My Goodbye Girl by Anna Gomez
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Adorable story, relatable, real world characters, and so much distance in between. This book was so descriptive! If you are interested in travel at all, read this book. It really describes all of the beautiful venues these characters visit! It’s a love story like no other, and you are rooting for the characters all the way through.
Shalom Israel: A place like no other by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I picked this book for my eight and eleven year old just as much as I picked it for me. I’ve been teaching my kids about different cultures, backgrounds, religions, and traditions. Being Jewish but never seeing Israel had me drawn to this book. I could teach my kids a little more, but also myself at the same time! This book was so informative during a whole journey through Israel. You go through a huge diverse, fascinating, beautiful, and historic land. You can see the amazing lands of colors through the landscapes pictured in these pages. I really loved the fields of flowers, but my girls loved the camels and beach art. There is a wonderful glossary at the end of the book that explains some of the words, but also has some great facts about the photos and places. I would recommend this book not only to kids, but anyone who wants to visit Israel one day. This is a great guide to many places there. But also anyone who wants to learn a bit more about other places, culture, food, land, and traditions like I did. I can’t wait to check out some of the other books from this author!!
*•.*
*.•* BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE *•.* *.•* 
Salvatore
Abandoned by my father.
Orphaned at four.
I grew up penniless, knowing I had the birthright to so very much more.
But it made me strong, and gave me a thirst for REVENGE.
I swore an oath to take my vengeance.
Each life I take is a step closer.
Forcefully, I reclaim what’s mine.
My rightful place at the head of the family and more importantly; her.
The girl who was never meant to get under my skin.
Serafina
Born the elder daughter to a powerful and traditional family in southern Italy,
I have it all.
But I dream of escape.
Only one person understands me.
A wild, dark-haired young man who silently offers me his solace.
Until one day he singlehandedly tears my world apart.
Whatever my dreams were, I will forfeit them all to save my family.
This book sucks you in from the very first sentence and keeps you there for the entire book. The characters and storyline are intriguing the entire way through.
Mitch is going through so many things in every aspect of his life that it feels like he just can’t win and right when you think you have it figured out for him, there is another curveball. All eyes are on him, a few times, for different yet similar reasons and you just aren’t sure who to believe. Living in a small town, near his wife’s close knit family, has him feeling even more alone as they drift from him as well as everything he has worked so hard for.
This is a great read!
Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
Cruel Start is Book #4.5 in the Hidden Valley Elite series by Isla Vaughn. Wow- this series just keeps getting more intriguing and angstier with each new addition. As with the other books in the series it is a New Adult Bully romance, with a surprise pregnancy element, chemistry, spice, angst, drama, friendship, intrigue, emotion, family drama/dynamics, secrets, fear, and lies.
This is the prequel to Aspen and Phoenix’s story, a novella length morsel to whet the appetite- which made for a quick and intriguing read. Aspen and Phoenix’s story continues in the next two books- ‘Cruel Hate’ (Book #5) and ‘Cruel Love’ (Book #6)- so I can’t wait to lay my hands on them to find out how their story unfolds from here.
Even though this is book #4.5 in the series, it could be read as a standalone if you wanted, being the first book in Aspen and Phoenix’s story. But, having said that, I highly recommend reading the previous books before starting on this one as I feel that knowing what happened there will definitely enhance your reading experience of this story. The previous books help lay the foundations of the series, as well as giving character introductions, backstories, and other ‘groundwork’, which having on board will definitely help your understanding and appreciation of each instalment, as well as the Hidden Valley Elite series, as a whole.
Bring on Book #5!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Isla Vaughn!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
The Master of Demise by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Master Of Demise: A Dark and Riveting Psychological Thriller
By: Nadija Mujagic
Review by: Susan Ratchford
4 Stars
The title absolutely says it all! The Master Of Demise by Nadija Mujagic hooked me from the first paragraph and kept me reading! I was so entranced by every twist and turn and this book kept me guessing until the very end! Mitch is a very entertaining character that you can both hate and like at the same time. I really enjoyed it! This is my first read by this author but it will for sure not be my last! I highly recommend The Mater Of Demise to any lover of thriller, suspense, murder, or mystery! You will not be disappointed!
Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I’m completely hooked on this series. And Cruel Start is the beginning of the next duet. The next member of the Elite is destined to fall, or is he. I love what the author does with these books. The chemistry and drama between the main characters is crazy. But you know what? I eat it all up. I want more and can’t wait for the 2nd book in this duet and 6th in the series. This book was on the shorter end but it was the best place to end the story.
Phoenix’s only focus is football. He doesn’t have time, nor does he want a relationship. Well that was till he physically ran into Aspen. He’s still reluctant, however something happens that could change that.
I can’t wait to see where this author takes this duet. I’ll be anxiously waiting.
A Match Made in Montana by Elsa Winckler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
One small town.
One broken heart. One impulsive decision. One new start. One Marketing whiz.
A meddling Aunt. A wedding. A two-week vacation. A bed-and-breakfast.
A Match Made in Montana is the second book in The Millers of Marietta series. This series is about the Miller siblings so make sure you read the books in order as these wonderful characters cross over.
This second chance romance story fun and easy to read. This heart-warming tale is well written and is filled with mixed emotions, taking chances, laughter, family, tears, love, lots of chemistry with spicy undertones.
With just the right pace, some tension, and realistic characters that you can’t help but like it is easy to become invested.
Annie is from the big city, but the impulsive decision is the best she has made. A small town with family is just the place to heal.
Craig’s is determined to help but he sees so much more than a marketing campaign. The only problem is their lives are worlds apart.
With past hurt between them will they open themselves up and take a chance to the possibility of love.
This delightful story leaves you eager to read more of the series.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
This book contains mature content that some readers may find disturbing.
Cruel Start is the fifth book in this enemies-to-lovers, NA sports romance in the dark Hidden Valley Elite series. It is the prequel to Aspen and Phoenix’s duet Cruel Hate and Cruel Love. I can’t wait to get my hands on them. Make sure to read them all in order so you don’t miss out on any of this delicious goodness.
She is just hanging in there then her world is completely turned upside down, it was just supposed to be one last fling, now it is one big surprise.
These complex characters are the Elite they are bullies and alpha young men who rule the Academy. Are they dangerous? Absolutely. Do they take what they want? Oh yeah. Do what they want? You bet they do. Do they rule both on and off the field? In more ways than one. But beware the young women who are just as complex and ferocious. It’s hard not to like them.
There are characters that you will love to hate and hate to love. Isla writes them so well.
This dark college bully romance tale is another tangled web for one of the Hidden Valley Elite where there is sizzling heat, plenty of passion, lots of angst, drama, thrills, fear, secrets, lies, deceit, harassment and jealousy.
This series just keeps on getting better and better. Cruel Start does end in a cliffhanger that continues with the next book Cruel Hate which I can’t wait to get my hands on.
Reviewed by @jennadb
I thought I loved the last two books in this series but this one slammed me into the book like I had nothing to lose. I absolutely loved this one and can not wait for the next installment. This is the first to tell you of Phoenix’s love life though if you read the first books from the Hidden Valley Elite, you’ll know more about him. Aspen is something new , something special but will fate bring them together or will they fall apart?
I literally couldn’t put this book down. I absolutely loved it. From the Characters, to fantasy of being taken and given into your desires. I felt drawn to Kay because we share similar issues… Working so much and not giving yourself a vacation or just some down time. It can hurt you more than anything. Erik (Eros) reminds of someone that I can’t have. He is everything to me until he isn’t but even then he is so much more then I could have ever imagined. I can’t wait to read another book by Aria. I use to think that I would never like books like this but I do. Grant it, its’ nothing like my mom’s romance, fantasy books which is something I would never read.
Twisted Eros by Aria Skylar
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I literally couldn’t put this book down. I absolutely loved it. From the Characters, to fantasy of being taken and given into your desires. I felt drawn to Kay because we share similar issues… Working so much and not giving yourself a vacation or just some down time. It can hurt you more than anything. Erik (Eros) reminds of someone that I can’t have. He is everything to me until he isn’t but even then he is so much more then I could have ever imagined. I can’t wait to read another book by Aria. I use to think that I would never like books like this but I do. Grant it, its’ nothing like my mom’s romance, fantasy books which is something I would never read.
Shalom Israel: A place like no other by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is really fun in the way it has the cartoon like characters and the backdrop is realistic, it catches the eye and makes you look. I loved learning about the different places around Israel and the many different things to love. The back has a glossary of the places and things mentioned and it is nice to be able to learn about things and places that are popular in other countries. I think the book will have kids asking questions and wanting to learn.
Brutal Nights by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Excellent ending to Skylar and Damon’s story. I love the love Damon has for Skylar and all he is willing to do for her, to protect her and defend her. Gia being mad at Skylar is completely reasonable, it breaks my heart that Skylar is so upset about it, but I feel like I would be too if my best friend slept with my supposed boyfriend. I can’t cut her any slack for deceiving her best friend but the way her and Damon act around each other is just the sweetest. The extra drama of Skylar’s dad adds that extra layer to the story that really brought it all together. I can’t wait to see what comes next. I really hope its Tracey and Shane’s story because at this point I hate Tracey so much and really hope they break up, unless there is more to her than we think.
Sacrifice Bunt by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Perfect. Sometimes I just need a sweet, sexy and no drama romance. This hit the spot. Noah being in love with Zara for so long had me falling in love with him. This author creates a light story but also sheds light on real genuine issues. Noah and his panic attacks and Zara with her fear of falling in love. My heart just melted watching how Noah had no problem waiting for Zara as long as it took and seeing Zara talk with her friends and realize things about herself was sweet. I love their love.
A Match Made in Montana by Elsa Winckler
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3.5 stars for this read.
I enjoyed this story but if I hear “beading” or “throbbing” again anytime soon, I might cry. It was overdone. I found Annie to be a very likeable character and her determination to get her B&B up and going is commendable. I also found Craig to be likeable but I like Hunter even more.
This story deals with lost love situations but not all love is romantic love. The comparisons and contrasts of the relationships in story are what really drew me in and kept me reading. Choices made based on past experiences with love influence what Annie and Craig think of their futures.
Overall, an enjoyable book. I did not realize that this was part of a series. It can be read as a standalone without missing out but I am curious to know more about Ted. I’m not sure if he’s in the first book or not.
A Match Made in Montana by Elsa Winckler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the second book in the Millers of Marietta series. The fact that I dind’t realise until half way through the book that this was likely not the first goes to show that this can be read as a standalone. I will be going back to read the first book though. There is background that is missed but not reading the first book for example the previous couple’s story but overall, this doen’t impact the current story line as all vital information is given.
This has quickly become one of my favourite romances. It’s fun, easy to read and sweet. I enjoyed the humour from page 1, it was brilliant. Annie and Craig are perfect. I love them! They’re fun characters and relatable. Annie was my favourite by far. Her comments and actions are unintentionally funny and she reminds me of a couple of friends in that way.
The author’s writing is descriptive without being too much and simple without being patronising. It’s easy to follow and a great read for when I was feeling down.
I loved this book and look forward to discovering more from this author!
Holding Up the Sky by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Colleen’s dad has a very important job – he holds up the sky! Unfortunately, the townsfolk don’t understand or appreciate what he does and he is bullied. This is my first book by Wickstrom but I love how she built into a lesson without taking away from magic and adventure. The illustrations were adorable – I loved this little book!
Holding Up the Sky by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is another wonderful story by Lois Wickstrom! Holding Up the Sky is a great story that helps children understand difficult subjects like bullying, inclusion, making peace with those you may not agree with, etc. The tale is told in such a way that it’s interesting to kids and should hold their attention while also delivering an important message. The illustrations were artistic and easy to follow as well. This is a great story for kids of various school ages!
Shalom Israel: A place like no other by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a lyrical story that describes Israel in pictures and prose. The story highlights the beauty of the land both naturally and culturally. The illustrations are within photos and make each page inviting and fun. My favorite part is the glossary in the back, it even helped me with some terms, and I am an adult! Adorable book!
A Match Made in Montana by Elsa Winckler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A Match Made in Montana is Book Two in The Millers of Marietta series. Although it is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone. The story centers around the characters of Annie and Craig who initially attempt to deny the attraction they both felt when they first met.
Annie is getting over her fiancée calling off their wedding with only weeks to go until they were to wed. Also grieving the loss of her parents, she needs a change of scenery and moves to Marietta where she uses her inheritance to open a B&B on Bramble Lane. Unfortunately, she has yet to have many customers booking rooms and business is slow. Craig is a genius at marketing who just happens to be in town on a two-week vacation for his cousin’s wedding. His Aunt Janice decides that it would be a good idea if he used his marketing skills to help Annie bring customers to her B&B. Neither Annie nor Craig are looking for a relationship due to bad past experiences, so they choose to make the most of their two weeks together and enjoy each other’s company. When they realize they have feelings for each other can they still part ways after the two weeks is up? Or does fate have more in store for them?
This was a beautifully written story with a believable storyline, lovable characters, and a great setting. The characters of Annie and Craig were well suited for each other, and I found myself cheering them on to be together. Both Annie and Craig were carrying around baggage from their previous relationships that were preventing them from seeing themselves fall in love with anyone in the near future. Yet, when they first met months prior to Craig coming to Marietta for a vacation neither had been able to stop thinking about the other. Each tried to deny their feelings, but fate had other plans. Annie and Craig must work through their emotional baggage and try to leave their past behind. This book had love, passion, chemistry, romance, and a feel-good vibe that leaves you ready to read the next book in this series.
Soul Redeemed by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Julia is still honing her skill to reach out to the spirits of passed friends. With her ka-tet, she finds building trust with them all to be daunting. While some are willing to believe that she can speak to the dead, others remain skeptical. As Valentino’s band brings trouble to their area, can she manage to strengthen her abilities to help defeat them, or will she still be the weak link that they fear and cause their destruction?
This series seems to be building to a big face off, and I am looking forward to it. With some many characters in different areas, I found myself hoping they would all gather together in this book. They didn’t, but there are reasons for that which are left to be seen by the reader. I appreciated the author taking the time to describe how Julia works through her trauma, how others encourage her, and how they help her. Definitely looking forward to seeing the outcome and how everyone pulls together to defeat Valentino in the end.
Grand Slam by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Grand Slam
By: Bree Kraemer
This is the third book in the Ground Rule Series. Each book definitely functions as a standalone. However, I have thoroughly enjoyed this series and definitely recommend reading the whole thing as each book is so very good. This is a contemporary sports romance with characters who are so very well written. The main characters have such amazing chemistry and its the type of book that I love, the kind that you wish will never end. I have thoroughly become invested and involved in the world that Bree Kraemer creates in each of her books. It doesn’t hurt that this features baseball players, as I enjoy baseball and grew up both playing softball and surrounded by family members that have played throughout high school and in their adult years. Bree Kraemer writes characters who have fantastic banter and the dialogue between Heath and Grace definitely falls into this category. I hope that this is not the end of the series as I have loved every book so far!
Falling Again by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this book! In the third book in the Buckeye Falls series, we meet characters Nicole and Anthony again. They are having a rough spell in their marriage and are desperate to reconnect. I read this book after reading the first two in the series, but I feel this book could be read alone. I was so excited to revisit Buckeye Falls! This book features wonderful dialogue and excellent characters. I love the steamy romance scenes. As with the other two books in the series, I love the friendships formed between the main characters. I recommend this book, especially for married couples.
Soul Redeemed by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the 5th book in the series and I would definitely recommend reading the others first. This series seems to go from strength to strength, with no signs of slowing down. It is impressive the author has managed to successfully keep the series going for this long.
It was so easy to slip back into these characters and the story. This book is just as exciting as the others and I loved how it all developed. The book was well written and intriguing. I am thoroughly enjoying this series and cannot wait for more.
Shalom Israel: A place like no other by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a lovely and informative book aimed at kids. Saying that, there were things I learnt from reading this book, even before reaching the facts page.
The images were colourful and fun with a mi of photo and cartoon. I personally liked how many places within Israel were shown in the images and text.
This is another great kids book which combines fun and education, keeping kids engaged while they learn.
Twisted Eros by Aria Skylar
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
When I started reading this, I didn’t realise it was the start of a series with modern tellings of ‘myths’. Now I know, I’ll be keeping my eye out for the others, I love a good retelling.
This follows Kay’s journey of learning to let go and betrayal and Erik coming to terms with who he is. I enjoyed how their chosen names reflected the Greek ‘myths,’ it was a nice touch for the modern aspect.
I enjoyed the author’s writing style; it was easy to follow and clear. The dialogue was believable, and I felt for the turmoil Kay and Erik must have been feeling.
I look forward to more works by this author.
Brutal Nights by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Brutal Nights is the continuation of Brutal Days. I love how Brutal Nights picks up right where the previous book left off. The main character’s development does grow as the story goes on. The characters show how vulnerable they are when their walls are down. The story flows seamlessly from one character to the next.
Brutal Days by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Brutal Days is a good book to read if you want to get away from reality. All of the characters are very well developed. While reading you can imagine how certain high school groups act towards one another. There is a lot going on and to keep up with which makes reading all the more entertaining.
Holding Up the Sky by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Super cute story! My kiddos loved it. Sweet and simple, easy to follow, but still conveys an important message. Very good book!
Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This author is totally teasing me in a good way with the beginnings of Aspen and Phoenix’s story.
The college years are to be one of the best when you are one of the up and coming new stars on the football team for Thane University like Phoenix is. All about football, grades and his focus on NFL future…Phoenix wants success….but when he meets the beautiful “surfer girl” in Aspen…one fun night may impact both Phoenix and Aspen’s futures….what is to come with Phoenix and Aspen….
I highly highly recommend reading this series in order, you get to know a little more of Phoenix at the beginning…..and I cannot wait until the next book comes out to find out what happens to both Phoenix and Aspen. I love this series and author, just have to have patience until the next book is released.
Happy Reading!