Caging Grace (Grace Series, #1). by Carsen Lane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was good. My first book from this author, not disappointed… different from what I’d normally read, but again, not disappointed. Grace is a great character and I appreciate the time put into her growth. Would follow along if it became a series.
Caging Grace (Grace Series, #1). by Carsen Lane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
Caging Grace (Grace Series Book 1) by Carsen Lane
Caging Grace is the first book in the Grace series and is a wonderfully written story about determination and struggle. This is a heart-warming story that will take you on quite the emotional rollercoaster ride. I had moments where I had tears in my eyes and my heart hurt for Grace. She’s tougher than even she realizes. This is a fairly new author to me and I definitely plan to check out what other books they have written. I will say this book is nothing what I expected but was so much more. This is exactly what I needed and didn’t realize. Get ready to be taken on quite the ride as Grace fights her way to the top. Grace hasn’t had it easy she’s a fighter in everything she does and stands for. She’s strong yet very vulnerable and complete badass at the same time. I don’t want to give to much away . I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. Will Grace make it to the top? I look forward to reading more from this Author.
Born in Darkness by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Born in Darkness is the third installment of the Mafia Elite Books. This one’s my favorite one yet😍. The story follows Emiliana and Stefano from their stolen kisses to their HEA. Also I thought Emiliana was strong before but after what happened to her she became more fierce and I love how Stefano is with Emiliana. Where can i find one 🤣I cannot stand Stefano father at all😡. This series has me so enthralled that I can’t put them down. I’m going to read the next one right now. I would highly suggest you read these books.
Born in Darkness by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Stefano’s story was oh so good. This was a quick read for me, and I wish there was more, but it was still a good book. This series just seems to always have me wanting more with each book I read. I was lost in this story, and didn’t want it to end. I can’t wait til the next book.
Born in Darkness by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book #3 Born in Darkness
Just when you think author Amy McKinley could not be any more fabulous with her writing, here comes another installment of her mafia elite series. A gazillion stars!!! Can not recommend enough. Gripping thriller full of action & sizzling romance that leaves you wanting more!
In the third installment of this series, mafia underboss, Stefano Rossi has always been in love with Emiliana Vitale, however he knows at this stage on his life being with her would only put her in harms way. Emailiana feels the same and while they share some steamy, secretive moments together, both long got the day that they can openly be together. As their secret rendezvous continue, they discover a traitor among them. Viciously attacked, Emailiana emerges from he the attack with a dark passion that is equally matched by that of Stefano—where they calculate a plan to out the rat and crush all the obstacles that are standing in the way of them from openly being together. Stefano will protect Emailiana with everything he has…hopefully it will be enough.
Each book is better than the last! Can not wait to delve into the next book.
Blood Oath by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Loved Enzo and Sofia’s story! This was a really good book the author did an amazing writing job on this one. This was an action-packed story that I didn’t want to end. Their connection from childhood until adults is hard to come by, but they were meant to be, and stood the test of time.
Blood Oath by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Yes!! Another alpha couple and I love it. The Blood oath is the second book in the Mafia Elite series. It was just as good as the first one. I enjoyed reading it. It follows Sofia and Enzo (love that name ever since vampire diaries🤣) on their emotional ride love story. I for one couldn’t put it down, finishing in one day. On to the next book. I now have to read all of them to see what happens with the other characters.
P.S I loveeeee Katya she’s kick ass!
Blood Oath by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book #2 Blood Oath
Amy McKinley did it again with book 2 of this intriguing series! Full of page turning drama & suspense that will leave you on the edge of your seat, anxious to see what happens next!
Enzo Vitale and Sofia La Rosa, while touched upon in Book 1, Ms. McKinley made this breathtaking couple the primary focus of book 2 in the series. Enzo & Sofia, grew up in the complex mafia world as best friends all through childhood. It was only natural that the pair would develop a great degree of love for each other as they grew older. Unfortunately, circumstances and an unspoken rule had always kept them apart as lovers. With past secrets brimming at the surface, Sofia finds herself thrown into Enzo’s welcoming arms. Enzo has always considered himself Sofia’s protector and will stop at nothing to keep her safe—even if by being with him, a huge target is painted on her back. Will their love that began in childhood be strong enough to whether the storm, when family secrets resurface and threaten to tear them a part? Fast paced, action packed, steamy thriller engages all the senses.
While Book 1 of this series left me on the edge of my seat, I was shocked that book 2 could compare to or even surpass the romantic suspense and energy found within the first one!
Bake Believe by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I absolutely loved this book. Cat finding out that when her family bakes the unimaginable happens… Magic happens. Her life changes when she finds out that by baking she can make things happen. This series is such an awesome read I can’t wait for book 3.
As Close to Perfect by Maria Jane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Sweet, clean romance story
This is a story about soul searching for ‘the one’. I enjoyed the writing and the storyline. Bree is an overly conscientious character, that comes across a bit obsessive and selfish at times. This did make her a bit more real. Poor Nate had his work cut out for him. I enjoyed this book and following Bree as she navigates love.
As Close to Perfect by Maria Jane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the first book I have read by this author and I am very happy to say it definitely won’t be my last. It is so very well written, with wonderful characters and a story line that totally draws you in.
Bree has been so hurt before, that she has built up some very tough, high walls out of the pure need she feels to protect herself. Through this story you will experience all her highs and lows right along with her. It is the depth of feelings that this wonderful author makes you the reader feel right along with her characters that makes her such an amazing author. Do yourself a huge favour and read Bree and Nates story now!
As Close to Perfect by Maria Jane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a very enjoyable novel of a woman’s want to meet the man that ticks all her boxes, meets her criteria, and doubts that letting any go will do her any good. Unfortunately, Bree has had her heart broken a few times, and due to such, really has built her walls up and doesn’t want to let just anyone start to break them down. This seems to cause her a great deal of anxiety and self-doubt when it comes to the choices she makes. I can completely relate to her character, having been a single mom for a good time, and trying to figure out the ropes to ensure that I found the man of our dreams. (I did.)
The writing of this author, which allows for the reader to see the doubts as they cross Bree’s mind, is well thought out, and I found it exceptionally difficult to set the book down. I for one, was rooting for Nate from the beginning, though there are doubts cast from all those involved in Bree’s life. I won’t ruin it for anyone, but it does sound like this woman has quite the group to pick from. Very well written, and I very much look forward to reading the remainder of this series to learn more about Chloe, Bree’s best friend, soon.
Ancient Reflections: A Mythic Trilogy by Tamara Agha-Jaffar
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ancient Reflections: A Mythic Trilogy
Written By: Tamara Agha-Jaffar
Review By: Susan Ratchford
5 Stars
A wonderfully written trilogy where the voices of Ancient Greeks’ most powerful women take center stage. A fresh new perspective on the mythical tales that have entertained us for centuries!
Amazing! I highly recommend this trilogy! As a lover of Greek Mythology I thought the change of perspective from male oriented to female oriented was genius and eye opening! The stories became different, even more engaging and emotionally convincing. It really made me realize how the voices of even the strongest and most known women have been diminished or even silenced over time. Tamara Agha-Jaffar also creates a really nice flow that is fast paced and makes the pages fly by without ever getting dull or drawn out. These beautiful stories have characters that are so easy to connect with who face struggles that are still so relevant today!
Ancient Reflections: A Mythic Trilogy by Tamara Agha-Jaffar
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ancient Reflections: A Mythic Trilogy is a collection of three retellings of classic mythological stories.
A Pomegranate and the Maiden tells the story of Demeter and Persephone, Unsung Odysseys retells the story of Odysseus’ return from Troy, and Gilgamesh of Uruk tells the story of Gilgamesh. It is always hit and miss when authors retell the stories of old. However, the author does an excellent job of keeping the story’s integrity and changing the POV of the female characters. I enjoyed the stories and am now curious to read more from this author. I look forward to reading more soon.
Ancient Reflections: A Mythic Trilogy by Tamara Agha-Jaffar
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
In the first story in this trilogy, which is based on the Hymn of Demeter, A Pomegranate and the Maiden, the lives and actions of Demeter and her daughter are explored through their eyes, through their experiences and their love.
In the second story, which is based on the Odyssey, Unsung Odysseys, told through the eyes of the women who loved him, this new perspective of his travels shows what happened between the trials he faced throughout his life.
In the third and final story based on the Epic of Gilgamesh, Gilgamesh of Uruk explores pride, greed, grief and loss, as stories are recounted and lessons are shared to teach lessons everyone should know.
In this retelling of three stories from Ancient Times, stories of love, grief, challenges and the overcoming of barriers, this book shows new, feminist perspectives and how relevant the stories remain today, while showing what we can learn from the past. Will you dive into these Ancient Reflections and see what you will learn from them?
Reviewed by @roxsannel
Ancient Reflections: A Mythic Trilogy by Tamara Agha-Jaffar
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Greek mythology is not typically a genre I enjoy reading, however I loved the way the author put a new take on these three stories. It was not exactly a quick read however it did keep me drawn in and engaged the entire time. I enjoyed the amount of detail put into the beginning of each section so you could truly understand who is character was if you were not familiar with the original Greek mythology. Not necessarily a book I would put on my reread list but very enjoyable.
Ancient Reflections: A Mythic Trilogy by Tamara Agha-Jaffar
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I greatly enjoyed this retelling of Greek Mythology. This book is beautifully written and gives a feminine perspective of the events of these three stories. It really helps you to understand the possibility of why some of the events took place and what these women would have been thinking. The stories are touching and it is very easy to relate to the ladies in the stories. It was heart-breaking to put yourself in some of their shoes. I highly recommend this book to everyone that may want to consider what it would have been like for the ladies of mythology.
Ancient Reflections: A Mythic Trilogy by Tamara Agha-Jaffar
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was truly fascinating. I am not one who has been overly excited about Greek mythology but these stories were so entertaining and enjoyable. I found The Pomegranate and the Maiden truly enjoyable, especially as a mother. I understood Persephone’s desire to get away from her mother, but I truly empathize with Demeter, as a mother that wants to protect her daughter from the ways of the world, and is unable to do it. The connections made to our life on earth were interesting and played well – including the changing of the seasons and how women are in a subservient position to men – but still fighting back in whatever ways are needed. Truly enjoyable read – highly recommended!
Ancient Reflections: A Mythic Trilogy by Tamara Agha-Jaffar
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I had a long road trip this weekend and hooking my kindle up to my car stereo system, I knew I was in for the trip of my life, and I wasn’t wrong. Not only did these stories have me wanting to renew my knowledge of the originals, but it had me realizing that I really do have an interest in timeless tales all over the map, and not just my favorite nursery or wives tales. This author really captured the voices of the women, and those that we weren’t overly accustomed to hearing about or from, and allowed the reader, at the very least me, to become immersed in the stories and really get my mind moving in all different directions.
New perspectives are quite important when it comes to all stories, and it brings what used to be common knowledge and interest to the surface again. I do believe that this author has a talent that not many have, what with the ability to bring these mythic tales back and has spent a long time honing what was to come off the pages, and I very much look forward to reading the stories and being able to disappear into the pages rather than hear them read to me. I especially like the way the different characters thoughts are portrayed, making it far easier to relate/connect with everyone’s feelings, and thoughts, whether they were right or wrong. I will most definitely be looking up more by this author soon, certainly worth a read, well done!
Ancient Reflections: A Mythic Trilogy by Tamara Agha-Jaffar
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I have always loved Greek Mythology and everything within it holds a special place in my heart. This trilogy was one of my favorite reads of this year. Each story was told each within a female voice and POV. A modern tale touched upon with a classic feel. As you read through and the stories come to life it transports you to back to the tales itself, and gives you that hidden glimpse. This was a wonderful read and If you love Greek Mythology then this is for you.
‿)づ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE (づ‿)づ
Bree is definitely attracted to his type, and he seems as close to perfect as a guy could get. Only problem? She’d sworn off dating hot, muscled, athletic types for good.
Wronged by a string of jocks, Bree creates one hard rule: no dating athletes. She also enacts a list of other guidelines to protect her fragile heart. Per the rules, coffee meetups don’t count as dates, lunch doesn’t count as a date, there will be no physical displays of affection until after a real date, and no sex until he commits to an exclusive relationship.
Enter Nate. He’s tall and muscular, has deep blue eyes and dark hair. He’s a perfect clone of the guys that hurt her before. If it walks like a duck, it’s a duck, right?
Enter Steven. She couldn’t have ordered a more perfect package. He’s muscular, not too tall, and focused on his career in education.
When Bree allows herself to give in to her feelings, sparks fly. She’s happier than she ever imagined. But being a couple is about more than just the two of them. Family, religion, location, and money all factor in.
Can they meet in the middle?
Read As Close to Perfect to get swept away in this perfectly imperfect melding of lives!
Romance author Maria Jane believes in the power of love. She sees that love may look messy and take a winding path, but there is magic in the journey. Her books are filled with fun moments, sweet gestures, surprising turns, and characters searching for their happily-ever-after. Craving your next HEA and/or HFN read? Find all of Maria’s Perfect romances, formerly writing as Tricia Copeland, and dive into a fun love story today at mariajaneromance.com.
Illegal by K.J. Gillenwater
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a brilliant ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read !!
I must just say I was so impressed with Selena wanting to do the right thing and self deport , that takes courage and for that I honour you 😘
That’s how Selena abs Wyatt’s path crossed actually , he overheard a corrupt official in his office and decided to step on and come to her rescue , for that I want to comment Wyatt , thank you for your bravery ❣️
So as you may have noticed there’s a bit of a fan club going here 😂🤦♀️ I just love Selena and Wyatt !
This read ticked all my boxes , there was suspense , romance , twists and turns and some moments where I held my breath with great anticipation and anxiety 😳😳
A brilliant, shout from the rooftops read !
Tickety Tock: Wicked Warriors MC Arizona Chapter by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Such a damn good read! I loved this one! This author always steps up their game in all they do and write! This amazing book was certainly no different! I was hooked and, the character development was absolutely freaking perfect! I really enjoyed this one in the MC universe the author creates!
What I loved on this one, was to me, it was strikingly different. The characters were full of different things. Not saying all was butterflies or hardships. They felt real things, and they had to be respected for being, well, real! Warf and Raven were awesome. They had their own dynamic sense to them. I really felt emotions for them both. Like really connected in different ways with the two of them and felt so much. As I read, I fell more in love with this book. The character development was defiantly there and the whole overcoming darkness I would say. I loved this book so freaking much! I need to read it again ha-ha.
Amazing writing as always from this amazing author. I enjoy all the books they write. This one was just as amazing as the others. Highly recommend this book and author! Seriously you must not pass it up!
Tickety Tock: Wicked Warriors MC Arizona Chapter by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Tickity Tock (Wicked Warriors MC Arizona Chapter)
By Manda Mellett
5 Stars
What a surprise this book was! This is not your usual MC book. I found it to be very different from her other books. It was kind of spooky with a touch of the supernatural. I loved it! I have read almost every book from this author and was excited to see that she wrote a new series. In a rush, I began reading and was not disappointed.
Dwarf is used to women passing him by in preference for his taller brothers. He never gave up hope in finding someone for his own. At long last he ran into her, literally. After crashing into Raven on a dark and deserted strip of road, an unexpected adventure begins. This is a well written story with a new set of characters to love. The banter between the brothers is hilarious and will lighten the creepiness of the story. This author finds new and inventive ways to keep her stories unique. This is an amazing book!
Review by @Anna Hirsch
View all my reviews
Tickety Tock: Wicked Warriors MC Arizona Chapter by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have been not so patiently waiting for this books release because this amazing author simply never ever disappoints and oh boy was it worth the wait! Dwarf and Raven are wonderfully written characters. You are drawn into them and their story from the moment you meet them on the page.
Do not go into this book thinking you know what to expect just because it is an MC book, It truly is so much more. You will be hooked from the very first word to the last. I can’t wait for more!!
The Day the Librarian Saved the Galaxy by Stephenie Wilson Peterson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A very imaginative book in which a third grader and her brother help a librarian save the library from Aliens. I absolutely loved the concept. Third Grader Sophia loves to go to the library once a week and she is a good friend of the librarian. She has her routine chalked out every week until one fine day the library turns stinky with aliens. Now it’s up to Sophia to roll her sleeves up and help the librarian Mrs.Booker get rid of the aliens.
It was a fun book, very gripping and has all elements of magic in it. It was a wonderful read.
The Day the Librarian Saved the Galaxy by Stephenie Wilson Peterson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I just have to say that this is one of my favorites children’s books that I have read to date! The illustrations that are woven throughout the story just lend to your imagination going wild. It begins with the Sophia trying to reach a book that was out of her grasp, leading to her falling and being introduced to the librarian who retrieves the book for her. After this happen the action starts happening and where I was hooked. The way that the author has written this children’s book makes it where anyone reading this with a child would enjoy it as well. It has a great story line that just truly made reading this book loads of fun! I wish that this book came out when I was a child because I know that this would have been at the top of my long list of books to read.
Everything to Me by Lauren Fraser
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A story about 2 adults who have known eachother for the last 10+ years. Kendall is not only the little sister of Pete’s best friend / teammate but now she is all grown up and beautiful. Kendall has had a crush on Pete for as long as she could remember and now that she is visiting another office and her brother will be out of the state, she is staying at Pete’s house and her first order of business is seduce her long time crush. She is not shy about it and spends a few days trying to convince Pete why they shouldn’t take advantage of this time and have a fling which will be over and done with before you know it.
Kendall and Pete have an amazing few days together but, before you know it, she is on her way back home. Unfortunately, she can’t seem to forget about the time she spent with Pete and the same goes for Pete but, his friendship with his best friend isn’t something he’s willing to lose. What will happen when they all get together and see eachother. When Pete sees Kendall wearing none other then a Saunder’s jersey, he knows he needs to spend one more night with her. Seeing his number on her does something to him. Will
He be willing to fight for what he wants or will he walk away and regret losing the one he loves ? Loved this book!
review by @xchellex
Taming of the Few by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
At first it was a little difficult to read and keep track of all of the different characters, but once I got further into it, it got easier to read. I enjoyed the overall story and the different perspectives and lifestyles. One thing that had made me sad is that it was no different then the perils we are facing in real life, I guess that’s why it hit a little closer to home for me. I loved that it brought in a different kind of “fairy” than we are all used to. It brought into modern day. Overall it was well written and kept me on the edge of my seat! I can’t wait to see what book 2 has in store for us!
Illegal by K.J. Gillenwater
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was the best edge-of-the-seat, romantic suspense book I’ve read this month. Selena finds out that she’s in the U.S. illegally. She is trying to do the right thing and go back to Mexico and get the right paperwork. Turns out her life has been a big fat lie. She has been set up for some big trouble and Wyatt, an employee with the state department, just wants to help. Oh my, this could have been ripped straight from the headlines. I caught myself holding my breath at times because the action is that good. You find yourself going “just one more page, I have to know what happens.” The action started with the first page and doesn’t quit until the end. The story is very engaging. There are a few plot twists that keep shock and surprise. The chemistry with Selena and Wyatt is great because it is a slow burn. The characters feel real because they have attitudes that I would expect from those type of people. The descriptions of crime lords and corruption in Mexico seem to fit what we hear. The story is engaging and will keep you wanting more. I want to read more from this author. You need to read this story if you love romantic suspense.