Lilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a great story with great life lessons. I read this with my 6 year old son and we both enjoyed the story. He really seemed to learn about how to tame worries. He learned that sometimes being nervous and excited can feel like the same thing. The illustrations were also great!
A Rainbow Like You by Andréa Fehsenfeld
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
While this novel isn’t my typical jam, I really enjoyed the characters, the storyline, and the author’s writing style. I was fascinated by synesthesia and I think Fehsenfeld did a wonderful job of realistically incorporating that into her character. I think my favorite thing about the novel is the way the author developed her characters. I’m a sucker for good character development and Fehsenfeld didn’t disappoint. The characters were well rounded and believable. I loved the bond that Adrian and Hastings form even though there are those who try to distort what their relationship actually is. Overall, I just really connected with the characters. They were realistic and believable and just really well done. Great read.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
The Reluctant Suitor: BWWM Historical Western by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Billie Jean is visiting family in Clear Creek County. What she didn’t count on is meeting the handsome gentleman that rescues her from her runaway horse. Fisher immediately falls for Billie Jean, but when racial tensions build, will his love for her be enough to leave his family and follow her?
Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister
Firewall by Jessica Mehring
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Veronica is a top-rated cyber security tech for a financial company. A suspicious fire, a planted bug on a server, two break-ins on the same night, Veronica goes on the run to try to find who is behind the data breach. A quick-paced, romantic thriller; I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Review by Terri Jo McAllister
Love, Only Better by Paulette Stout
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I found this read enjoyable and I liked the message the book was giving about women as sexual beings. Women exploring their bodies and finding out what they enjoy is to this day still a bit of a taboo subject so I really like the fact that the author has highlighted this, hopefully this will lead to conversations starting and stop other young woman going through life feeling the same as Rebecca like they are damaged and not normal.
Rebecca has gone through life feeling like she isn’t normal. She doesn’t have the same experience as “normal” people do when they are intimate with their partners and this issue weighs heavy on her mind. Especially since this was the reason her last relationship failed.
Now she is on a mission to to find out what is wrong with her and she is determined to solve this issues. Is she broken as she fears or is it something else?
This story is a journey of self discovery as Rebecca learns things about herself she didn’t realise and also learned how things that happened in her past still effect her today.
There are tears, heartbreak but also a spark of hope in the new love interest Kyle.
This book to me felt personal as there were parts that I could personally relate to and I understood the emotions that Rebecca went through.
The author for me took a very sensitive and not talked about subject and brought it out into the light in a way that women reading it will no longer feel alone or abnormal about their bodies and their feelings. For me it was a very moving and empowering read.
Love Bites More by T.L. Clark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this one. It’s written from different characters perspective which I really liked. It made the story more interesting and made if flow more. I particularly liked the fact that before you even read the book it’s got a review of the 2 previous books. (This can be read as a part of the series or a stand alone) I haven’t read the other 2 books so it was good to get some context. There’s nothing bad about this book in my opinion, highly recommend.
The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a great story! I enjoyed all the adventures that Russ goes on with the magical carousel. This is a wonderful story but has a lot of factual information and some learning/growing that takes place. This author has an imagination and I like how she incorporated it into the different horses on the carousel. I myself have often wondered about the history or back story of each horse. That she brought that to life as well as show us how important horses were to our history is just excellent.
This is written for a median age child but I enjoyed it and think it would be a cool book to read to a child and keep an eye out for illustrations of our hero in action. Many discussions could take place after each chapter. I also recommend reading the “Things you might want to know” after reading. It is very interesting and might answer some questions from a child. I especially like the author’s thoughts on horses and her cute photo at the back. It rounds out the whole book nicely.
Great Cover Art!
I Am An Outer Space Alien by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I read this with my 6 year old son. We both enjoyed the story. A cute story about a little girl who feels she is from another planet. She doesn’t like some of the earthly things on this planet so builds a radio to try to talk to other aliens. My son really loved the pictures too.
I Am An Outer Space Alien by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This children’s book is about an “earth girl” named Shirley. However, Shirley hates the letter “y” and believes she is an alien so she goes by Shirl. She tries to prove that she is not an Earthling by not agreeing with aspects of Earth such as liking spinach and playing basketball. She enjoys building radios so she can talk to the aliens. She is wishing to meet an alien from her home planet. And what do you know, an alien shows up trying to find her home planet. The two play and the alien discovers that she does nothing the same as on Earth so she states she is going to keep looking for her planet. Shirl is upset because she also doesn’t think she belongs to this planet, but convinces the alien to stay and that they would have so much fun making earth their planet if they can play together every day. This book is a short, weird story for children. The illustrations are cute but the story for me is a little out there. But, I guess if you are older, it could be said that even when you feel out of place, having a friend always helps – which is a great lesson for kids.
Firewall by Jessica Mehring
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Firewall by Jessica Mehring- 5 out of 5 stars
This book is written in dual POV, but I did not find it hard to follow at all. The characters had such great chemistry and their playful banter really makes them relatable. The author knocked it out of the park with this one. I plan to binge read her other books now. Definitely a must read.
Review by @elishajohnson
This story took me several chapters to get into. It is a psychological tale with drops of romance, love, and tons of mystery. The author has you wondering and patiently waiting for the outcome. When I finally got into it, I enjoyed it very much.
The second book in the Things Unseen series. I definitely recommend reading the first story Dead Sound before even starting this story. This story goes into more of Con and his family while still following Neve as well. This story was a bit more twisted than Dead Sound. After reading the first story I expected so much different and was blown away by the story twists.
Ten Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann- 5 out of 5 stars
So cute! This adorable book is full of colorful images that attract little ones to the pages. I love how this book is both educational and fun. As a parent I appreciate the sing-song rhythms because my children absorb information easier when the books are not boring. This book is anything but. I highly recommend this book for even the littlest of readers.
Review by @elishajohnson
Cruel King by K.M. Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is an amazingly written enemies to lovers trope. I was constantly turning the pages to see what was going to happen next. The hate to hate to maybe like to love is beyond what I was expecting. There are twists and turns that I didn’t see coming but were everything to the story line. The growth of the characters felt organic and not rushed or dragged out. The flow of the book was well done. It didn’t feel like certain scenes carried on or others were rushed. It was a very steady fast pace. Well, not super fast, I just read fast. This book made it hard to put down and I found myself getting agitated at anyone who interrupted me reading. This is how you know it is a good book. I highly recommend reading this if you just want to escape for a few and forget about your day to day.
Reviewed by: @bbohls
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Royally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a book by an author that I never hesitate to pick up. An author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up. This is the first book in this series and what a great start it is. I can’t wait to see what happens in the second book. This is a well written story about a steamy stranger and sex on the beach. A story where there is forbidden love and opposite attraction. I enjoyed these characters. They are strong, connectable and had me coming back for more. There is great growth as well as chemistry throughout the story as well. A fast paced story that you need to find out what happens next. This is a fast paced, engaging story that is easy and entertaining as well. This is a great book which has a little bit of everything in it. Don’t miss out on this one. I highly recommend this book.
Review by @bjwagner
Dead Keen by Anise Eden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the second book in this series and the conclusion. I highly suggest you read the previous book before this one to see where the characters have been and where they are going. I enjoyed this first book and this one is just as great if not better. I found it to be well written and suspenseful that had me coming back for more. I enjoyed how the characters not only pulled me into their world but also made me feel a part of it. This is a fast paced story that is hard to put down. A suspenseful story that has twists and turns that will leave you on the edge of your seat just waiting to see what would happen next. I enjoyed the growth of the plot which added to the story’s entertainment value and was easy to read. I enjoyed this suspenseful thriller and I highly recommend it.
Review by @bjwagner
Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Refrain (Off the Record) by Madelynne Ellis- 5 out of 5 stars
This is the third book in this amazing series. Let me just tell you, WOW, it takes you into a rabbit hole. The intensity that Spook goes through with his mental health is heartbreaking. After his soul mate’s brothers attacked him, Spook withdrew and ran from everything. I wanted to jump into the pages and give him a hug. This is definitely a must read! I do recommend reading from book one so that you don’t miss any important character developments.
Review by @elishajohnson
Royally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This made me think of an adult version of Cinderella. Bridget meets Fyn on his private beach. The fun and adventure starts there. She doesn’t realize he’s a Prince. I fell in love with this story because they both had to overcome so many challenges. The King and Queen were stuck on tradition and, quite frankly, were snobs. Not my favorite, but definitely antagonistic characters. I loved the storyline and how it flowed. This author does such a fabulous job with her stories that you just feel like you are there watching it. I can’t wait to read book 2.
Rogue Wolf by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was another exciting book in the series. Tamaska wants to be changed and Kodiak is now the Alpha. Challenges are being made and Vampires are coming. The action! The drama! I loved the intensity of the story. The suspense and not really knowing what was coming. The characters again are outstanding. I love how Kodiak handles the ones who step out of line. This is definitely worth reading. It’s an exciting series.
Regaining Integrity by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a quick read for me. I thought the overall story flowed well. The arc of the characters was well developed. I liked the way the different themes came together. I would definitely read more by this author.
Dead Keen by Anise Eden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Con and Neeve have gone to Ireland to help his brother, Eammon, with a perplexing case involving his fiancée. This book had me intrigued right from the start. The prologue just reaches right out and grabs you. The author’s descriptions make you feel like you are right there watching as they participate in the deed. I loved the characters. They were so well-written and the Irish landscape was described so well. Someday, I just want to visit. This story line was perfect. I loved the thrill and suspense. What did Max do? Did he really do it? How did he do it? What a thrill ride! If you haven’t gotten to imbibe in the Con and Neeve series, I would highly advise you to do it. A favoirite on my author list. Definite must read.
The Silent Woodsman by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this sweet, HEA from Cat Treadgold. JJ is a country music star who is under strict doctor’s order not to utter a word in order to heal so he heads to the woods, away from society, to heal and figure some things out. Ali is trying to figure out if her twin is still alive and gets caught in the woods during a storm and has to seek shelter in JJ’s cabin. Here’s the kicker…Ali has no idea who JJ is and he can’t speak so they ride out the storm together. But alas, they are from two different worlds and eventually reality hits and they have to return to them…but can they keep their flame alive? I really enjoyed Treadgold’s writing; however, there were times where it was a little slow and I wished the story would just move along. There are many twists and turns in The Silent Woodsman so there’s really something for every romance lover. I can’t wait to see what Treadgold has in store for the second book in the Olympic Peninsula series.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
A Rainbow Like You by Andréa Fehsenfeld
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A truly fascinating story. We have Adrian, the rocker, trying to deal with burnout, OCD and color blindness on a tour that brings major drama Then we have Hastings, a teen stowaway, on Adrian’s bus. She has synesthesia and a plot twist that I didn’t see coming. Toss in Sasha-Rae, Norm, Sven and Exile, and you have a cast of characters that make for a book you cannot put down. There are so many sub-issues being dealt with in this story along with the main plot. I found it thrilling that the author was able to tie them together so well that the flow just remained so smooth. The strength and courage of Hastings made her one of my favorite characters. How do you see a rainbow? Adrian faced some large struggles but you found yourself rooting for him to succeed. It is a must read.
The Wandering Isles: A Crown of Stones Novella by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Wandering Isles by C.L. Schneider- 5 out of 5 stars
The Wandering Isles is a novella that takes place after The Crown of Stones series. This book follows Ian and his friend Jarryd as they set sail for the abandoned Wandering Isles. Only the joke was on them. The Isles were inhabited by magic beings and soon their past comes back to haunt them as they struggle to determine their reality.
This book was riveting! I absolutely love how the author kept me captivated and craving more. I am excited to see what else this author has in store for the future.
Review by @elishajohnson
Hook, line & sinker
This is the second book in the Things Unseen series and just like first book it grabs you and doesn’t let go. From one breath taking minute to the next, the author weaves an intense tale of intrigue, suspense and mystery. As the clock is ticking and with danger around every corner, Neve and Con have the odds stacked against them. What unfolds is an unpredictable tale. Highly recommend!
A Rainbow Like You by Andréa Fehsenfeld
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
A Rainbow Like You is the second novel written by the award-winning author and TV producer, Andrea Fehsenfeld. There is also an original companion rock song of the same name to listen to.
This drama filled unique mix of music and narrative is a compelling tale of a troubled reclusive rock legend and a young man who is a synesthete. It was interesting to read about another synesthete. My son is one. He is also a musician, who sees musical notes through colours.
Andrea has written an engaging and vivid tale with complex and fully developed characters. In this story we get an insightful look at the life of musicians and how to survive or not survive in the business.
This heartfelt tale is a must read for anyone who loves music and a story with heart. You will have to read it to find out what happens. It is one of those stories that does more justice to read it than to hear about it.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Dead Keen by Anise Eden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Dead Keen is the second book in the gripping Things Unseen series by Anise Eden. I absolutely loved the first book and this one was just as good. You do not have to read them in order as they can be read as standalone, but I implore you to start with the first book and work your way through. You will be missing out on such great stories and insights into the wonderful characters.
With dangers still lurking escaping to the beautiful Emerald Isle, (a place that stole my heart when I visited) seems like just the thing but it soon becomes a deadly game of cat and mouse.
Dead Keen is a page turning psychological thriller where the suspense and tension is palpable. When deadly evil cult leaders, ancient gods and video game designers become involved there are menacing lies and secrets, deceit and deadly dangerous games a foot.
This dangerous world goes far beyond and one with far and wide repercussions. Anise has once again cleverly crafted an intricate and complex web that is masterfully thought out and executed. It is unpredictable, but it has just the right amount of humour.
This is a psychological thriller at its finest and one that should not be missed out on.
Prepare to be delighted if not on the edge of your seat with your heart pounding.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Fortune’s Favorite by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Fortune’s Favorite by C.L. Schneider- 5 out of 5 stars
C.L. Schneider deserves a round of applause. This book was a great second addition in the series. Mystery and magic, risk and sacrifice, you will be on the edge of your seat the whole time. I recommend reading the first book in the series so that you get a better background on the characters. I don’t want to risk ruining this action-packed adventure for anyone, just know it is worth it.
Review by @elishajohnson
A Rainbow Like You by Andréa Fehsenfeld
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Heartfelt, genuine, real
This is a well written, interesting story that draws you in from the start. The characters, interactions and plot line are well orchestrated to bring a story filled with raw emotion, drama and rock & roll. There are so many unexpected twists and turns that make this story so real. Looking forward to seeing more from this author. Highly recommend!
Royally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
Royally Complicated is a stand-alone forbidden romance tale with a bad boy. Who doesn’t love a bad boy story. The book is a really good read however a little cliché. But Gwyn and Christy do throw in a little turmoil and a few tough emotions that gives the story just that bit more making it a must read.
It is fun and sexy and sweet and spicy, and the writing draws you in. The chemistry between Bridget and Fyn is off the charts. When she meets Fyn, the sparks fly. One night is all they thought they would have.
It is full of complications, cheating, betrayal, royal duty, some unscrupulous family, prince charming, a kingdom in turmoil, misunderstandings and foes that you may or may not see coming.
Royally Complicated is just that and is an emotional read, filled with chaos and drama, action and heart pounding moments and some much-needed humour and love. This steamy read will leave you with all the feels.
There are a few of the characters that you will love to hate and hate to love and royal or not you will want to smack them.
Overall, the book was a really good read and this writing duo make a good team. I look forward to reading second book in the series.
Reviewed by @jennadb
