Kara, Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner Series Book 4) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Cintia Leyva

Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner book 4)Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This has been such a wild ride. The viking Saga continues in this story. Every time I think it can not get any better, Batista suprises me. It is such a detailed and thought out world and story line. It has been costructed so perfectly that I am unable to put the books down. I love following Kara and everyone else’s story and watch them evolve and grow!

View all my reviews

Stand Your Ground Audiobook by A.J. Ullman – Review by Robin Rankin

Stand Your Ground

I decided to listen to something a little different from what I usually listen to on a whim and I have no regrets.

Through the entire book I found myself liking Cady one minute and not liking her the next which shocked me.   I’m not usually one to flip flop like that over a character several times in the same book no matter the circumstances.   Was this something the author did intentionally or is it me? I have no idea but if it was on purpose he did a great job making it happen either way.

I had no idea how it was going to play out up until the end when it was revealed which made me enjoy it more.  Definitely lots of twists and turns with what I think were very subtle hints along the way.

Melissa Reizian’s narration added more to the story and character.  She did an amazing job bringing Cady along with the others and the story to life.

Together We Stand Volume 2: A Charity Anthology for Ukraine by C.A. King, JA Lafrance, Rose Bak, A.N. Waugh, AM Cosgrove, Crystal St. Clair, Sky Purington, A.L. Morrow, TL Mayhew, C.L. Collier, Jordan Leger, Zorha Redwolf Edwards, Emery LeeAnn, Pandora Snow, M.A. Abraham, Tricia Daniels, Raven Belasco, M.K. Moore, KL Fast, Illustrated by Mikki Noble – Review by Kerry Baker

Together We Stand, Vol. 2Together We Stand, Vol. 2 by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

At first I picked this book up for 2 reasons – one the cause the book was supporting and, two, the fact that C.A. King had contributed to the anthology. Any book with her name on and I will buy no matter what. It was a bonus that I recognised a couple of the other names too.
I am so glad that those reasons pushed me into reading this collection because I was completely taken in by them. The C.A. King book is definitely up there as my favourite. I always have such an affinity for her work and this book was the perfect example as to why! But the other stories all definitely held their own. I liked that they were all different from each other. The issue with anthologies I tend to find is that the books start to merge into one after a while but that was not the case with this one. They each stood their ground and shone through the rest.
I love the fact that this collection is for such a worthy cause as well. For me, it gave such an emotional edge while reading it and I was drawn in all the more. This is a fantastic collection of stories and I would urge everyone to buy it today.

View all my reviews

On Viking Seas (The Forerunner Saga Series Book 3) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Cintia Leyva

On Viking Seas (Forerunner Series)On Viking Seas by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This series just keeps getting better and better .The twists and turns at every page make it impossible to put down. I love seeing how the characters evolve and all the dark and still light hearted moments all throughout.

View all my reviews

Ashali and the Blue Horseman by Jordan Elizabeth – Review by Carrie Reed

5 stars!

I wasn’t sure how this was going to turn out, but I instantly fell in love hard and fast! I love Ashali, she seems so meek and in need of saving at first but once put into a situation her fight comes out, and she is magnificent. Jase, he seemed a little obnoxious at first meeting, but I could tell how he was falling for Ashali, and watching their relationship blossom was so sweet. There were a couple of different surprises throughout the book, like who Ashali’s family is and where she comes from. I thought the story flowed so smoothly and really hope to see if Ashali and Jase will be continuing their journey together and being the superhero they are.

I’m Not Your Difference (Fitz Series Book 4) by Theresa Sederholt – Review by Karyn Taylor

I'm Not Your Difference (Fitz, #4)I’m Not Your Difference by Theresa Sederholt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the 4th book in the series but the first book I have read by this author. I’m unsure whether the book is intended to be able to be read as a standalone but I have to admit that in the beginning I felt as though I had to have read the previous books to get understand the dynamics of many of the characters. This didn’t stop me from really enjoying this book though. I’ll just have to find time to read the 3 books that came before this one.
In this book Fitz is working on the case of a serial killer who is killing gay men and making them look like suicide. This case comes a bit too close to home when his brother in law Andy becomes the target of the killer.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It’s full of drama, danger, intrigue as well as romance. I particularly loved Andy’s relationship with deaf daughter Stella as he tries to teach her about being different and accepting people for who they are.
The author has an excellent skill for character writing. I was so engaged with the characters and could really relate to their story.
Definitely recommend but would advise to read the others in the series first.

View all my reviews

Together We Stand Volume 2: A Charity Anthology for Ukraine by C.A. King, JA Lafrance, Rose Bak, A.N. Waugh, AM Cosgrove, Crystal St. Clair, Sky Purington, A.L. Morrow, TL Mayhew, C.L. Collier, Jordan Leger, Zorha Redwolf Edwards, Emery LeeAnn, Pandora Snow, M.A. Abraham, Tricia Daniels, Raven Belasco, M.K. Moore, KL Fast, Illustrated by Mikki Noble – Review by Tanya Wall, August 2022

Together We Stand, Vol. 2Together We Stand, Vol. 2 by C.A. King
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book is an anthology that contains many stories by different authors. It isn’t my cup of tea usually. However, the fact that this was written specifically for the Ukraine and address the themes of survival and hope, I was able to give it a chance. You will find stories about persecution, loss, struggles. The endings of each show the positive outcomes. I could outline each story contained in this book, but will just choose a couple that I enjoyed.
1. Artem Dimitri and Elina (Saving His Own) – Artem left he Ukraine to study in America. Elina was not happy with the decision. When he returns, he is at the same hospital as her. It is a love story in the making!
2. (Happy Hour) – Mari is a middle school counselor just returned from a cancer diagnosis and treatment. The person hired, Mitch, to take over while she was gone, was hired to stay on as a second counselor. Mari finds Mitch very attractive. Is it appropriate that they act on their sparks? Will it cause issues or be happily ever after?
3. (The Shimmer) – Blindsided by the ex that packs up and leaves, Grace wonders what she did wrong to turn her husband away and moves back in with her parents. Two years later, she is still living there and learning to find a new view on life. How can she live in the moment and enjoy life’s simple pleasures? It is at this moment that her best friend made in elementary school walks into her life. Sawyer. Tragedy strikes – and Grace’s life is turned upside down again. Will Sawyer be there for her? Will it be enough to heal her heart or will her heart be broken again?

Never Is A Very Long Time (The Perfect Date Book 1) Audiobook by Donna McDonald – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

Sweet and refreshing story …I loved that the characters were a bit more older.

Mariah is a successful businesswoman trying to find the “perfect dates” for her clients while dealing with the aftermath of a divorce. She is strong and professional… I love this about her character. When she meets Detective John Monroe for the first time, she wants nothing to do with especially since her ex husband, Dan, is a detective too. As John peels back the layers to Mariah’s heart.. would she give John a chance?

Sweet, fun romance that was a great listen.

I’m Not Your Difference (Fitz Series Book 4) by Theresa Sederholt – Review by Tracy Manderson

I'm Not Your Difference (Fitz, #4)I’m Not Your Difference by Theresa Sederholt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first book that I have read by this author and I really enjoyed the book. The characters are amazing and you can relate to them.
Andy is trying to get his life back in order after Stephen left him and their daughter alone. Leaving Andy devastated and trying to come to terms with Stephen leaving. Once Andy is back on his feet taking care of Stella and moving ahead with the help of Fitz and MJ, he is ready to move on.
Stephen unexpectedly contacts him and asks to meet. Andy agrees, if only to have his say, something he never had the chance to do before. Andy finally feels the confidence to move on. Stella is his focus now, even though Stephen will always have a place in his heart, he finds his closure. However, Stephen’s world, is not what he has expected and seeing Andy only confirms what he’s been afraid to admit all along—he’s made a huge mistake.
Now Stephen has to work hard to win Andy back, so they can have the life they were supposed to have. While Andy and Stephen are trying to figure things out a serial killer, who is targeting gay men, has other plans for them both.

So the only one man who can put all the pieces together in time to save them is Fitzgerald “Fitz” Rodriguez.

Tracy
@tracym

View all my reviews

Hard Lover (Houston After Dark Book 2) by Deborah Garland – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Hard Lover (Houston After Dark #2)Hard Lover by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Noah and Callie have just one thing keeping them from each other. Callies brother, who is also Noah’s best friend. Callie’s brother has taken care of her since their parents went to prison. So yes he is just one of her protectors. With every secret comes trouble, that too will try to keep Noah and Callie apart. So, will they get a HEA or will this suspenseful romance leave them broken-hearted?
This story has so much going on that I read it in one setting. I could not put it down. It is well written and intriguing. This author, while new to me, has worked her way into my must read list. The characters are believable in their thoughts as well as life going on around them. So I must go get and read the other books in this series. Even Though you could read this as a standalone. I hope you enjoy this story as I have…

Review@cinful

View all my reviews

I Loved You Yesterday (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 1) by Julie Navickas – Review by Tausha Treadway

I Loved You Yesterday: Book One in the Trading Heartbeats TrilogyI Loved You Yesterday: Book One in the Trading Heartbeats Trilogy by Julie Navickas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I Loved You Yesterday (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 1) by Julie Navickas. This is such a good romance. Its the story of Mavis who walked away from everyone in her life and only left a note . Josh Templeton is getting a divorce from the woman he thought he loved. She believes and tells him that he never really got over Mavis. When he finds the letter Mavis left him years ago the past comes crashing down around Mavis. She left because she was pregnant with Josh’s twin brother Austin’s baby. Mavis still loves Josh but knows that the huge mistake she made in sleeping with his twin has ruined that forever. Austin knows that Mavis had his baby and he wants to make right the situation. Who will Mavis choose? Will she choose Josh who she loves or Austin who she doesn’t want to hurt? This is a really good second chance love story!

View all my reviews

Ritual Obsession (Blood Obsession Book 1) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Tracy Manderson

Rivals (Mafia Elite, #7)Rivals by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have read all the book in this series and I don’t know which one I like best and cant believe it’s the last book in the series. The characters are strong they have to be in their world. I love the little quirks and the way they play off each other makes them somewhat real. This book had it all action, tension, betrayal, romance.
But no one in the Mafia is innocent.
The New York Mafia princess Mia Tucci is an enemy, when she comes to barters information that could take down her family’s operation, Nico is too intrigued to turn her away. And as they get to know one another, his defenses fracture, tempting him to give her his trust and helping he with cost him.
The only hope he has at saving her is make her his in every-way from her family.

Tracy
@tracym

View all my reviews

The Girl Who Escaped by Mark Nolan – Review by Tausha Treadway

The Girl Who EscapedThe Girl Who Escaped by Mark Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Girl Who Escaped by Mark Nolan. I loved this book. It’s my favorite genre so I was excited going in and I was not disappointed. It’s so good and I stayed up way too late reading it. Its the story of Angie and her friends who have traveled to Miami for their Spring Break when her and her 3 friends end up kidnapped she is the only one who survives and escapes. FBI Agent Brenda Reynolds is assigned to the case and is determined to figure out what really happened. The police tend to think that Angie is the killer and she is arrested but she can’t talk or won’t talk about it and is placed in a psych ward. The Doctor seems to think she has some sort of personality disorder but doesn’t know for sure. Brenda enlist the help of a K9 handler and the K9 seems to reach Angie. Will Brenda and the K9 be able to secure Angie’s innocence and find the real killer? Or will it turn out that Angie has major mental issues and is the killer. Do yourself a favor and read this amazing thriller.

View all my reviews

Blood Sector (V-Clan Book 1) by Lexi C. Foss – Review by Tracy Greenhalgh

Blood Sector (V-Clan #1)Blood Sector by Lexi C. Foss
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow I can’t rate this book highly enough, if you like your wolves interesting and honourable and your Alphas to be Strong, and in charge (especially dominant in the bedroom), your Omegas to be caring and give their all then this may well be the book for you. Dark shifter dystopian romance with a twist that shows even those with honour and think they are doing the right thing can make mistakes.
Princess Quinnlynn promises herself to the one Alpha who is not fighting for her attention after the untimely death of her parents. Before they can commit fully Quinn leaves.
A century later Kieran finds his Omega in the most unlikely of situations after following every lead to find her. He must keep her safe, keep her with him and contained but earn her trust so that she will give him her reasons for leaving him. Can he help secure and keep contained the family secret that has been left for Quinn to protect, before the magic needed leaves her disassociated from her wolf and alone forever.
Can they be what each other need to mend their broken souls, learn to live again, lead their people and love each other…
I am certainly looking out for the next book in this series and going back to read prior work from this author.

View all my reviews

Ashali and the Blue Horseman by Jordan Elizabeth – Review by Rayne East

Thoroughly enjoyable
Ashali and The Blue Horseman is a brilliant adventure story with a touch of romance. An intriguing sci-fi based story it grips you from the start. The writing is easy to read and world-building very well done. The story is layered with several storylines and is told from both Ashali and Jase’s POV which makes for a deeper connection. With strong characters, vigilantes, aliens, superheroes and secrets this is a highly recommend.

The Aloha Series Box Set (Books 1 – 3) by Jill Brashear – Review by Rayne East

Aloha Series Box Set Books 1-3Aloha Series Box Set Books 1-3 by Jill Brashear
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Hawaiian Romance
This boxset was a collection of well-written romances set in the late 60s that have some overlap.

Try Easy
This is Keoni and Lou’s story. A girl’s trip to Hawaii ends up to be more than Lou bargained for. Keoni holds onto past hurts and needs to heal before he can move on. This is slow burn but the writing kept me interested. I loved the setting and the Hawaii of old.

Try Me
This is Pearl and Declan’s story. I really enjoyed their ‘fake’ relationship and the way they interacted. Their chemistry was hot. The setting is spot on again and the author interweaves the history seamlessly. The events in this book occur at the same time as book 1 and the author pulled that off brilliantly.

Try Right
This is Claudia and Henry’s story. We have come across these characters in the previous books. Claudia is Keoni’s first love and she also caused some issues in book 2. Henry is Keoni and Bones’ friend and where Penny and Lou stayed in book 1. He is a strong character and true to his word. Claudia is also strong and this makes for some very intense moments. Again the setting is brilliant and the imagery amazing.

I have thoroughly enjoyed this boxset and totally recommend.

View all my reviews

Ashali and the Blue Horseman by Jordan Elizabeth – Review by Jenni Bishop

Ashali and the Blue Horseman is a sci fi romance tale.

This story is unique and engaging with an interesting plot. It is well written, and the world building is done well with characters that are compelling.

There are lots of twists and turns as we adventure along with Ashali, evil mercenaries, and blood-thirsty aliens. With dark secrets to uncover, kidnappings to get out of, villains to take down along with a budding romance Jordan certainly keeps us on our toes.

Ashali finds herself in a situation she could never have dreamed of. She is not a wilting flower and she will not stand by and let the villains win. Instead of a white knight riding in to save the day, Ashali has someone known as the Blue Horseman shows up. She soon finds her heart is on the line.

 

Reviewed by @jennadb

♬ ~ ♫ ~ ♩♪ ~ 𝄞 COMING SOON ♬ ~ ♫ ~ ♩♪ ~ 𝄞 Moby Plays the Flute by Eeha Bhatt

♬ ~ ♫ ~ ♩♪ ~ 𝄞 COMING SOON ♬ ~ ♫ ~ ♩♪ ~ 𝄞
Moby Plays the Flute by Eeha Bhatt
Genre – Kids, Family
Page Count – 45
Cover Designer – Tabletop Publishing

Moby Plays the Flute is a heartwarming story of a young girl who learns the importance of perseverance and hard work after her father, a U.S. Marine, must leave home for a year. His last parting gift, a simple flute, becomes the tool that will ultimately show Moby what hard work is and how it can pay off BIG time.  

This is more than just a children’s picture book. This story is relatable to kids of all ages as they learn, grow, and find the things in life that they are passionate about. Passion does not come without effort; something all kids learn at some point in their lives. Find out how Moby finds her passion and her resilience in Moby Plays the Flute.

Click here to view the Coming Soon trailer for Moby Plays the Flute by Eeha Bhatt

~ FACEBOOK ~ INSTAGRAM ~ TWITTER ~ TIKTOK ~ YOUTUBE ~

 ~WEBSITE ~ FACEBOOK ~ TWITTER ~ PINTEREST ~ YOUTUBE ~ INSTAGRAMFACEBOOK GROUP ~ TIKTOK ~

I’m Not Your Difference (Fitz Series Book 4) by Theresa Sederholt – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

I'm Not Your Difference (Fitz, #4)I’m Not Your Difference by Theresa Sederholt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow, Book 4 and I cannot get enough of this series…..definitely a roller coaster of emotions that I had to really hold on to and was at the edge of my seat not wanting to be disturbed while I was totally engrossed in each page.

My heart broke for Andy when Stephen left him, especially after wanting to adopt a child and Stephen wanted Andy all to himself. When Stella came into Andy’s life…there is so much love between Andy and Stella..especially after the tragic events with Stella’s mother, Effy. When Stephen starts to second guess his decision on leaving Andy the only thing he wants is to reconnect. Lurking is a serial killer whom targets gay men…and Stephen and Andy are on that list. Will Fitz and his crew be able to save Stephen and Andy from this killer before it is to late?

This story gave me a lot of different feelings….the hurt that Stephen did on Andy….betrayal, suspense and just so many emotions.

View all my reviews

I Loved You Yesterday (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 1) by Julie Navickas – Review by Michelle Austin

I Loved You Yesterday: Book One in the Trading Heartbeats TrilogyI Loved You Yesterday: Book One in the Trading Heartbeats Trilogy by Julie Navickas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a great 5 star read.
I really enjoyed this read, Mavis and Josh are high school sweethearts, until a secret causes Mavis to flee town. She ends up confiding in Austin, Josh’s brother before leaving. It’s 10 years later and Josh is finalizing his divorce, when something resurfaces and makes him think about Mavis again. What made her leave him? What would happen if he found her now?

When Mavis gets a text from Austin it sends her spiraling. Josh wants her back but that’s not her only problem. What will happen when he learns the truth? Will he still want her back?

Overall this was a great read. I really liked all of the characters. We get several POV’s with past and present to help us understand past occurrences. The author does a great job with her writing and pulls you right in. This is my first read from this author and I look forward to reading more from her. 1-click and get started today.

Reviewed by @mab54615
View all my reviews

Ashali and the Blue Horseman by Jordan Elizabeth – Review by Lorrene Huisman

I simply loved reading this book, it had action, those super hero moments where your cheering from your seat as you read, girl power moments, tender moments, and anything else you would want in a super hero book! The author did an amazing job creating this story and bringing it to life!

I love a good super hero book. A hero fighting against those who mean wrong This one was off the wall amazing! Loved the character personality of Ashali and how she started off in the book, and whom she was by the completion of it. It was a fun read, full of action and moments where I laughed and smiled! Chase was a great “side kick” character as well! I really enjoyed how the story went and the development of the plot. The author impressed me with their creativity and how they brought the story to life! Loved it!

This was a very entertaining read that intrigued me all the way through! I did not want to stop reading, I constantly needed to know what would happen next! The author is a must read, hands down and really knew how to pull the reader in! A high recommendation for a book from myself, a must read for sure!

Rivals (Mafia Elite Book 7) by Amy McKinley – Review by Ashley Westerman

Rivals (Mafia Elite, #7)Rivals by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am so sad this series is over! I felt like I knew every character in the series personally, this book is no different. The way the author writes is exceptional. I was kept engaged from the very first page and kept that way throughout the entire book. I really enjoyed Mia and her fierceness; she’s been my favorite character to date. While I’m sad the series is over, I am so glad I got to enjoy every book, and I can’t wait to see what the author has for us next.

View all my reviews

It Will Always Be Us (Fitz Series Book 3) by Theresa Sederholt – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

It Will Always Be Us (A Fitz Series Book 3)It Will Always Be Us by Theresa Sederholt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Continuing to read this series…..I am totally invested…It Will Always Be Us is book 3 in this series and I highly recommend reading this series in order….you wont regret it :).

What happens when you have a life that you believe is perfect….husband, kids and a house and find out that nothing is as it seems or so you thought. Bailey Davis finds this out upon the sudden death of her husband. The struggle of deceit, lies and whom to trust and believe. With the help of Fitz and his crew…..they are determined to find out how deep the lies go.

This series is truly fantastic. If you love suspense, intrigue, a game of cat and mouse with a roller coaster of emotions…this series is for you!! The amount of word building and the details this author puts into her books is truly phenomenal!

View all my reviews

Wicked Treasure (The Charm Collector Book 3) by Melissa Erin Jackson – Review by Cindy Rushin

Wicked Treasure (The Charm Collector, #2)Wicked Treasure by Melissa Erin Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book. It was interesting as we followed two separate stories, Harlow’s and Kayda’s. Both stories had a lot of drama and adventure which made for an exciting read. Each story was complete unto itself yet they connected on a basic level. I loved both and I found this to be a really good series and I look forward to reading more from this author.

View all my reviews

Felines and Fatalities (A Kitty Beret Cafe Mystery Book 2) by Ruth J. Hartman – Review by stephanie nicole

Felines and Fatalities (A Kitty Beret Cafe Mystery, Book 2)Felines and Fatalities by Ruth J. Hartman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This amazing suspense novel definitely caught my attention. Full of drama, suspense, and did I mention cats…that’s right this wonderful suspense novel is based in a Cafe full of beautiful cats. So If your a cat lover trust me when I say you have to read this one. This is the second book in the series and it was every bit as amazing as the first. The characters are well developed, the plot is interesting and complex, and the cover is beautiful. Trust me when I say I can’t wait to see what our author comes up with next for Kitty Beret Cafe and it’s owner Ellie Warner.

View all my reviews

In Plain Sight (Logan McKenna Mystery Series Book 8) by Valerie Davisson – Review by stephanie nicole

In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book really hooked me from the start. While this isn’t my normal genre the cover and the synopsis really had me interested so I branched out and boy am I glad I did. This book was full of suspense, drama, and of course mystery and it was so interesting I was half way through the book before I realized it. While I haven’t read any of the previous book, I definitely did need to, to enjoy this wonderful authors characters and storyline. But trust me when I say I will be going back and reading this series from the beginning because it’s just that good.

View all my reviews

Bake Happy (Bake Believe Series Book 3) by Cori Cooper – Review by Maryn Belling

Bake HappyBake Happy by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bake Happy (Bake Believe Series Book 3) by Cori Cooper – Review by Maryn Belling

Remember where we last saw Cat, Robyn, and their moms Bridget and Marissa? That’s okay – neither did I because I *oops* started to read book 3 before book 2 without realizing it and thought it was the Twilight Zone for a minute (okay for the time it took the chocolate lava cupcakes to cool 6 months into 8th grade).

So after I went back and read book 2 in the order it was MEANT to be read in, book 3 started making a whole lot more sense. The increasing difficulty of the recipes makes sense, too. I might even have more empathy for the contestants on baking challenges now that I’ve seen (errr read) how much effort it’s taken Cat to master some recipes that are deceptively challenging.

This book has a new twist that builds on the story of the last 2. I can’t possibly share spoilers that would ruin the whole adventure of Cat & her family’s amazing baking heritage; but I can assure you, these books are a delight and the recipe instructions are fantastic!

Looking forward to hearing more stories from Cori Cooper and incredibly thankful that such a fabulous author of Young Adult books is from Arizona! There’s no place like home, especially when it comes across so beautifully in stories.

Bake Happy, Bake Believe Series, Cori Cooper, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, YA, Fantasy

View all my reviews

Bake Off (Bake Believe Series Book 2) by Cori Cooper – Review by Maryn Belling

Bake OffBake Off by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bake Off (Bake Believe Series Book 2) by Cori Cooper – Review by Maryn Belling

They’re BACK! Our favorite primas Cat and Robyn are at it again. Please, unlike me, do yourself a flavor and read these books IN ORDER. They’re like a recipe – it works better if you follow it in order LOL

Otherwise you’ll end up like I did – reading book 3 and wondering how you missed 6 months of Cat’s adventures while she’s baking chocolate lava cupcakes.

So when I realized I wasn’t reading the right book, it turned out EVEN BETTER when I DID start the right book. Because the recipes in book 2? They’re perfect for getting ready for autumn here in Arizona. Whether you love pumpkin or apple or something savory like Pretzel Bites this book is delicious and page 2 has us in Flagstaff.

I was about Cat & Robyn’s age when I first visited Arizona, so Cat’s first visit is extra amazing. And if you’re an adult choosing this book for a middle-school reader, well, try not to get defensive if you don’t agree with Cat about pumpkin everything.

And no matter how young or old you are, Cat’s description of drying her hands with microfiber towels is accurate on an almost molecular level. There’s no welcome mat as effective as having the same visceral reaction to a situation – even if you’re 30 years older than the character!

We are so fortunate to live in a world where stories help us unravel our values & beliefs. Cat & Robyn together with their immediate and extended family members give us 21st century parables (and awesome role models for healing generational wounds through communication and openness) without us even realizing that we’re learning something.

These books are fantastic!

Bake Off, Bake Believe Trilogy, Cori Cooper, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Kids, Fantasy, YA

View all my reviews

Bake Believe by Cori Cooper – Review by Maryn Belling

Bake BelieveBake Believe by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bake Believe by Cori Cooper – Review by Maryn Belling

Lo que importa es el corazon.

In 1 sentence that’s what grown ups need to know when choosing this series opener for the middle-school readers in their lives. Figuring out your role in the world can be complicated; this is like a more relatable version of Encanto – sorry no arepas recipes 😎 but there IS an awesome family rule: No Gremlin Faces!

I read this book trying to decide whether to give it to my 6th grader sobrina who loves baking & sports. At the outset, I wasn’t sure if the “cute boys” elements were going to be age appropriate for her, but the family, baking, and recipes definitely are. I’ll still leave it up to my comadre whether or not this series is okay “from Nina” or if it’s gotta wait til 8th grade. What’s really cool especially for my sobrina is that the author was raised in Arizona.

Also the author has the best descriptions – both for moms AND middle schoolers!

“From the look on my mom’s face, a person would think I just told her I stole an endangered monkey from the zoo and turned it into a robot, obsessed with eighties music.”
Who doesn’t know THAT look from her mom 😹😎

If you’re giving these to a middle schooler with younger siblings, add on Pete the Cat & the Missing Cupcakes for preschoolers or Mrs. Pigglewiggle vintage stories for grade-schoolers.

(Also for funsies, I watched Junior Bake-off on Netflix while I was preparing to read these so I was already thinking youthful happiness)

Bake Believe, Cori Cooper, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, YA

View all my reviews

Hard Lover (Houston After Dark Book 2) by Deborah Garland – Review by Kayla Kearney

Hard Lover (Houston After Dark #2)Hard Lover by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Word of warning: DO NOT READ IN PUBLIC! This was one of the spiciest books I have EVER read, and I have read plenty of books of that ‘genre’ in the past, so that’s saying something. The chemistry between Callie and Noah was palpable, leading to some very intense scenes between the two of them to say the least.

Callie is a woman many people can relate to. A troubled past and an overprotective brother sets the scene for her life, and thanks to events in the book, Noah is also dragged into it. But Noah definitely takes advantage of this to say the least.

Even though the chemistry between them is the main feature of this book, at least in my opinion, the underlying story that the book actually has is just as good. I was cheering for a happy ending from the very beginning, and it was easy for me to get sucked in to see if they would get it. I haven’t read anything by this author before, but I plan to go back and read the first book as well as others in the series.

View all my reviews