Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is not my first read by this author nor will it be my last but I believe this is my new favorite . I felt the connection from the start and I really loved these characters. The writing style of this author no matter what the subject matter is, just has a way to make you feel and see the story like you are in it with them. Highly recommend
Journeys Through AllCreation by James Talisman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The third book continues the path of Matt, Julia, Thomas, and Dan. They get ready to find the savior of the world, and prepare for a battle that will change the fate of the world as they know it. All of the characters introduced in book one make more sense on how they tie together in the series. I liked this book, it wasn’t too bad. One of these days I think I might sit down and fully delve into it for a while to try and stick all of the pieces together in a re-read. I wonder what this author has in store for his readers as he continues to write.
Journeys Through Collection: Volume 1-3 by James Talisman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
If you are a fan of involved fantasy, amazing world building, and just a really really really good read, this author and this series is a must read and must own. The collection makes it so easy to have everything in one place. And this story is so involved you will want to read the whole series. It is just so beautifully crafted, extremely well written. If you are a fan of Goodkind and Pratchett, Talisman is your next favorite. Buy it now.
Reviewed by @heatherlovelace
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Journeys Through AllCreation by James Talisman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Talisman is a truly gifted author and a treasured addition to this genre. I am truly excited to see how this series has developed and continued. This is one where the world building is so fantastic that you have to start at the beginning to truly appreciate the journey and understand the depth of the worlds unfolding before you. This latest installment built upon its predecessors and certainly lived up to my expectations. I truly loved every page and look forward to seeing what comes from this author’s pen next.
Review by @heatherlovelace
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The Ghastly Gumball by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Seriously. If you want an original paranormal romance with original characters, Valkyrie will not fail you. This latest romp kept me guessing and laughing. I mean, you have to know it’s going to be fun when the title has the word gumball in it… maybe just me. Regardless I love this author’s writing style and her character development. This is another welcome addition to my library.
Review by @heatherlovelace
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I really enjoyed this book! I was able to fall in love with some characters and my disdain for others grew, a perfect balance for a book in my opinion. Their growth and development from the previous two books is great.
After losing the Jaychund Games, Van finds herself and her friends on a mission in Balish territory. Not her ideal placement for the summer unless you consider Van’s would-be boyfriend is the Balish Crown Prince. She and her group must figure out the mystery of the third seal and return home. Not an easy task when trouble seems to lurk around every corner!
So much action and adventure to this book. I look forward to future installments.
Plague of Death by D.L. Armillei
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the second book in the Anchoress series and it was so good! Van definitely grew on me and she is becoming a strong young woman. Her best friend Paley still gets on my nerves. The rest of her crew is amazing as always and we get to meet new characters. I am excited to see more about them in the last book. Give this series a chance you won’t regret it!
Weep, Woman, Weep by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was such a good book! It was a very quick read and I really wanted more. It was a really neat take on the La Llorona lore. Mercy is probably one of my new favorite characters. She’s brave and overcomes all the struggles that life and the weeping woman sends her way. I really hope there is a sequel in the future. It doesn’t end on a cliffhanger but I would like to see Mercy’s future.
Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wow! That’s the first thing to say about this amazing book! I am a lover of historical books where they flip between modern day and the past and that concept is captured perfectly here! I think we all want to bet on our dreams like Tess and have a man like Trey there to catch us! Highly recommended for lovers of historical and/or paranormal fiction!
Reviewed by @sparkinside
Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
I’m completely blown away by these wonderfully written stories, both prequels for my favorite series The Logan McKenna Mystery Series. Both of these stories pulled me in from the beginning and I literally blocked put the outside world. I was so drawn to the characters and the story that went along with them. This author is one of my favorites and every book is my favorite. The first story we read about Logan’s great grandmother and about a violin that gets passed down several generations. My emotions were all over the place with this one. Loved it. The second is a short story that places us right before Logan’s world is shattered and its fast paced and just hard to put down as the first story. I highly recommend reading this book it’s definitely worth the time I can’t wait to see what this author brings us next.
Doctor in the Outback by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Dr Scott Carruthers is overworked and needing some help in the local hospital in Waratah but when Dr Franceen Lewis arrives to help and carry some of the load all his rules are starting to go out of the window.
Dr Franceen Lewis is wanting to escape the divorce and tragedy that has happened in her life in the big city, moving to the small local hospital will help her refocus on her career which out the distraction of her Ex, but as she meets Scott, she cannot deny the instant spark that happens between them, but she has sworn off men for the time being.
Can Scott break through the walls that Franceen has built, and can he break his own rules regarding work colleagues’ romances, you will have to read to find out.
This is the third story in the series and finally tells the story of Scott one of the Carruthers twins, you have seen glimpses of him through the first two books but at last he is here, and this story does not disappoint. The chemistry between the main characters is brilliantly written. The character of Scott has always intrigued me and finally we see into his life and the pressures he is under with running the hospital.
Franceen’s character shows warmth and empathy to her patients and with her history she is more determined to go above and beyond. The true character is seen in this book and when they finally decide to make the most of the relationship it is brilliantly draft and a pleasure to read.
I can’t wait to read the next instalment in this wonderful series.
Doctor D’s Orderly Affair by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Stars 3.5
Dr D is a guy who has had his fair share of bad luck in the world of dating especially a co-worker, so his rules are simple, no work colleagues and one night only, everyone knows within the hospital and his reputation is of urban myths territory, but he only wants to do his job. So, when he runs into an orderly that seems to pique his interest, will it become messy?
Emily is going about her job, new to the hospital and has heard the gossip about Dr D, although her colleagues are discussing this man every five minutes, she is under the impression that this man is urban myth too good to be true, that is until she meets him in the flesh and starts to have feelings for him. Although she knows he is a one night only deal can she keep her feelings in check, you will have to read to find out.
This is a novella with a great pace and fits a lot into such a short story, but I have to say there may be a little too much to be able to concentrate on the story and the characters. I loved the chemistry between the characters and the whole flow of the story, I just think having two main storylines within a novella just did not work for me. I think the author should have just stuck to the one and then the overall book in my opinion would have read easier.
That said I did thoroughly enjoy the writing and the style of the story, and the secondary characters added depth to the book. I was at the end dying to know what happened to this relationship and hoping there is more to the story than written. All in all, I can’t wait to read more from this wonderful author.
Lingering Spirits by Nikki Lynn Barrett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the 4th book in the Soul Connection series and this series just keeps getting better with every book. The author does an amazing job of making the paranormal and paranormal experiences believable and at times relatable. The characters are well written and engaging and I love how their personalities jump off the page. I would recommend reading the books in order as we do see characters in this story from previous books however it doesn’t deter from this story if this is the first book you read.
This story is about Russ and Hope. Hope has the ability to connect to people using telepathy. Using this skill she is able to help people solve their problems. However when she connects with Russ not only cant she connect with him telepathically by she can also see the world through his eyes.
Russ gets a fright and starts to think he is going mad when he hears this womans voice in his head. He gets frustrated over the fact that she has access to him however he knows nothing about her.
While they are trying to find the reason for their connection a relationship grows and once Russ and Hope figure out the reason Russ will stop at nothing to safe Hope like she had saved him before.
This story is heartwarming and full of twists and turns which will keep you guessing to the end. You can’t help but fall in love with the characters and their story.
Helm of Awe by D.L. Armillei
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Helms of Awe is the third book in the Anchoress series. Van is your typical teenage girl trying to survive highschool with ex boyfriends, new crushes, friends oh and magical powers. Forced into a dangerous competition that has the odds stacked against her, Van also has to handle her malfunctioning powers. With unknown enemies wanting her dead she has to survive while trying to figure out who to trust. A great story that will keep you on the edge of your seat from the very beginning and constantly guessing what’s next.
The Billionaire’s Slave by Stacy-Deanne by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I personally loved this book. I got drawn in from the beginning, that I had to keep reading until I was done. This book has history, forbidden love, steam, action, and romance.
Falcon buys Penny to teach her how he wants things done. He ends up falling for her which is forbidden then. Will he risk it all for Penny?
Penny is super sweet, strong, and kind. She is also educated and not afraid to stand up to Falcon. Let’s see if their love can handle all the obstacles.
Guardians of the Garden by Theresa Pocock
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
First off let me say that I have never read anything so unique as this story. I was hooked instantly. Both Miriam and Seth are fighting similar battles on opposite sides of the war. Do they follow their hearts? Is what they believe in the right thing? Will Seth save his sister? The smooth incorporation of magic and folklore is astounding, and talk about a cliff hanger
Apocalypse by Theresa Pocock
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Just like book 1, I couldn’t put this one down. Every single page kept me wanting more. Seth’s journey continues to amaze me. I cannot wait to see what the next installment holds for the Guardians and the Jones’. I want to say so much more but I don’t want to spoil the story for anyone. If you are on the fence please give this book series a try. Side note, the cover art is simple yet beautiful.
Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
Ok, I admit that the author had me at vampires, but I wasn’t prepared for what lay between the interesting, yet somewhat unassuming cover- in a great way. The story took me on a wild emotional ride- and as the first book that I have read from this author, it certainly left me with a taste for more of her work. So, I am happy that there is a series here that I can really sink my teeth into.
Lost Soul (War of Destiny Book #1) by Theresa Van Spankeren has all the ingredients needed to keep you enthralled; star-crossed lovers, vampires, an arranged marriage, wonderful atmospheric world building, impending war, a quest for freedom, politics, agendas, dramatic developments, intrigue, interesting characters, and more.
I don’t want to spoil anything by revealing too much, as the blurb does a great job of giving you a taste of what to expect without giving too much away. I think this is one of those stories that you should dive into a little ‘blind’ and let the author and the story surprise you.
If you love an original take on a vampire story, the paranormal, emotion, and intrigue- then this is definitely a book you will want to get your hands on asap.
Looking forward to the rest of the series!
Happy reading!
Thank you, Theresa Van Spankeren!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Divine Vintage is such a fun, mysterious, and enchanting novel! The author does an outstanding job weaving together past and present to create a world like no other. Tess opens a clothing boutique featuring clothing from the past. When she tries on a gown from the turn of the century, she gets visions of the past from the eyes of the murdered bride. Mixing murder mystery with a little romance worked well in this novel and it kept my interest the entire time! The character development was on point and the relationship between Tess and Trey seemed natural and organic. It’s hard to tell that this book is a debut from this author and she knocked it out of the park! I look forward to more of her work soon!
Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book surely brought the vintage clothing into limelight. There is a present and the past, but the book is primarily about the vintage fashion.
Tess, the lead heroine, risks everything to open a clothing boutique in Michigan city. When she models a vintage gown for a charity fashion show, she experiences visions of the past which involve murder. Trey, who is modelling the groom’s tuxedo, is initially skeptical but later joins Tess in solving the mystery. Together, as they experience, visions of the past, they develop romantic feelings towards each other.
The book is romantic, the paranormal and the mystery elements add a lot of fun. It was a very good read.
My Valentine’s Day Cookie Match: Welcome to Cupids Cove by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another feel good romance from CA. It is set in a quirky and quaint little town Cupid’s Cove where they love Valentine’s Day. It’s sexy, with a little angst. Throw in a few recipes and get ready for something a little sweet and spicy. It will pull at your heartstrings on places. One thing I love is that this author has an eclectic style of writing so you never know what you will get. It is a light-hearted and fun read.
Grab a coffee and maybe something sweet (it is a Valentine’s Day story after all) and settle in for a relaxing afternoon escape.
Reviewed by @jennadb
So Right: A Fake Fiancee Reverse Age Gap Romance by Renee Regent
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
One supposedly brilliant idea. One promotion. One office crush. One week of being a fake fiancée. Does age matter?
This is a wonderful addition to the series. The books in this series can be read as standalones but I suggest reading the books in order because they are enjoyable reads and there are references to previous characters. We are now at book five in this great romance series.
This story is of an older woman, younger man not that it matters when love is concerned. The characters, each have a painful past, but can they get over it to see what is right in front of them?
Reviewed by @jennadb
Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Depending On You
I loved this book and savored each page not wanting to say bye to these characters.
Patti and Cate reminded me of my best friend and me. Amy and I have been friends since we were 13 and 14 and here we are almost 34 years later still together but not without issues in the past. There isn’t a thing we wouldn’t do for one another even in the middle of the night.
I could relate way too much with Cate and her relationship with her Mom and I think was one reason I loved this book as much as I did. Also how Cate mothered and took care of her little sister. My sister is 16 years younger than me, I took care of her like she was my own much like Cate did with Sammy.
This was my first time reading this author but it will not be my last. I have been thinking about this book since I finished it and when an author grabs and keeps a hold of me then I know I will be reading them again.
So Right: A Fake Fiancee Reverse Age Gap Romance by Renee Regent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I was so excited to get my hands on this fifth installment of the Love Grows series! It was absolutely everything I thought it would be too, just wonderful and romantic and sweet! This book had me hooked right from the very start with the premise of Amara and Petro both vying for this promotion and being both deserving. Both of them are so cute and have this attraction so the assignment isn’t going to kill them but it later develops its own issues and that is where the novel really comes in with the hard hitting feels and twists and turns that just make you keep reading past your bedtime to see if these two will get the happily ever after you so badly want them to. I so much hope for more in this series and if you haven’t had a chance to check out the rest of them I would run and do so. They are all wonderful couples and reads!
Review by @lizaileen
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Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I am typically not a huge fan of historical or paranormal fiction, so the fact that this book was written between two time periods and completely captivated me speaks volumes for the author and her ability to write in a way that sucks you in and keeps you reading. I was entranced with Tess and Trey’s story and how it merged so well with Phoebe and Edward’s. The twists and turns kept me guessing, so many things I didn’t expect to happen did and I couldn’t stop reading I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery and intrigue. This is indeed a must read, I’m so thrilled that I chose to read it!
Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is my first read by this author and she has intrigued me. The characters are great and the plot with twists and turn made for a great read. I will definitely be reading more of this authors work.
Cate and Patti where friends until one tragic night when Cate killed a man. For the last 20years Cate thought she got away it. Now that the case has been re-open, she is frightened does she turn herself in or does she wait and see on the outcome?
Patti left 20years ago and left her friend to fend for herself. She started a whole new life to keep their secrets hidden. With a family of her own she needs to go back and help her friend.
With the two friend together again they need to decide if they will talk about that night or keep running from that night? Can this friendship overcome the new evidence that has come to light?
Tracy
Helm of Awe by D.L. Armillei
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Such a fantastic book, kinda like hunger games a little bit. I really enjoyed it, Van is back and ready to handle more action and conquer more than before while still proving herself. Definitely worth reading but read the first two books in the series first.
Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
An interesting tale of a girl who becomes a woman amidst treacherous family and horrible misdeeds. Married off by her father at the tender age of 15, she is destroyed when she cannot be with the boy she loves, and must marry a man she knows nothing about. The marriage does not go well, and Julia is forced to realize how few people she can actually count on. When a solution arrives that can take her away from her troubles, she must decide what she can live with, and live without.
Julia’s transformation in this novel is interesting and complex. I enjoyed seeing her come into her own, and figure out how to gain the strength and independence that she needed. I found the writing a bit angsty in places, more emotionally fraught than I prefer. However, the story and characters were sound, and the plot moved along nicely. A good read.
Apocalypse by Theresa PocockAs this, the second book in the series, picks up right where the first one left off, we find Seth in a struggle between his love for Miriam and his love for his dying sister. He feels likes he has to choose one or the other and that there isn’t an option to have both. Will he make the right choice or betray the love that could last a lifetime? In the meantime, Peter- Miriam’s brother, finds himself thrust into his Nature and ends up playing a vital role in the continued struggle with the Joneses. Will it be enough to stem the tide of the Joneses advances?
I am thoroughly enjoying this series! I love the author’s take on the Garden of Eden and its protectors. Her character’s struggles with each other in how they relate (parents to kids, kids to kids…) is very relatable. In this book there is a lot of forgiveness going on and what it looks like to forgive someone who has wronged you or a loved one. Admittedly, there were several chapters in this book that I became teary eyed!
I look forward to the third book! I need to know how everything goes!
Apocalypse by Theresa Pocock
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A long-awaited book 2 is finally here! We catch up with the Edenians right where book 1 left off, where Seth is desperately hoping for a cure for his dying sister Lillian. He struggles to make a choice between betraying the girl he loves, and saving his little sister from certain death. You can really feel how this choice weighs on him, as he tries to be a man and protect the people he loves. I felt so much compassion for him and his struggles, and the cascading effects that his unfortunate decision creates. Lots of action in this book, it is definitely a page-turner. Pocock is fantastic at hooking in the reader, and creating realistic, layered, interesting characters to root for (or loathe!)
Definitely read Book 1 first – it’s well worth it and a great read. It had been several months for me between books, and it took me a bit to reorient myself to the characters and plot from Guardians of the Garden.
