hand to keep up. It was a hot and dusty late spring morning when Adam Westfield came walking up the path to her home. Benji, the family’s dog, instantly went on the defense, and Sage had to admit to herself that the man had quickly disarmed her protective dog with his calm and kind responses, but Sage wasn’t about to be as easily persuaded. Adam explained that Reverend Stevens had suggested he come out and meet her. The Reverend knew she was looking for a ranch hand, and Adam, who was new in town, needed work. Adam explained that he was from New York and had been recently released from prison. He was looking for a chance to start again.

Samantha Cole’s romantic suspense novel, The Friar, is a marvelous second-chance story about a young widow and the ex-con who walks into her life. Cole’s main characters are strong, independent and ethical in their outlooks on life, and the reader can instantly understand why Reverend Stevens sent Adam to Heaven’s Pastures, Sage’s ranch. I had a grand time watching as Adam interacts with Sage, Evan and Maddie, and Sage’s two children, and loved seeing him adapt to a very different culture than the one he was raised in. The Friar is a delight to read. There’s tension and suspense around the stalker who’s determined to wreak havoc on the ranch and its inhabitants that works quite well to keep the reader involved in the story. Cole also admirably addresses the automatic bias that many ex-convicts face after they’ve served their time, and the difficulty they have in being accepted back into society, as evidenced by the hostility of the local residents toward Adam. The Friar is most highly recommended.

Reviewed by Trudi LoPreto for Readers' Favorite

Tate is struggling with the fact that her parents are dead, her Nana is dying, her husband is cheating on her, and she is keeping all of the pain deep within. With her last breath, Nana Maria asks Tate to go to Europe and meet her European family. Over the years, Nana Maria has shared stories of her youth with Tate, but has not told her all of the details. As the story progresses, we read Maria’s story in her own words as she tells us of her life in France. Tate immediately makes plans to travel to Europe and meet her family. Tate is welcomed with open arms and is quickly made to feel right at home. She finds happiness, peace, love, and willingly and happily opens her heart and her thoughts to her wonderful new family. There are secrets to learn, adventures to have, lots of parties and food to eat, and Tate would like to stay forever, but sadly she must go back home to Pittsburgh.

Beautiful Secret is a love story of the present beautifully intertwined in the past. I really loved being a part of Tate and Nana Maria’s story and was drawn further and further in as I read. Beautiful Secret will make you smile and make you cry and it will keep you reading long into the night. The ending has a totally unexpected twist and is one I did not see coming. Dana Faletti is a gifted romance storyteller, creating believable, lovable characters and a plot that has no flaws. I highly urge you to read Beautiful Secret; it is more than just a five star winner.