Agent Red: Fatal Memory by Ava S. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Fast paced and action packed! It was a good read, but I wish it was longer. Teagan was feisty and fierce! Definitely no weak woman. The more the story unfolds the heavier the action and suspense came at you!
Grave Digger Academy by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Makayla didn’t get into the paranormal school she had hoped for. Nope not even close, she got into the Grave Digger Academy. She will learn how to keep the dead…. Dead. I really relate to Makayla as a misfit myself. I enjoyed this book and can’t wait to get my hands on the rest of the series.
Unearthly Magik by Matilda Reyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ava Ramos is a strong female paranormal detective/mage. In the heart of New York, right where all the paranormal activities take place. Such a great read, I loved all the characters and action.
Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
When an author does a fairytale retelling it can go wrong or like in this case it can go AMAZINGLY RIGHT.
This modern day retelling of Cinderella was done with respect to the original. The storyline took some twists from the original that just made this book even better then I thought it would be.
Be warned there is some heartwrenching parts that will make you ugly cry. But it’s totally worth it.
Unearthly Magik by Matilda Reyes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Unearthly Magik is the first book in the Black Cauldron Detective Agency series by Matilda Reyes. It is a superb urban fantasy full of mages, action, adventure, drama, magic, the supernatural/paranormal, suspense, danger, agendas, wonderful world-building, crime & investigation, tension, secrets, and mystery.
I really loved the premise of the story, and having read a few of Ms. Reyes other books, I couldn’t wait to dive into this one. I loved the characters, the whole supernatural detective agency trope, the missing (powerful and dangerous) grimoire, the plots and agendas, the wonderful world-building of the hidden ‘world’ within New York City, the friendships/banter/quips/antics, the adventure that results from the search for the grimoire, the other ‘jobs’ the agency investigates, and the fact that there is more to come in this series- as I am definitely hooked by Ava and co.
Whilst I did enjoy the story, there were quite a few editing issues with this book that I am sorry to say definitely detracted from my overall appreciation of the whole story. Little things, like missing words, wrong words, unfinished sentences, and repeated info, meant that I was regularly ‘pulled out’ of the story- which left me frustrated. This should/could have been a 5+ Star read, but unfortunately it was let down by simple editing issues.
The story does have a lot going on in it, and has a fairly fast pace, which the author does choreograph quite well. The story easily captured my attention and imagination, and pulled me into a wonderful adventure (minus the editing issues). I also appreciated that the characters were really well-developed individuals with their own unique personalities, quirks, and flaws- who continued to evolve, develop and grow over the course of the story.
I am looking forward to seeing where we go from here. Bring on Book #2!
Happy Reading!
Thank you, Matilda Reyes!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Emma by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A delightful, easy read! I really enjoyed this historical, cozy mystery following amateur, teen sleuth, Emma. Set in the late 1800s in Chicago, this story gives the reader a rich history and insight to the time and provides great setting and cases for Emma to discover.
The character and story development were excellent. Emma is an independent, compassionate, and lovable character. Though the story begins with great loss, her resilience shines through. This action packed and often unpredictable cozy mystery is highly recommended. I will be picking up the rest of the series!
True Colors by K.R. Raye
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was the PERFECT ending to a wonderful trilogy. True Colors completes The Colors Trilogy and I loved every minute. I’m sad that it’s time to let these characters go. I guess it’s time to go back to book 1! This author brings to you a trio of friends throughout this series who have literally been put through the ringer. Every bad thing you could imagine to happen does, but it’s evenly balanced because it’s the same with the good.
Lance, Melody, and Imani are the friends I want in my life. Completely dedicated to one another, to protect and love each other. I loved all three equally, but I felt this reading book 1 and now that I’m finishing book 3, I can say that I’ve been partial to Imani. She’s so strong, yet so stubborn. I absolutely love everything about her. My heart breaks for her at the beginning of book 3, but she rises up and perseveres and I would expect nothing less.
To embrace these books and, yes I mean books, you need to understand that there’s going to be some heavy and strong themes running throughout. That could be potential trigger warnings, I don’t want that to deter you though. These books are wonderful and this author has me looking for her next book.
In conclusion, if you read books 1 & 2, what are you waiting for?!? If you haven’t please get all three and dive in deep into book 1. One you won’t want to put them down. Two you will fall in love with these three main characters and their supporting cast. Finally you will have found yourself a new author to love. That will test what you can handle, but give you some enlightening perspectives on viewing life.
Grave Digger Academy by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Makayla is the main protagonist in this story. At first you feel bad for her because she has failed to join any of the higher caliber academies, the last one of all her least favorite, is her only chance. Trying to get her way out of the Grave Digger academy she doesn’t learn much, until she has no choice but to learn. This story was wonderfully written, and it blew me away. The author set everything up wonderfully and it just kept going. There were no awkward lulls in the book, and you didn’t feel pushed to get through the story. You could read it at your own pace, and still get sucked into the story. I can’t wait to see what book 2 brings to this wonderful series!
Hard Lover by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I absolutely loved this book! I was a little undecided at first, with how Callie seemed to worship Noah. I was afraid she would turn out to be the doormat type. But I was pleasantly surprised. I have already downloaded the previous book to read.
Aloha Series Box Set Books 1-3 by Jill Brashear
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4.4/5 Stars
This is a box set of three books all taking place in the 1960’s. At first I thought the time period would cause me not to connect with the books, but I was wrong! Each story is very well written and the time period has no effect on the love stories taking place. This is my first read by the this author and I wasn’t disappointed.
The Prisoner of Paradise by Rob Samborn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was an epic adventure and I enjoyed every moment of it. The author created a dramatic colorful world that I found myself immersed in. The story had a lot of twists and turns as well as suspense as the hero worked to bring down a corrupt organization. I look forward to reading the next installment of this journey.
Agent Red: Fatal Memory by Ava S. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5/5 Stars
Fatal Memory: Gripping Mystery, Suspense and Crime Thriller: Teagan Stone (Agent Red:Teagan Stone Series #1) by Ava S. King
This is the first book I’ve read by the author. Fatal Memory is the first book in the Agent Red Reagan Stone Series. This book had me hooked from the beginning and it was fantastic. I didn’t want it to end and I’ll be looking forward to the other books in the series.
Teagan has no memories of being on a task Force. She doesn’t remember her teammates. All she knows is she’s brought some place she doesn’t remember. Now she needs to help an old friend out of a horrible situation. The quote I chose for Teagan is: “Can I call my family, Agent Clinton?”
Highly recommended for Thriller lovers.
Azreya, Aztec Priestess by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Although I wouldn’t say I’m a history fan, I’ve always enjoyed reading historical fiction. I picked this book to see if my kids would enjoy reading it. I’m glad I did read this book and would recommend it to teens, especially if they enjoy paranormal stories.
Azreya was born with amber eyes and her family is scared she has been cursed due to a deformity or marking on her arm. Her parents travel with the infant Azreya to meet the shaman Nukpana for help. Nukpana sends them away with a promise for Azreya to be brought back to him when she is around 3 or 4 years old so he can begin training her and see what skills she possesses to become an asset to the city in the future.
What a great way to start a book, to get the reader interested with the birth of Azreya and how her parents react to her differences. The book is well written and I think most readers would connect with the characters fairly quickly.
I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Emma by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5/5 Stars
Notebook Mysteries ~ Emma by Kimberly Mullins
This is another fantastic book I’ve read by the author. Emma is the first book in the Notebook Mysteries Series. It doesn’t need to be read first, but it is nice to know how her story started.
Emma is trying to figure out her life and where she wants it to go. She finds her mother’s journal and finds that her mom was trying to solve a case. She finishes the case for her mom and finds out what really happened to her. The quote I chose for Emma is: “You know my name is Emma. My full name is Emma Evans. I work as an investigator occasionally. Someone I know asked me to look into your family. It wasn’t meant to be malicious, they were worried about you. I will continue if that is alright.”
Highly recommended for YA Cozy Mystery lovers.
Together We Stand, Vol. 2 by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a wonderful anthology for charity with so many wonderful stories with love, laughter and heartbreaking moments from fantastic authors. I am reviewing 3 of the stories…but they are all wonderful!
Clara’s Story by C.A. King — this story can hit home to anyone…heartbreaking in so many parts but there was also moments that tug at my heartstrings. Clara is a devoted mother and wife but she also has these moments of worry, especially when raising her daughter, Kristen. Raising a teenager is never easy, but when your world comes crashing down with a flash…..Clara does everything to be there for Kristen. This story really tug at me, and seemed so real. Wonderful story of heartbreak, sorry but also there is light at then end of that dark tunnel.
Rock Star Lawyer by Rose Bak – this is a romance story full of sizzle when two different people come to work together on a benefit concert….but fall in love. Jayden Oliver was part of a rock band with his brothers and had quite a fan base. When it was time to move on, Jayden became a lawyer to help people and keep a low profile. Alona Pavlenko is smart, a bit of sass and all about keep the task at hand to work with Jayden on this benefit concert strictly professional. Little did she know the Oliver family loves hard and forever.
After the Rein by JA Lafrance — this is all about standing up for yourself when you are put down by your own family and husband. Rein Brooks was totally heartbroken when her husband up and leaves her…leaving her feeling down, degraded and out. When Rein steps on Paddy Nickels foot by accident this is when the story takes off. Paddy is nothing like Rein’s ex, Mack. Paddy see’s all the good in Rein…..but at first doesnt know how to be what she needs in his life, except to hear her.
Grave Digger Academy by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I thought this was a really fun YA paranormal series beginning novel! I am definitely excited to read the rest of the stories and see how the series turns out. I thought the characters were a lot of fun and Makayla was a great heroine with a bit of an edge to her. She isn’t above breaking some rules and having fun, but she isn’t a mean girl and tries to be inclusive. The story sets up a couple of different mysteries that I am excited to hopefully see play out in the rest of the series. The book is a lighthearted read and covers an entire school year, so at times some of the timeline did feel a bit quick, but still easily followed. There was quite a bit of humor in a book about witches and Grave Diggers which made it all the more enjoyable to read. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ashes by MK Harkins is a modern-day retelling of the Cinderella fairy tale. Ashley is an outsider that gets bullied by her peers at school and is disliked by her stepmother. Harry is the “bad-boy” pop star attending her high school while he cleans up his act. They find that they have an instant connection when she hides hum from fans but it remains to be seen if they’ll be able to stay together. This is a pretty good read. I like the relationship between Ashley and Harry. The book has nice twists to keep it interesting. There is a good amount of character development, especially for Harry. This is a very good retelling of Cinderella. If you enjoy modern-day fairy tales, you will enjoy this book.
Unearthly Magik by Matilda Reyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
After eagerly awaiting this novel to hit my Kindle I simply devoured it when it finally arrived. I am a huge sucker for paranormal/fantasy books filled with passion and suspense and this book really delivered. Full of great characters, an original and terrific plot I just simply couldn’t put it down. Filled with magic, secrets, mages and more trust me when I say that you want to run and pick this one up today. This was a new author for me but trust me when I say I’ll be looking for more from her.
Grave Digger Academy by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a good book with a great story! It was very fast paced, which I loved, except it seemed like with the fast pacing some things were rushed that could have been explained more thoroughly and taken some extra time to devote to. It’s like the timing was skipping around all over the place. I loved the story and premise, the storyline and plot, it just didn’t feel all that well executed to me. I was entertained though, and I would read thr next installment of this series.
Agent Red: Fatal Memory by Ava S. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the first book in the Teagan Stone series. She wakes up, locked in a room, with no recollection of how she got there. She is then told she was an undercover agent and they need her back for another mission. All she remembers is being a wife and mother. She is whisked away to another country without talking to her family. I really enjoyed her strong female character and was on the edge of my seat a few times. Very quick read, but a good one. Really looking forward to the next one.
Grave Digger Academy by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was an absolute fun and enjoyable read. It was lighthearted and I love the small humor in the book. I LOVED the extra mystery revolving around Makayla’s family and the old myth about being the seventh born. Makayla is a super spunky good but also a rebel teenager. The last thing she wanted was to be a grave digger, but was it the best thing that happened to her? The only thing I did not like was that at some points time was accelerated without any description of how much time actually had passed. This book is like Harry Potter with conjunction of the paranormal. The way C.A. King introduced all of the characters was marvelous, I really enjoyed how she introduced the villain in the story in combo with Makayla’s background. An amazing paranormal witch academy story that you will fall in love with and hate to be done with!
The Girl Who Escaped by Mark Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the best book I have read all year! I can’t rave enough about the character development! I will certainly be looking for more books that feature one or both of the main characters! As a mother to two college women, this book hits me- right in the feels. Also, I will certainly be looking for some more books that feature either of the main characters.
My Darling Rogue by April Moran
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Two of my favorite things in this book. Historical Smut. That is the best way to describe My Darling Rogue. It starts from the very first page.
Gabriel is the definition of tall, dark and handsome with that possessive attitude that you love in a book boyfriend.
Celia the flirt with her options of suitors, though she has a dark secret that does not stop her from going after what she wants and being a major tease in the best possible way.
The passion between Gabriel and Celia is epic and comes off the pages as genuine, steamy and meant to be. This is the first book in the series but believe me you will be coming back for more. I know I will for sure.
Ashes (A Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins
Narrated by Michelle Shure
Five Stars
This book sucked me in from the very first chapter. It is a brilliant modern day Cinderella Story. Ashley and Harry make such a great couple. This book had me laughing out loud one minute and wanting to throw my phone at the wall the next. This is the first book I have listened by this author. I’m looking forward to listening to the rest of the books in this series.
This is also the first time I have listened to a book narrated by Michelle Shure. I really enjoyed her voice. It made the story flow and brought the characters to life.
Review by @sunbarn
Unearthly Magik by Matilda Reyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ava Ramos is a gray mage who owns her own agency called the black cauldron. Being a gray mage means that you are in a gray zone for morals which makes certain jobs hers for the taking. Ava isn’t scared to get her hands dirty and because of this, she is well known in the supernatural world.
Everything seems to be going good when Ava realizes that she is being followed by someone she does not recognize. Ava’s old boss whom she hates with a passion, Tasis, shows up with a job that she cannot refuse. A grimoire which holds a lot of dark secrets is in circulation. In the wrong hands it could be detrimental to a lot of races if not all. Tasis wants to employ Ava to retrieve it for him. He offers one of his own guys to help out, a mage by the name of Max.
Instantly there is tension between the two mages. This was the same guy that Ava caught a few times following her so instantly she did not trust him. As time goes on there is some will they/won’t they vibes between the two. Lack of trust made things go less smoothly than Ava had hoped. They will have to put their differences aside if they want to get out of this case unscathed.
This book sucked me in right from the beginning. It’s filled with magic, mystery, action with a huge plot twist to top it off. The characters are relatable making it easier for me to envision myself in their world. Ava is sassy, stubborn, mean and a little bit crazy. Max is charismatic and knows it. He uses his looks and flirtation to get what he wants and most of the time it works in his favor. The two seem like an unlikely pair but the partnership throughout this case really works well for them.
The only downfall was the fact that there was some Spanish in the book which I do not speak so I was not fully aware of some of the banter between the characters.
Agent Red: Fatal Memory by Ava S. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
If you need a fast read thriller, then this is your book. There was so much packed in this short story. I’m really surprised there’s more books but also happy to learn more. Teagan woke up in a room with no idea why? When she learns she was once a spy, and had to return forcefully to save a comrade, she had no choice. During the book, memories come back. Are they for good or bad? Read to find out!!
True Colors by K.R. Raye
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I came to the bittersweet end of this beautiful trilogy and loved everything about it. I am sad that we won’t get to hear more about Lance, Imani, and Melody, but that is the sign of a great story – when you never want it to end.
While focused mainly on Imani, we still get to see how Melody and Lance are doing in their lives and how their friendship evolves. Imani is newly married and loving life when she endures a life-changing tragedy. Lance has been MIA for quite awhile and is thinking about being part of the Three Musketeers gain, but can he deal with the strife? Melody is always the peacekeeper in the group, but can she be that way forever or will she start rocking the boat?
The characters feel incredibly real, and I am sad to be at the end of this trilogy. I will continue to pick up K.R. Raye’s books solely from the amazing writing from this series. You won’t regret reading these so go on and pick them up!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
The Girl Who Escaped by Mark Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Girl Who Escaped was a fast and easy read for me. The story captured me from the very start, and kept me engaged throughout the entirety of the book. I did find some parts to be unbelievable or awkwardly written, but overall, it was very easy to overlook that. The plot itself centers around women being kidnapped and then sold, so there are potentials for triggers. Brenda, an FBI agent, specializes in sole survivors of crimes and working to help solve the case. Angie, the sole survivor of an event that left her three friends dead, is the focus of the story. Jake is a former marine and is accompanied with his support canine, Cody (who is so smart and charming). Everyone works together to try to help Angie regain her voice and point out the killer, or determine if Angie is not just a victim and a witness…. The story takes on many angles and twists that keeps you entertained. Jake and Cody were probably my favorite characters in the entire story. I also just found out that these characters are actually part of other stories as well, so I will definitely be reading more into this author!
Reviewed by: @zoltrixes
Jake by Toni Denise
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I enjoyed this romance story. This is not my first book by this author but this is one of my favorites yet. One of the things I enjoy most about this author is her writing skills and her ability to make her stories pop. This is a well written story about two people who have been hurt in the past. What happens when they go on a bilind date? You don’t want to miss what happens in this story. He is hiding his true identity, what will she do when she finds out who he really is? They are such great characters and have great growth throughout the story. Their chemistry makes the story easy to read. I enjoyed how they pulled me into the story from the start. They had me coming back for more and made the story hard to put down. I really enjoyed their story. I highly recommend this book.
Review by @bjwagner
Emma by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a series that I have read out of order but found thoroughly enjoyable anyway. Adding the first book of the series on to what I have read was always something I was going to do, and I am really glad I did. I had a great feel for the characters anyway but it was nice to finally get that full, overall development. There were definitely a few details in this book that I had missed out on.
As with the others this book is well written with a great, steady pace to it. I became invested in both the characters and the story and enjoyed that tale the author had created. This is a great series overall that is definitely worth a read.
