Grave Digger Academy II by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I just love this series. I really enjoyed book 1 and was so excited to start book 2. It was as fantastic as the first. Full of suspense and action. I read it all in one sitting, I didn’t want to put it down. Definitely recommend.
LAB SPILL: A Dark Comedy. Maybe. by Robert Rife
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is the follow up to the first in the Cool Thing series and it is just as add and different and strangely captivating as the first book. This is nothing like anything I had ever read before. It is strange and fun, mysterious and intriguing. It is one of those books that I couldn’t look away from once I started.
This isn’t a book I would usually read but, having read the first, I knew I just had to see what the author would do next. This is an odd but great book that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Tropical Date by R.S. Jonesee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a great second chance romance that is fun and entertaining to read. This is the kind of book that is perfect for those lazy afternoons designed specifically for reading books. The story was good, although a little slow paced at times, and I enjoyed getting to know the characters. The book is light-hearted and fun, with just enough mystery in to keep things interesting.
This is a new author to me and I enjoyed experiencing the writing style. I connected with the characters and though that overall this aw as great book. I am looking forward to getting more acquainted with this series.
River Witch by Cheryl Burman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I had seen someone post on social media about how people are so interested in wild plots that they’ll settle on subpar writing. I wish I remembered the person that stated that because I would hand her a copy of River Witch. The writing in this book was so rich with descriptive language and a strong vocabulary. I felt the imagery was vivid and honestly consider this book a literary work of art.
This author is fairly new to me, as is the idea of historical fantasy but as I said above the writing was so beautifully crafted I was sucked in immediately. The characters had depth and I loved that the story followed Hester through time. I am trying to keep my review vague and full of spoilers but this was the perfect reading material as I shift from my summer reading list and into thoughts of fall and “witchery.”
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Have
Hungry Business by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Hungry Business: A Gothic Story about the Horrors of Dating by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Dessalynn Acosta
Maria has done it again! In this morbid, macabre tale of the undead and dating in these times, our heroine goes on adventures of blind dates, reconnects, and running for her life! This short story keeps you entertained and wondering if the narrator will find love in the worst of times or will she just be friends with the neighbors cat?
Into the Light by Kate McWilliams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Kate McWilliams brings to life the story of Ellie and Raf. Ellie is living her dream, running her jewelry shop in a quiet town. Raf has a past, which he keeps hidden from his friends. When Raf’s past catches up with him, Ellie decides to try to move on. As they forge their paths in life, not connecting in a way Ellie would like, there’s someone in the shadows. Are they watching Ellie or just a tourist in a tourist town?
This book is romantic and suspenseful. I did not realize when I read it that it was part of a series, but it was written so well, that it didn’t matter that I hadn’t read the others. The tension the author builds between the characters is spot on. I would 100% recommend reading this book.
Burn by Joanna Morgan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Brooke is living a relatively normal life, until she happens to cross paths with Levi. Levi is an elemental who can control, cause, and create, fire. It’s not until her apartment building explodes and Levi rescues her from the aftermath that Brooke learns that there is something more to Levi than meets the eye, though she doesn’t know quite what yet. Eventually, Levi tells her the truth, in an effort to protect her from the Chaolt, the chaos creators who often kill Sleepers, or humans with latent elemental powers, in an effort to bring about as much chaos and destruction as possible. When it becomes clear that Brooke is a Sleeper, Levi and his team work to protect her, which puts Levi and Brooke in close quarters are they try to use her as bate to get the Chaolt to come out of their hiding places. With all the time they spend together, Brooke and Levi start to develop a relationship, even though elementals are not allowed to have relationships with humans.
A Love Restrained by Becky Flade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The point of view switches back and forth and I didn’t love that, so I’m giving a 4 instead of a 5.
The story though was great! Two very different characters in two different worlds come together! From the beginning it’s pretty easy to root for the two of them but as the story carries on, you root for them even more!
This book was face paced, with a few twists, filled with drama, but ultimately leads to a happy ending!
Jake by Toni Denise
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Jake is the first book in the Billionaire Blind Dates Series. This was my first time reading any of this author’s work and it certainly won’t be the last. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the others in this series.
This book takes blind dates to a whole new level. First you fill out a huge questionnaire on the app, then you get to meet your match in a blind date – at the blind date restaurant, totally in the dark! Yep, you share a meal with the person but you can’t actually see them.
Jake and his 4 billionaire friends decide that this is the way that each of them should try to find their significant other, each will pick dates for the others and it’s Jake’s turn to go first.
I really loved Jake and Lauren’s story. They already know each other as Lauren is the PA of one of the 5 guys – Cade. They have no idea of this though and totally hit it off.
It’s very much an opposites attract story. Jake is a billionaire who is tired of women who only want him for his money. Lauren is living paycheck to paycheck and is worried that Jake will think she’s after his money but it makes no difference to her at all. She’d still like him if he was penniless.
I really enjoyed the camaraderie between the 5 billionaires and can’t wait to see what the author has in store for the other 4 guys.
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/51876937-grave-digger-academy” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Grave Digger Academy” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1569036358l/51876937._SX98_SY160_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/51876937-grave-digger-academy”>Grave Digger Academy</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6993053.C_A_King”>C.A. King</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4996628246″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
This is a new author to me, and I admit it took me a couple of days to get into the story (maybe due to timing more than anything else) but once I got to grips with the reasoning behind Makaylas dislike with being sent to Grave Digger Academy instead of one of the other better thought of academies in the paranormal academy system, I fell hard into the story. There is a distinct building of character and plot which holds you in their world.<br />Makayla is a seventh born to a witch family, this in itself is a thing of myth, as well as being the only girl this continues to follow the myth. First years of school are not allowed access to areas or town, they have not been taught the art of the Grave Digger, but Makayla and her counterparts (as friends is a too strong description) are determined to find their own way. We discover as we wave through the story that there are secrets a few generations ago and this along with magical jewellery, is Makayla the one to bring back to force the art of Necromancy. Once the first years have found their familiars Makayla stands out even more. Add to the intrigue the seemingly forgettable Griffin and possible Tutor turner evil Professor Wooly.<br />I cannot wait for the next in the series as I know I will enjoy reading how the story continues.<br />
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Sessrumnir by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the fifth and final book in the Antipodes Series and wow what a series it is. I definately recommend anyone reading the series from the beginning so that you get the full story and see the characters grown throughout the series. By doing this you get the full picture of the characters Journeys and all the struggles they have gone through to get to where they are today.
Life is finally starting to settle down for the people who were living in the sustainable community. But that sense of peace will be short lived. When the children start to get attacked by an unknown source our leading characters Cam and Freyja need to come back together to help protect their children. Who is willingly harming innocent children? Can Cam and Freyja work together to protect their children? How far are they prepared to go to do that? And who can they trust? As friends old and new come to help in them protect the children there is always the question of who can be trusted.
This story is amazing from start to finish and how the characters have grown and developed over this series has been amazing to see. I’m sad that this is the end as I feel like I’m losing friends however I will definately be picking these books back up and re reading them over again.
Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a super cute, two book download about two dinosaur friends working together even when they have different ideas. The illustrations are great, too.
In the first book, Conifer (a female T-Rex) notices that a volcano is erupting and wants them to run to safety but Spike (a male ankylosaurus) wants to give the volcano a present. The friends work together to figure out what to do.
In the second book, Conifer is sitting on her next of three eggs when Spike runs to warn her that there is a fire. This time Spike is ready to run but Conifer can’t leave her eggs or carry them all to safety. Again, the friends work together on a solution.
Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Dinosaur friends is actually 2 books in 1, A Present for the Volcano, and Saving Conifers Eggs. They were both adorably cute, and adventurous. This duo Conifer and Spike show wonderful problem solving skills that are great for young readers to learn. In A Present for the Volcano Conifer wants to run away and hide from the volcano, but Spike says the volcano is just sad and needs a gift. This shows how we all have a bad days and may be feeling just like that volcano but with a little understanding and thoughtfulness we will always feel better in the end which is what I took away from this book. In Conifers situation she was trusting in her friend Spike and was able to overcome her fears. In Saving Conifers Eggs Spike was the one who had to overcome his fears and help Conifer get her eggs to safety, away from the fire, even though he cannot swim. By staying calm the duo are able to solve their problems step-by-step. Having 3 eggs but only two hands could be solved by carrying the whole nest. When the threat of the eggs breaking came up Spike was able to take down a tree and clear them a path in the end using the tree as a raft to carry them down the river. I really enjoyed sharing these books with my kids. We homeschool so these books broached many topics in one making that much easier for lesson planning. We were able to talk about the history of dinosaurs, how they lay eggs, and how they became extinct. Volcanos. Teamwork. I can absolutely recommend these books!
Grave Digger Academy by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Grave digger academy was adorable and sinister all at the same time. I really liked the students and the friendships they formed all except for Frankie, she seemed abnormally bitter and cranky about her past for reasons unknown to the reader yet. She came across as a hateful, unbearable, bully to everyone. I’m very curious to know what’s up with Griffin, why he seems so mysterious, and why everyone forgets him. I enjoyed the whole story but I adored the helpers Puffer, Gargle, and little Boris, who was almost a necromancies sacrifice, and how they aided/saved Makayla. I will definitely be looking forward to the rest of the series to find out what happens next.
Master Romano by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Master Romano was a little slow to get started but the first two chapters were mainly to introduce characters and the plot it was all necessary to the story. Once it got started I didn’t want to put it down. I read it in about a day and a half. I loved Romano, his crew, and the banter between the vampires but one thing I couldn’t shake for some reason was Raven’s naivety and how immature she felt as a character. Like, she’s still in school, rebellious, should she really be having this type of relationship with a vampire? Maybe it was needed for the story to progress because her being so trusting and naïve becomes a point in the story when the vampires begin pointing fingers in her direction for betraying them because she gave everything up so easily. Overall it was a quick read that I really enjoyed.
Necrosis by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Necrosis starts by plunging the reader directly into the middle of the action and it doesn’t let up throughout the entire book. It’s pretty wild from beginning to the end. This was a really quick, fast-paced read that I read in about a day. I didn’t want to put it down once I started it. It felt like a fully threshed out novel and wasn’t missing any pieces. I didn’t like how it ended though, which ultimately was a ‘me’ problem definitely not a book problem. I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to the characters, especially those that had just been introduced, and I felt so bad for Amy after all she had fought, and been through. I would definitely like if the author published a sequel for Marcus, and Lila, heading to the government facility, and their lives later on.
Fractured World: Courage in the Apocalypse Collection by Maira Dawn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Great anthology! The best part is they are all short stories so you really get to take a look at different authors and writing styles. One of my favorite reads was Babysitter of the Apocalypse by Courtney Konstantin. I really was sucked right into this story and played it out in my head like a movie. Even though Vicki comes off as a rough, rugged sort of woman, you can tell she has a heart and has what it takes to look after two kids whether she really wants to or now. Gabby is one tough little girl and the way she takes care of Vicki and her baby sister Tina at one point melted my heart. The ending was perfect, and I like how it was kind of let open to make way for an addition to this story later on. I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to check out more from this author as well as the other authors in this anthology!
Tropical Date by R.S. Jonesee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Marissa Sinclair is the daughter of the owners of the P.S. Resort. Weston Stambro is the son of another store owner in town. These two grew up being best friends all through their childhood. Marissa is now an art gallery owner, while Weston runs his billion dollar condom company. When someone starts wanting to buy up everyone’s property on Postscript Island, Weston and Marissa put their current differences aside to work on this mystery. Will these two be able to save their town and Will these two be able to see through their high school drama and give themselves a second chance at something they’ve already messed up once.
Jake by Toni Denise
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first book in the Billionaire Blind Dates series. This story follows Jake and Lauren. Jake was tired of women seeing him only for his money. There happens to be a new blind dating service so him and his friends sign up. Everything is done using an app and the dinner dates are done a very dimly lit room. Lauren cannot stand rich men because all the ones she has encountered has treated them as if they should bow down to them. She ends up being roped into a blind date – with Jake. Sparks fly immediately, but what will happen when she finds out who he really is?
Hungry Business by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Did anyone ever read “fanfiction” on quizilla? Exclusively the y/n (your name) stories? This reminded me of those- in kind of a vague way- but it was still entirely nostalgic. I really loved this bite sized read. I finished it entirely too quickly and wish I could read more! I adored the ending- and I hope one day we get another one- or something similar in style! I’m not going to spoil this quick read by giving anything away- it’s so short that even if you don’t have an appreciation for this type of genre- you should read it anyway! Give this memorable story a chance- you won’t regret it!
Necrosis by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
Necrosis by C.L. Schneider
Necrosis is Post Apocalyptic Sci-Fi and once you start reading there’s no stopping until you finish. I’m a huge fan of this author and I’ve read several of her books but this one is my favorite yet. It’s a short story but backed with action, and Adventure. This authors style of writing and attention to detail along with amazing characters make for one heck of a story. Get ready to follow Amy on her adventurous mission as she tries to keep her children safe in this world that has literally turned upside down. There will be tough decisions to be made but will the right one be made? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I can’t wait to read more from this Author.
Master Romano by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Romano is part of a long line of master’s who have dealt with dealings for year’s but when he is entrusted to sort out the centuries old land feud with the witches what could go wrong. Well, that’s until he meets the one witch who can bring down his walls and possible the consulate.
Raven is from a longline of witches, driven to get back what was taken from them centuries ago, determined to help the coven with trying to get close to the Vampires can she get what is rightfully hers and the covens. Although determined she was not expecting to have feelings towards one of the men that she had vowed to destroy.
This is the fourth book in this series, you can read this book comfortable as a standalone as each book in the series follows on of the master vampires, although some of the other book overlap there is enough detail within the book to be able to follow the story comfortably.
This is not my usual genre I read but after being recommended the first book I could not out it down, this book is just the same. I have to say the writing draws you in and makes this world believable and as you engage with the characters, I feel that you are a part of the story and world.
I love the push and pull between the two main characters was just great to read, they complement each other brilliant. This is my favourite book so far; I loved the character of Raven being so strong willed and determined to prove that she could follow her conviction and also try to understand the feelings she had towards Romano, a man she was brought up to hate.
I can’t wait to read the next instalment in this series.
The Victor by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
The Victor is an emotional and heartfelt contemporary romance and a short read but not lacking for its shortness. This stunning story will stay with you long after you read it, it did for me. I loved the characters but not right from the start.
All Ava wanted was love and thought she found it but it was too good to be true. Now she just wants to close the chapter and be able to move on with her life BUT Cole has other ideas. Is she willing to go along with him to get what she wants or will she walk away?
Cole will stop at nothing to get what he wants so he has come up with a pan. Now it just has to work BUT part of the problem is the secrets behind the Freemasons. My father-in-law was a Freemason and I know how secrets can lead to distrust
This enchanting tale is full of passion and angst, hope and weariness, pain and suffering, loss and helplessness.
I look forward to book 2.
Reviewed by @jennadb
I Loved You Yesterday: Book One in the Trading Heartbeats Trilogy by Julie Navickas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
If you’re like me and love a good second chance romance (one of my favorite tropes) then do yourself a favor and pick up this book. I was hooked from the second I started reading it. Mavis and Josh are relatable characters, and this book is so well written I could vividly picture it all in my head; as if I were really there.
Tropical Date by R.S. Jonesee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a good 4 star read. Of course the synopsis pulled me in, I had to see just how this story went and I wasn’t disappointed. This was a fun romantic comedy that once you start you won’t want to put it down. I really enjoyed Marissa and Weston’s story.
Of course these two have a history. And when Weston returns to Postscript Island things come rushing back to Marissa. Weston is determined to get Marissa back, what will she do when she learns the truth? Will she let him back into her heart?
This was a great story. All of the secondary characters added a great element to the story. The author does a great job with her writing and pulls you right in. This can be read as a standalone. If you are looking for a good read, 1-click and get started today. I look forward to reading more from this series and author.
Reviewed by @mab54615
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LAB SPILL: A Dark Comedy. Maybe. by Robert Rife
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I read the first book in the series, The Cool Thing, and was excited for the second! Continuing from the first book, the dark twisted humor doesn’t disappoint! I laughed out loud in several parts of this book and love the way the vivid details captured my attention. The Lab Spills abandoned in the Waydown, along with RL and Jayderay, will keep you laughing and entertained! This is a must read!
Review by @bilberrysweet
Brandy Vaughn, September 2022
Necrosis by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect when starting Necrosis. The synopsis sounded pretty promising so I went with it. I was pleasantly surprised at the depth and emotion written by C. L. Schneider. The reader finds the main character, Amy, haunted by her past, but trying to survive into the future. There is so much information added to the story as well. Not only does the reader get the main story of a zombie type apocalypse, you get the emotional story of Amy’s life. The story line is well thought out and the characters are realistic. Filled with descriptive writing, Necrosis takes the reader on a wild ride filled with terror, hope, disease, and, ultimately, ends with a mother’s sacrifice to save her daughter. This is definitely a must read for anyone who likes zombie apocalypse stories with feelings.
Friends with Benies: An AMBW Paranormal Romance by T.B. Bond
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love shifter books and this is my first AMBW story that include panda shifter and a mage. The chemistry between Ryker and Wednesday is out of this world.
What happens when best friends love each other since forever? This is Wen and Ryker…. best friends whom love each other to the core. When feelings come more to the surface and outright open it can cause heartache and caution. Wen loves Ryker but does not have the heart to tell him…as she feels like she is not truly Ryker’s “mate”. When Ryker’s feeling come out into the open how much he truly loves Wen……at first Wen is hesitant believing since she is not a shifter they are not meant to be…. When both sets of parents embark on setting them both up on a “Paris in Springtime” Cruise for singles….this sets the tone of the love between Ryker and Wen.
This story was so much fun to read….and the spice level is totally “WOW” and some funny moments. Fantastic Book!! Very highly recommended!
Notebook Mysteries Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is my second book in the YA Notebook Mysteries series I’ve read, and enjoyed the Christmas mystery. There are the same characters readers enjoy with a few new ones. This cozy mystery will sure delight testers of all ages. I enjoy the recipes the author adds at the end of the book so the reader can also enjoy the goodies! The German Apple cake sounds so delicious and I plan on making it for my family!
Review by @bilberrysweet
Brandy Vaughn, September 2022
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The Victor by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was my first book by this author and I really enjoyed it! The writing was beautiful with such detail that the story came to life off the pages. The characters were wonderful and it was easy to read.
