I enjoyed reading this book. It was fascinating to see inside the minds of different authors and how they each felt about their writing careers. Topics covered ranged from actually writing to the power of faith in yourself and the process of dealing with self-doubt, advice and the worth of persistence. All in all, I appreciated getting an insight into the author’s retrospection on their career and how they became published by finding their own process. It was encouraging and enlightening, all at once!
If anyone is thinking of becoming an author, I feel like this is a great book to add to your library to encourage you on days that are hard. Something you can have in your back pocket on to pull you out of the mire of bad thoughts.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Desiree Ottingerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDesiree Ottinger2023-03-02 19:44:172023-03-03 11:52:11What I Wish I’d Known: For Writers by H.D. Thomson – Review by Desiree Ottinger
What I Wish I’d Known: For Writers is a collection of advice from 100 different authors. I found this to be an interesting read. Some information is relatively basic, but others bring up points less often considered. It was nice to see traditionally published authors while others are part of the independent publishing world. This book would be great for those considering writing a book or early in their publishing career. I appreciated the various points of view and how these seasoned authors approached their own writing and the advice they gave. I enjoyed this book and everything it contained.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sheri Schraderhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSheri Schrader2023-03-02 19:36:252023-03-03 11:52:02What I Wish I’d Known: For Writers by H.D. Thomson – Review by Sheri Schrader
What an inspiration!! In this book, 100 HIGHLY accomplished authors (I won’t throw out names, but trust me there are so many good ones that I knew and even some I didn’t that I plan to look up!!) talk about what they would have wanted to know when they were first starting out in the writing world. They share not only their time, but also their extensive knowledge in this book. Paying it forward to other aspiring authors. New and old alike! If you feel like you are having problems on what to write, wondering if you are doing it correct, wondering what you should be doing differently, or just need a little help getting motivated this is the book for you!! In the great pages of this book these authors give you encouragement, cautions about some things, so much inspiration, and more!! Things they wish their younger selves would have know before starting their very own writing careers. Imagine if everyone had a handbook on their career path, written by greats before them!!! People would jump at that knowledge! This is that book for authors! You will find SO MUCH helpful information. From writing, the industry itself, the business aspect, what to avoid and what to look for, to time management, lots of ideas and inspiration, and even stuff about conflicts that can arise with friends and family! It really is just a HUGE book on a writing career and what you need and don’t need to get where they are/have been. With each new author I found at LEAST one thing that I loved about their entry in this book. The way some of them write their entries, is just as inspiring! You can tell that a lot of love and care went into their words for others. You can find some real gems! Authors inspiring other authors to get their stories into the world! I LOVE IT!! I wish I would have read this book sooner! Maybe it would have pushed me to write sooner. I am that person with TONS of ideas, with little, to no follow through. This book has tips to help that too! And more!!!! If you are writing a book/books I have to recommend this book to you! You can be a number one best seller on the top and I would still tell you to read this book!! It is that good and has a TON of great advice and information. So what are you waiting for?? Read this book and get to writing your next book(s)!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jaimie Salmon-Colburnhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJaimie Salmon-Colburn2023-03-02 19:21:082023-03-03 11:51:51What I Wish I’d Known: For Writers by H.D. Thomson – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn
This was a really good book! I was drawn in immediately from thr first chapter. The chapters were a little long in some spots that I didn’t like a lot (I’m not a big fan of long chapters and this book 800+ pages) but it honestly felt like it was flying by just because it was do well written. I felt like I was right there in the story! This was a fantastic book and I highly recommend it especially if you’re a person who like LGBTQ+ stories!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rachel Mosshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRachel Moss2023-03-02 19:00:212023-03-03 11:51:41The Man in Black by L.R. Liverpool – Review by Rachel Moss
Fenimore was the son of a farmer but always dreamed of becoming more. Having read a lot of articles about famous outlaws, Fenimore decided that it’s the life he always dreamed of. He set off on his adventure of finding a gang and becoming famous as well, changing his name to Simon Shaw.
Time goes by when he meets Red Evans and his gang. Simon is invited to join the gang and doesn’t hesitate. Quickly he learns that life as an outlaw is nothing like he imagined. He thought it was all adventure and riches, never taking into account it also included murders and life on the run. On top of that revelation, he also is questioning his sexuality. Simon started developing feelings for Red’s second in command, Monty.
Killings among the crew start happening and it is a mystery as to who is doing it. The killer is always one step ahead of the gang causing Red to start losing his marbles thinking that he has a rat within his own men. Simon starts regretting this whole thing but it’s too late to tuck tail and go home especially when he could be the next victim.
I have to say that this book has so much going on within that I am finding it difficult to put into words. I usually hate reading anything of the Western style but the other going ons in the synopsis intrigued me. Even though to me Westerns are boring, this one was not. There was romance, mystery, murder, and it delved into darker topics like racism, homophobia, possible rape etc. It was packed full to the brim with different topics.
My only issues with this book are that the author kept switching from first name basis to last name basis of the characters that I found it a bit difficult to keep track of who’s who. The second issue is the book is divided into 3 parts and part 1 felt like it was dragging on too long before anything of importance happened. Once I started in part 2, the plot started to speed up and get more exciting.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Santana Hickshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSantana Hicks2023-03-02 18:48:442023-03-03 11:51:30The Man in Black by L.R. Liverpool – Review by Santana Hicks
So I’ve been writing since I was 14 and I’m about to be 31. This book gave me some insight into achieving my goals. I highly recommend any writer despite your skill set to read this book. I love that they’re not necessarily giving us advice but their younger selves I feel that makes paying attention so much easier. Because I sure don’t like unsolicited advice.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Diazhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Diaz2023-03-02 18:33:242023-03-03 11:50:53What I Wish I’d Known: For Writers by H.D. Thomson – Review by Angela Renee Diaz
Mission 3047 is a metaphysical sci fi adventure story from Stuart. This is an original story, which is as unique as his story telling. From Stuart’s personal experiences, explorations into space, aliens, top secret risky and courageous missions and so much more it is a tale that will engage readers. With beautiful and loving family, friendships and adventures you can see Stuart’s heart and soul within the words. Stuart is good at giving his readers stories that are thought provoking and intriguing, interesting and entertaining but also a little different and that is what I have come to like about them. The characters are complex and yet simplistic in the way they embrace life and their ups and downs and love for anything new. It has you wondering where we fit in within the universe. If you like something a little unique, a little different then grab a copy today.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2023-03-02 18:32:522023-03-03 11:50:16Mission 3047: One Soul’s Fantasy by Stuart Ledwith – Review by Jenni Bishop
Trigger warning: May have scenes of violence too intense for some readers. Fallen Soul is the fourth book in the unique and dark War of Destiny series. It is a paranormal, fantasy story with vampires. Who doesn’t love a good vampire story? It is as engaging as the other books. Lane tired and longs for the home he once had. He is trying to keep ahead of the Vampire King who wants his head. Danger is everywhere. But when he stumbles up something he has not seen before he is not sure if it is friend or foe. Theresa is a great storyteller and at weaving a wonderful tale. There is plenty of violence and action and the characters have depth and meaning. War of Destiny is a multi-layered and exciting series. With lots of intense danger, intrigue, imagination and twists and turns will keep you glued to the pages. Don’t miss out on this epic series where the tension is ripe.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2023-03-02 18:17:582023-03-03 11:50:07Fallen Soul (War of Destiny Book 4) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Jenni Bishop
This novella is amazing. I am developing quite a love for historical fiction, especially those stories that deal with the harder parts of history with a kind eye and empathy. This story definitely fits that description. The main characters in this story are Jo and Dusty. Jo is a young black maid who is running away scared for her life. Her mistress has accused her of a murder she did not commit. She runs to the only person she feels can help her – a 40 year old white cowboy. Dusty and Jo have always felt a mutual attraction but they have never acted on it. I truly enjoyed watching how they interacted and how Jo trusted Dusty. I definitely recommend this story!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christinehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine2023-03-02 18:15:132023-03-03 11:49:57The White Knight Cowboy (The Studs of Clear Creek County) by Stacy-Deanne – Review by Christine Baranek
This is not the typical book that I read. I do not generally read books about witches and wizards. That being said, I stepped outside of my comfort zone to give this book a try due to the fact that it is YA and I am a teacher who interacts with middle school students. I like reading books that my students might like so that I can recommend good reads to them. This book is one that I will definitely be recommending to my students. This story is very unique and I will say that the storyline kept me reading, because i wanted to know what happened next. I truly enjoyed the characters in the story and really felt invested in the conflict between the witches and wizards. I also liked the twist that the help that Wilf seems to be causing some of the chaos. I definitely recommend this book for anyone who likes fantasies.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christinehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine2023-03-02 18:04:452023-03-03 11:49:48The Veil of Corruption (The Virus of Beauty Book 2) by C.B. Lyall Review by Christine Baranek
Let me start out by saying that Susan Specht Oram is quickly becoming one of my absolute favorite authors. She always delivers on the suspense and the twists and the turns. I love an author that keeps me guessing on each page and this book delivers on this. This book is also filled with quirky characters whom I loved. This book is told from alternating view points which I personally loved, because it allowed you to see multiple perspectives throughout the book. I love the premise of how a woman who is trying to help her father by obtaining cash through questionable means ends up being stolen from. However as the story goes on I really found myself questioning who were the bad guys. I definitely loved this book and cannot wait to read more by Susan Specht Oram!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christinehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine2023-03-02 17:54:412023-03-03 11:49:41The Thieves (The Millersville series) by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Christine Baranek
I truly loved this book! This features two strong characters who acted with integrity. It features the president of the United States who has just been widowed and in losing his wife he also lost his unborn child. He has a secret service agent who is assigned to protect him. She is developing feelings for him. However, she doesn’t know if the President feels the same way. There are still very valid threats against the president’s life and the more time they spend together the more neither of them cannot deny their feelings. This book combines romance with suspense. I love how well it is written and how developed the characters are. I definitely recommend this book and I love that it combines genres!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christinehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine2023-03-02 17:19:572023-03-03 11:49:35His Protector by Sara Vinduska – Review by Christine Baranek
This is such a cute version of Hansel and Gretel. I definitely will be reading it to my students when we get to our fairy tale unit. I love that this has a science spin, just as all Lois Wickstrom books do. It has absolutely adorable pictures to go along with the text. I actually love that this has a such a positive spin on a fairy tale that can have more of a dark spin. I love that Hansel and Gretel work with the witch to restore the house, fixing their mistakes. I definitely recommend this story. Especially when reading the original too. I think it can lead to many conversations between children (or students)! This is one I will be recommending to all of my teaching friends!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christinehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine2023-03-02 16:55:502023-03-03 11:49:27Saving the Gingerbread House by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Christine Baranek
Sheriff Elizabeth Benoit is recovering from emergency surgery and is at home trying to recoup but life does not stand still in a small town that is shrouded with secrets. As she sits at home, murder and kidnapping are taking place just like the one that happened 25 years ago to her best friend. The similarities are uncanny! Not only is she trying to solve the 25 year old case but now this new one as well. Secret calls, a camp in the woods, and the Good Ol’ Boys Club is not helping to make things any easier. Deputy detective Lila Dayne who is an outsider to the town is hitting brick walls with every turn and needs the help of the locals who don’t want to hash up old crimes or feelings. Prominent members of the small town begin to disappear and then Elizabeth’s sister has gone missing. Will they be able to find her in time or just her dead body at the end of the day? Packed with mystery and intrigue this is such a great book. Strong female leads and a bit of romance and sizzle add to the story that kept me on the edge of my seat! The setting is so like a small town and the locals behave just like those in my town hiding the truth to keep their own noses out of trouble! A definite must read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephanie Driskillhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephanie Driskill2023-03-02 16:34:402023-03-03 11:49:01Straight For the Kill (Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 3) by Winter Austin- Review by Stephanie Driskill
Elizabeth Benoit’s best friend died of an accidental overdose 25 years ago. Elizabeth suspected that there might have been more to the case but chose to push those feelings aside and move forward. Lila Dayne is a Deputy working in the same department as Elizabeth Benoit who discovers the body of another young girl twenty five years later who has died under similar circumstances. Lila chooses to move forward with the case without involving Elizabeth but that does not go well. As Sheriff of the department not only is she Lila’s superior but it also becomes personal for Elizabeth because of the loss of her friend in a similar manner years prior.
As Lila digs deeper into the case she comes up with a list of suspects but nothing concrete. As Lila struggles to pinpoint a main suspect in the case important members of the community suddenly vanish. This leads Lila to believe that there is something bigger at work and that there is more to this case than she originally thought. Elizabeth has tried to stay away from the case due to the personal issues of it, but when her sister suddenly vanishes, she must do everything she can to find her. Elizabeth and Lila must team up to solve the case and bring the murderer to justice. Will they be able to find out in time before more people vanish?
This book kept me on the edge of my seat and was action packed out of the gate. Both Lila and Elizabeth are smart, strong, independent, feisty, kick-ass women who do not back down from a challenge. I found myself cheering them on and trying to crack the case along with them. A highly suspenseful, action packed read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-03-02 16:16:082023-03-03 11:48:11Straight for the Kill (Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 3) by Winter Austin – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Once again, this author did an amazing work of art. This book had me on the edge of my seat form the start to the finish. I still have not read the first book but did read the second one before this one and can firmly say that these books can be read by themselves, but I will for sure be going back and reading book one. The suspense in this book was just as intense as the other reads. I highly enjoyed this. The love you can tell that Elizabeth had for her friend you can tell was very real. And the way she goes about it to find out what happened is truly something amazing. But these two women are an amazing example for women helping women and supporting each other to figure this all out. I highly recommend these books if you love crime, suspense, and mystery.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Reimerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Reimer2023-03-02 15:47:352023-03-03 11:48:02Straight for the Kill (Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 3) by Winter Austin – Review by Jennifer Reimer
This is an interesting and informative yet lighthearted non-fiction guide to writing a historical novel, aimed at a novice writer. Written in a fun and approachable style, I felt as though I was sat down with the author having a chat over a cup of coffee. Set out in chapters each one with a different topic, the book is easy to navigate and to go back to chapters if needed. I particularly liked the ‘tasks’ at the end of each chapter which made me think, and do a bit of homework! The author is obviously very knowledgeable about both writing historical novels and of the publishing process, after all she is a best selling author with ten years of experience, and it shows. The author has openly and honestly provided the beginner novelist with her years of wisdom, whilst not shying away from the fact that writing is hard work. Tips on writing, formatting, publishing, and advertising are all provided along with a bit of hand holding from a professional, who you feel wants you to succeed.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2023-03-02 15:45:532023-03-03 11:47:54How To Write A Historical Novel And Love It by TL Clark – Review by Jennifer Gordon
The is the second book in the series and is a brilliant follow up to book one. I would recommend reading these in order as this story follows on from the first. It was so easy to get back straight back into this story and the characters from the moment I started reading. This book has the same unique feel as the first and develops the story so well. I wanted to see what was going to happen and where the story would take us. I think this author has created a great and interesting YA story. It is appealing to all ages really hits all the right marks. This is only the second book that I have read by this author and yet I think I am already on my way to becoming a firm fan.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2023-03-02 15:37:432023-03-03 11:47:44The Veil of Corruption (The Virus of Beauty Book 2) by C.B. Lyall Review by Kerry Baker
Lila Dayne is a Deputy with Eckhardt County who survived an attack on her life by a serial killer. Two years later she is haunted by the memories of that vicious attack. Still running from that night and trying to overcome her fears she is desperate for a fresh start. Even after moving to a small part of southeast Iowa, Lila is unable to shake her fears of constantly being watched.
Elizabeth Benoit is the new Sheriff of the department in Eckhardt County where Lila is now working as a Deputy. Elizabeth is quickly thrown from her task of stopping corruption into the solving of murder when dead bodies suddenly start to appear. The murders are freakishly similar to those of a serial killer who left bodies along the I-80. When one of the bodies portrays a sinister message directed at a member of the department it sets off a chain of events that has one member spiral out of control.
I loved this book and found myself really invested in Lila and her story. I could feel her fear and experienced the terror that went along with her as she fought through the things that triggered her. As I read along and followed her on her journey I found myself trying to solve the mystery of who the serial killer was and why they were after Lila. I was compelled to read through in one sitting to find out what was going to become of Lila and solve the mystery along with Lila and Elizabeth. I was on pins and needles as the story unfolded. This book is full of action, suspense, mystery, and intrigue. I highly recommend!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-03-02 15:30:082023-03-03 11:47:27Hush, My Darling (Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 2) by Winter Austin – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
I am always so excited to pick up a book by this author and I was equally excited for the second book in this series. I loved the characters as soon as I started reading. They connection was undeniable, no matter how much they wished it weren’t. I found them to be engaging and entertaining, adding so much to the overall story. This book is everything I have come to expect from this author. It is well written, a great story and just an overall amazing read. It pulled me in straight away and I got lost in the story and the characters. This is yet another fantastic book from an incredible author and I cannot wait for the next book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2023-03-02 15:25:022023-03-03 11:47:19Shameless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls Book 2) by KG Fletcher – Review by Kerry Baker
This book was such a great read from start to finish, that I couldn’t wait to know what was going to happen next. The suspense, mystery, was just amazing. The characters Lila and Elizabeth were well developed and so intriguing to read about. The twist and turns in the story were just what I needed to keep me reading and not stop. I’m a big fan of serial killer stuff and books and this was just wonderful. This was the second book to the series, and I have to say I didn’t read the first boo but that didn’t stop from this amazing, wonderful read, and I was never lost that I didn’t know what was going on. I absolutely loved this book from beginning to end.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Reimerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Reimer2023-03-02 15:22:482023-03-03 11:47:09Hush, My Darling (Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 2) by Winter Austin – Review by Jennifer Reimer
As a person that has started writing, put it down, and picked it up again this book has been inspiring to me. I would say that this is a great resource for aspiring authors. There are 100 authors that were willing to share what inspires or motivates them, and what some struggle with. They share tips on time management, character building, editing, etc. There were many authors that shared their pearls of wisdom that I had not heard of before, but one bonus to that is now I have found several new authors to read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie McComashttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie McComas2023-03-02 15:09:042023-03-03 11:47:02What I Wish I’d Known: For Writers by H.D. Thomson – Review by Julie McComas
This was an adorable little book. It is part of a series about insects by Lois Wickstrom. What I like about it is that that the artwork is just as amazing as the story. It held the attention of both of my kids and it also provided a lot of education on the lifespan / metamorphosis of a Butterfly. After we finished the story I let them ask any questions that they may have had and turned it into a complete educational experience.
My oldest kid said: I really loved the story and how she learned all about the lifecycle of butterflies like I did in school. The cover of the book was pretty and the inside pictures were too. I liked how some of the words looked different [note from mom: this was really cool and it emphasized certain words].
My youngest kid said: It was very cute. I liked the pictures and butterflies. The one caterpillar pooped a lot [insert childish giggles here]
Now both my kids want to visit a butterfly garden! Fingers crossed that I can find one that will be as entertaining as this book was!
After graduation Sam leaves her small hometown behind her to move to LA and start a career in acting. Once in LA it is not as easy as Sam was hoping that it would be nor is life as she had expected. Her apartment is rundown, the neighborhood she lives in is rampant with crime, and her money is running out. Things start to look up for Sam when she lands a meeting with a talent agent, but her hopes are quickly dashed when the agent rejects her. With her hopes and dreams suddenly shattered Sam starts to look for a job to make ends meet. She finds a small coffee shop that hires her immediately and she eagerly accepts the job.
While at work an attractive man comes into the coffee shop and flirts with Sam who instantly becomes smitten with him. Cory promises her that he can help her with her acting career and takes her under his wing. He helps her out of her desperate situation and offers her a room in his house where she can feel safe. It does not take long before Sam realizes that something is not right with her living situation but with nowhere else to go, and no money, or job, she brushes off her uneasy feeling. When Sam becomes pregnant Cory offers a proposition that seems too good to be true. He can make all her acting dreams come true in exchange for her child.
Four years go by, and Sam is living a normal life and raising her child on her own. When her child suddenly goes missing without a trace Sam wonders if Cory has made good on the deal and taken her child. She is desperate to find her son, at any cost, but what will that cost be? To what lengths will Sam go to in order to save her child?
This book was a brilliant read and I instantly fell in love with the character of Sam. She was smart, determined, strong, and never gave up hope no matter how dire the situation became. She kept her wits about her when most others would have given up all hope and fallen into despair. Cory was superficially charming but something sinister lurked under the surface. This book took some twists and turns that I did not suspect coming and they caught me off-guard. To say that Sam was clever is an understatement. Wow, just wow! I will not spoil it; you will have to read it for yourself. Brilliantly written!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-03-02 14:39:492023-03-03 11:46:54The Exchange by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75554457-the-exchange” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”The Exchange: A Novel” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1672780965l/75554457._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75554457-the-exchange”>The Exchange: A Novel</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20556790.Nadija_Mujagic”>Nadija Mujagic</a><br/> My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5385545117″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /> I enjoyed the book, but at times the pacing of the story was a little slow. This is a quick read if you aren’t looking for longer book and need something for a car ride or traveling. Samantha the main character is a struggling actress that is looking for her big break. However, as is the world, she is in need of money which then leads to title of this book ‘The Exchange’. The ending was a bit of a twist, and worth the read! <br/><br/> <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/44107748-emily”>View all my reviews</a>
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emily Beehlerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmily Beehler2023-03-02 14:38:022023-03-03 11:46:38The Exchange by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Emily Beehler
Wow I loved this one! It had everything! Humour, romance, hot sex, a definite page turner. This follows Charlie, Cole and Maddie as they meet in their dreams. Over the years and the continued dreams they come to form a very close bond. Each thinks they are just dreaming and that the other 2 aren’t real but they are all real people in separate parts of the country. But once they find each other then the real fun begins! It’s so good and I couldn’t put this down. Highly recommend it!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emma Samwayshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmma Samways2023-03-02 13:45:462023-03-02 13:48:26Three Made In Heaven (Made In Heaven #1) by Elena Kincaid – Review by Emma Samways
I found it very interesting to read what various writers went through and they advise they would give their younger selves about the writing process. I enjoy writing for myself, not for publishing but still managed to feel inspired/motivated by some of the advice given. The authors had various backgrounds and publishing journeys which made the book more inclusive, and I imagine relevant to more people who may not be considering the traditional routes to publication. Not all advice focuses on the publishing side of things though, there are authors who touch on subjects such as writing techniques and self-doubt (this one is my downfall) which was both interesting and inspiring to see how others overcame these issues. There are even some pieces of advice that can be taken away and used outside of writing. Each author is different, and it helps to show that what works for one person, may not be the best option for another and to keep an open mind to various possible solutions which may benefit you. This is a useful book which tips for writers, but even if you’re an avid reader I think this would be an interesting read and insight into the authors behind the story.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-03-02 13:24:412023-03-03 11:46:31What I Wish I’d Known: For Writers by H.D. Thomson – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
My complete opinion is this story just seemed a little unrealistic. But put that aside, the character perspectives were written well. I didn’t really like Elyse because I felt she was a bit trashy and out for an easy target. She really didn’t focus on Becky as she should have.
Shameless Love is the second book in KG Fletcher’s The Bennetts of Langston Falls series. The story alternates between the views of Walter Bennett and Elyse Farrell. Walter Bennett has moved into the Kirby residence after purchasing the property from Mrs. Kirby. Glen Kirby, her son, still blamed Walter’s brother, Ted, for the death of his brother, Joe. Something subconsciously makes Walt take extra precautions while he is at his new home. While Becky is visiting Walter, a cat shows up, and its collar shows it belongs to Mrs. Kirby. Walt names the cat Garth.
Elyse Farrell and Albert Tompkins have come from Atlanta to ask Becky if she would like to do a screen test. Becky is unsure if she wants to go alone. Elyse offers to hire an assistant for Becky, but Walter states that he will accompany her. Elyse manages to schedule Becky and Walt before New Year’s Eve. She has her eyes on Walt, hoping to catch his attention as well.
After Walt and Elyse both acknowledge their attraction to each other, they end up spending the New Year’s Eve weekend together. Things don’t work smoothly when Becky is dressed professionally and the camera crew zooms in on her cleavage. Walt punches one of the cameramen. Becky decides she isn’t going to continue with the screen test because she isn’t comfortable with the circumstances. Elyse shut Walt out and refused to acknowledge their potential relationship.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephanie Runyonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephanie Runyon2023-03-02 12:09:232023-03-03 11:46:22Shameless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls Book 2) by KG Fletcher – Review by Stephanie Chapman
I am a fan of this author and her children’s books she puts out. This one is just as Good as the others I’ve read. This is a story of Hansel and Gretel and how they helped the witch when all the animals were eating her house she was hoping to win a contest.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Mulveyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Mulvey2023-03-02 11:15:152023-03-03 11:46:12Saving the Gingerbread House by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Michelle Mulvey
What makes this novel a thriller is the psychological aspect and impact it can and does happen in our everyday real life. A budding actress, Sam, moves west to LA where she dreams of being on the Hollywood red carpet and big screen. She meets someone who guarantees they will help her become a star. The truth behind his lies will bring you page after page of terrifying thoughts and images. If you love psychological thrillers like I do then this book won’t disappoint!
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