The Exchange: A Novel by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wow wow wow! The twists and the turns kept me on the edge of my seat. Sam wants nothing more than to follow her dreams (and run from her past). Nothing turns out how she thought it would be. She finds herself in a desperate situation where she must rely only on herself to get free. The tears and heartbreak are real, but who doesn’t love a book that breaks you a little.
Three Made in Heaven by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Madeline is 9 years old when she first meets Charlie and Cole. Even though they only see each other in dreams, they build a friendship as the years pass. There was an instant sense of connection which only grew stronger over time. Their attraction to each other also grew. Even as Maddie grows up and has relationships in the real world, she feels as though she is betraying Charlie and Cole.
However, once the nightmares start, their relationship moves into the real world. Charlie and Cole are determined to find the person who is tormenting Maddie’s dreams. When dreams turn into reality, Charlie and Cole are determined to keep her safe. Will they be able to stop the nightmare from becoming a reality?!?
This was a quick and easy read. It was an interesting take on a fated-soulmates storyline. There was a lot of steam…so be prepared for that. I enjoyed the “dream walking” aspect and found the reason they all met intriguing. Overall, a good story that I enjoyed reading.
Ruthless Hawke by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Jack is Issac’s past that he never has been able to get over. With unforeseeable circumstances Jack’s back in the picture and in danger. Soon he realizes Jack’s daughter is his and that he missed out. Fate has a way of catching up with what’s meant to be regardless of circumstances. Very good book I highly recommend.
Three Made in Heaven by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The fantasy twist in this book is one I haven’t encountered before and I really adored how this story was built! The three main characters meet as children and build an unbreakable bond, in their shared dream. As they grow up the love they share changes and grows as they do, yet the belief that they are all just conjuring’s from each other’s minds is a thread of doubt in all of their minds. What will happen if they try to find out the truth?! I just can’t stop raving about this book. The adult scenes are steamy as all get out, but the building of the relationship from the very first page is absolutely grippingly written! Read this one peeps, you won’t regret it!
The Exchange: A Novel by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was wild. I have never read anything by the author but that changes now. What a twist and turn, heart pounding read. Sam was a great character that seemed very well thought out. Her story had my brain short circuiting. I was up all hours of the night after reading this just thinking back on the story and recuperating all the feelings i spilled on the floor while reading it. A very interesting read and definitely worth sticking through until the end!
Echoing Hearts by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a really well written slow build romance. Honestly it almost reads like a “How to build a good relationship” style book in a way. With some self-help, healthy friendships, and a really nice irritating friends to lover’s story. Our male lead starts off getting left at the altar of his big grandiose wedding and ends up accidentally meeting the woman who is his opposite and life saver. I really can’t say enough about how much I enjoyed this book!
What I Wish I’d Known: For Writers: 100 Authors Reveal What They Wish They’d Told Their Younger Selves by H. D. Thomson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. While much of the advice given by various authors was the same or similar, one thing that really stood out was their encouragement to not give up and go with your gut. I had not heard of most of the authors but still found them inspiring and have added several to my TBR list. As someone who enjoys writing myself, I found it inspiring and motivational. Each person went through their own trials and tribulations and proved that you can persevere if you put the work into it. HIGHLY recommended for anyone considering writing your own books.
Deadly Intentions by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Anise storm is legendary, this specific book wasn’t my favourite which is understandable due to the fact that so many of her others are. The plot was great, the characters complex and held all the chemistry. There was just something missing for me, which is a personal problem and not something that reflects on the author or the book! It is well written and gives all the spice and thrill. I read in one sitting because like all of her others in my library, I needed to see what happened! Was not disappointed with the ending!
Cry Baby by Belinda Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What can I say? This was a great book to read and I fell in love with the characters! It was a fun and easy read that could be enjoyed as a stand alone but I loved it so much I need to go back and read the other Pierce brothers’ stories!!
Reviewed by @sparkinside
The Exchange: A Novel by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Trigger Warnings*** not exactly sure how to categorize these warnings.
This was a very dark read, I love psychological thrillers but this one had me deeply feeling all the emotions in this novel. Mujagic’s talent far surpassed my expectations.
I could not put this down, as much as I thought I had figured out all the twists and turns there was a new one ahead. Throughout the novel I had so many questions in which all were answered as I continued to read.
Certainly a read for psychological thriller lovers.
How To Write A Historical Novel And Love It by T.L. Clark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Such a GREAT read. This is a fabulous place to start if you are looking for answers to some of the hardest questions in writing historical books. This tells you how to go about the research and fact finding processes. Then there are tasks at the end of each section in the book to help you along. This book while not all encompassing in EVERY single resource is a great stepping off point for the beginner historical novelist.
Loretta’s Caterpillar by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I like how imaginative this book is. Even though it’s based on the life cycle of monarch butterflies, this short story manages to entertain the reader and breathe a bit of imagination into the narrative. I found that I’ve learned more about monarchs through this book than I had previously and could still thoroughly enjoy the story. The illustrations are easy to decipher and the storyline itself is easy to follow. The notes from the author at the end of the book also were insightful and gave me a sense of purpose and wish to follow through on getting some milkweed in the future. I would definitely recommend this book to those who have inquisitive children!
The Thieves by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I was first introduced to this author by reading the first book in The Millersville series, The Lodge. The Thieves is the second book in this high-stakes entertaining thriller.
It is a crazy and fast read and easy to get lost in. The Thieves is not as dark as the first book with its quirky characters that are well developed and will make you laugh out loud and at times feeling sad.
With family bonds, best friends, a heist, action, chase scenes, and some twisty plots you are sure to enjoy this tale. The twist at the end was quite the surprise.
This suspense thriller is adventurous as our MC embarks on a heist with guilt but a good reason. But when her loot is stolen the fun begins.
It’s one of those books where you can escape reality with a drink and sun.
How To Write A Historical Novel And Love It by T.L. Clark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
T.L. Clark has put a of lot work into this book to helping others. T.L. has ten years of blood, sweat and tears and writing and publishing experience under her belt. To help showcase her craft. She imparts that knowledge and wisdom to teach authors get the right steps in how to write a historical novel. But that is not to say what works for one will not work for another.
In this book you will find how to set up a checklist/steps/prompts to help you get going. Which aspects of history and historical facts you should research and those to leave out to maximum benefit. Step by step Guide to bring forth the effective ways from start to finish. To tips/hints on the writing process. Which is the best formatting options. How to go about publishing and finally how to put yourself and your book out there.
Although this is a helpful insight to the process you still find what works for you. If only one thing helps, then it was worth it.
Whether you are a new or an established author you never know it may just be some of the information contained in this book that helps you craft and refine your work in putting together the next big thing!
Reviewed by @jennadb
Saving the Gingerbread House: A Science Folktale by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Saving the Gingerbread House is Lois’s unique version of Hansel and Gretel. Children are going to love this folktale. With bright and colourful pictures the story comes alive as we adventure along to save the Gingerbread House. The story is aimed at children 4 to 8 years old.
There is more going on in the woods that send two curious minds out to explore.
All the witch wanted was to showcase her beautiful house and win the House Beautiful Contest. Does that happen or are her chances destroyed? To find out you will need to follow along on the adventure.
After reading this story the kids (grandbabies) wanted to make their own Gingerbread house and enter into a contest of their own. Of course they both won.
Reviewed by @jennadb
A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
A Stranger in Disguise is set in the beautiful city of Rome, Italy. P.J. is a new author to me and I was pleasantly surprised. It is also the fourth book in the Inspector Scala Mystery series. Unfortunately I was not aware this is the fourth book but I didn’t feel like I had missed anything. I will however be going back to start at the beginning because I like a good thrilling mystery.
Detective Maurizio Scala is once again on the case. He discovers there is more to the murder victim than he first realised. But to make matters worse this case is in a theatre and one of his least favourite places.
A Stranger in Disguise is an intriguing story that is gripping and has twists that will surprise you. I am not going to share any more so if you like a good mystery then grab a copy.
Reviewed by @jennadb
His Protector by Sara Vinduska
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Sara Vinduska is a new author to me and I was excited to see what she brings to the table. I must say I was pleasantly surprised and really liked this story. His Protector is a romantic suspense tale. The story is unique and original which is refreshing.
I love that there is a swap in the protector roles. The book is well-written and has characters that are well developed, with strengths and weaknesses that are believable.
Her job is to protect the number one man. But can she do her job and find the enemy before he takes him out.
He is still grieving but he can’t deny his attraction. Just because she is my protector doesn’t mean he won’t protect her.
There is a real slow burn that you just want them to give in and get to it. Ahhhh! It is a good story that is suspenseful, has some humour, is action packed and interesting.
If you are a fan of romantic suspense, you will enjoy this book. I look forward to reading more of Sara’s work.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Loretta’s Caterpillar
By: Lois Wickstrom
As a teacher, I am always excited when I see a new book by Lois Wickstrom. These books are always well written and informative. They explain scientific concepts to children in an engaging way. I truly love reading them to my classes and they love reading them as well. I am a teacher to children ages 4 – 10 and I use each book in a different way with each grade level. This book is not an exception.
I will say that I read this book with a Kindergarten class. They loved it! I did not read this with my other classes because we study the life cycle of butterflies every spring. This will now be a staple during this unit! It is going to be such a great addition I know that each class will love as much as I did reading this!
A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A Stranger in Disguise
By: P.J. Mann
This is the fourth book in the Inspector Scala Mystery Series. Don’t let that deter your from reading this book, because I have not read any of the others and I completely understood what was happening. But I will definitely be going back to read the others because I enjoyed this one so much!
This book features an acting company that is in a foreign land and is performing MacBeth. Everyone knows this play is known to be cursed. The actors definitely are trying to shake it off as rumors but weird things start happening. Then a cast member ends up dead. This is where Inspector Scala shows up. What he discovers is that the victim is not necessarily a simple actor, her life is far more complicated than anyone ever thought.
I truly enjoyed the twists and turns that were in this book. It kept me guessing for sure! I definitely recommend this great mystery.
Taylor’s Law by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ella has just lost her sister, Chrissy, to cancer and is now caring for her 2-year-old niece, Tessa. Life is challenging but Ella would not have it any other way, treating Tessa like her own. Ella receives a summons, in Chrissy’s name, to Taylor Law from a stranger claiming paternity and potential custody of Tessa. Chrissy never revealed who Tessa’s father was so Ella is worried they will take the little girl that her family cling to in loving memory of her sister.
Meanwhile, Jake is just protecting his family from being taken advantage of after receiving a letter claiming his cousin is the father. This story follows Ella and Jake as they work it out and their mutual attraction grows between them.
Jennifer Raines is now an author I will automatically read! This was a great read. Such depth and heart. Ella is strong and sassy, and I loved the banter between Jake and Ella. The Australian setting was fantastic. The story was so well thought out with a twist you don’t see coming and cleverly crafted characters – some with big hearts and others that I despised – a clear indication the Jennifer is amazing at this whole author thing! I definitely recommend!
The Exchange: A Novel by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is an intriguing story that I knew I had to try from the moment I read the description. The author has certainly thrown some twists and turns in there to try and keep you on your toes. The book has quite a slow pace to it, which I wasn’t expecting and it and it made it a little harder to engage with initially. However, I did still find myself following the story and wanting to know how things were going to turn out.
This is a new author to me and I think this is a good place to have started. This book really gives an insight into her writing style and I definitely enjoyed it overall. I am looking forward to discovering more of this authors work.
How To Write A Historical Novel And Love It by T.L. Clark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is such a helpful book, offering guidance and advice to any would be historical romance authors. The author takes you through all of the stages you will encounter on this writing journey and manages it in such an easy and informative way. Tasks are provided periodically throughout the book which help put into practice what you have learnt.
Writing a book is always something I wished I could do and books like this make it feel possible. I really enjoyed seeing the other side of this process and all of the aspects involved. This was a brilliant book and a really helpful tool for anyone ready to start their journey.
Cry Baby by Belinda Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
In a real life event Noah loses his best friend and gains a child in one day. Overwhelmed by his new life, Amy is the perfect addition by becoming a nanny to his now child Amelia. Amy wins Amelia’s heart and she will win Noah’s as well. This story is very relatable in events and the way life can be. Hardships and learning of love and living life. Definitely a good book to read.
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/74013821-master-calabrea” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Master Calabrea: Dark Vampire Romance (Masters of the Consulate Book 6)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1671601438l/74013821._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/74013821-master-calabrea”>Master Calabrea: Dark Vampire Romance</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21440759.Sylvia_Black”>Sylvia Black</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5382894887″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
How have I missed this author? <br />This book (6 in the series) can be read as a standalone and I am assuming the rest of the books are as easy to read and hook you in as much as this one does.<br />We meet and follow the partnership between Tansia and Master Calabrea, as Tansia is embracing the new after a bad relationship, she is certainly not looking for a relationship let alone one with Master Calabrea. Add in some supernatural sight and prophecy and the story grows and continues to keep you enthralled. <br />A definite book hangover to deal with after trying to read this all on one sitting.<br />
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/34425105-tracy”>View all my reviews</a>
What I Wish I’d Known: For Writers: 100 Authors Reveal What They Wish They’d Told Their Younger Selves by H. D. Thomson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
In this book over 100 authors share their wisdom, words of advice, and experiences of becoming an author. Some share some very personal stories of how they overcame the obstacles and personal issues to get to where they are today. Many share their stories of how when they first started, they received stacks and stacks of rejection letters from publishers. Many authors recall how friends and family laughed at them or mocked them for wanting to become a writer. Yet, despite all the rejection and the mocking they never gave up their dream of becoming a published author.
Whether it be years ago, in a time prior to Indie publishing, when they were trying to find a traditional publishing house, or now with self publishing options so widely available, there is a lot to learn. These authors share their vast wealth of knowledge and give tips and pointers on what it takes to be an author. Not only are we offered support and words of encouragement, but we are able to learn from mistakes they may have made on their own personal journey.
Of course, the one prevalent theme throughout is to just sit your butt in the chair and write. Whether it is just for a few minutes, or even just writing one sentence, but just write something. They also give tips on finding the time to write when you feel that your life is just too busy. Beyond the words of encouragement are invaluable pointers on not just the writing process but the publishing process as well.
Throughout the book is the common theme of never giving up and of believing in yourself, even when others do not. No matter how many rejection letters you receive do not give up. No matter how many people mock you for your dream do not give up. No matter how little time you have in your day do not give up. No matter what, sit your butt in the chair, write, and never give up on your dreams. As numerous authors said throughout the book, as long as you are writing, you are a writer. Thank you for this book and to these authors for sharing your stories, advice, and words of encouragement, I feel truly inspired!
Shameless Love by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
OMGosh! Another heartwarming showstopping story in this series and from this author. I could not love this series more! The writing is impeccable and filled with emotion that flies off the pages. The characters are full of heart and emotion. I love the whole family dynamic. I completely bonded with Elyse in here as she has not seen her family in years and is surprised at how together the Bennett family rallies. Seeing her watch his family and learn how to count on them as her own makes her yearn to reconnect with her own family. I love that Walt tells her that “the power to make that change is all hers”. Very strong words.
These books are some of my favorites to read. I actually devoured this one in a day.(24 hrs). The family together is one of my favorite things. Also that they run a Christmas tree farm but also grow wine that we always learn a bit about. Very cool as it covers year around financially. Plus Walt smelling of pine..who could turn that down. That epilogue really made my heart pitter patter and tears to my eyes! Well done!
I can’t wait for the next!
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/85172455-shadow-wolf” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Shadow Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 1)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1677047812l/85172455._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/85172455-shadow-wolf”>Shadow Wolf</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6567838.Lilliana_Rose”>Lilliana Rose</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5382831598″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
This is a new author to me and I can say I enjoyed the book.<br />We meet and follow Kodiak and Tamaska, he feels drawn to her from the first time he sees her, and he must protect her. Especially when it comes to light that the vampires are interested in her too: but maybe not keeping her alive.<br />Tamaska finds her career in tatters, when a precious gem is stolen, and her best friend missing. Is Kodiak to blame, and what this feeling she has when he is near?<br />This is an intriguing read, and I can’t wait to get onto book 2 this story needs to continue.<br />Great world building, and character development.<br />
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/34425105-tracy”>View all my reviews</a>
Cry Baby by Belinda Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Amy Highgate has what many would call a sunny disposition and personality, always seeing the glass half-full kind of girl.
Noah Pierce is…not great with people. Now, with the sudden passing of his best friend Beth, he is now playing father to a 7-month-old baby, thanks to Bethh giving him Guardianship over her little Amelia. And to top things off for Noah, he must now figure out who and find the real father of baby Amelia.
One thing leads to another, and now Amy is baby Amelia’s live-in nanny. With all the craziness going on around Amy and Noah, can they both fight their growing feelings for one another??
This was a delightful read, and I highly suggest taking some time to read through it! This is the 4th book in the series, and I’m looking forward to more work from Belinda Williams!
Loretta’s Caterpillar by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Loretta loves being outside in her garden and she is always discovering new things and today is no exception, Loretta is running down the garden, past the milkweed plants when she finds something she has never seen before. When she takes it to her parents to find out what it is, she discovers that it is a monarch butterfly caterpillar and is told to put it back where she found it, Loreta does this and decides that she wants to help it grow, so everyday she goes down to the milk weed to see her caterpillar and while doing this, she protects it from a bird, a lizard and a wasp as it grows.
Will Loretta be able to protect her caterpillar so that it can grow into a beautiful butterfly and can she learn about monarch butterflies at the same time? This is another fun and informative book in this series for all ages, with lovely illustrations which make it easy to learn and retain the information.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
Loretta’s Caterpillar by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Loretta loves to look out her window and watch all of the beautiful butterflies flying around. When she wakes up one morning and all of the butterflies are gone she becomes concerned. She goes outside to see what happened and finds a leaf with a tiny egg on it. The egg is from a Monarch butterfly and she is determined to take care of it and watch it grow. She protects the egg from a bird, a wasp and even a lizard as it grows and goes through metamorphosis. Loretta is thrilled when it finally turns into a beautiful butterfly and flies away to go through its migration journey.
I adore the stories that this author writes and find myself wishing that I had these books for when my children were little. Up until reading this book, my favorite book by this author was Bees in Loretta’s Bonnet. Now, I am adding this book at the top of my list of favorites. As with every book by this amazing author it is beautifully illustrated which really brings the story to life.
In all of this author’s books I learn something new and this one was no different. I was fascinated to learn that it took five generations of butterflies to migrate from the United States to Canada! I also learned the difference between a female butterfly and a male butterfly. I had no idea that there was a difference. Children of all ages will love this cute story about the life cycle of a butterfly from egg to metamorphosis to migration. I highly recommend!
