Master Tuscano: Dark Vampire Romance by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book two in this series just gets better. Im glad I started reading this series. Overall its a easy read that you can fall into. Great characters and great story. A must read series.
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Harriet Cannon is a new author to me. Her storytelling is a refreshing read. Her story plot keeps my attention from the first page until the last page. Her characters are realistic. This story is about Lizbeth. She is looking for some relief after her husband’s death at the family cottage. Then her aunt spoiled that for her with the story of her ancestors. Her stories had Lizbeth seeking across the continents and finding herself a job in Rio de Janeiro. Will she find the answers she is looking for? Can her past secrets be healed by her family’s path and healing? I highly recommend this book. It is an emotional read so make sure you have kleenex close by.
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I couldn’t tell you if it’s due to the fact that my family and I just lost one of our own just before Christmas, or if it’s because I needed a reflective novel to occupy my thoughts, but this author really did accomplish just that. I allowed myself to feel that despair, and with that, the loss that one feels not only from losing the person, but to have to try and figure out how you can move forward. Not everyone is the same, and Lizbeth really brings forward some of the emotions and inabilities I must let go of things that we (I) cannot change. The novel definitely takes a positive turn as our main characters dig deeper into their own family history, mixing some brilliant history into the mix for those of us that aren’t as educated in US History, or at least wasn’t the focal, that made the story even more intriguing.
The reason I rated this four stars rather than the five I do believe it could achieve, is that I do personally prefer to be reading from a first person narrative, and find the switching between characters to be a little sudden at times. However, the third person narrative, the world building and the sense of peace the reader gets from her writing style is spot on. I am thinking a reread will be in the cards once I have my own loss sorted out. Great debut novel, I do recommend a read!
Blindsided: A Contemporary Sports Romance by T. Christensen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Blindsided is the perfect name for this book because that is how it left me….completely blindsided. I wasn’t prepared for the roller coaster of emotions that overtook me. This book had me smiling and laughing one minute then angry and literally crying in the next. I was drained emotionally at the end but in the best possible way. The characters were on point. Kirsa is so loyal and strong, Rylan, sweet Rylan stole my heart completely, and Brock… well I have a love/hate relationship with him. I would 100% recommend this book. I hope there will be another book with these characters. I need more!! I finished this book in three hours time because I couldn’t put it down!
Descallia: Dark Vampire Romance by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I was skeptical at first glance, The cover got to me. After reading it though it was good. There are times I was like “meh” but it really was a good book overall. I’ll be reading the next book in the series. Glad I started reading it. If your looking for a series I recommend this one for sure.
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This genre, women’s historical fiction, isn’t new to me even though this author is. This author has a very easy writing style. I found this story very entertaining and rich in history. It was also informative with just enough history that I didn’t skip pages like I might have during my history class in high school.
Lizbeth is the main character and she is a curious busy body, in my opinion. Which helps while she is discovering all there is to learn about her ancestors. Her good intentions make her an easy character to love. Following Lizbeth on her adventure to discover the truth about her family is far from easy, as racism is never easy.
Take a chance on this book and you may just find a new author to one click as well.
Reviewed by @shannonlovesbooks
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
It takes tragedy striking for Lizbeth Gordon to seek out more information on her ancestors. She knew her family hailed from the Charleston area but didn’t really know much more than that. This is a story of how she went about tracking down information on her family with the added bonus of a fortuitous meeting of distant relatives when she takes a new job in Rio de Janeiro. Can she find information on all of them? Will her relatives be happy to help or wish she’d leave it all alone?
This was an enjoyable read! Having lived in South Carolina for 4 years, it was fun to know exactly where Lizbeth was driving to, visiting, and living. I enjoyed learning about the Gordon family, and the Civil War. The author did a wonderful job of including letters and then following it up with what was going on around the time it was written. The characters were all wonderful, relatable, and extremely brave. This is a great historical/contemporary read!
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Lizbeth Gordon suddenly becomes widowed and has to explain to her twin boys that she is in debt. Dependable, reliable, financially secured dead husband ends up that he had a gambling problem. Influenced by best friend and cousin who comes to visit and offer moral support. She decides to move back to her hometown to start anew. Now she is hooked onto her families drama.
Blindsided: A Contemporary Sports Romance by T. Christensen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Blindsided by T. Christensen
5-stars
This was an incredible enemy to lovers read, the bully romance genre is not my usual go too but I’m so glad I picked this book up!
This storyline had me captivated from the very beginning and didn’t let up until the very end. I was so consumed by these characters and all the emotions throughout. I found myself really connecting with Kirsa and feeling all of her emotions as I read, which certainly made for an entertaining read as she battles with the push and pull of her attraction to Brock and of course the betrayal, hurt, anger, attraction etc.
I’ve only read two books by this author but with each one I was blown away, I will be diving in and reading everything by this author asap! I just can’t get enough of her writing!!
If you are looking for an all-consuming love story look no further, this is the book for you!
Blindsided: A Contemporary Sports Romance by T. Christensen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Blindsided by T. Christensen. I have loved this series and even though they are directed to young adults I as a 52 year old woman enjoy them a lot. Its the story of Kirsa and Brock who have grown up together since they were toddlers. They have been best friends forever doing everything together. During elementary school they went from a twosome to a threesome when Victoria the new girl entered their friendship. Growing up Brock and Victoria became the popular kids while Kirsa was left behind. Kirsa is super shy and doesn’t like attention so Brock always was her protector until 11th grade. Something happened and Kirsa and Victoria were at odds and Brock took Victoria’s side. End of threesome back to twosome only without Kirsa. After the friendship fall out Kirsa endured tons of bullying and had a very hard time. When a new guy named Rylan starts school and tries to befriend Kirsa she is hesitant at first but finally gives in. When she’s with Rylan it reminds her of when she and Brock were friends before Victoria. Will they continue to be friend and maybe more or will Brock crush it?
Apocalypse Thoughts by Kendra Griffin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This reads so easily, after going through our very own pandemic. Kendra Griffin takes you on a whirlwind of different elements with Apocalypse Thoughts, with her characters and the world she builds for you. I think what I loved the MOST about this book is the main character. The not quite yet adult, Kella leads the serious story with lighthearted humor that had me laughing and relating all at once. She is a sassy no-nonsense type of girl that we can all relate to, or have known someone like her. The life of the party, even when there is no party. Her traveling party add into the fun/adventures that await them. This book has everything you would expect from an Apocalyptic time, with action and duress, complications and twists all around. This is like modern day Covid meets The Walking Dead, but not too scary (think more in terms of a teen read than a full on scary zombie book). I started this book yesterday afternoon, and writing up my finished review less than 24hrs later. I couldn’t put it down! I have not read the other books prior to this, so it can easily be read on its own, but I will be going back and adding the others to my must read list. Overall, this is a 5 out of 5-star book.
Reviewed By: @zoltrixes
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
As a budding genealogist, I must say this book was wonderful. I thrive on the retelling of family tales (good or bad), and never pass up an opportunity to tell or listen to one. History and great story-telling combine in this book to bring Lizbeth Gordon’s family to life as we navigate hard truths along with her. After her husband dies, she travels home and ends up researching her family’s past. Then, her work takes her to Rio de Janeiro and the people she meets along the way help her piece together the puzzle of her ancestors. I seriously devoured this book, and it has inspired me to continue on in the research of my own family’s past. Also, this book is rich in multicultural perspectives and lessons in diversity and is a great eye-opener. Highly recommend it!
Forbidden Moon by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a fabulous wrap up to the Shadow Chronicles. I’m really hoping the author keeps writing in this world outside of the Tasha and Levi story because there is a lot to offer through the characters of this series. At first, I was a little confused with the new additions narrated in the prologue, but after reaching the end…. I think it’s brilliant!
This book picks up where the last one left off so this book really isn’t a stand-alone; however, each book keeps you hooked and the spicy scenes are definitely rated on the higher level of the alphabet. Just like Kimber, I dream of having something so passionate one day.
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Exiled South is such a refreshing read and different from any book I’ve read. The lengths Lizbeth goes to to find out more about her family tree is truly astounding. The sudden death of her husband turns her world completely upside down but allows her the opportunity to research more into her past. Even her short-term trip to South America answers questions she’s had her entire life. The author does an amazing job painting the landscape of each scene in this novel, it’s as if I was standing next to Lizbeth watching her journey as she made it.
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a refreshing read.
It gave you the ok into the life of a widow and I related to her as a mother and wife trying to find peace.
I loved the focus of history that the novel takes.
Anything war wins my vote and this really becomes a story of finding your truth and peace.
It is light and enjoyable with facts thrown in any just the right times to keep you hooked.
I can not imagine the pain of a widower but I connected to the story and the main character.
This has a feeling of solace that you feel within the story of family and how your past can define you and shape you, or not.
This will definitely become a reread and I recommend this as a book club read.
Light but intense at the same time. So well crafted.
King of Pain by Donna S. Frelick
King of Pain (Interstellar Rescue Series Book 5) by Donna S. Frelick. This was a fun book to read, I’m not a huge Sci Fi fan but I really enjoyed this story. It was the 5th book in the series and I believe it really helps to read them in order. This is the story of Trevyn Dar who is part of the Interstellar Rescue System and when he meets Lael sparks fly. Unkown to him Lael is determined to set her people free from slavery and they don’t hit it off on their first meet. Lael is also wanting to avenge her fathers death. Lael thinks Trevyn is her enemy and wants nothing to do with him. Can Lael and Trevyn get past their past lives to make a relationship work? There are broken hearts, broken promises, adventure, challenges and steamy scenes throughout this book. Old characters are immersed in the story as well. Such a fun series and this was one of my favorites. Do yourself a favor and read The Interstellar Rescue Series!
Unlikely in Love by Ashlie Knapp
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first book in the Parker Lake Series, but it can be read as a standalone. I loved this book! It’s a beautiful story about two slightly broken people helping each other heal and falling in love. Annie who just lost her Grandmother (the person who raised her) and Wyatt who recently returned home from three tours overseas and is having trouble adjusting. Can Wyatt and Annie move past their issues and be together? Read this book and find out!
Unlikely to Stay by Ashlie Knapp
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the third book in the Parker Lake series, although it can be read as a standalone. This is CC and Brant’s story. Brant is working in Parker Lake at the clinic for three years to get his student loans paid off. CC thinks Brant is out of her league, after she finds out he’s not, she thinks he’ll leave when his time at the clinic is up. Brant has to choose between staying in Parker Lake or going back to the city to be closer to his mom, who recently had a health scare. These books keep getting better and better as the series go on. I love catching up on the characters from the other books and learning more about them. I can’t wait for Karen’s story!
Swipe Right to Bite by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
There are two demons in New Orleans. One runs a dating app for the supernatural. The other is giving lectures on how to be intimate without the sex. When they start to undermine each other’s business, one goes to the devil for a deal. Things go haywire from there.
Opinion
This is the sixth book in the series but only the first one I have read. I enjoyed it so much, I plan on going back and reading the first five. I had no problems while reading this as a stand alone. I presume that some of the couples in the book are from previous books.
The book itself was a fabulous, laugh a minute ride. Every chapter was jam packed with hilarious happenings. The conversations between the two demons were full of animosity that would make you chuckle. I truly enjoyed this book.
Tally and the Angel Book Two, Canada by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Tally and the Angel is an enchanting children’s fantasy series, and this is the second book which is set primarily in the Yukon. It is appropriate for confident readers in KS2, and KS3. It’s also an enjoyable read for adults, and would be a fun story to read out loud! There is some violence and suspense – as the summary suggests, Tally’s dad is in danger for part of the book. So parents of more sensitive or younger children might want to read the book first and prepare discussions. But Tally is a brave heroine and there are caring characters around her who help her to face her challenges!
I loved the setting of this book. I’ve been to the Yukon, so it brought back loads of happy memories! There are dog sleds and snow and tales of the Gold Rush and lots and lots of warm layers! Tally and her dad are both up for an adventure and so get to explore some stunning scenery.
This book has plenty of mystery and intrigue, to keep readers engaged. We learn more about Jophiel the angel, and encounter more ancient magic.
This book gets five stars from me. I’d recommend it to young readers who enjoy exploring new places in books, and stories with magic and angels.
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a different kind of story for me. I’m not big in historical novels. This book takes you back through a families history and genealogy. After the loss of her husband Liz goes back to SC where her family is from. She is then sucked into the history and decreases of her family. The book talks about the south and slavery. Beware that there is a rape scene in the book. I could see this book being part of a book club as it can spark lots of talking points.
ConQuest: The Art of Selling At Cons by Megan Mackie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is fantastic for anyone looking to break into selling at con’s. It is a how to guide to get you through and help you make the most of it. I really enjoyed the fact that this is all clearly based off of the authors own experiences. It made the book more relatable and therefore more useful.
I also loved the fact that the author is showing that it doesn’t all have to be about “you” when it comes to selling. You can share your thoughts and experiences to help others. This is an easy to follow and helpful book that us definitely useful for anyone looking to sell this way.
Tally and the Angel Book Two, Canada by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
If you are looking for a great young adult or children’s book to read this is the story for you. This is the second book in this amazing series. This book started off where the first book ended. I was so excited to see where the next adventure would be and Canada was the perfect place to go. I learned a lot about the culture of Canada that I didn’t know in the beginning. My son read it with me and he can’t wait to see where Tally and her Angel goes next.
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I found this to be an interesting story. As a lover of history, and the American Civil War, especially, discussion of Confederates who escaped after the war are very rarely discussed. Situations involving mixed-race offspring are not often discussed, either, but this story brings both situations into focus and exploration. The main struggle I had was just that the story was written fully in present tense, including sections that take place in the past. The majority of what I read is written in past tense so it’s just an adjustment on my part. But I do like how this story gave me a different view of the war that I didn’t know existed.
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is good. I like learning about history, so that’s what drew me to this book. Lizabeth has a hard time trying to figure out why her husband lied to her and moves back home. Then she takes a job at an international school to live out her dreams. The job she takes is at a school in Brazil. There she learns so much about culture and ancestors. I love strong female leads.
Apocalypse Thoughts by Kendra Griffin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was such a great book! I couldn’t put it down. Kella and Huck were so relatable. I felt like we were lifelong friends. I loved all the sarcasm throughout the book, a few times I laughed out loud. I really enjoyed all the details that made me feel like I was there with them and seeing everything. The underlying message of you are stronger than you believe is something important for everyone to learn and understand. I definitely recommend this book! You won’t be disappointed!
ConQuest: The Art of Selling At Cons by Megan Mackie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 stars!
The information in this book is great. The amount of tips and tricks is amazing, and what I think would be really helpful if I were to sell at a con. It is nice to see authors helping other authors get off their feet. I didn’t know there were different types of “cons”, I just assumed comic con was the only one. The information in this book is also nice for me as a reader to know, being respectful to the authors is a given, but knowing the amount of work that goes into set up, and getting everything together really makes me want to start watching out for any troublesome con goers and to show the respect and love the authors that they deserve. I also feel like this book shows me how most authors should be, in how friendly and engaging and polite they are to perspective fans and buyers, I don’t want to purchase or support and author that has no interest in giving me the time of day, even just a polite smile. I would highly recommend this book to any new book seller looking to start out at cons, I believe all the tools in this book will set you up for success.
Apocalypse Thoughts by Kendra Griffin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
WOW!! This book captured my attention from the moment that I started reading it until the moment that I finished it. I could not put it down, I had to know what was happening! My favorite part of this book was getting to know the characters throughout their journey from the first moment that we met them, from the final page. If you enjoy reading books that depict what people go through when there is an apocalypse, then this is the book for you!! I cannot wait to read more books written by this author!
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a truly intriguing book that caught my attention with the conversation between Liz and Dan. It built from there. The story was well-written. The topic was interesting and well-researched. The characters felt like they could have been pulled right out of the community, very relatable. Intense, intriguing and a very goood read. I enjoyed this book.
Unlikely to Stay by Ashlie Knapp
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Brilliant as always
This is the third book in the series but can be read as a stand-alone. This is Brant and CC’s story and what a story it was! I am in love with Parker and I want to move there. Seriously, the author has created a place that is truly amazing. The characters are all unique and quirky and just down-right loveable. Brant and CC’s story is full of all the feels and I loved catching up with Brekin and Annie and all the crew. I didn’t want the book to end. Thankfully there is a book 4 and I can’t wait.
