#BookReview “No Cooldown for Love (Rock Falls 3)” by Aliyah Burke

5/5 Stars

The edgiest of the Rock Falls trilogy, No Cooldown for Love, brings former professional basketball player Mitchell Anderson and science journalist Dr. Hope Roman together when he rescues her from a car accident during a winter storm.

Weather conditions allow them only to make it as far as a popular B&B where only one room is available… and a singles’ retreat is being held.

While there is attraction and interest between Mitchell and Hope, both are closed off and guarded. He’s weathering a very public divorce from the gold-digger from hell and has a suspicious nature and trust issues. Hope grew up isolated in the foster care system, and just before her car accident, she attended the funeral of her mentor, the only person who’d ever cared about her and inspired her to succeed.

But the heart wants what the heart wants. While they’re snowed in, the couple make minor concessions to each other and Mitchell falls first. Hope’s emotional walls are simply too high to allow her to believe there’s any future for her and Mitchell, but she allows herself to indulge in the feelings for the moments.

After the worst of the storm passes, Mitchell takes Hope to his home to clear up all the issues from her car accident. They grow closer, and Mitchell introduces Hope to his besties, Linc and Tully, and anyone else in Rock Falls with eyes. Hope’s walls start to fall. But an ugly incident involving Mitchell’s venomous mother brings all his insecurities and trust issues roaring back to the forefront. During his meltdown, he verbally humiliates and rejects Hope. She walks away, realizing her gut instincts were right all along.

When Mitchell realizes what he’s done, he feels like the jerk of the world, and Tully and Linc… and everyone else in Rock Falls, have no problem agreeing with him. Mitchell begs for Hope’s forgiveness, but she’s not having it. His frustration grows when he finds out Hope’s not only left Rock Falls, she’s left the country. Now what, Mitchell?

The busybody folks of Rock Falls again make a warm, wonderful supporting cast. They’re nosy, but they mean well, and everything’s always done out of love and concern. Except for Mitchell’s mother.

This wouldn’t be the same story without João Carvalho, National Geographic photographer, colleague, and Hope’s only friend outside of Rock Falls. His snarky comments-and his one desire to become buddies with an NBA player-has him stealing every scene he’s in! His steadfast support of Hope makes him a keeper, and maybe even worthy of his own story.

No Cooldown for Love centers real-life issues realistically, but with just enough comedy to make it fun!

Enjoy!

About the Book

When ex-pro basketball player Mitchell Anderson sees an overturned car on the edge of a cliff during a nasty snowstorm, he knows he has only minutes to rescue the woman trapped inside. What he’s not expecting is their instant attraction, or that she can deliver one hell of a pick-up line even under the most terrifying of circumstances.

Hope Roman’s entire life is on the edge. She’s already overwhelmed with grief and upset, and nearly dying is pretty much the icing on a terrible, soggy cake. So it’s just her luck that she’s suddenly snowbound at a charming little inn with the hottest, yet down right grumpiest, man she’s ever met. And naturally, there’s only one room left.

Now the pillow barrier between them keeps disappearing. And the walls are coming down. But Hope knows she doesn’t belong in Mitchell’s world any more than he belongs in hers. The question is whether either of them can trust the other long enough to play for keeps…

No Cooldown for Love

Kindle Unlimited

~~~~~

 

©2025 Felicia Denise, All Rights Reserved

#BookReview “A Sweet Spot For Love (Rock Falls Book 2)” by Aliyah Burke

5/5 Stars

It’s been six months since former pro-baseball player Lincoln “Linc” Conner overheard single mom Emma Henrikson make a disparaging remark about her love life and he’s never forgotten her.

Though everyone knows everyone–and their business–in the close-knit community of Rock Falls, Vermont, Linc only knows Emma as the landlady and bestie of Dawson Shay, the fiancée of his buddy, Tully Faulkner.

That all changes when Emma’s young daughter, Greer, joins the sports program at Linc’s community youth center. Willing to make whatever sacrifices necessary just to see her daughter smile, Emma visits the center to see if she can grant Greer’s wish while still meeting the demands of her overbearing boss at her low-paying job.

Emma’s flustered when she meets the man she’s had a crush on since high school, and who’s high school and professional careers she stalked followed closely, even after dropping out of school because of an unplanned pregnancy. Even though Linc flirts shamelessly with her, Emma doesn’t believe for a second he has any interest in her. She remembers the public photos of the women he dated, and a frumpy, plus-size single mother doesn’t compare.

The story’s pace picks up when Emma not only becomes an employee of the youth center but also Linc’s pretend fiancée!

Full disclosure–I am not a fan of the fake relationship craze AT ALL, but I’m giving Linc and Emma a pass, and Kudos to author Aliyah Burke, because the way this situation came out of left field (baseball pun intended) and played into the plotline worked beautifully!

I love their characters. They’re flawed and edgy with some fantastic romantic banter. Well-developed as individuals and as a couple, I couldn’t help but cheer for Emma and Linc .

Emma’s insecurities are not overplayed and realistically addressed. I felt she didn’t give herself enough credit for the amazing person she is and beat herself up too much, but it’s all she’s ever known.

However, it’s Linc’s demons that implode enough to shake up the town and lead Emma to consider leaving Rock Falls. He wants another chance and forgiveness from Emma, but he must forgive himself first.

While the onus is on Linc to repair things with Emma, he has amazing support from Linc and Mitchell. They’re loud, intrusive, and in-your-face, and a refreshing change from the standard fictional (and real) bromances. Their support for each other is unwavering. But they don’t hesitate to call each other out when they’re wrong, and that’s exactly what Tully and Mitchell do to Linc.

Emma’s never had friends until Dawson arrives in Rock Falls. She understands Emma’s insecurities and trust issues and can be there for her without judgement. However, that doesn’t mean she’s not always ready to deliver a few hard truths.

My two favorite characters in this read make brief appearances which are more than memorable. Retired school employee Mrs. Juliet Sprague is a fierce octogenarian who says whatever she wants, whenever she wants, to whomever she wants. She’s not malicious, just honest to a fault, and her biting comments could leave marks. I loved her take-no-prisoners attitude.

Then there’s Rock Falls PD’s own Officer Parker Hewes, or as Linc referred to him, Barney Fife! Parker was crude, rude, offensive, bumbling, and stupid… and karma swooped in for him in record time! Hilarious scene!

Tinkering with Love is a fun read that shows love of family, friends… and self makes love of the heart even sweeter.

Enjoy!

(Read through Kindle Unlimited)

About the Book

Former pro baseball player Linc Conner knows exactly where his head’s at. Most of the time, he’s completely focused on running his community center and focusing on the kids. But when it comes to single mom Emma Henricksen, Linc can’t see straight. She’s driven, resourceful—not to mention that smart, extra-kissable mouth—and when she’s near, he gets lost in a fog of lust. But he needs her help to convince an investor they’re engaged.

Emma’s too busy raising her gifted little girl to have a sex life that’s not battery-operated. Still, how could she resist being engaged to a guy who’s the sexual equivalent of her favorite dessert topped with whipped cream and a cherry, even if it’s just pretend? Emma knows all too well that if something seems too good—or too tempting—to be true, it definitely is…

Now it’s a game of pretend with a whole lot of chemistry between the guy who’s used to playing the field—and the woman who opted out of the game long ago. All that’s missing is one helluva curveball…

A Sweet Spot for Love (Rock Falls 2)

Kindle Unlimited

~~~~~

 

©2025 Felicia Denise, All Rights Reserved

#BookReview “Tinkering with Love (Rock Falls Book 1)” by Aliyah Burke

5/5 Stars!

In Tinkering with Love we meet retired pro-hockey play Tully Faulkner and recent west coast transplant, Dawson Shay. Tully’s returned to Rock Falls, Vermont to care for his sick mother, and Dawson left a toxic mother… and a cheating ex, for a fresh start and the opportunity to build her own motorcycle restoration business.

During a mountain team-building work retreat held by their employers, Tully and Dawson are instantly attracted to each other, until she learns the hunky hometown hero’s name then she hates him and is on a mission to make him look bad in front of their coworkers.

The week-long retreat is filled with biting remarks, hilarious banter, and heated glances by the couple, fanned and encouraged by their coworkers, Rock Falls residents… and Tully’s two lifelong best friends, Linc and Mitchell.

Tully is a fun character who’s used to being liked by everyone. Spending much of her childhood in foster care because of her mother’s addictions, Dawson is darker and more cynical. Reconnecting with her mother in early adulthood doesn’t give Dawson the love and support she craves because of her constant criticisms of Dawson’s plus-size figure and personal choices. Tully has his work cut out for him to find out why Dawson continues to push him away, and ultimately walks away.

Loved the support network Dawson found in the women… and men of Rock Falls. She’s learned to lean on, and listen to friends who consider her family.

Favorite characters? Torvald Harrellsson and Faust! One of these two may or may not be a goat!

Great read with a heart-melting ending!

Enjoy!

(Read through Kindle Unlimited)

About the Book

Dawson Shay could never be accused of being a bubbly ray of sunshine. Like, not ever. But her outlook on life has only gotten worse since she moved across the country for her dream job rebuilding motorcycles…only to lose the job to someone else. Now her run of bad luck includes a wilderness retreat with the entire company—including the asshat who stole her job. Fortunately, Tully Faulkner’s bearded, tattooed hotness is pretty much the perfect distraction.

Except, Tully isn’t just Mr. Hometown Hero, he’s also said asshat who stole her job. And if he thinks he can win her over with his ability to charm the pants off everybody else, he’s got another thing coming. But Dawson can’t avoid him forever… or the seriously hot sparks between them. Somewhere between the breathtaking northern lights and teaming up to win their company’s scavenger hunt, Dawson starts to think that Tully’s magic touch might be just what she’s been missing.

But even sexy gearheads have their secrets. And Dawson’s about to discover that falling for the too-perfect-to-be-true Tully might just backfire on her completely…

Tinkering with Love (Rock Falls Book 1)

Kindle Unlimited

~~~~~

©2025 Felicia Denise, All Rights Reserved

#FlashbackFriday: Meet Margot Schultz

Office manager Margot Schultz is the closest thing  closed-off attorney, Olivia Chandler, has to a friend. Margot doesn’t know all the details of her boss’ painful childhood, but she knows enough to understand Olivia’s quirky behavior and stunted emotions.

Margot returns in Family Matters.  Her loyalty to Olivia will be tested when another devastating loss leads Olivia to refuse help and push everyone away.

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Dynamic and vivacious Margot Schultz never met an obstacle she couldn’t overcome… or knock down. Executive assistant and office manager to child-advocate attorney, Olivia Chandler, Margot always seems to know the right amount of charm, wit, and panache to use when dealing with anyone from grumpy judges to cagey Department of Children’s Service employees to Olivia’s peers – some of whom are less-than-ethical.

Early in her career, Margot worked for some of the less than-ethical-crowd. While they could be gods and magicians in the courtroom, pulling out wins from seemingly unwinnable cases, outside the courtroom was another matter. Margot could remember each and every personal errand she’d had to do, each gift she’d had to buy for multiple girlfriends and mistresses, and every lie she’d told to one of her bosses’ wives.

When Margot heard through the courthouse grapevine that the executive secretary of a successful young, female child advocate attorney was retiring for health reasons and had no replacement, she grabbed her resume, took an extended lunch and went in search of Olivia Chandler. Despite her unusual approach, Margot and Olivia clicked immediately.

The two women have worked side by side for over ten years. Olivia admired Margot’s work ethic. She encouraged Margot to continue her education when time allowed, and even paid for it, calling it a ‘sound investment.’ Margot would eventually advance from executive legal secretary to executive assistant and office manager.

Margot knows Olivia has no family and was a foster care kid. She doesn’t know the intimate details, but she does know Olivia’s adolescence was bad enough for Olivia to keep herself closed off to most people. Her boss seems to ‘live’ when focused and working on a case for their minor clients. The rest of the time, Olivia just seems to exist.

The divorced office manager is not one of those people who believe a woman needs a man in her life to be complete, but Bruce Bellamy has suddenly appeared in Olivia’s life, and Margot will do her part to keep him there.

Things are going to get interesting.

~~~

Margot Rose (Parker) Schultz

Age: She’s not telling – but probably mid to late 40s

Born: New York, New York

Marital Status: Divorced – has adult twin sons who are both Marines

Is two classes away from a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management

Loves to dance and can be found on a dance floor most Saturday nights

Collects souvenirs from the Roaring 20s – always says she would have made a great Flapper

Plays acoustic guitar, but rarely does as it reminds her of her musician ex-husband

Is somewhat estranged from her parents and siblings since she dropped out of college nearly 20 years ago to elope with her now ex-husband

~~~

Family Matters 3D cover

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Rena Averest – In The Best Interest of the Child – Character Profile


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Olivia Chandler’s latest client is eleven-year-old Rena Averest.

Rena and her parents were involved in a weather-related, multi-car accident. Her mother was killed and her father was severely injured and comatose for several weeks and remains hospitalized indefinitely.

Rena suffered extensive injuries and was also hospitalized for several weeks. When she was well enough to be discharged, the hospital ran into major obstacles. Her mother’s only living relative was an older brother who lived two thousand miles away. Suffering from chronic cystic fibrosis, he was unable to care for Rena and had in fact, even missed his sister’s funeral. Rena has grandparents, and two aunts on her father’s side of the family…and they want absolutely nothing to do with her.

A benevolent judge, taking into account all that Rena is currently dealing with, allows her to be placed temporarily with Courtney and Marissa Bellamy, friends of her parents since college, and Rena’s godparents. Not knowing how her father’s medical situation will resolve itself, the judge feels Rena needs the stability and familiarity of the Bellamy home. The Department of Children’s Services disagrees and take legal action to remove Rena from the Bellamy home and place her in foster care. The presiding judge spurred on by the irony of DCS wanting to remove Rena Averest from a non-relative home only to place her in a non-relative home, stays the case and appoints a child advocate attorney to research the case and protect Rena’s interest.

And that’s exactly what Olivia intends to do.

Rena Irene Averest

Age: 11

DOB: May 6, 2003

Parents: Duncan and Irene (Deceased) Averest

Siblings: None

Favorite color: Yellow

Favorite music: Todrick Hall and all songs Disney-related

Favorite Book: The Story of My Life by Helen Keller

Pets: A turtle named Brutus

BFF: Margie Macy

Wants to be a surgical nurse when she grows up


Best Interest multi cover

“In the Best Interest of the Child”

Amazon US http://bit.ly/BestInt

Amazon UK http://bit.ly/BestIntUK

Amazon CA http://bit.ly/BestIntCA

Amazon AU http://bit.ly/BestIntAU

Goodreads  http://bit.ly/BestIntGR


 

Margot Schultz – In The Best Interest of the Child – Character Profile

business-924902_640

Dynamic and vivacious Margot Schultz never met an obstacle she couldn’t overcome… or knock down. Executive assistant/office manager to Olivia Chandler, Margot always seems to know the right amount of charm, wit, and panache to use when dealing with anyone from grumpy judges to cagey Department of Children’s Service employees to Olivia’s peers – some of whom are less-than-ethical.

Early in her career, Margot worked for some of the less than-ethical-crowd. While they could be gods and magicians in the courtroom, pulling out wins from seemingly unwinnable cases, outside the courtroom was another matter. Margot could remember each and every personal errand she’d had to do, each gift she’d had to buy for multiple girlfriends and mistresses, and every lie she’d told to one of her bosses’ wives.

When Margot heard through the courthouse grapevine that the executive secretary of a successful young, female child advocate attorney was retiring for health reasons and had no replacement, she grabbed her resume, took an extended lunch and went in search of Olivia Chandler. Despite her unusual approach, Margot and Olivia clicked immediately.

The two women have worked side by side for ten years. Olivia admired Margot’s work ethic. She encouraged Margot to continue her education when time allowed, and even paid for it, calling it a ‘sound investment.’ Margot would eventually advance from executive legal secretary to executive assistant and office manager.

Margot knows Olivia has no family and was a foster care kid. She doesn’t know the intimate details, but she does know Olivia’s adolescence was bad enough for Olivia to keep herself closed off to most people. Her boss seems to ‘live’ when focused and working on a case for their minor clients. The rest of the time, Olivia just seems to exist.

The divorced office manager is not one of those people who believe a woman needs a man in her life to be complete, but Bruce Bellamy has suddenly appeared in Olivia’s life, and Margot will do her part to keep him there.

Things are going to get interesting.

 

Margot Rose (Parker) Schultz

Age: She’s not telling – but probably mid to late 40s

Born: New York, New York

Marital Status: Divorced – has adult twin sons who are both Marines

Is two classes away from a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management

Loves to dance and can be found on a dance floor most Saturday nights

Collects souvenirs from the Roaring 20s – always says she would have made a great Flapper

Plays acoustic guitar, but rarely does as it reminds her of her musician ex-husband

Is somewhat estranged from her parents and siblings since she dropped out of college nearly 30 years ago to elope with her now ex-husband


Best Interest multi cover

“In the Best Interest of the Child”

Amazon US http://bit.ly/BestInt

Amazon UK http://bit.ly/BestIntUK

Amazon CA http://bit.ly/BestIntCA

Amazon AU http://bit.ly/BestIntAU

Goodreads  http://bit.ly/BestIntGR

Martin ‘Marty’ Knight – In The Best Interest of the Child – Character Profile

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After their initial visit to the hospital where Rena has daily physical therapy, she and Olivia meet hospital volunteer, Martin ‘Marty’ Knight as they leave. Marty is concerned about the sadness in Rena’s eyes and tries to cheer her up as he helps her into the car. He is shocked to find out that Rena’s injuries and the death of her mother were caused by the same weather-related, multi-vehicle accident that claimed the life of his best friend, Victor Roddy.

During Marty and Rena’s conversation, Olivia finds herself staring at the man, convinced they have met before. She just cannot remember where. Marty also cast several glances in Olivia’s direction trying to figure out why she looks so familiar. His memory fails him.

As the story unfolds, Marty Knight will not only become a good friend and ‘grandfather’ to Rena, he will play a pivotal role in Olivia Chandler sorting out her past…and navigating her future.

  • Martin Eugene Knight
  • Age: 71
  • Retiree, Veteran, and Hospital Volunteer
  • DOB: October 31, 1943
  • Born in Kenosha, Wisconsin
  • Marital Status: Widower. Wife, Sarah, passed away three years ago after a difficult battle with liver cancer.
  • Sarah died two weeks after their 50th wedding anniversary.
  • Has five children and eleven grandchildren.
  • A veteran of the Vietnam War. Entered the war near its beginning and served four years.
  • Received a Purple Heart and Medal Honor.
  • Enjoys building miniatures, fly fishing, and watching westerns.
  • Carries a keychain with a picture of his wife on one side, and a picture of his dog on the other. His dog passed away two months after his wife, at the age of 16. Sarah named the dog Dwight because she was convinced he looked like Dwight D Eisenhower.

Best Interest multi cover

Amazon US http://bit.ly/BestInt

Amazon UK http://bit.ly/BestIntUK

Amazon CA http://bit.ly/BestIntCA

Amazon AU http://bit.ly/BestIntAU

Goodreads  http://bit.ly/BestIntGR

 

©2016 Felicia Denise, All Rights Reserved

Courtney and Marissa Bellamy – In The Best Interest of the Child – Character Profile

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As best friends to Duncan Averest and his late wife, Irene, Courtney and Marissa Bellamy knew they would stand by Duncan. Whatever it took to help him through the loss of his wife and the serious injuries sustained by him and daughter, Rena, the Bellamys would do. And, as Rena’s godparents, of course she would live with them until her father was well enough to take care of her. They took their vows as godparents very seriously. But someone is trying to stop them. Someone is trying to keep them away from Duncan and make sure Rena gets sent into the foster care system.

Court-appointed child advocate attorney Olivia Chandler is the answer to their prayers. They’re moved by her genuineness and promise to “do right by Rena.” There is an immediate bond between the attorney and her young client, and Marissa cannot help but wonder if it has more to do with the flashes of sadness she sees in Olivia’s eyes than with simple job commitment.

The instant interest in Olivia by his cousin, Bruce, hasn’t been lost on Courtney. Abandoned by his ex-wife when their children were mere toddlers, Bruce hasn’t shown little more than a passing, casual interest in any woman since. Olivia will be spending quite a bit of time with the Bellamy family in the near future, and Courtney thinks it’s just enough time to do a bit of matchmaking. And, where you find Courtney…you find Marissa.

Let the games begin!

Courtney Ardan and Marissa Anne (Monroe) Bellamy

Met in Botany 101 during their freshman year of college

Married November 30, 1996

Two sons – Bishop, 18 and Brian, 16

Courtney works in IT/Computer Systems for the local school district, Marissa is head of Library Sciences for Hennepin County Public Libraries

Courtney (Caucasian) and Marissa (African-American) are an Interracial couple who haven’t suffered much of the disdain shown to interracial couples by some of society due to their steadfast commitment to each other and the love and total support of their families.

Bruce Bellamy – In The Best Interest of the Child – Character Profile


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A former amateur race car driver, and current owner of a successful chain of auto repair shops, Bruce Bellamy is a cousin to Rena Averest’s current caregivers. He and Olivia meet for the first time when she gives Rena a ride home from physical therapy, and he is there trying to diagnose the problem with his cousin’s car.

Bruce is instantly smitten with the attorney. Her voluptuous body pulls him right in, but it’s the guarded sadness in her eyes that propels him to get to know her. She has a beautiful smile, and he thinks she should use it more often.

The easy going business owner has been alone for nearly two decades, when his ex-wife walked away from him and their four children in search of a more affluent lifestyle. Her callous, mercenary heart caused him to close his off, and he’s not been in a relationship since, nor had any involvement with women worth mentioning, choosing instead to concentrate on raising his children and making his business successful. So when Olivia gets his attention, the entire Bellamy clan takes notice, and proceeds to help him win her over.

Having spent her adult life avoiding romantic entanglements, Olivia knows she’s walking a tight rope by allowing Bruce to get too close. Rena’s case has brought Olivia’s childhood back to the forefront of her mind, making her believe she has nothing to offer Bruce.

He seems to think otherwise.

Bruce Ambrose Bellamy
Age: 42
DOB: June 28, 1972
Place of Birth: Duluth, Minnesota
Divorced
Has four (adult) children
Owns a chain of successful auto repair shops
Loves ‘I Love Lucy’ and ‘Married with Children’ reruns
Has a BA and MA in Business earned while attending night, and online classes
Hates golfs and considers it pointless
Loves football and is a diehard Minnesota Vikings Fan


Best Interest full cover

Amazon US http://bit.ly/BestInt

Amazon UK http://bit.ly/BestIntUK

Amazon CA http://bit.ly/BestIntCA

Amazon AU http://bit.ly/BestIntAU

Goodreads  http://bit.ly/BestIntGR

2017 Color of Love Blog Hop

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Welcome to the 2017 edition of the COLOR OF LOVE Blog Hop co-hosted by Empi Baryeh, Kiru Taye, Nana Prah, and Love Bites and Silk. This year’s hop is on from today 23 November to 3 December 2017.

We’re celebrating People of Color in romance and offering you a chance to discover new books and new authors, as well as giving you a chance to win prizes. We have 30 blogs participating this year, each featuring an interracial or multicultural romance book!

This year, we’re doing things a little differently. We’ve separated the cash and book prizes so more people can win:

Here’s what’s up for grabs:

BOOK PRIZES
We’re introducing daily book prizes. Be sure to comment on blog posts and join the conversation on our FACEBOOK EVENT PAGE for a chance to win one of our 24 book prizes.

CASH PRIZES
Enter the Rafflecopter below for a chance to win:
· 1st prize $50 GC
· 2nd prize $25 GC
· 3rd prize $15 GC
· 4th prize $10 GC

 


One lucky visitor to my blog will win digital copies of three great reads by three great authors!

Once Upon a Princess Duet by Deborah A. Bailey

Cinderella and the Wolf Prince by Siren Allen

Haunted by Kiru Taye

To enter for a chance to win, all you have to do is:

  1. Follow this blog
  2. What’s your favorite multicultural/interracial read of 2017? Tell me in the comments!

On Monday, December 4th, a random winner will be chosen and receive all three books!

My 5-Star Review of Once Upon a Princess Duet

Fairytales were my first favorite childhood genre, and in my later years, I haven’t strayed too far from them. The list continues to grow of fairytale mash-ups, retellings, dark, and inspired versions. A few missed the mark, but most get it right. Once Upon a Princess Duet nails it!

In Heart of Stone, we have Leesa, princess leader of a kingdom in ruins. Those who killed her family and destroyed the land are gone too. Leesa ekes out a living for her grandmother and the people of her village the best way she can.

This leads Leesa to search for treasures at Silver Palace, also in ruins and once home to her betrothed who never returned from the war.

Leesa is caught by Willem, the gargoyle, self-proclaimed guardian of the castle ruins. He makes Leesa an offer—stay with him in the castle for three weeks and he will give her all she needs to care for her village.

This grownup version of Beauty & the Beast doesn’t deliver a wide-eyed, naïve ingenue and a loathsome beast, but a thirty-year-old woman who’s left her days of royalty and privilege behind and a snarky, supernatural creature who may or may not be just a bit pervy. *HA! *

The bargain is not an easy one even as a guarded trust grows between the mismatched couple.

Trouble arrives in the forms of Lester and Sir Kyle, who’s determined to take the castle’s hidden riches… and Leesa as his wife.

With problems temporarily abated, Willem releases Leesa from their agreement, insisting she leaves before the nefarious Kyle returns with backup. Leesa is reluctant to leave—she has come to care for the gargoyle—and wants to fulfill her part of the agreement… and perhaps even help free Willem from the enchantment which binds him to the castle.

Trouble returns, and it is chaotic. Leesa’s resolve weakens as she believes she’s lost someone else important to her. It builds to an excellent ending, which for me, could have gone on and on.

While she only appears in a few pages near story’s end, Polly, a no-nonsense barmaid from town, leaps to the top of my favorite characters list. Polly wasn’t up for any foolishness and did not suffer fools lightly.

In Beauty and the Faun, Kayla and her mother are taken in by her uncle after Kayla’s father dies.

Although they are equals, Kayla and Julia, her mother, are treated as servants…like Cinderella. The good-natured women don’t mind… much, as they both miss their life living in the woods with Christopher, Kayla’s late father.

When Julia fell in love with Christopher, a woodsman, her family didn’t consider him good enough for Julia and she had to choose—her wealthy family and easy life or poverty with Christopher. Of course, Julia chose love with no regrets. But illness took Christopher all too soon.

Now Kayla learns Sir Frederick, her uncle, and a habitual gambler is ready to marry her off to help settle his gambling debts.

The plan is to marry Kayla off to the son of a king. Usually a coveted betrothal, King Reynard has been unable to find a bride for his son because Reynard is a wolf-shapeshifter and his son… changes into things. The young prince is also said to be wild and disappears for weeks at a time.

Despite Kayla and Julia’s objections, the wedding plans proceed, so Kayla decides to solve her own problem.

Striking a deal with fellow servant, Jackon, Kayla plans to go into the village and find a job so she can take care of her mother and be away from Frederick’s control. Jackon tricks Kayla and leads her into an attempted kidnapping. Kayla escapes and eventually ends up with Del, a woodland faun.

Loved the twists and turns of this quick read which included a wedding ball, a fairy godmother and… pomegranate.

Leesa and Kayla are two great characters—women just trying to figure it all out. They’re not sitting around waiting to be rescued, but Prince Charming does arrive… in his own way! You’ll enjoy rooting for their happily-ever-afters.

I highly recommend these two engaging fairytale sendups. But, don’t buy them for your twelve-year-old. Yes, there’s sex, (but it’s not over-the-top). We grow up, why can’t our fairytales?

Enjoy!


Color Of Love 2017 Featured Books

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