Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
If you are looking for a YA, post apocalyptic, sci fi romance, then this is the book for YOU
REVIEWED BY @momwhoreads0215
The Mermaid and the Water Magnifying Glass by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I’m a returning fan of this author Lois Wickstrom. I love all her children’s books. I really love the artwork on all of this series.These books are also so informative,and that the author includes instructions on how to do it. My son found it really cool to try it out.
A Quirk of Destiny: Ignoramus et Ignorabimus by Catherine Greenall
This is book one of this Sci-Fi series and exceeded my expectations on all fronts!
Catherine Greenall does a tremendous job w/ the creation and building of the intriguing multi-faceted characters within this book. I love a great dystopian twist and the dramatic build up had me on the edge of my seat. Normally I would hate to read a book with a cliffhanger, but I’m convinced that book number two will be even better than the first.
I think the author’s scientific background enhances her ability to create an extremely convincing scientific plot within this story. Science and greed pits society against those who have a bit too much power, and it has all gone straight to their heads. The main character, Calum works for the Dept of Food and Environment as a scientist, testing the safety of food related technology. He begins to investigate strange happenings that he believes has a scientific reason behind them. Soon, he finds the world in a full-blown epidemic that quickly overwhelms the world. Calum believes he may have uncovered the truth and soon takes those immune to the questionable contagions under his wing to embark on one heck of an adventure.
This is a quick paced read and was entertaining from page one.
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. If I could give this a higher “grade”, I would.
I think folks will enjoy this read and find themselves engrossed in a new series!
Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
In a stunningly well done tale of Survival, Antipodes will take you on a Journey you won’t soon forget.
Protozoa have contaminated the water source. Anything reliant on water will die. In an effort for mankind to survive young adults without spouses or children are invited for testing to join groups who will be placed in protective domes and have to survive on their smarts and hard work.
Humans being who they are drama and problems are never far away. follow one man through his journey in this community with drama, finding love, loss and a giant shock and revelations of secrets being kept from everyone. I can’t wait to read the next one!
Insatiable Darkness by L.M. Preston
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
EmVee has just moved to a new town with her parents where they have opened a new business and they all have a passion for boxing and EmVee herself has a dream to go semi-pro with it and although this new place is small, she is hoping that she can still achieve that dream. So when she heads to school for her first day, all she can think of is that all the jocks are drop dead gorgeous and the cheerleaders are stunningly beautiful, but they are also quite strange, not to mention the other pupils there as well, who are also a bit unusual, but as soon as she arrives, she is befriended by two of the jocks, Kayson and Silas.
As she settles into a new routine and making new friends, she notices that things are a bit off and starts to worry that her parents have gotten in a bit over their heads and EmVee starts to suspect that things are not what they seem and she decides to investigate, but will she and her friends be able to solve the mystery before things go from bad to worse and the danger becomes too much? This is a fantastic prequel which gets you hooked into the mystery and the characters in the series in the best possible way and leaves you wanting more.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
Love in the Roses by T.L. Clark
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I’m not sure how I felt about this story. I enjoy period pieces while watching movies, so I figured I would give a book a try. Love in the Roses was a sweet romance. One that you can tell by reading that the author put a lot of thought and research into. Getting the language and the dialect of the time, to setting a premise taking the reader back to that time. As if they were living during that time.
Isabel, is now of age to be married off. Her family is well off but in those times it was about strengthening your place in society. Picking the right husband and family is the best way to complete that task.
Sir William, a knight, who has been given that right to prove himself worthy. Not only to himself and his new betrothed but to family as well. Raised to become a night since he was 7, he knows what it takes to defend one’s honor and country. But does he know how to love and run a home?
This story is about their adventure together learning and growing together and showing the community who they are. It’s a well written period piece and though this particular one wasn’t my thing it’s definitely worth the read. Especially if you enjoy period pieces.
Tale of a Body Thief by Kristy Centeno
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Tale of the body Thief is book 1 in the Rovena Silvex Series. This is the first book that i have read by this Author, This is also not my go to Normal read but I’m so happy i gave this book a chance. Tale of the body thief had me sucked in right from the begging. Rovena is a tough and strong lady i really enjoyed reading about her and look forward to reading more in the next book of this series. The only problem i have with this book is that book two is not out yet :). I Seriously cannot wait to read more about Rovena and her journey. I highly recommend this book and think you should give it a chance even if it takes you out of your comfort zone it will be worth it. Thanks to this author for a great read and i look forward to reading more books by you in the future.
Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Antipodes is a YA Dystopian novel about a young man named Cam Mackintosh who is chosen to help build a new community on an Australian island after an outbreak threatens to destroy the planet. This book has amazing world-building and a well-written plot. I enjoyed the way the characters were written and it was wonderful seeing if the characters would make the same mistakes that were made in the past or would they learn from the mistakes made before them. I really liked Cam and could not put this book down. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
The Blood Prince by Ayla Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Leo is a young man who has supernatural talents, he is a mercenary and is known as “the Blood Prince” because of the colour of blood which sweeps into his eyes whenever he has to complete a job, or fight an adversary who has taken a dislike to him. It is because his skills as a fighter and executioner combined give him an edge over the competition that he is the right hand man of one of the crime lords in the city he lives in, but this is also the reason he has to keep in the shadows. In the country of Tominay, it is forbidden to have blood eyes and if you are caught, you face certain death, but this has been a way of life for Leo for so long, it has now become his normality and Lady Death is never far away.
As a youth, he participated in underground fights in illegal arenas so that he could put food on the table for his siblings, now he continues this while protecting them from external forces who would do them harm and he would protect them with his life if he had to and this becomes even more important when his younger brother shows signs of following in his paranormal path. Leo is heading out for his next job when his boss approaches him and informs him that he knows what powers his brother has shown and that he wants him to join his mercenaries, this is something which Leo has always been scared of, so albeit he agrees to the deal, he has no intention of following through and as soon as he gets home he instructs his siblings to pack a bag each and ready to leave as soon as they can so that they can escape into the night.
As the siblings flee their home, they try and journey to the land of their ancestors, but it is a long and dangerous road for them, especially when past and present collide to bring more trials and tribulations to the family as they risk discovery and slaughter, but will they find the happy ending they are looking for, or will they only find more pain and hardship? This is a tale full of fantasy, danger, secrets, lies, truths and family where nothing is as it seems and there are twists and turns throughout, in this race for survival in a land fraught with obstacles, which will leave you breathless as if you are racing with them.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
Saved by Love by Toni Aleo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book had a bit of everything and didn’t disappoint. I haven’t read the rest of the series before jumping into this book but I will be reading every book in it now. The book tackles serious issues but with a sense of dignity and class that is not always given in your typical sport romance books. It is based around hockey and the leading male character shows huge growth throughout the story. The leading female character seems to be the perfect match for the main man. She has a job that requires her to pay attention to non-verbal ques from others. This sets the tone for some serious topics which are eye opening and allows you to fully connect to the characters in the book. This was a good quick read but not one that you read and completely forget within a few days. It makes you become fully immersed into the book and the details allow you to feel like you’ve been reading it forever when you haven’t. I don’t mean that in a bad way but when you don’t want a book to end because it is so good, you get that feeing with this one but don’t feel like the books ends out of no where. I can’t wait to go back read the rest of this series. I highly recommend if y’all have a day to devote to reading, this should be the book y’all pick up.
Reviewed by @bbohls
The Letter Carrier by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Letter Carrier is a historical fiction novel about a young lady named Michelle Naget that lives in France during World War II while their country and home are invaded by Nazi’s. This is a touching and informative coming-of-age story. Reading about Michelle’s unwavering hope for better times and strong faith in God is inspirational. The faith of the Naget family was definitely rewarded. Reading about the hardships of living in an occupied country during World War II was heartbreaking. There was a lot to be learned regarding the experiences of these people.
Someone Exactly Like Me by Debbie Cromack
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was intoxicating! I could not put it down… This slow burn REALLY kept the longing going, and held twists and turns to keep me intrigued. So much adventure, friendship, growth, and love!
My heart ached for many of the characters… only wanting all of the happiness they deserved and dreams they had to come true.
This was my first read of Debbie Cromack’s work, and now I am hooked! Her writing was addictive and drew me in deeper with every chapter. Emotions were woven into every word that the characters spoke to each other, as well as in their private thoughts. And let me tell you… things got STEAMY!
I cannot wait to continue on with the Wounded Hearts series.
On Viking Seas by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the third book in this series and each book just keeps getting better. I love seeing the growth of the characters. The world building was fantastic. I enjoyed the Norse mythology intertwined with fiction. I can’t wait to read the next book.
Reviewed by @mimimadge
View all my reviews
Someone Exactly Like Me by Debbie Cromack
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is absolutely amazing. The way the author had created such an intense connection between the characters without the romance initially is just perfect. It was so great to see the way the connection and the relationship built and developed, gradually, creating what felt like a stronger link. It allows you to see how the characters develop individually as well as the couple.
I thought the author got the pace of the book perfect for the story being told. Everything seemed to fit together seamlessly and it made for an enjoyable read. I would highly recommend this book.
Key To His Heart by Kristina Beck
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I am a sucker for romance, and this book delivered. The author tells Katrina and TJ’s story in such a way that you feel it down to your soul. This idea that there is some sort of mystical connection, that fate could play such a crucial role in bringing two souls together is what all romantics swoon over. Experiencing this book was a heart wrenching journey that I would gladly experience again. The romance was slow, and there was much that needed to be overcome along the way, leaving it a story you just didn’t want to put down. This is my first book by this author and I am looking forward to more.
Reviewed by @asanabr1
Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
~Travel Based Love Story~
This is not what you would expect, I usually judge a book by it’s cover but this one called out to me. I’m not one to pickup books that look as cute as this one, but boy am I glad I did. This is a Funny, witty, and exceptionally cleverly written story. With an Island-survival-feel, a group of young people have to work together to ensure humanity lives on.
Campbell affectionately known as “Cam” is easily what every reader desires in a book boyfriend. Despite being somewhat aloof, he somehow always hits the mark. His partnership with Laetita is bar none. And as his story progresses, so does the world and everyone else around him. For any Y- The Last Man fans, the characters in Antipodes really remind me of the ones in that comic series. A little dark, a lot of hope, and a whole mess of suspense in between.
I absolutely love the attention to detail that the author provides the reader both biologically and geographically. Coming from someone who is challenged at both I really appreciated the concepts being spelled out clearly. Maybe I am a bit like Campbell this way, haha.
I would love to see this turned into a movie or even a series….If you’ve seen Welcome to Eden on Netflix this feels like a really similar vibe. Of course being a book series you have a lot more to sink your teeth into as the action unfolds. At the very least, a book number two is something I can’t wait to get my hands on. Watching shows and actually sitting down and reading/immersing yourself in a story like this is what every reader years for.
Reviewed by @taylorkstephenson
Antipodes by T S Simons
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I want to start by saying that this was a pretty good book. It was written well and I enjoyed the majority of the book. I did have a hard time understanding the science part of it. But that is not because it wasn’t explained well. My mind just doesn’t work that way.
Castor’s Kiss by Tai James
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was such a addictive read, I could not put this one down, I was pulled into the story at the very beginning and I was held through all the way till the book concluded The book was epic!
Sci-fi? Check. Romance? Check. A love that was meant to be even how much you want to fight it? Check. Everything that perfectly into the story? Very much check! I loved this book. The sci-fi romance was very well done. I loved Mia personally. She was strong and resilient. Tough and never gave up even when she endured the worst possible. How she didn’t trust Castor and his words, was believable as well as understandable. The book was a lot more than just a woman trying to find herself and love It was so much ore than that, there was epic suspense too. The dangers were not far. Just because you find warm arms, does not mean harms way is gone for good. The twists and the turns this book produced was effect and well done. I fell in love with the characters so easily. I could not put this down. I loved it very much.
Such an amazing read that gave a lot to the reader. The author is very talented for sure! I would highly recommend reading this book as well as more by this author! Defiantly a must read book/series!
The Detail by Dana Wayne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this story. I loved the mix of crime and romance. The twists and turns made this a very gripping story. The author does an amazing job with the characters and with their background it gives them real depth. I loved how both Jess and Seth have feelings for each other but neither feels brave enough to tell the other how they feel.
Their chemistry is great and the way they interact with each other in a fun teasing way makes their feelings clear to everyone but them.
Jess and Seth have been on a manhunt for a serial killer. Now they have their man they need to travel to collect him and bring him to face trial. With the times it’s going to take to get their and back Seth sees this as a chance to break down the walls and get to know Jess better. However with a serial killer in their car and a journey back full of problems things won’t be smooth.
With the serial killer in question out for vengence and his target being none other than Jess, both Seth and Jess struggling with their feelings and dealing with Jess ‘s family this is one story where you will not know what’s going to happen unless you read it.
Will Jess and Seth confess their feelings? Now that the serial killer has Jess in his sight will he be able to get his revenge? Will the confusing feelings between the partners make their job harder and cloud their judgement of their job?
Caged Fire by L.M. Preston
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I can never get enough of this wonderful author. Their works of the writing they create always keep me entertained and wanting more. Each book they complete, and I read, I truly devour!
This one was a great start to a thrilling new series. I loved the characters and what they had brought to the table. They had their own sense of drama, being funny, and going after what the journey would bring. The book had a lot of action and great description of visual effects. The author really crafted a magical book, and I could not put this one down. I loved the pace of the story as well. I could not let this go. The talk of magic and how it played its part was wonderful and full of intrigue as well. I could not get enough of this wonderful book. It was a epic journey and adventure, that I long to take again!
Again, love this author for all that they create! This book was such a fun and thrilling read. I can’t wait for the next installment! Highly recommend this must-read book, and awesome start to a new series
Key To His Heart by Kristina Beck
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I absolutely loved this story! From the very beginning to was captivated by Katrina and TJ’s story. There were ups and downs, emotional moments and heart-warming times and the author captured all of these perfectly. Her beautiful writing together with a wonderful storyline made this book and absolute pleasure to read. I really loved both Katrina and TJ but I have to say I think TJ totally stole my heart – he was just the sweetest character – I loved him from the moment that I met him in the story.
This really was a beautiful story to read and I would absolutely recommend it to other readers.
KISS A THIEF by Marina Hanna
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a really great standalone contemporary romance that had me hooked from the very beginning and refused to let me go until it spat me out at the end. I have read work by this author before but this has been by far my favourite.
It is so much more than the romance between billionaire Dylan Knight and struggling art curator Mia Harris. There is a suspenseful story of art theft that runs alongside the romance and that had me gripped as much as the romance itself.
The romance side of the story is a compelling read. It’s very much an opposites attract and the sparks fly as soon as Mia and Dylan set eyes on each other.
Mia and Dylan are very well written, relatable characters that I loved reading about. I could have read about this couple for hours and hours and not wanted to put the book down…and I did!
Definitely recommend.
The Mermaid and the Water Magnifying Glass by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another wonderful science story for children. The author has a great way of creating storylines that certainly get children thinking scientifically and its great as a starting point for encouraging them to have a go at the activities the characters do in the story. The story is easy to follow and has beautiful illustrations that are certain to captures children attention.
In this story we see Maia, Fig and Trezzie create a magnifying glass!
Antipodes by T S Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a hidden gem of a book! I almost didn’t read this, I read the synopsis and thought it wasn’t my kind of story but there was just something that seemed a little interesting so I gave it a go and I am so glad that I did. The authors writing was just amazing and it didn’t take me long to be hooked on what I was reading. It was very obvious that the author had done a huge amount of research before writing the story and I think that made a huge amount of difference to what I read.
The character development was great and I really liked Cam!
I am definitely looking forward to the next book in the series! I highly recommend Antipodes – it was a fantastic read!
Amber Waves of Grace by Jessica Berg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This really was a beautifully written heart-warming story and one that I thoroughly enjoyed. From the beginning to the end I felt like I was right there with the wonderful characters in this story, especially Corrie, she was just an amazing person. The author took me on an emotional roller-coaster with Corrie’s story, there were certainly some ups and downs and definitely some very emotional moments. It truly was a lovely story to read and one that I would highly recommend. This was also my first time reading a book by this author and will absolutely not be the last!
Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Paige and the Reluctant Artist is a romance story between Paige, curator for a New York gallery, and Mark, a billionaire philanthropist rescuing horses in Montana. At a show in NY, Paige sees a beautiful painting of a horse and is sucked into the scene. After seeing this painting she is in need of meeting the artist and getting him to the gallery for a show. She comes to find out that the horse is a real entity and is entranced by its majestic presence. Mark really only paints for enjoyment and doesn’t need the money. However, Paige convinces him by telling him she will donate the earnings to a rescue. To make sure her investment is sound, she moves into his “mansion”, in Montana, until the paintings are complete. This situation is dangerous because since the first day they have met, each has been smitten with the other, but Paige’s past keeps her from wanting to engage those feelings.
I enjoyed Paige and Mark’s love story. I thought this brought about a different plot from the normal billionaire romance. I also loved how I wouldn’t consider this story a slow burn, but at the same time it was. I really liked Mark as a character. He was down to earth, sweet, rugged, and kind. This was displayed throughout the entire story. Paige I thought was okay. As a female there were times I just wanted to hit her upside her head and say “what the hell are you doing girl?” I wish there wasn’t so much disbelief in the happiness on her part throughout most of the story. I think I just get so upset when the characters don’t see what is right in front of their face and can’t get out of their own way, but I also understand the need to have it within the plot. Overall, it was a fast read and very enjoyable.
KISS A THIEF by Marina Hanna
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance, which kept me happily turning the pages. As soon as billionaire Dylan Knight and Mia Harris, who works at an art gallery meet, sparks fly and their sexual chemistry sizzles off the page. The couple are consumed by their mutual desire and feel as though they have met the person of their dreams. However, appearances can be deceptive and having fallen hard and fast, can one of them be using the other as a pawn in their plans. Can one of them really be a, Liar, Con-Artist, Swindler, even a thief? This is a standalone steamy romance with added drama, suspense and plenty of emotional angst. I loved Dylan and Mia and their chemistry really came across in the narrative. Both of them were likeable and relatable characters, who were well developed and I found myself wanting them to get their HEA. The storyline flowed well and the plot twists kept me hooked, thankfully there was no cliffhanger ending! A great read and I would definitely recommend this novel.
Let It Be Love by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I always get excited when I see a book I haven’t read from this author because I absolutely love her writing so when I saw this one I grabbed it and didn’t even bother reading the synopsis. As usual I wasn’t disappointed – wonderful writing, a great storyline and wonderful characters were waiting for me as I turned the pages of Let it Be Love. I loved Eric and Kiki – probably two characters you would never put together but my gosh they were just perfect for each other in my opinion! They had so much to contend with whilst trying to just be with each other – I don’t think I have rooted for a couple to get through everything and get their happily ever after like I did these two!
A wonderful story and one that I would highly recommend!
Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Antipodes
Antipodes Series: Book 1
By: T.S. Simons
Review By: Susan Ratchford
5 Stars
What would happen if you were chosen to help establish a new community after a viral Epidemic threatens to desolate the population? How would you survive or even begin to start anew? That’s the question T.S. Simons poses in her first installment of The Antipodes Series.
Wow, I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading the second one! After the past few years and our own pandemic still fresh in our minds, you can’t help but compare the situations. This book was really gripping and makes you think of the what ifs, what I would do in that situation. Would I be chosen? I couldn’t help but feel emotionally connected to the main character Cam and everything he goes through in this story, everything he loses and finds, including himself. He is such a relatable character and his relationship with Freya is written so genuinely you can’t help but root for them. Very well written with such intense detail you can see how much research T.S. Simons put into her craft. I highly recommend reading this series and continuing this eye-opening journey with me!
Antipodes by T S Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A gripping dystopian romance, set in Australia in the aftermath of a global outbreak which threatens to destroy the planet. Cam Mackintosh, is one of a select group of highly skilled young people who have been selected by Australian scientists, to establish a sustainable island community. This community will be built on the modern values of equity, diversity, and inclusion. Once Cam overcomes his loneliness and anxiety at his strange new life, he starts to make friends and finds a sense of belonging. Just as Cam is building his new life with partner Freja, his dreams are shattered when she goes missing.
He must go on a journey of discovery, in the hopes of finding her. Cam comes across other communities like his own and finds both friendship and acceptance within them. However, he is forced to make a decision which will change everything. This was a real page turner with an intriguing storyline which had me hooked from start to finish. The characters are likeable and relatable which made me feel engaged with them, especially Cam, who brings the story together. The setting is brought to life by the authors descriptive narrative and I felt immersed in the dystopian world that Cam finds himself in. An enjoyable and entertaining read, and I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
