All I Want for Christmas: Military Romance Short Story by Vivian Fiano
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
All I Want for Christmas by Vivian Fiano a festive five-star read. This is the perfect pick me up for anyone a little baa humbug this festive season. It has it all, it will wring your emotions but its worth it in the end, just like the great little story it is. This was a great pick me up and I loved it, I just wish it was longer.
Aiko by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Aiko is the first book in The Heartstrings series by Brooke May. It is a fun and original paranormal story that I devoured in a matter of hours.
Aiko was chosen by cupid as one of his team who help humans find love- but over the centuries things have not gone smoothly, with mishaps, chaos, and mayhem following in Aiko’s wake. Earning her quite the reputation, as well as getting her suspended from duty for quite a lengthy period. Finally, she has been cleared for duty, once more, but discovers her first assignment will be anything but easy. She will have her work cut out for her, that’s for sure. Will Aiko succeed, or will she end up being benched again? What ensues makes for an entertaining and fun read.
Looking forward to following the rest of the series!
Thank you, Brooke May!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Cuckoo Clock – New York by Elisabeth Marrion
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Historical isn’t my cup of tea. With that being said, this was a bit fascinating to me. While I’m not sure if you need to read the first two books in this series, after following up I was able to keep on track with this one okay. In this story, you follow Esther who is a Jewish doctor whose husband is captured before the Nazi’s take over Germany. And the Cuckoo-Clock is an apptly named read. Pick up the book to find out why!!! Well worth your time!!!
First, We Kill All the Lawyers by Seelie Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
First, We Kill All the Lawyers by Seelie Kay was a great 5 star read.
I was pulled in right from the beginning.
Donovan is a highly respected lawyer in Chicago with a secret, he’s a vampire. When things take a serious twist after a case and someone attempts to take his life Donovan needs to find out who is after him and why? When other lawyers start to die it becomes very obvious that someone is focusing on lawyers.
Overall I really enjoyed this thrilling read. I really liked Donovan, he was handsome, smart and so much more. The additional characters also added a great element to the story. We also get the killers POV which allows us to see the person’s thoughts and craziness. I was on the edge of my seat trying to guess who the killer was and their motive. If you’re looking for a thrilling read that pulls you right in, 1-click and get started today on this one. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Reviewed by @mab54615
View all my reviews
Urban Justice by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is awesome! India Kells has done it again! Urban Justice is the second book in the Chicago Vigilante series. This book follows vigilante Sloane Friday. Ms. Friday is a pretty badass former police officer who wants nothing more than to shut down the Phantom drug operation. In order to do so she needs the help of Professor Luke Radcliff. Luke is a former Marine with a superior knowledge of Chicago’s underground tunnels. What they don’t expect is the serious attraction they have for each other. This book is a continuation of the first novel and just like the first one it’s so good! It’s such an easy read and it is also so easy to get sucked into the adventure of taking down this drug. All you want to do is continue to read it to find out what happens. There are so many twists and turns that keep you guessing. The sexy scenes are incredibly hot! You honestly can’t put this book down! I truly can’t wait for the next book!
Review by @vegasdaisie
The Last Playlist: A Sonic Epitaph by P.A. Kane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Last Playlist: a sonic epitaph by P.A. Kane was a great read! Reading this autobiography (written for his kids) was like sitting in a room listening to a good friend talk to you. The words flowed effortlessly, and I found myself laughing throughout, while sympathizing and agreeing with a lot of what Kane had to say. This is also a great read if you love music. While this is an autobiography, this novel is also about 70% music, and I think it’s a great read for the music enthusiasts out there. This was a book I was hoping to like and I ended up loving it. I definitely recommend this book if you’re a fan of autobiographies and music also.
Cemetery Tour: A Walk Through the Old Yard by Stuart Ledwith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Cemetery Tour: A Walk Through the Old Yard by Stuart Ledwith
This is a different kind of book than I usually gravitate towards. The book is about the people buried at a cemetery in Baldwinsville, New York. There are ghost stories that are conversations the author had as he strolls through the cemetery. These conversations give a view of the life of the people who immigrated to New York around year 1800. The stories share love of family, hardships they experienced, and tragedies for some. The author writes in a way to make you realize those that came before us had stories to share. It is a lovely book.
Eye of Death by Alexander Charalambides
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Eye of Death by Alexander Charalambides is the third book in the Vampire State series. Let me warn you to read these in order because the story does carry from one to the other and honestly, you don’t want to miss out on a great series. This book is even better than the last and I tore through it. As conditions have changed in Sanguinia life has changed for Rowena. In this book, there is a new romantic interest for her, but nothing is ever as simple as that. I really have enjoyed seeing the plot grow and change in this series and they always leave me wanting more. This is a great series of books if you enjoy paranormal, mystery, romance, and lots of twists and turns to keep you on your toes. I look forward to reading more from Charalambides in the future.
Moonlit Mirage – A Cook Islands Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Moonlit Mirage – A Cook Islands Romance (Moonlit Destination Series) by Amy McKinley
4out of 5 stars
This is the first book that I have read by Ms. McKinley and enjoyed this short read it had romance, betrayal, secrets, forgiveness, honesty, and love. The connection between the main characters where amazing I also enjoyed the description of the Island; I could imagine being there and enjoying the scenery.
Years ago, Cade and Nadia meet in some special circumstances. Cade never forgot the woman that saved his life years ago. Nadia was not supposed have feeling for Cade he was a mark. So now years later they run into each other. Nadia wants to run and Cade does not want to let her go.
Will Nadia be-able to tell Cade her secrets? Will Cade forgive Nadia? Will they move past all the secrets and have a happily ever after?
Tracy
@tracym
Secure Boxed Set by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Secure Boxed Set: Chase Security Series by R.L. Dunn includes books 1-3 in a single package. The books included are Secure Desire, Secure Again, and Secure Heart. I always enjoy seeing a box set available from a good author. If you enjoy one from a series you will most likely enjoy reading more from the series. These are all good books and I enjoyed them all.
Secure Desire: I was drawn in because Cassiopeia, the main female character, has a history of being an art historian. Also, what a fantastic name. Ian is at the head of a private security firm after serving in Afghanistan. The two had met years before and have been brought back together. Ian will do anything to protect Cassiopeia. I was reading to find out how an art historian had gotten herself into so much danger. I really enjoyed the story and the characters and hope to see more of them in future books. This has a little bit of something for anyone who likes a good suspense book.
Secure Again: This is a continuation of the first book, so I highly recommend reading book one in the series first. This story focuses on Dr. Elizabeth Reed, who notices a mysterious medical issue at the jail, and Martin Bailey, CEO of Chase Security International, who has his own investigations ongoing. This is a good story that is full of suspense, mystery, and romance. I was drawn into the story and wanted to keep reading to find out what was going on for Dr. Reed and Martin’s cases. I liked there were separate stories, but they intertwined.
Secure Heart: This book focuses on Julian Dupart, the new head of the San Diego branch, and Holly Dupree Morrison. These stories have thrills, mystery, romance, and more to them. I have enjoyed how the series draws the attention to a different couple in each story, while you still get to see the ones from past books. I really enjoyed the character of Holly and how she will fight for her daughter no matter the danger.
All I Want for Christmas by Vivian Fiano
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
All I Want for Christmas was a sweet fast read. The book is about 50 pages and you can read it in one sitting. The author gave her readers something sweet to make their hearts happy just in time for Christmas.
Kinsley loves her boyfriend so much and can’t wait to see him. Unfortunately, he’s a chopper pilot deployed in Afghanistan and she finds out he’s not going to make it home for Christmas. She is inconsolable but her best friend who also has a boyfriend that is deployed with Brysen tries to cheer her up and makes her come
Over for a party. What Kinsley sees when she gets there is more then she could have ever imagined.
Reviews by @xchellex
All I Want for Christmas by Vivian Fiano
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Oh this was such a perfect holiday time read! I am new to Vivian Fiano but this was a wonderful way to get to know her writing style, and I fell in love with it. I loved the way she made this story become so real to me. I felt as if I was right there with the characters as they experienced things first hand. This was such a fun but compact read, that it filled my Sunday evening with some much needed holiday spirit as I unwound from a long and tedious week. Kinsley and Brysen encounter several obstacles in their relationship that will prove their strength and love and the way it will stand the test of time. I look forward to seeing what else is available from Vivian Fiano in the very very near future!
Review by @lizaileen
View all my reviews
The Last Playlist: A Sonic Epitaph by P.A. Kane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked this up, but I knew I loved music and words so I dove in and gave it a go. I am glad that I did. While this is not the typical type of novel that I choose this was a nice departure and felt very refreshing to have something new. I will say this would be the perfect book for you if you love music. I see my life and am reminded by life so much with songs as well as books and this combined my love for both. In The Last Playlist we get the author’s story but told in ways of music and lyrics. I loved how personal that felt and by the time the book wrapped up I felt as if he could have been a long lost cousin. I enjoyed some of the profound thoughts he has gained and chose to share. I look forward to seeing what else is available from PA Kane in the near future.
Review by @lizaileen
View all my reviews
Cuckoo Clock – New York by Elisabeth Marrion
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I found this wonderfully written novel to be an emotional read but also a fascinating one. The novel tells the story of the first children to go to England on the Kindertransport from Doctor Esther Rosenthal’s point of view. Beginning in Kristallnacht on the 9th November in 1938, Doctor Esther Rosenthal’s husband has just enough time to whisper to her before the SA take him away, that Esther must leave Germany immediately. This is the start of her adventurous, dangerous and brave journey which saw her go through Holland, England, and then ultimately on to the USA. It is whilst Esther is in Holland that she meets a group of children that come from a Berlin orphanage and who are the first children to go to England on the Kindertransport. Esther and her father Mordechai join the children on their crossing and then accompany them to Harwich. At the outbreak of World War II the Kindertransport abruptly comes to an end, leaving many children still at Dovercourt Bay without a new permanent or foster home.
This was a heartbreaking story which concentrated on how normal people were affected by war, and how the innocent suffered but also how ‘ordinary’ people became hero’s and who in a time of violence and suffering really made a difference to other people’s lives. I found the story all the more powerful and poignant as it’s based on real people and events. The author obviously knows her history and this comes across in the narrative. Her descriptive writing really bought the settings and the era to life and I felt fully immersed and engaged in the story whilst I was reading it. The characters are remarkable and so realistic, relatable and likeable that I found myself thinking about them long after I had finished the book. Emotive and moving this was a page turner of a novel and one which I highly recommend.
Sweets and Santa by Rosie Pease
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Sweets and Santa: A Paranormal Cozy Mystery by Rosie Pease is the second book in the Matchmaking Baker series. This book can be read as a stand-alone and is a fun and spirited story. There is no way you can avoid falling in love with this book and the characters. They are such entertainment and I was drawn in to them instantly.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I have definitely found a new author to look into. She had such an easy writing style that you are pulled into the book without any effort at all. This was one of those books that I expected to enjoy but didn’t expect to read it all in one sitting like I did. This is a brilliant book with a great set of characters – I would highly recommend reading this book immediately!!
Aiko by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This novel is a fantasy romantic comedy with little bits of history and myth sprinkled through it. I found this to be a fun, lighthearted read and the unusual storyline had me hooked from beginning to the last page. The story centres around Cupid and his arrow which with the slightest prick is meant to bring love in to your life. It turns out that Cupid does not work alone but has six beings which help him guide us mortals to love. However, Aiko is not a great Cupid and has been in exile for forty years for causing ‘the worst tragedy in human history’. Aiko has been given a second chance to prove herself and help humanity. Her assignment is Alejandro Gomez who on paper is everything that a woman could dream of, but only in looks. Alejandro’s romantic abilities are non existent and he’s not too keen on having Aiko’s help to begin with either. Meanwhile Cupid and the other five beings are just hoping that Aiko does not cause the world to end. This book has some really touching and heartwarming moments and also parts that our laugh out loud funny. The storyline flows well and the descriptive narrative really bought both the setting and the characters to life. I loved the fact that alongside the mortals there were other mythical beings living and helping to guide them. Aiko is a very likeable character and I felt immersed in her world whilst reading this novel. I am pleased that it’s the first book in a new series and look forward to the next instalment.
Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Antipodes by T.S. Simons is a YA dystopian novel that is intriguing from start to finish. It is the kind of book that could appeal to anyone as it is a well written story with interesting characters. Although a dystopian novel it is the type of book that could easily be imagined as happening as it is based on values and concerns that are out in the world today.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I liked the style of writing they have. There is an attention to detail that you don’t always see in YA books which I think made it more accessible and engaging. It made me think more than I expected it would do which just kept my attention more easily. I do think this book would be suitable for a wide range of people and it is one I would certainly recommend.
Aiko by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5/5 Stars
Aiko (Heartstrings #1) by Brooke May
My first read by May and I loved every minute of it. Romance meets its maker Cupid and his helpers. Definitely a must read book and you won’t be disappointed.
Aiko is one of Cupid’s helpers and she is the cause of many great love stories that went bad. After not having an assignment for forty years she is finally going out for an assignment.
People watching is a favorite pastime of hers. When she’s assigned to the guy she just watched get his heart stomped on she’s in shock. The quote I chose for Aiko is: “Thanks for pointing that out. I figured with the lack of wooden boats and actual clothing, this was modern times.”
Highly recommended for Paranormal Romantic Comedy lovers.
Claim Me Now by Lea Nolan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
CLAIM ME NOW (Heron Harbor Book 2) by Lea Nolan. This is the 2nd book in the Heron Harbor Series and I love this series. Its the story of Raven Donovan and Jack Baines. Raven is such a hard working lady so when she loses her job she is devastated. She turns to alcohol to cope and goes to her family’s beach house. Jack is also a workaholic as well and is wore out so he asks a friend to stay at his beach house. Little do they know they both picked the same weekend. They are instantly attracted to each other and end up sleeping together. Raven has never been so attracted to someone that she is Jack. As the weekend progresses secrets are kept and that might be the reason they can never make a relationship stick. Jack is a totally different person during work than he is outside of work. This is such a fun read I didn’t want it to end.
Cemetery Tour: A Walk Through the Old Yard by Stuart Ledwith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is a bit different than my normal reading genres, but something drew me in to this story from the cover. This book has wonderful ghost stories from the people who are laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery (or Old Yard as called by some). The people who are buried in this cemetery came to America to live the American Dream. I loved each story because it brought a bit of comfort and some reality to each story. It has helped me to see things from a different point of view as well. I highly recommend this book as the stories are well worth reading.
The Last Playlist: A Sonic Epitaph by P.A. Kane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
One of my favorite sayings is “When words fail, music takes over”. This book takes us on a journey through the playlist of the author. That is one of the most amazing aspects of music. Music can speak to your soul in ways no words can touch it. P.A. Kane takes us through playlists to show how it can be humorous, sad, romantic, and frightening. Kane takes you through different essays and you can see how music has a special place in your life.
Moonlit Mirage – A Cook Islands Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Moonlit Mirage: A Cook Islands Romance (Moonlit Destination Series) by Amy McKinley. I love Amy McKinley so when I see her name I read it. This book was no exception. It’s a slight version of the Grey Ghost books and I love those. Its about Nadia Bennett and Cade Malone. Cade is in a horrible car accident and Nadia saves him but he doesn’t get to thank her. She has become something he can’t get out of his head. Nadia risked everything by saving Cade but it was so worth it. It was the risk of a lifetime and it was all worth it even if she loses everything because of it. Cade vows to find her again and he won’t let her go next time. Read Moonlit Mirage to find out what happens. I loved this book!
Moonlit Mirage – A Cook Islands Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Great love story. Nadia saves Cade when he is in a car accident, she was supposed to let him die but she can’t, she leaves straight after rescuing him and disappears knowing she has feelings for him. Cade always wondered what happened to the angel that saved him. Until years later when by chance they run into each other on an island they above go to for escape. Will Nadia’s secret be exposed and ruin what chance of love they have together? I loved the way this novella come together. This is the first book i have read by Amy McKinley, i thoroughly enjoyed it and will definitely being reading her others.
The Last Playlist: A Sonic Epitaph by P.A. Kane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Last Playlist: A Sonic Epitaph by P.A. Kane. This book is about music and music being the playlist of your life. Music gets us thru life, there is music that makes you happy, music that makes you sad, music that brings back memories and music that brings us all together. Its a collection of essays about event and times in P.A Kane’s life while music is at its core and the playlist of his life. This book made me realize that music at its core brings us all together whether we have political differences, monetary differences, or genetic differences. This book encourages us to make playlists for our lives about your thoughts, your emotions, your loves and losses. It teaches us that music is the ultimate healer if you accept it. This book will make you think, teach you things and help you learn to let music heal you.
Cemetery Tour: A Walk Through the Old Yard by Stuart Ledwith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
.Cemetery Tour: A Walk Through the Old Yard by Stuart Ledwith. This book is so unique and heartwarming. Its sad at times and creepy at times. Its about The Riverside Cemetery in Baldwinsville, New York and the stories of people laid to rest there. Its stories from the early 1800’s around the first time anyone was buried there. There are ghost stories, stories of regular people immigrating to New York and making a life for themselves and stories of people who had tragedies. The way the author writes you feel like you know all these people and you become emotionally attached to them. Each story is brought to life in a vivid and colorful way. From the sadness, creepiness to the happiness of the American dream this book is full of fun emotional stories! Read this neat book today!
Cuckoo Clock – New York: Esther’s Story by Elisabeth Marrion
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the 3rd book in the Unbroken Bonds Series. This is actually the first book I have read. What is good about the books is I didn’t need to read the first two books to be able to follow this story. Its a beautiful and sad story about world war 2 and how it affected so many lives. It is written in a way that beautifully describes what life was like in those times, the fear that people felt and also how peoples perspectives changed, some for good and some for worst.
When Esther and her father are forced to leave their home they run to Amsterdam to seek safety with their friends.
This isn’t the end of their story as their end is getting to England. After boarding the Kindertransport they come across lots of orphaned children on their way to England. Posing as their doctors Esther and her father join them.
When the Kindertransport gets stopped what will happen to the children who already abandoned and alone? And where will Esther and her father end up? And what is the link between a cuckoo clock found in a antique shop and the lady that buys it?
Becoming Human by Amy Michelle Carpenter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
It a very mystical story. Of a foxain going to earth. Everyone is different now and humans are different to these as well. I was blown away with how Amy had put all these different creatures together in one story. Kobab has super strength, speed and knowledge and is at a complete loss with his planet on a brink. Each teen from a different world. I love learning about these different worlds. Follwing 3 different characters each from different worlds is brilliant and invited idea. The story flows really well. A highly recommended read.
The Rest of Forever by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
April been having some Sexy dream about another man. April life is about to change forever. I loved the detail of Guardian and keepers. Damien and April are both very stubborn characters . Jared and April are in a relationship. Jared not as nice as he seems. I would highly recommend listening or reading this book their is so much going on you find yourself memoriesied. April is not an easy charge. Circumstances being along the book as you feel elements of real life included.
Sweets and Santa by Rosie Pease
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a lovely little holiday story of sweet romance. Full of magic creatures causing havoc. It has a very unique story line that cheers you up. It’s an amazing cozy mystery you can find yourself curled up wrapped in a warm blanket and this is the book you’d read.
Joanie at the bakery and is at the heart of the story.
Bake Believe by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Bake Believe by Cori Cooper is a YA romantic comedy that will have you laughing. It is a quirky little tale that isn’t just a story it also gives us recipes. The plot is interesting and unique and gives us a little baking magic and the usual raging teen angst. The story is humorous and engaging and fun. With the boy of her dreams and a gift she never knew existed her world is about to be turned upside down. Cori has hit the spot with this culinary delight and the YA’s are going to enjoy each and every step of the way on this adventure.
Reviewed by @jennadb
