I was really excited to give The Misery House a try based solo on the synopsis as I had never heard of this author before. This was one of those stories that had me absolutely hooked from the very first sentence and captivated to the very end. I liked that the chapters varied in perspective, really allowing the reader the “big picture”. This novel left me craving more by the end and gave me a new author to keep an eye on!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Felicia Bateshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFelicia Bates2023-07-22 10:51:322023-08-03 13:19:17The Misery House (The House on the Hill Book 1) by David Kummer – Review by Felicia Bates
The Misery House is the first book in the House on the Hill series, and told from multiple POV. The book takes place is the quaint little town of New Haven, where everyone knows everyone, and nothing interesting ever happens. Growing up in a town just like this one, I immediately felt comfortable and familiar with the setting. That is, until things start happening. A local grocery store burns down, and two bodies are found inside. Then, someone goes missing. Are they connected? And if so, who, or what, is to blame? Could it be the new family in town? It soon becomes apparent that the creepy old house on the hill at the edge of town might be the connection. The locals call the house The Misery House, and nothing good is said about it. From multiple perspectives, you learn that everyone mutually fears the house, possibly for good reason. How is the house connected or involved? Where did it all start, and why? The Misery House reels you in and keeps you guessing and wondering. Unfortunately not ALL the questions are answered, as the book ends on a cliffhanger. I do like how the book kept me engaged enough to want to pick up the next one and see where this will end up, and the story itself was interesting and immersive. Job well done to the author for skillfully bringing all the perspectives full circle, and I will be happy to read more from him.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Swindlehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Swindle2023-07-22 10:47:392023-08-03 13:19:02The Misery House (The House on the Hill Book 1) by David Kummer – Review by Amanda Swindle
Here we go with another retelling of Jack and the trouble he can get into. Jack is not just lazy, he is greedy too. This has to be one of the cutest versions of this story. Jack continues to get himself in trouble. But can Jack escape the Giant once again? The author has written a story that I love, the grandkids did too. Great open discussion before and after reading this book. I have to say, I love this author as well as her twists on fairy tales from long ago. They are fresh and fun to read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Cindy Mayberryhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCindy Mayberry2023-07-22 10:46:012023-08-03 13:18:42How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Cindy Mayberry
This is a fantastic tale! I have read love stories involving three people and it can be difficult to find a balance. This book handles the different emotions and tensions very well! Rather than cause drama for drama’s sake, the emotions of these characters are raw, genuine, and they all have fantastic depth. I personally love the theme of fated mates and this author has such a unique take on it! Absolutely wonderful read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Alisa Boomerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAlisa Boomer2023-07-22 10:32:492023-08-03 13:18:25Love Bites More (The Darkness & Light Duology, and the Love Bites World) by TL Clark – Review by Alisa Boomer
A retelling of Goldilocks who makes herself at home at the three bears home. While there she uses tools to fix some of the furniture to make their life a little bit more enjoyable.
This was a fun story. I liked the fact that there are very simple ideas on how to fix items that could easily need a tweak at home. Helpful for children to learn problem solving and also be a helper around the house.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emily Heislerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmily Heisler2023-07-22 10:22:252023-08-03 13:18:17Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Emily H
This book was a great twist to the original. It was a fun, enjoyable read. I like how at the end it tells you a guide to the six simple machines she used an how you can use them. Illustrations were very age appropriate.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Mitchellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Mitchell2023-07-22 07:28:232023-08-03 13:17:54Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Dawn Mitchell
4 Stars Flowers of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries Book 1) by N.L. Holmes
Flowers of Evil is the first book in the Hani’s Daughter Mysteries Series. This is a Historical Cozy Mystery set in Ancient Egypt that I loved reading. The attention to detail along with developed characters make the story come to life and you feel like you are right there with them. I’ve read several books by this author and this one is definitely going on my favorites list. This story is packed with drama, mystery, suspense and had me turning the pages trying to figure out what was going to happen next. This is about two women who open a medical dispensary in Ancient Egypt . They find themselves in getting into more than they ever imagined. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I can’t wait for the next book in this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2023-07-22 02:00:362023-08-03 13:17:39Flowers of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
“A giant’s gotta eat. But people are afraid of him. A giant does what he’s gotta do. And so does Jack.”
How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom is another charming children’s fantasy story with interesting and colourful illustrations, plenty of fun, and adventure. It is a bit of a dark and humorous take on the classic fairytale “Jack and the Beanstalk” – with a twist. In this quirky story, Ms. Wickstrom gives us the giants POV- which gives the story added interest, and results in a fun and engaging story. The illustrations are great- big, bright, bold, and colourful – and really grabbed my grandchildren’s attention. Looking forward to more from Ms. Wickstrom. Happy reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2023-07-21 22:58:422023-08-03 13:17:23How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Angela Hayes
This was a wonderful story. It was sweet, pulled at the heartstrings, expressed independence, and strength. The Silent Woodsman was different from those of the same genre I’ve read in the past. A wealthy man and a not so well off woman, that’s been told in so many different ways. However I liked the story the author told. Survival seems to be Ali’s middle name. Alone on her life’s journey, after her brother disappeared. She’s strong and independent. She doesn’t let her misfortunes hold her back, she perseveres. Joe”JJ” is a man that’s never wanted for anything, well maybe his voice. A country music star from a well off family, is hiding away in isolation. Why? To heal. He never expected a beautiful woman would stumble upon his domain. Just one problem: he can’t speak to her. He’s intrigued and wants to know more, but how does one ask without speaking? A notebook. Once returned to civilization though he realized he made a mistake. He never got her full name. How will he find her? What happens when she shows up under his nose one day? Does he go after her? The author keeps you guessing, while taking you on a ride. A ride you won’t want to get off of. I know I didn’t. It just makes me look forward to future books in this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Beverly Place-Finniehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBeverly Place-Finnie2023-07-21 22:52:022023-08-03 13:17:15The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Beverly Finnie
This was an entertaining and spooky read! This is not my typical genre, but I enjoyed the story overall. The author introduced and told the story from multiple points of view which helped me engage with the story. I did find myself wanting a little more out of the character development, however, I did enjoy plot, setting, and development of the story. It gives you all the spooky feels of a haunted house story with an underlying mystery at hand! For reasons which will become obvious upon reading I can’t wait to see the rest unfold in a future installment!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jessica Condrahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJessica Condra2023-07-21 22:39:082023-08-03 13:17:06The Misery House (The House on the Hill Book 1) by David Kummer – Review by Jess Engel
How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them is an imaginative and fun retelling story book. It is aimed at children aged 4 to 8 years old. With its vivid bright and colourful pictures, it is a winner with children as they journey along. Lois’s stories are not just stories but there is always something that makes them learning tools as well that help with shaping and the development of young minds and skills. My grandchildren could not stop laughing as they imagined trying to get Jack into the cooking pot. This wonderful adventure story is a must as a gift for a special occasion or just because.
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 Bishop2023-07-21 21:56:322023-08-03 12:27:19How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jenni Bishop
This is a book that is really hard to put down! It’s a different kind of book for me in some ways, in others it’s not. I got a bit of an X-Files vibe from this book and I really enjoyed it!
Julia Xero is an orphan who’s faced more adversities in life than she should have. She has a roommate who is a model and whom I believe uses Julia. When an opportunity for a new job comes to light, Julia is ready for a change. She’s interviewing for a cleaning job but not your typical cleaning job. It’s a crime scene clean up gig. Not many people could endure such a job and her interview was pretty grueling to make sure she could make the cut.
Things start out as great as they could for someone cleaning up crime scenes, but then one night, a very strange call comes in. Life will never be the same after that! Not to mention, Julia learns that she’s been implanted with a sensor that could cause her carotid artery to explode. No worries, right?!?!
There are many interesting characters and lots of action in this book. I feel like it’s maybe geared more towards young adults but as a more mature adult, I enjoyed this too! I’m looking forward to the next book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie Johnson2023-07-21 21:50:372023-08-03 13:16:59The Secret Humankind (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Julie Johnson
Cute retelling of Jack in the Beanstalk, but told from the giant or ogre. My favorite part was when the “fear” of the boys “ruins their flavor. I teach elementary school and was pleasantly surprised to see this book (so often, it is 3 Little Bigs, 3 Little Bears, Little Red Riding Hood, etc.). I have mixed feelings about modernizing the tale to include influencing, but I will say, it was a twist I wasn’t expecting.
The ending is very cleverly written as well. The illustrations and text would engage a young audience and still interested elementary school kids.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Crainhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Crain2023-07-21 20:37:232023-08-03 13:16:51How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jennifer Crain
In “The Misery House,” skillfully crafted by David Kummer, a gripping and chilling tale unfolds as part of “The House on the Hill” series, with this volume just beginning an exciting journey. As a devoted fan of David Kummer’s work, I eagerly anticipate whatever captivating stories this imaginative author has in store for the future. Set in the quaint rural town of New Haven, the narrative unravels with disturbing events centered around the ominous Misery House. This foreboding structure conceals more than mere secrets within its haunting walls. Amidst the unsettling atmosphere, the Woods family and their dwelling on the hill become central figures, entangled in the web of danger that lurks at every turn. From the outset, the book enthralls readers with its spine-chilling allure, leaving them unable to resist its gripping pull. Death looms around each corner, infusing the story with an eerie intensity. The journey that unfolds is nothing short of exceptional, capturing attention from start to finish. “The Misery House” is a masterful blend of thrill and intrigue, keeping readers on the edge until the final page. You are left with unanswered questions since it is part of a series. As much as I dislike this, I look forward to the next book! Its unpredictability makes it the best story, captivating readers with every twist and turn. Once immersed in its pages, it becomes nearly impossible to put the book down.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Nicolehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngNicole2023-07-21 19:35:032023-08-03 13:16:42The Misery House (The House on the Hill Book 1) by David Kummer – Review by Nicole DeSantis
Highly recommend that you read Bella’s first book Craving Control before starting this series. (READ HER TRIGGER WARNINGS). This series is absolutely a dark romance and so unique. Bella had me on the edge of my seat, waiting for what would happen next. I am eager to read this entire series and see what happens to the Cherub, Venom, Slash, and the rest of the Black Shamrocks. I am grabbing the next book Making Choices, immediately.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Trista Martinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTrista Martin2023-07-21 18:55:412023-08-03 13:27:52Tempting Fate (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book 1) by Bella Faust – Review by Trista Martin
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but it won’t be the last. This was a quick read, but this didn’t stop it from being entertaining especially with the ex-drama.
There’s sizzling chemistry between Toni and Mickey and the story shows them both facing obstacles in turning a holiday fling into more. I was rooting for the pair, not only for their chemistry but because they’ve both been scarred by love and despite this, Mickey is charming but respectable whilst Toni knows her own mind and value. They’re both great characters who deserve the sliver of happiness they’re seeking.
This is a great read for a quick holiday option, so if you’re looking for a holiday read, I recommend this one!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-07-21 17:17:522023-08-03 13:27:37Love Is What It Is by Marina Hanna – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is another great children’s book from this author! Inspired by the Jack and the beanstalk story, we see the giant’s perspective on capturing and eating small boys.
This is a fun retelling, with some of the classic aspects being given a more modern twist. The story is appealing to kids, as are the accompanying illustrations/images.
As always, I believe this author’s work to be creative and great for the target audience: children. I’ll be looking out for more by this author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-07-21 16:42:112023-08-03 13:27:27How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines is an imaginative retelling of the classic fairy tale Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Goldilocks is riding her bike through the woods one day when she comes across the home of the three bears who are out for a walk. In this version we learn about simple machines as Goldilocks goes inside and fixes things around the home of the bears. She fixes the porridge, a wobbly table leg, and baby bear’s broken chair. When the bears come home, they find Goldilocks sleeping in one of their beds and use a simple machine to lift her out of the bed. Goldilocks also helps baby bear raise a flag using a simple machine. This was such a cute, imaginative, and entertaining retelling of the classic fairytale. Kids will learn about six simple machines as well as kindness, respect, being helpful, learning how to problem solve, and leaving things better than you found them. This book was engaging and fun, but I was disappointed in the quality of the illustrations and found them to be a bit childish. (No offense to the illustrator, just my personal opinion.) I hope that in future editions of this book the illustrations will be more like in the author’s other books as this will really make the story pop off the pages. Overall, a great book!
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 Barnes2023-07-21 16:10:172023-08-03 13:27:15Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines is an exciting new take on the old Goldilocks tale! I really enjoyed the retelling through the imagination of Lois Wickstrom. She has taken the basic premise of the original story and added such easy-to-understand scientific elements. This book’s Goldilocks leaves behind so much more than a mess. Goldilocks uses problem solving, kindness, and simple tools and machines to leave things just a little bit better than the way she found them. A great children’s story for any age!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Mandy Otthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMandy Ott2023-07-21 16:00:262023-08-03 13:27:06Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Mandy Ott
How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them is a cute children’s book that is based loosely off the Jack and the Beanstalk fairytale. The story is told from the POV of the Giant who tells us how he intends to capture little boys so that he can eat them. The Giant seems to have it all figured out and even has it planned out step-by-step. He makes it easy for the boys to steal from him so that they continue to come back and is careful not to scare them because this will ruin their flavor. When Jack meets the Giant, he offers to do an infomercial for the Giant so that he will have more little boys climbing up the Beanstalk to the Giant’s home. What the Giant does not realize is that Jack might have more to his plan than he is letting on. I loved this retelling and found it cute, funny, and whimsical. I loved that Jack ends up tricking the Giant and that the Giant never saw it coming. The illustrations were bright, colorful, and really brought the story to life.
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 Barnes2023-07-21 15:40:242023-08-03 13:26:58How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
This book is a well written thriller. Told from multiple POV, it builds the suspense as you are going through and it keeps the page turning. There are so many elements to the story, all of which point to the Misery House. I couldn’t wait to see how things would play out. This is an author I am newly familiar with and this book has certainly piqued my interest enough to read more. I really enjoyed getting pulled into this story and I will be the first in line to read 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 Baker2023-07-21 15:11:152023-08-03 13:26:49The Misery House (The House on the Hill Book 1) by David Kummer – Review by Kerry Baker
This is yet another fun and entertaining story that had our whole family hooked. My kids have asked for this story multiple times and I think we could recite most of it from memory by now. The story was such a great one. Well written and engaging. The images just added to the overall effect. I feel like such a broken record when I review a book by this author. They are all so good I can do nothing but shout about it. I must repeat myself time and time again. And I will do so again now. This book is well written, fun and such a joy to read. I would definitely recommend it.
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 Baker2023-07-21 14:56:222023-08-03 13:26:39How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Kerry Baker
This book is geared perfectly towards it intended audience. Aimed at pre-teens, it is about a young girl who is determined to go after what she wants. It is an entertaining story and Lizzie is a truly easy character to get behind. If I wanted my kids to learn from a character, this would be the kind of one I would pick. She is fun and entirely enjoyable to read about. This was a new author for us to discover as a family. This is a book we read over a few days and it was lovely to spend the time together. We all enjoyed this book and cannot wait to see what else this author has to offer.
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 Baker2023-07-21 14:47:032023-08-03 13:26:16Hole in the Rock by Rebecca Bischoff – Review by Kerry Baker
So, this wasn’t exactly what I was expecting. The relationship between Vic and Logan was everything it needed to be. He was her friend, he was her big brother, he was her boyfriend, he was her savior. She was his everything. The story was good. The characters were sappy and endearing.
There were a couple of things that bothered me, like the timeline. Vic said once it had been 8 years, and Logan said it had been six. A couple of other bobbles in the timeline but it didn’t completely detract from the impactfulness of the story. But, the things were not enough for me to understand the importance of Vic’s story.
Logan Lancaster moved next door to Victoria Appledeen right when Vic needed him. Logan and his mom, Annie, became Vic’s family. Unfortunately, they could not break Vic away from her abusive step-father. They just had to do their best to keep her out of his reach. It mostly worked up until Vic was about 15. Two months before her 16th birthday, Vic disappeared. Her stepfather took her. Logan couldn’t get anyone to believe it. For the next 12 years, Logan searched for Vic. Logan was finally able to convince the FBI that Vic’s disappearance was more than just them leaving town. Logan hired PIs to follow up on the clues, tips, and information that no one else would. Logan didn’t give up. Can Logan save Vic?
I don’t want to spoil the ending. This book has many topics that could be triggering for some. Although, not graphically discussed there is talk of rape, violence, other human trafficking and child abuse.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00M Policicchiohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngM Policicchio2023-07-21 12:42:382023-08-03 13:26:05The Finding (Berrycreek Heights Series Book 1) by A. M. Porto – Review by M Policicchio
Flowers of Evil is the first book in Hani’s Daughter Mysteries series, and I hope to see more from this series. Branching from the Lord Hani series, this author writes I was intrigued by the idea of Hani’s daughter taking after her father. Filled with beautiful detail of Ancient Egypt, this murder mystery is a great addition to anyone who enjoys mysteries or historical fiction. The author creates fascinating characters and weaves in wonderful historical information allowing the reader to find themself taken back in time. I enjoy the Lord Hani series, and this is a great addition to that series. You will not be lost, though, if you have not read any of the author’s other books. She creates a well-connected plot with interesting characters set in Ancient Egypt. I recommend this book, and I look forward to what this author brings to us next.
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 Schrader2023-07-21 12:07:292023-08-03 13:25:56Flowers of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Sheri Schrader
The Secrets They Hide: An Italian Murder Mystery is the second book in A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome and is a great read. This is my first book by this author, but I will return for more. Commissario Scala is stubborn and determined when put on a case. I won’t risk giving anything about the plot away because that is the worst, especially with a mystery. The book is set in the beautiful city of Rome, but there are dark secrets behind a recent murder. Will Detective Maurizio Scala be able to unravel the pieces of the puzzle? I enjoyed reading about Scala and how he goes about processing the pieces of the puzzle left at the scene. I read a lot of mysteries and sometimes get disappointed by how formulaic the stories get. I was not disappointed by this one and will go back and read other books in this series. I was able to unravel the pieces before the end, but the writing kept me reading until the end. I definitely look forward to reading more from this author soon.
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 Schrader2023-07-21 11:45:282023-08-03 13:25:43The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Sheri Schrader
Brutal Start by Isla Vaughn is another entry in the Hidden Valley Elite series. This book is our introduction to Phoenix and Aspen’s story. I recommend reading the series to get the best context and back story of the characters. This book follows Phoenix as he starts College as an up-and-coming football star. This is what he has worked for his entire life. Football, so he can chase his dreams of making it in the NFL and sticking it to his awful father. But what happens when a night of fun with a girl named Aspen flips his whole world upside down. This Author, this series, these characters are so good. They have been living rent free in my head ever since the first book and I am eagerly awaiting the next installment. 5 out of 5 Stars.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Victoria McQuigghttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngVictoria McQuigg2023-07-21 11:19:112023-08-03 13:24:59Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn-Review by Victoria McQuigg
Oh my god!! Talk about a tease!! This short intro of Aspen and Phoenix’s story leaves you hanging to make sure you read the full book. Now if you have read the other books in this series, you know you won’t be disappointed! I have read each book in this series so far and let me tell you this author does not disappoint with any of her books. Phoenix is a football star excited to get to Thane with his cousins Cole and Damon and twin brother Shane. Yet one last party and an accidental meeting with Aspen might derail his plans. How will Phoenix make football, college, and Aspen all fit together? Can he make it work? Aspen is a spitfire with her walls up, and after watching her parent’s unhappy and unhealthy relationship over the years, she could never fall in love. I can not wait to read the full story!!
Honestly, when I saw the cover I was not sure it was going to be my style – but I am SO GLAD I gave it a shot, book reviews can really make a world of difference! This book had me in stitches, the settings were vivid, the characters are memorable and fantastic…just what a stellar book!
It starts right from the beginning, drawing you in with action and stupendous world building. There’s a vibe I never thought I’d enjoy with the fantasy style, but Marluck feels like he could be a best friend and you just want to see where he goes in his redemption story. Along the way, the Oathbreakers Guild shows how quirky, hilarious, and oddly relatable they are in such a fantastical journey. Truly a treat to read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shea Gilkersonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShea Gilkerson2023-07-21 10:29:012023-08-03 13:23:42Oathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren – Review by Shea Gilkerson 7/21/23
Notebook Mysteries ~ Parisian Intrigue by Kimberly Mullins. This is the 6th book in the Notebook Mystery series. It can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading them in order. The gang has gotten a weird invitation in the mail to go to Paris. Its for 5 weeks and Emma just thinks its very weird and is suspicious from the get go. Everything is paid for and arranged so they load up and go. This is 1889 during the Paris Exposition so on the way over on the boat a few of the passengers become really clingy. When they arrive there are bodies that turn up, secrets of all kinds and varieties and the Exposition is in danger of being ruined. Will Emma and the gang be able to solve the murders before more bodies turn up or will they just go back home without helping. Will the be able to enjoy Paris while they are there? Read this fun mystery to find out.
We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.
Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.
Essential Website Cookies
These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.
Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refuseing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.
We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.
We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.
Google Analytics Cookies
These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience.
If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here:
Other external services
We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.
Google Webfont Settings:
Google Map Settings:
Google reCaptcha Settings:
Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:
Other cookies
The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them:
Privacy Policy
You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.