Out of Time: Westbeach Series 4 by Toni Denise
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Out of Time by Toni Denise was an awesome book! So well written with excellent flow. It was such a well rounded story! I truly could not put this book down and was well worth the read! Great job!!!
Manifested Dreams by Yvonne Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Manifested Dreams by Yvonne Johnson was a short but impactful read. In 46 short pages I felt sorrow, joy, fear, happiness and so much more. Dr. Johnson shared journal entries from her family that began in the 1860s. In their stories, I was amazed by how much wasn’t taught in school and ended up finding myself looking up significant events that occurred. I hope to see more from her as I couldn’t put Manifested Dreams down.
Sex on Fire: A Quickie Read by Ashley Bostock
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Sex on Fire: A Quickie Read (Naughty Neighbor Book 1) by Ashley Bostock is exactly that a quick read but Oh boy is it a fun read with adorable characters!
Poppy is super sweet and super quiet while her Gorgeous neighbour Tucker is strong, confident and the focus of just about every female in the street. The thing Poppy doesn’t realise is that Tucker only has eyes for her and he has decided that he has played the friendly neighbour for long enough. He wants more and he wants it now.
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The Monster That Ate My Mommy by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Monster That Ate My Mommy is a superbly written memoir by Jessica Aiken-Hall describing years of horrific abuse at the hands of those that were supposed to love her. In her memoir Jessica speaks very openly and honestly about the abuse she suffered at the hands of many throughout her life. Her abuse started at an early age by a mother who was incapable of loving Jessica. The abuse she suffered at home left her feeling unwanted and as though there was something wrong with her that she was unworthy of being loved. If her own mother could not love her, then nobody else could either.
The Monster that Ate My mommy resonated deeply with me as I, too, am a survivor of domestic abuse. I understand all too well the feelings of being unloved, unwanted, and undeserving of love. I also appreciate how difficult it is to tell one’s story for fear of rejection or worse, not being believed. I know that it must have taken a great deal of courage and strength for Jessica to share such a heart-wrenching story. As common as domestic abuse is, many women are not brave enough to share their story, while others tragically do not survive. I know that many people may not understand why someone would stay and continue to be abused by their spouse or partner and they feel that it is as simple as just walking away. Unfortunately, it is not as simple as just choosing to leave.
Domestic abuse is complex in that it is not as easy as just walking away from your abuser. You choose to stay for a multitude of reasons. You love them. You believe their promises. You hope that they change. You feel unworthy of love. You feel scared, isolated, and alone. You feel vulnerable. Years of mental abuse leaves you feeling as though the abuse is your fault and that you deserve it. I could go on and on with the numerous reasons one might stay with their abuser. Sadly, the reasons for staying are complex and not easily understood unless you have experienced something similar.
Jessica is a true survivor in every sense of the word. Even at her darkest moment she kept going and persevered. Thank you, Jessica Aiken-Hall, for your courage, your strength and for sharing your story. You are a true inspiration! I highly recommend this book! Please be advised that some scenes may be hard to read and may bring you to tears, so I recommend you have Kleenex on hand.
View all my reviews @Tara Johnson Barnes
Confessions of a Sophomore Prankster by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I went into this blind as the cover and title caught my attention enough.
This Wasnt what i expected as I really expected Brandon to be a jerk and not care about anything and he proved me way wrong.
While a quick read i really enjoyed the story from beginning to end and would love to read other stories from the side characters.
The Myder Bird Tattoo by Julia Colbourn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Myder Bird Tattoo takes the reader to the realm of Arcadia, where things are unraveling fast after the assassination of the queen. When her daughters take over the throne of the female-led tribe, the youngest, Elfren, has no desire to rule. Instead, she tries to find a way to bridge the gap between her people and the other clans on Arcadia.
The Myder Bird Tattoo is the first fantasy novel I have read in a long time, and I am glad it was this one! The worlds created in this novel are incredible, and the characters seem to come to life. Filled with a little bit of everything–drama, political unrest, action, adventure, mystery, and more, The Myder Bird Tattoo has something for everyone. I am excited to continue reading the series! 4/5 stars!
Snowflakes and Holly: A Small Town Christmas Romance by Jae Dawson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What happens when your world comes crashing to a halt when a Olympic snowboarder is that distraction.
Holly has always worked hard at her job some people may call her a workaholic, but when she has time to relax she gets a fright of her life when in crashers a pain in bum.
Blake was an Olympic Snowboarder but when a bone disease takes that life away from him, he becomes more determined to find an adventure while he still can. When he literally runs into Holly can the chemistry they feel be the final adventure or will they end up hating each other.
I loved this story from the first word to the last, the chemistry between these two characters just comes off the page and loved also the love/hate relationship was brilliant build within the story. The story was well written and created a great world around the main characters. This is not the first book I have read by this wonderful author and this will not be the last.
Reviewed by Angela Shirley
The Murders of Lillian Ross by Sirena Van Schaik
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Lillian Ross has been silent for years regarding the horrific crimes she was convicted of committing. But she is finally ready to tell her story–but only to true crime writer, Allison McKinnon. Allison is used to writing about the victims–the aftermath, their families, and how they survive. She is drawn to Lilian’s story, however, and agrees to be her voice.
SPECTACULAR! The Murders of Lillian Ross reads like a true crime novel–including excerpts from police interviews, the trial, and interrogations. The story draws the reader in from page 1 and doesn’t let go! The emotions the story elicits, the trials that both Lillian and Allision confront from their past, and the magnificent writing style combine to make a 5 star read. Highly recommend!!!
The Murders of Lillian Ross by Sirena Van Schaik
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was written so powerfully. It is NOT for the faint of heart. It touches a lot of “taboo” subjects like abuse, rape, prostitution, as well as suicidal thoughts in graphic detail. You can tell that Sirena Van Schaik is writing from the heart and from experience, making this novel even more heartbreakingly wonderful. Once started, I couldn’t put it down. As a survivor myself, I really felt connected to the main character, Allison. Sirena Van Schaik described everything perfectly.
It takes a different direction than most books which makes it very unique on it’s own. It circles around the life, both past and present, of a true crime author named Allison. Allison is writing her next book about Lillian Ross, Lillian is in prison for the murder of two men.
Once Allison meets with Lillian at the prison, she realizes that they both have a lot in common. This makes Allison’s past come up to haunt her. When Lillian was first convicted for the murders, she didn’t even try to fight the sentences. Years later, she gets in contact with Allison finally ready to talk about why she took the life of two men. It is a heartbreaking tale of a bad childhood, which led into a bad, if not worse adult hood, until she just broke.
Sirena Van Schaik was very good of getting into the mind of the murderer and why she did what she did. The author also had a very good balance of switching from past and present of both main characters as well as throwing in some scenes of the court case, evidence, etc. I would recommend this book who is looking for something real.
A Cold Day in Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A Cold day in Hell is the fifth book in the Life is Hell series by Naomi Valkyrie. The book focuses on two different point of views; Hadassah who is an angel sent to earth without powers, and on probation as a punishment. At first, she is very dislikable. She’s selfish, bratty and entitled. As the book progresses though so does her character, for the better with the help of the second main character, Jezebel.
Jezebel, a shifter, has been through hell and back. A necromancer by the name of Devland is after her. She thought she was safe living with a safehaven among other paranormal creatures. Until one day when she thinks she isn’t safe anymore. Deciding to run, bringing Hadassah along for the ride
I should disclose that I judged a book by its cover, but was not disappointed! When I saw the cover I didn’t realize this was the 5th book in the series. Even without reading the other books in the series, this book was great! It had all kinds of aspects that hold interest to me. Mystery, romance, drama, paranormal, magic, angels, demons, and even necromancy. It was all in all easy to understand, so I wasn’t confused as to what was going on around me.
Another big plus for me is that the book was LGBTQ friendly! There is a lot of same sex relationships going on in the background. Plus the two main characters, Hadassah and Jezebel have a will they won’t they vibe to their relationship.
I am definitely going to pick up the rest of the series!
The Myder Bird Tattoo by Julia Colbourn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A dark fantasy isn’t what I typically read but I’m SO glad I downloaded this! It’s hard to put into words how this book made me feel. The author has a way of creating a world so real I feel as if I am immersed. The depictions and descriptions made this a read I couldn’t get away from, even when I wasn’t actively reading I was imagining this world. I loved it and I’m glad I decided to read this new (to me) author! I will happily read more from them. <3
Avenging Devil Part 1: Satan’s Devils MC San Diego by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Avenging Devil Part 1 is the third in the Satan’s Devil MC San Diego series and WOW! This book is emotional and hits on some very sensitive subjects but that in no way deflects from the story. Saffie and Niran seem to have everything stacked against them. She is scared of MC’s and rightfully so. He cannot get his head around why it is so important for him to make sure Saffie is safe. Heads up: this book has a heck of a cliff hanger! I cannot read the next book fast enough!
Bad Man on Campus by Stephanie Queen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
When Ben saw Jazzy he had an instant attraction but with her crass and stroppy attitude, can he try and break the outer shell of her heart and help her recover.
Ben is an all round good guy and being a jock and hot is always in the limelight, but when he sees Jazzy he instantly has an attraction that won’t go away, the only problem is that she is a bitter, twist girl but can he try and uncover why she is so broken and try to heal her.
Jazzy has a past which she would rather forget but this has imprinted on her attitude and would rather push the boundaries rather than keep within them, but when she meets Ben he is the only person who has tried to help her but can she let him in or be allowed to love again.
I loved the story and the characters which are developed within this book. The story is hard hitting and delves into subjects which are not comfortable to read, but Stephanie writes with such passion and delicate that you at times feel sorry for Jazzy but with her attitude you could hit her aswell.
The character of Ben is lovely and although these two characters are different but still complement each other brilliantly. I can wait to read the next book in this series.
Reviewed by Angela Shirley
Lines by Leon: Poems, Prose, and Pictures by Leon Stevens
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a compilation of poetry, a couple of short stories and some illustrations throughout which combine to make a thought provoking and interesting read, it deals with a lot of subjects in the current climate, as well as ways of looking at both the light and dark sides of life, this includes personality aspects, the environment, inanimate objects, places throughout the world, from big cities to small businesses and some light-hearted sketches deposited throughout to keep the separation, as well as tying it all together. It is a collection which varies in style and is written in a manner which leaves you in a state of anticipation, wanting to know what the next item will be.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
Snowflakes and Holly: A Small Town Christmas Romance by Jae Dawson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Snowflakes and Holly is a sweet holiday story that will make your heart melt. The plotline is sweet and innocent. There is something magical about the holidays that make your heart melt. The characters are opposites and if saying opposites attract is an understatement. This is Holly and Blake’s story. Holly plays everything safe without taking risks. Blake is a daredevil and lives on the edge. Holly is a physical therapist and Blake is an Olympic snowboarder. Blake had a disease that took his left leg and he has lost his career. Holly does everything she is supposed to do within normal limits. She takes no chances. That is until she met Blake. Will Blake take one more chance with Holly? Will Holly be brave and take a chance with Blake? I highly recommend this heartfelt story.
Death of a Coupon Queen by Jenna Harte
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Sophie Parker is back, she is happily living with her Aunt, even if she is a bit gruff and likes things done her own way, she is working her two part time jobs and still going to her couponing club every week, other than that, she is getting to know her boyfriend between his trips away from town with his airplane repossessions. Just as she thinks that her life is moving forward and getting into a place where it could even improve, she goes to see one of the coupon queens in the group for some extra help and guidance when she turns up and the house is too quiet. As she goes round to the back door and tries to find the woman who lives there, she sees something in the house, so worried as she is when she doesn’t get an answer, she manages to get inside and proceeds to call 911 to report what she has found. When the local police turn up to interview her, she isn’t surprised to see a familiar face, just as they aren’t surprised it is her who has made the call.
As she explains what she found, which was her friend with her coupon shears poking out of her neck in a pool of blood, the police ask her if anything is missing from the house, after that has been dealt with, she is allowed to return home where she can hand her clothes over to the deputy who will escort her. All Sophie can thing about was the gruesome scene and what her aunt and boyfriend will say when she tells them what has happened, she doesn’t have to wait long to find out. As the case progresses, Sophie tries to maintain her normal life, however, in a small town, nothing stays quiet for long and trouble again, just seems to find her.
Will the police be able to find out who has killed the coupon queen and why, or will Sophie be drawn into trying to solve the mystery herself like last time? This is a small town mystery with more questions than answers throughout, there is intrigue, danger and a little romance along the way which will keep you hooked until you too find out the solution to the who, what, where and why.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
Death of a Coupon Queen by Jenna Harte
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a really fun story. I was gripped from the beginning until the end. I couldn’t put it down as I wanted to know who was responsible for the murder. There are so many twists and turns and suspects that when you think you have it figured out the author throws another curve ball and it all changes.
Sophie always seems to find herself in trouble. In the last book she was a suspect in a murder and in this book she returns as a witness to a murder.
When Sophie finds her friend Marla murdered in her home the hunt is on for the killer. However things aren’t straight forward and trouble comes knocking on Sophie door again. As Sophie plays detective to find out the truth she puts her own life in danger as she gets too close to the truth.
Can Sophie find out who the killer is before she becomes the next victim? Is the killer someone who is known to Sophie and to Marla? How do all the characters mix and fit together? And can Sophie stay out of trouble long enough to rebuild her life?
The Heart of Baker Bay by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oh my gosh this book needs to be a movie or even better a series. This book just evokes that wide range of emotions that you want to feel as you read those small town summer romances. I was instantly swept away with Jody’s story and her complete transformation in The Heart of Baker’s Bay. This is one of those books that will take you to the beach and make you fall in love all over again. I have always loved Danielle Jacks novels but this one has quickly become one of my absolute favorites and I am so excited to own this baby on my bookshelf to devour over and over again in the future. You won’t want to miss this one if you love books with love, small towns, growth, a lot of push and pull, and moments that will make you completely swoon. I cannot wait to see what we will get next from the mind of Ms. Jacks!
Review by @lizaileen
View all my reviews
Dark Bastard by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Dark Bastard by India Kells is a novel in the Dark Sparrow series. This is a series that just keeps getting better with every new novel released.
I loved how Sam and Ellie were first introduced to each other. It was so unconventional but completely captivating.
I have read quite a few books by this author and I am never disappointed in her work. This book was fast paced and action packed. The author grabs your attention the moment you start reading and just does not let go. This is yet another fantastic addition to this series that I thoroughly enjoyed. I cannot wait for whatever is to come next.
The Myder Bird Tattoo by Julia Colbourn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I absolutely loved this book. Different realms really catch my interest. I can’t wait to read next book. The different races are fascinating. Definitely recommend 5 stars.
Check Out by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Check Out (The Bobbins Sisters Series Book 1) by Debra Parmley
4 out of 5 Stars
Betsy Bobbins is adorable from the word go. She is a petite, bespectacled, librarian who is on the shy side. She is the oldest of three sisters, and has taken on the parent mantle since their folks died. Betsy is dazzled by the brooding stranger that entered the library late on the night of a big storm. She is lucky that he was still in the parking lot when she tried to leave for home because she would have never made it on the flat tire she discovers.
Nash Ware, a Marine veteran, is recovering from his time in the service and his fiance walking out on him. When he enters the library his eye is drawn to the librarian at the checkout counter. Yet, he growls at her for no reason. Nash finds his protective instincts coming out when he is around Betsy. These instincts only get stronger when Betsy’s youngest sister comes to town, bringing all her drama to Betsy’s door.
Debra Parmley writes tender military stories from the perspective of veteran’s wife. The gentle, yet informed, way Debra handles PTSD and fighting through the VA system shows her dedication to honoring those that have and are serving in the US military. Debra writes characters that are relatable and human. This was a sweet read with some intrigue!
Awakening the Gods by Kristin Gleeson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I enjoyed this story. This is a new author for me and I look forward to reading more from her in the future. This is a well written story that is full of magic, myths and an adventure that you won’t soon forget. The characters are connectable and give the story life on each page. I found this story to be fast paced and I had a hard time putting it down. This is an urban fantasy story that has a twist of romance added. Saoirse and Smithy have one thing in common and that is music. Both of their lives collide and set on a path that was meant to be. This turns into an adventure of awakening the gods and defending the land but it also could mean life or death. This is really a great adventure story that kept me turning pages. I enjoyed being pulled into the story from the beginning and what an adventure it was. I really enjoyed this story and I highly recommend it.
Review by @bjwagner
Sex on Fire: A Quickie Read by Ashley Bostock
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Sex on Fire (Naughty Neighbor Book 1) by Ashley Bostock
4 out of 5 Stars
Nothing like a hot, steamy lunchtime read! Ashley Bostock has captured that! This is one quickie you should not pass up!!
Poppy is an introvert to the core. Poppy has developed a crush on her neighbor, Turner, but he is not only a social butterfly, he seems to have a revolving front door. Turner hates all the attention from the women in the neighborhood. He has it bad for the one woman that is determined to be his friend, Poppy. When Turner finally convinces Poppy to emerge from her shell, it is a flaming disaster. Can he find a way to make Poppy see that he wants only her and doesn’t care about what happened?
This delightful, short read will have you returning to your desk, your family, your life in just a few minutes. Everyone deserves to have this break! I finally don’t feel guilty for reading at my desk. Keep these quickies coming!!
Bad Man on Campus by Stephanie Queen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Bad Man on Campus (Big Men on Campus Book 3) by Stephanie Queen
4 out of 5
Kace Jennings is headed to the NHL, is president at the BMOC house, and is on his way to graduating with a degree. It has been three years since he was home, but his father’s wedding brought him back to his hometown and the place his life changed forever. He knows he should go see her but he can’t bring himself to do it. When she shows up, will he have the courage to tell her how much he has missed her?
Glory Rose’s life stopped 3 years ago. The accident changed everything. She is back on track and is trying to move forward. Glory heard that Kace was going to be in town. Glory decides to take this opportunity to…she isn’t sure. Is she going to tell him off? Can she tell him that she misses him? She has to let him know that she will be on campus with him starting in the fall. Glory owes him that much.
Kace looks forward to having Glory on campus away with him, away from the judgments of everyone that knows what happened. When Glory makes a bad choice, Kace covers for her. Kace’s world starts shifting as he appears as the bad guy. Is this what Glory felt? How do they move forward? Can they do it together?
Stephanie Queen brings this story of redemption and second chances to life with every word. You feel Kace’s struggle with his emotions and choices. You forgive Glory for choices outside of her control. You hear the screams and the metal crunching during the last crash. Stephanie draws you into their world quickly and easily. The characters are relatable and real. Stephanie is definitely on my list for future reads!!
The Forsaken: Wraith by Martin Ferguson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
The Forsaken: Wraith is the first book in the Hidden Realms of Centuros series by Martin Ferguson. I was excited to see that not only had Mr. Ferguson released a new book, but it was also the start of a new series. I loved his previous series, so I was keen to see where this would take us. And I wasn’t disappointed!
This is a young adult fantasy with action, adventure, trained assassins, a guild of thieves, fantastic world building, and much more. Alena has been through a lot- losing her family and everything she ever knew, her life becomes one of secrets and intensive training under the Guild of Thieves and Assassins. She emerges much later as a fully trained slayer. And so her adventure begins. With hidden agendas, danger, secrets to hold, and monsters to face- she will have to embrace all her training and keep her wits about her in order to face the odds.
With this first book things are definitely shaping up to be a superb series! I absolutely love the cover on this book, and I am looking forward to seeing what book two has in store for us.
Thank you, Martin Ferguson!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
The Dream Catchers: PRESTORIA Series Book 1 by J.U. Menon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 Stars
The Dream Catchers (Prestoria) by J. U. Menon is an epic YA fantasy full of action, adventure, Indian/Asian myths and legends, magic, portals, high stakes, bravery, hidden agendas, challenges, the supernatural, friendship. Loyalty, and more.
Radhika Varna is chosen to be a dream catcher and set a massive challenge. In Prestoria she will need to use every ounce of her very active imagination and conjure the things she will need in order to battle the powerful creatures in the land of nightmares, and then make it to the portal before dawn, when it will close trapping her there forever. But there is more going on here than meets the eye. Will she figure it out and beat the clock and make it to the portal in time? What happens makes for a fun adventure.
Thank you, J.U Menon.
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Awakening the Gods by Kristin Gleeson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 Stars
Awakening the Gods is the first book in the Rise of the Celtic Gods series by Kristin Gleeson. This is a wonderful mix of urban fantasy, adventure, Celtic folklore, magic, music, adventure, and romance- all wrapped up in a high stakes quest against a powerful adversary, and where our characters find themselves taking a path forged by fate, risking it all and laying everything on the line in order to save the day.
I enjoyed this first book in the series and I will definitely keep an eye out for the next book.
Thank you, Kristin Gleeson!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Death of a Coupon Queen by Jenna Harte
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Death of a Coupon Queen is the second book in the Sophie Parker Mystery series by new-to-me author, Jenna Harte. I love a cozy mystery, so when I saw this pop up on my recommended book list, I one-clicked, no questions asked. What I found was a an intriguing, well written story, with endearing and somewhat quirky characters.
I realised as I started reading, that this is the second book in the series- and even though it can be read as a standalone, I was intrigued by several references in the story which had happened previously (Book #1)- so I will definitely be going back and reading the first book before snapping up Book when it releases.
So if you love a good cozy mystery, with clever touches, some drama, and action- then you will definitely want to grab yourself a copy of ‘Death of a Coupon Queen’.
Happy reading!
Thank you, Jenna Harte.
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Lake of Flowers by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
While I don’t typically read books of this genre, I’m thankful that I gave Lake of Flowers a chance. N.L. Holmes did an excellent job of bringing the book to life by providing realistic details of the characters, setting, and era in which this story line takes place. Lord Hani is a wonderful character. I was instantly engaged in the story due to the banter between Hani and his family. I enjoyed reading about his family, travels, and the mystery that he must uncover in this installment of the Lord Hani Mysteries.
Taking Flight by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Taking Flight (Code of Honor Book 2) by Brooke May
I wasn’t sure if I was going to love this book as much as the first but I did. At first I felt so bad for Jody, but as I got further in I started feeling less sorry for her and was hoping she would finally stand up for herself.
Holt seemed to be at a crossroads but I think his chance encounter with Jody was the beat thing that could have happened to him.
There were some moments that I wanted to cheer out loud while others I wanted to shake Jody and her horrible sister.
I can’t see which one of the crew falls next.
