Raven Woman’s Tavern by Laura Koerber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was not one I would normally choose. This was an interesting and entertaining story. The characters were amazingly developed. Koerber made this fantasy with a dark edge very enjoyable. I highly recommend it.
Drew by Amanda Shelley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Drew by Amanda Shelley is the first book in the Perfectly Independent series. This is a book that has such heartwarming and sweet characters at its centre that you cannot help but be pulled into them. They have such a strong connection, even if they are completely out of sorts with each other at the start of the story. They way their relationship progresses is so lovely to watch. It unfolds slowly as the discover a little more about the other.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I enjoyed her overall writing style. It was easy to engage with and kept you interested until the end of the book. This is a great start to a series and I am looking forward to book 2.
Something Lost by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Some Lost by Bernadette Marie is the first book in the Funerals and Weddings series. This is a great second chance romance that is all about the characters. I liked both Craig and Rachel. It really felt like they were the focus of the story, that everything built around them. I did think that at times the story needed a little more detail to it. The author could have really added an even deeper level to it. However I did think the story was enjoyable and the overall idea came across well. Another thoroughly story by a great author.
Family Secrets by Shawn McGuire
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Jayne has been sent to Whispering Pines to take care of her grandparents house to get ready to sale as her grandmother passed 3 months ago. There are many secrets that lie in Whispering Pines that Jayne has no clue about. She is leaving behind what she feels is a life that she has ruined; turning in her partner, losing an informant, saying no to her boyfriends proposal and quitting her job as a detective at the Madison PD. Whispering Pines is not your typical town, it was established as a Wiccan community after her grandparents purchased the 2000 acres and her grandmother did not like being alone as her husband traveled. Upon arriving in town Jayne and Meeka her K9 partner find a dead young woman on the property and that the house itself has been vandalized. Jayne meets many people along the way to finding out what truly happened on her families property. What does this town and this incident hold for Jayne’s future? Can Jayne keep her detective skills to herself or will she step into something much bigger? This was an amazing start to this series and I can’t wait to see what else Whispering Pines has to offer.
Scarlet Princess by Robin D. Mahle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Princess Rowan, a fiery redheaded spitfire. Lord Theodore heir to the Clan Elk. Rowan and her cousin Davin are arrested while trying to smuggle Sochairan Vodka back to the Lochlann kingdom. A Summit has been called due to her crimes and she decides it is best for her to be the only on trial at the Summit. However all of the time spent with Lord Theo has them falling in love with eachother which could be her escape from death. However one of the other clans calls for a blood oath as a stake to Princess Rowan. Cannot wait for book 2 to see what happens after the Summit. Such an easy and captivating read. Had me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
A Natural Passion by Tammy Mannersly
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another lovely read from this author. I find her books so easy and enjoyable to read. I loved the setting for this story, it was so unique and the authors descriptive language really brought the story to life. I really liked the characters Dylan and Kyra both relatable and enjoyable to read about. There were some great twists and turns in the story too which I loved!
I would definitely recommend A Natural Passion and I am looking forward to reading more from this author again!
Deadly Words by Meghan O’Flynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
It seems like most books out there are described as “dark and twisted” or “unputdownable thrillers”. Well here is one that actually delivers! It grips you from the beginning and had twists I legitimately did not see coming. I enjoyed this novel alot more than some of the hyped up ones I’ve read recently.
Jake the Growling Dog Shares His Trail by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Jake the Growling Dog is one of my favourites, and this story has made it to a must have a read list for me with my students. This story is fun, moves a nice pace, keeps the kids engaged and delivers a wonderful message. It makes the reader feel safe, and good about themselves, as we all should.
Thank you yet again for such a fun, comforting, and teaching tool.
I definitely recommend this to anyone who either has children or works with them.
Spooked by a Suspicion by Risa Nyman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
As a School Librarian I am always looking for good books for the middle and upper grades, and I am so glad I had the opportunity to read this book. I have not read book one as of yet, but it is now at the top of my list to do so. I will say that I do not feel that I need to read book one to understand book tw0, I want to read book one.
Rocky Casson is the main character, and I found it easy to connect with him. Rocky is a teenager trying to figure out life, and has some weird things happening to him. One of the changes is having someone new enter his life/family. I experienced this myself as a teenager and have to say what Rocky felt was spot on.
I really liked that this book kept me engaged. I wanted to read more, turn the page and find out what next. I really enjoyed the mystery and trying to figure out the answer.
Our minds are powerful and creative tools, and especially when we are teenagers. I look forward to introducing this book to my students. This is very well written.
Scarlet Princess by Robin D. Mahle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was absolutely amazing. I devoured it in about two days and happily neglected my responsibilities to do so!
The characters- they are just wonderful and animated. I adore Rowan’s hilarious witty remarks and Theo’s exasperation at her antics. I had a few good laughs and still chuckle at the thought of “weather toe”.
I’m fully invested in this series and am prepared to further neglect adult responsibilities to see what happens next. November 2021 can’t come soon enough for book 2 to come out!
My Soul to Give by Magali A. Fréchette
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Anyone who knows me knows I’m a total sucker for a dark romance. This one absolutely did not disappoint. This book is definitely dark, and for more mature readers. From beginning to end, there’s absolutely no way you could guess what’s coming. I binge read this book in under 10 hours and at no point was I ever bored. Kai and Celina are amazing characters and it was crazy how quickly I became obsessed with both of them. The character development alone was enough to have me in love with the book, and then the romance? Was steamy, with the perfect amount of sweetness. Not even going to lie here. There is a good chance I will be re-reading this shortly. Thank you so much to M.A. for writing this book – I can’t wait to read more!
Something Lost by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Something Lost
Funerals and Weddings Series
Book 1
By Bernadette Marie
☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆
This is a full length novel loaded with a forbidding romance. Just the contemporary romance we all need. No spoilers will be found in this review.
Rachel Diaz is the coach’s daughter and the forbidden fruit. Craig Turner and his basketball mates knew this all too well. Returning home for Coach Diaz’s funeral, old memories between the Fabulous Five help the men to get caught up on each other’s lives. But for Rachel and Craig it could be so much more than a goodbye to the coach. Can Rachel and Craig become so much more than friends? Only reading this story will bring this book to life.
Bernadette Marie has written this book so clearly I felt like she Introduced the characters to me and the readers. I felt as part of this story starting in chapter one. Reading as the romance built from the loss of a parent and old friends was heartwarming. Bernadette Marie kept this story going, with the emotional events as they happened. As I watched this story come to life in my mind’s eye. She won’t disappoint her readers. Well Done Bernadette Marie! Well Done! ! !
Review@Cinful
Stormwood by Luna Mayfield
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3 Stars
Stormwood by Luna Mayfield is a moody paranormal romance that delivers quite a creepy vibe.
The story starts with Luci inheriting an old manor from her deceased aunt. The manor has been in the family for generation, and Luci feels drawn to the estate. She and her fiancé get to the estate- where this story really gets tense. There seems to be an entity in the house that begins to drive the couple apart, all the while luring Luci further into his web. There is much more going on her than Luci could have ever expected when she first learned about her inheritance. What happens? You’ll need to read the outcome for yourself…
A quick, easy, short story.
Thank you, Luna Mayfield!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
No Way Out by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
No Way Out (Mafia Elite, book 1) by Amy McKinley
5 out of 5 Stars
Hot Damn!!! Amy McKinley nails it! From the hot Mafia men to the strong, powerful Mafia women to the suspense and twists to the heat. There isn’t one thing to love about this story and all of its characters.
This saga starts off with the story of Liliana and Max. Liliana is trapped by her cold, abusive father. He thinks that her only benefit to him is what he can get at the bargaining table for her. Max was abandoned by his father. Raised by his maternal family as a secret, Max has gained power and rank in the Sicilian families. Unbeknownst to Liliana, Max has been sent by her maternal grandfather to rescue her from the clutches of the man that raised her. Things get complicated when Max falls for Liliana.
Amy McKinley spins this Mafia tale of secret family members, deceit, lies and honor with class and a magic touch. I want best friends like Sofia and Em, strong, intelligent, badass and armed!! Can’t wait for Sofia and Enzo’s story. Cuz just like the Mafia with this saga, once you are in, you are in for life. I have taken my oath.
Something Lost by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 Stars
Something Lost is the first book in the Funerals and Weddings series by Bernadette Marie. It is the start of a new series, which looks set to be great. This is a contemporary romance about never forgetting your first love and second chances.
Craig and Rachel were high school sweethearts- he was one of her father’s star players, and she was the coach’s daughter. Circumstances tore them apart- only to come face to face again for the first time at her father’s funeral. Old feelings bubble to the surface and the spark of romance is rekindled. But, there are secrets that will need to be addressed and the past dealt with, if they stand any chance of a future together. A sweet start to this new series.
Looking forward to more.
Thank you, Bernadette Marie.
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Scarlet Princess by Robin D. Mahle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Stars, this book is truly enthralling.
Scarlett is the lovable and incorrigible princess of Lochlann who finds herself in enemy territory, facing potential death. When she befriends Lord Theodore, she must call into question everything she believes is true. Are the Socairans really so different?
Scarlett Princess is a highly enjoyable read that I found myself unable to put down. I read it in one day, and once finished, found myself immediately searching for book two in the installment.
This novel has something for everyone, with battle scenes, a strong female lead, slow-burn romance, world-building, witty humor, and delightful characters.
Highly recommended!
Reviewed by @hautemessreads
Forever Valentine by Diana Vale
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I didn’t realize this was a series book, so I didn’t read any of the previous books in this series before picking this one up. Not sure if that would have helped with being pulled into the characters’ stories or not, but I had a difficult time really connecting with Cassie and Diego.
It seemed realistic enough that the couple would encounter different thoughts and struggles because of the age gap between them, and they did seem to have feelings for each other, which the author did a good job conveying. I feel like my struggle with reading it, however, is that there was this whole “age-gap-doesn’t-mean-anything” while basically spending the whole time pointing out the struggles with an age gap relationship.
This is a very short book, though, so perhaps I’m not giving it enough credit when read as a whole series; as a standalone, it wasn’t really my thing.
Family Secrets by Shawn McGuire
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
“Family Secrets (Whispering Pines Mystery #1)” written by Shawn McGuire, was a book I couldn’t put down! Set in a small town in Wisconsin, former detective Jayne travels to her late grandparent’s lake house to settle their affairs. As she arrives, her police-trained dog finds a dead body in the yard. Her training has taught her how to handle the situation, and she gives report to the sheriff. Jayne is surprised that the local police do not seem to be worried about the death, and their suspicious behavior leads her to begin investigating on her own. As she investigates the potential murder, she begins to uncover many secrets about her own family, as well as secrets in the village of Whispering Pines.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the characters, and the small town setting! I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
Drew by Amanda Shelley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this college romance. The characters were really well written and the author does a great job of showing you all the fun and stress that comes with college life.
Drew is a popular guy. He is star on the basketball team and from first impressions is your typical jock.
Abby is the complete opposite. From first impressions she is a nerd. However both first impressions are completely wrong.
When they are teamed up as lab partners Drew thinks she is just the girl he needs to help him pass the course and continue his dream of being a doctor. Abby thinks this is a bad idea. Why should she need to carry a jock.
As time progresses they learn more about each other and their hopes and goals. Their connection becomes strong and Drew starts to realise that Abby could become more of a distraction then he originally thought.
Can they build something special together? When they see through the others front to see the real person inside can they help each other achieve their goals and dreams?
Something Lost by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a beautiful story about a second chance love. The characters are really easy to like and you can’t help wanting their love to succeed. The author does an amazing job of making the reader experience all the emotions that they go through.
Craig and Rachel’s story restarts after they meet at her father’s funeral. Even after all the years that have past their connection is strong. However neither knew what to expect. Would it just be a catch up with old friends or would something be rekindled between them.
They have both grown up since the last time they were together. Rachel has some secrets and scars in her past that could make or break them. Will Craig be strong enough and the man she needs to support her as she faces her demons or will their second chance be over as quickly as it starts?
Stormwood by Luna Mayfield
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Stormwood is a short paranormal novel that tells the story of Luci. When she inherits her family’s estate, she is unsure what to do with it. But suddenly something-or someone-is calling to her from the estate. Traveling with her fiance, Luci is quickly swept up in the allure and mystery of the home. But things aren’t always what they seem. Can Beckett save her before it’s too late?
Stormwood was an edge of your seat paranormal story with steamy romance included. I was rooting for Beckett and Luci to get their relationship back together. The evil forces at work were mesmerizing and drew me in from the beginning. Very descriptive, great story telling! Definitely a must read! 5/5 stars!
Spooked by a Suspicion by Risa Nyman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Spooked by a Suspicion is the follow up novel to Swallowed by a Secret. We once again join Rocky as he continues to navigate his ever changing life. This story begins with his mother announcing she is getting married to Ted! Rocky sees Ted as evil–setting him up for failure, sabotaging him every chance he gets! He has to show him mom who Ted really is before it’s too late!
Risa Nyman has done it again! With this second novel involving Rocky, his relationship with Olive has grown, he has adjusted to his new school, and is even winning awards there. But Ted seems to throw a wrench into everything. Full of suspicion, mystery, suspense, and adventure, this book is just as good as the first of the series! Rocky faces challenges that any teen could face, and his feelings are portrayed in a realistic and relatable way. Great writing! 5/5 Stars!
Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman introduces us to Rocky, a spunky 12 year old who recently lost his father. With the passing of his father, Rocky’s mother moves him to a new town to live with his grandpa. While trying to adjust to his new home, new school, and life without his father, Rocky overhears a shocking secret. Rocky’s dad didn’t really die because “his heart stopped.” This sends Rocky on an investigation to discover the truth about his father’s death and why he isn’t allowed to return to his hometown.
Swallowed by a Secret is a fantastic novel that deals with a very heavy subject. I believe it could be helpful to millions of teens around the world to read about Rocky’s adventure and what he discovers. Accepting things about those we love can be hard, but in the end, Rocky knows his father loved him and that he was great person. Full of teen angst over normal things like a new school, all the way up to adjusting to life without his father, Rocky is a wonderfully developed character. His friendship with Olive is fun, and shows what a true friend should be. I loved this story! 5/5 Stars!
Forever Valentine by Diana Vale
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the sixth book in a series of student-teacher contemporary romance series, it is also the sequel to Professor Valentine which was book 1.
In book one we are introduced to Diego and Cassie and their love story that is so ver forbidden. In this novella we see the continuation of book one and how things have gone for both Diego and Cassie.
With Cassie being only 19 and Diego being in his 30s it is hard for those around them to accept their love and relationship. In this book we also learn a lot more about Diegos soon to be ex-wife Linda who is a cocaine addict.
The story flows well and keeps you interested, the added spicy scenes make it perfect for those who like steam and love mixed into one great book.
Forever Valentine by Diana Vale
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the sixth book in a series of student-teacher contemporary romance series, it is also the sequel to Professor Valentine which was book 1.
In book one we are introduced to Diego and Cassie and their love story that is so ver forbidden. In this novella we see the continuation of book one and how things have gone for both Diego and Cassie.
With Cassie being only 19 and Diego being in his 30s it is hard for those around them to accept their love and relationship. In this book we also learn a lot more about Diegos soon to be ex-wife Linda who is a cocaine addict.
The story flows well and keeps you interested, the added spicy scenes make it perfect for those who like steam and love mixed into one great book.
Fight for It by Amy L. Gale
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Fight For It is the first book by author Amy L. Gale that I have read and I can not wait to read more! I read this in one sitting, not wanting to put it down at all. Main characters, Ray and Alyssa, were well written and you could feel the chemistry between them. There was such a great flow to the book and it was such an easy read. I can not wait to read more in this series.
No Way Out by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
No Way Out is book one in the Mafia Elite series by Amy McKinley. Every time is like the first time of ever picking up a book when I read a story by this author. That first feeling of awe, wonder and total contentment as you have found the thing that makes you the most happiest in life. A beautifully written story. I have not felt that discovery of love for books since my first memory of reading. To recapture that rapturous feeling was unexpected but very welcome. Now to the story. There is nothing better than being kept on the knife’s edge with a good mafia romance. This author demonstrates acute imagination and gives the characters depth, immense strength and and more personality that a person may be able to cope with. I get lost in these amazing characters. Totally immersed in the journey. And blissfully content while lost in Max and Liliana.
No Way Out was anxiety riddled, dramatic, fast paced, dangerous, arousing and irresistible. Amy McKinley rose above even my wildest expectations and ruined me for other stories of this trope. I am totally owned by each characters and what they portray. A stunning beginning to a series I have no doubt will be unforgettable. 5 stars.
Drew by Amanda Shelley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Drew by Amanda Shelley is book one of the Perfectly Independent series.
Abby’s goal is to become a doctor. After her chemistry lab, she’s sure she’s doomed. Drew is not someone she ever expected to be in her lab. With his cockiness, she knows she needs to stay far away, that is until they end up as lab partners. Drew has one goal and basketball was his ticket to get there. Ned school is in his future but he can’t get distracted. Drew avoids distractions at all costs, especially during the basketball season. But then, he’s paired with Abby for lab and all of his plans may just crumble. Can he stick to the plans he laid out or will Abby derail everything?
I really enjoyed reading Drew and Abby’s story. It was so nice to see that Drew had big goals outside of basketball and he wanted to ensure nothing got in his way. Abby was just as driven. They both wanted to do to why was necessary to achieve their goal that they were a little blind at first to what was happening between them. The build up is half the fun! The book wasn’t at all what I was expecting and I definitely recommend this book!
Swindler’s Revenge by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Totally loved this book!
This is book 5 of the Karina Cardinal series and I totally fell in love with Karina and the team. The writing is spot on and the storyline just draws you in. Even though I had not read the other books, not once did I feel left out of the loop. There were glimpses into past events which now has me wanting to go back to the start and read the series as a whole. If you are looking for an awesome mystery series led by a FMC that will have you laughing out loud while taking you on an exciting ride, then this is the series for you.
~ ~ ~ ~ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
I’m a midwestern nurse practitioner and lawyer who writes in my spare time. Following a bout with a pesky brain tumor, I changed careers and, realizing how tenuous all our grips on life are, including my own, I decided to start writing. I had so many stories to tell! Who knew how long I would have to get them out? I have one Indie published novel to my credit, Drifting, Falling — Diary Of A Call Girl Suicide. My occupations have afforded me the opportunity to work with people with mental health disorders. Those experiences shape the themes that I explore in novel writing. We are all damaged, as one of my characters says, with a dead-on smack of truth I have two rescue dogs, one of whose name is Ruger, like the firearms manufacturer. Not a name I would have given him, but no sense changing his name at age three. However, he inspired me to name Cady’s dog Beretta, which fits in very well with the story line of Stand Your Ground, my next novel that just debuted in August.
