https://www.amazon.com/review/R2YPUSF3SZRWRG/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv
https://www.goodreads.com/review/edit/199291798
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/4117266480
https://www.amazon.com/review/R2YPUSF3SZRWRG/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv
https://www.goodreads.com/review/edit/188412194
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/1888618881
Orenda by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Orenda
The Latitude Series Book 2
By: T.S. Simons
Review by: Susan Ratchford
5 Stars
Just like The 45th Parallel (the first book), and The Antipodes series that this series draws from T.S. Simons creates another beautiful work that draws you in and will not let you go! Her writing is thoughtful, detailed, and emotional. Her apocalyptic dystopian world is full of twists and turns, drama, and love. Seeing the world through her characters is visually and emotionally stunning! The mythology behind Orenda is an amazing concept that made me feel like anyone has the power to change this world for the better! It made me truly think and feel hopeful for what this world has in store for us! I highly recommend at least reading The 45th Parallel before jumping into this book, and if you really want to dig into the background of the latitude series, reading The Antipodes series as well. Both are absolutely amazing and show the depth of T.S. Simons talent! I can’t wait for my continued journey through this intriguing world!
https://www.amazon.com/review/R2EWD9ZUCMRV4I/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/4096706612
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6015432978
Dreamscape by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Dreamscape is the second book in the J.J. Morris series. I hadn’t read the first book and enjoyed this book well enough, there was plenty of information to help me catch up, but I would recommend reading the series in order to get the full backstory (unless you’re like me and see a pretty cover and can’t stop yourself!).
Joey is struggling to keep up with her day-to-day life as she also deals with the supernatural incidents she’s newly aware of. This will be relatable to anyone who has felt like their life has fallen apart a bit, the descriptions of the chaos of her living space were particularly familiar to me!
There are plenty of mysteries and questions to draw you into the story. How is Jinx the cat getting into Joey’s locked room? What’s with the weird dreams she’s having? What caused the fire on campus? It’s an intense story that will excite your imagination. Jinx, by the way, is definitely one of my favourite characters!
This book gets five stars from me. I can’t wait to read more from this author!
A Journey for Dorothy by P. Creeden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Very sweet historical and christian romance. I can’t imagine Dorothy’s pain in losing her husband so young, but her faith in God has her pressing onward and on her way to visit her sister. She uses her gifts as a nurse to help Elias, and he in turn ends up helping her and from there the romance between them starts to ignite. They both love the Lord and follow his teachings even in their relationship. It was so interesting to read about the Oregon trail and their journey, along with Elizabeth and all of the many obstacles they faced along the way. I was really drawn into the story and really happy with the outcome.
Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Luna the husky tries so hard to howl like her siblings. When they all get adopted, Luna is lonely. Will Luna ever find her howl? This is a great children’s book about shyness, finding and making friends that are different, and accepting others.
Review by Terri Jo McAllister
Wicked Ends by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story is the 2nd part and the ending to Wicked Games. Our main characters are Winter and Shane. Both of which we can love to hate for different reasons. Life is tough and if there are no boundaries, guidelines or even good examples for what is right and wrong, tragedies happen.
Winter had a tragic childhood; her sister was murdered as a child. That alone is enough to make anyone crazy. Without the help of parents, or any family, Winter channels her anger, fear and uncertainty on those around her. As a child that meant other children. In particular Shane. Fast forward many years and we have Wicked Games, book 1 in this duet. The two meet again but under different circumstances…thus bringing us the tragic twist of fate, with Wicked Ends.
Shane is the bully we love to hate. He has lived a pampered life as one of the Elite during high school. Football star, caring family, loads of money. As a child Shane was shy, quiet and under the protection of his cousins and brother. He became the target of bullies, and his biggest bully in particular was Winter. She made his life a living hell. Fast forward many years and Shane has grown into his body, toughened up and now becomes the bully. Revenge is sweet. However, there’s something about Winter that just doesn’t add up. Shane is confused by his feelings and what he discovers. Throw in a few family issues of his own, college as well, football requirements and Shane is close to the end of snapping himself.
Coming together these two help each other work through their related tragedy, they learn to love and that forgiveness is ok.
This story is the conclusion to this duet and sadly, the Hidden Valley Elite Series itself. All eight books are great, but I think this one is my favorite.
Can’t wait to see what else this author writes next!
Knight In Peril by Alice Bienia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a missing persons case. It’s a cautionary tale for traveling tourists (are there any other types of tourists?). A suspense novel, yet it has a wisp of romance and fidelity running through it. Ultimately the mystery is solved, although not without treachery and tragedy. Overall, this reader was left with the warm fuzzies that accompany the reading of a good book.
Lela’s Choice by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
Jennifer has written a bit of a tangled web in this story. She has cleverly woven complex threads with multiple layers that gives us an intriguing and compelling tale.
Lela’s Choice is an enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance which had me hooked. It takes us on a chase around the world and with a bit of everything to keep the pages turning. There is secrets, lies, passion, compassion, loyalty, angst, fear, second chances, and finding love where you least expect it.
I really liked the characters, Lela and Hamish. They are complex and well developed. Lela has put her life on hold for others and it’s time for her to step aside. Only it doesn’t seem like that is on the cards with her overbearing father and a niece on the run. Hamish is wary and does not plan on letting anyone close as it will only be used against him, and he has already suffered enough but what he didn’t expect was a woman that will stop at nothing to get back the ones she loves, and that woman needs his help.
Jennifer Raines is an Australian author who writes heart-warming contemporary romances. Her stories are unique, and her original storylines are refreshing.
Contemporary romance lovers will fall in love with this book.
I look forward to seeing what else Jennifer has in store for us.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Triple Trouble at Amberwood: Book Four in your favourite middle-grade haunted ballet school… by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Triple Trouble at Amberwood is another wonderful addition and the fourth book in the Amberwood Hall Ballet School series. Eleanors passion with ballet and shines through in her words. It is an engaging story with wonderful characters.
This sweet little tale is a delightful children’s paranormal/fantasy story. It is aimed for young readers aged 8 – 13 but young and old will enjoy this fun tale.
Lauren and the gang are drawn into another ghostly adventure at Amberwood haunted ballet school where mischief and mayhem is about to explode. With a new ghost in town things are about to get difficult and friendships are in jeopardy.
If you enjoy a ghostly tale with a bit of mystery, you are going to like this one.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Festive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday Tales by Natalie Palma
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book will put you in the holiday mood. There are 11 short stories from some great authors and you will not be able to put it down. I also liked that there are some new authors in this book as well. I could not wait to read it so I started right when I got it. These stories take you on an adventure that you will not forget. I read them all and it only took me a couple of days to finish. I’m now going to look up all these authors and see what else they have written and read some more books of theirs.
Review by @heatherbass
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Grave Digger Academy III by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have read a few books from this author and she never disappoints. I love the way she writes in perfect detail. This is the third book in the very addictive series of the Grave Digger Academy. You do need to read the other books in the series or you will be lost. I was so excited when I got this book so I started to read it right away. I could not put it down until the end. It only took me a few hours to read this story and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Makayla is ready for her third year at the Grave Digger Academy. She is ready to see her friends after last year’s problem. Makayla is getting more powerful as she learns at this school. She is shocked when she notices that some of the teachers are missing and some of her friends. Makayla is also being watched by the Crones which means there could be trouble. She wants to know what is really going on but will it put her in danger?
Review @heatherbass
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Lela’s Choice by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Lela’s Choice by Jennifer Raines is another wonderful contemporary romance that had me invested right from the beginning. With drama, angst, family, chemistry, forced proximity, intrigue, investigation, emotion, and taking a chance on love.
Lela is determined to find her missing niece, travelling from Australia to Malta to begin her investigation. Hamish McGregor has been hired by the missing girl’s grandfather to find his granddaughter. Lela sees Hamish as the enemy- but they are forced to work together if they have any hope of finding the girl. And so the adventure begins…
Another great read from this talented author. I’m definitely looking forward to reading more from Ms. Raines…
Happy Reading!
Thank you, Jennifer Raines!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
A Journey for Dorothy by P. Creeden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
A Journey For Dorothy is the eighth book in The Reluctant Wagon Train Bride series by P. Creeden. This is a sweet, wholesome, historical romance with a widow looking for a new life, and a Reverend following his faith. This journey brings them both unexpected, challenges, and forces them together to make it through. So, let the adventure begin…
This was a charming story that kept me immersed the whole way through.
If you are looking for a sweet, clean, historical romance with just enough dramatic developments to keep you invested- then this is the book for you.
Happy Reading…
Thank you P. Creeden!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Dreamscape by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the second book in the JJ Morris series. Dreamscape is a YA paranormal suspense with supernatural elements, mystery, twists & turns, drama, plenty of adventure, and danger. You can read this book as a stand alone, but you get a deeper insight into the characters and story if you start with book one. What happens when a fire turns out to be more than just a prank? The characters pulled me into this crazy world. It was ready to get lost in the mayhem!
Dreamscape by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
Woot! Colour me happy when I saw that this book had released. After LOVING the first book so much- I was really excited to be able to dive into this one.
Dreamscape is the second engrossing book in the J.J Morris Mysteries Series by J.N Sheats. It is a fantastic YA paranormal suspense with supernatural elements, mystery, intrigue, tension, twists & turns, dramatic developments, complex characters, layers, sinister forces, action, adventure, wonderful world-building, agendas, dreamscapes, danger, gripping scenes, and so much more.
After loving the first book so very much, I had really high expectations for this instalment- and Ms. Sheats didn’t disappoint. This is a brilliant addition to the series- and another wonderfully imaginative and skilfully written piece of work with a complex and exciting storyline.
This is a very rich and vividly detailed story that has a fast pace and a smooth flow. As with the first book, this follows Joey Morris’s adventures after discovering the paranormal world. She’s now in college, trying hard to find ‘normal’- but after the events in high school, she’s not so sure that’s possible anymore. Having a whole new world opened up to her has left its mark. And when strange things start happening, with people going missing, and a spate of fires breaking out- things take a bit of a sinister turn.
If you haven’t read ‘Lineage’ (Book #1) yet, I highly recommend that you do before diving into this one, as the first book is not only a fantastic read in its own right- but it also lays the groundwork and contains important information that will enhance your appreciation of this story, too.
The story continues in the next book ‘Banshee’- so I really can’t wait to dive into Book #3 ASAP.
Another riveting read!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, J.N. Sheats!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Whispered Surrender by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Whispered Surrender
This is the first of the Sinful Duets books and features Wayward and Undercover from the Billionaire Bodyguards series.
Wayward is the first book and I was so happy to see some of my favorite characters from the two earlier series.
We know Jay from the Prestian series and holy cow, he is a lot more alpha than I was expecting. I think in my mind I pictures him as a teddy bear under all of the growling. I was so wrong but it works for him.
Sasha was a hot mess in our previous encounters with her and again at the beginning of this book, but she grew on me a lot and though at times I wanted to shake her, I saw a lot of growth in her as the story progressed.
Great way to begin this next series and I can’t wait to see who falls next.
Undercover is the second book. We finally get Matt’s story. I fell hard for Matt when he was protecting Jenny in The Torzial Affair series and that love has only grown since then.
Marenah is also a not new character if you read Sasha and Jay’s story. She is so much more than I expected her to be, which goes to show that first impressions aren’t always right. She has a knack for finding trouble and wanting to fix it.
Matt and Marenah are a hot couple. Their attraction is instantaneous and off the charts. There were a few time I had to put the book down to catch my breath.
I have been fortunate enough to read the two other series that this series is spun from so I know who everyone is and how they are all connected.
I highly recommend this book and series.
Dreamscape by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Once you know, you can never let go. This is the first book I have read by the incredible J.N. Sheats and I couldn’t get enough. While this is the second book in the JJ Morris Mysteries series, I hadn’t read the first book, yet. Initially I was worried I would get confused or not understand the full complexity of the story, but I felt that it gave enough back information that I never truly felt lost in the overall plot of the story.
Joey Morris is a freshman in college and after a life altering senior year of high school she is struggling to return to a “normal” life. In high school she was the star student, top of her class, and all but after surviving a traumatic introduction to what lives in the shadows Joey is at war with herself. While she wants to continue her reputation of having perfect grades and being a perfect student, her mind is at odds with her. Sitting in class her mind is constantly spinning, is there witches or ghosts in my class, is the new girl at work a demon? She has been swallowed up and survived some of the darkest parts of the supernatural world and now all she wants to learn is more about what lives in the shadows. Insulting the cause in some ways she has now been having intense emotional vivid dreams. While she’s had dreams that she remembers for a few hours in the past she now can remember every emotion of the dream for days after having it and can recall in perfect clarity the details and emotions. A shift begins again when she sees a building on campus engulfed in flames and feels the intensity of an explosion. When she wakes the next morning remembering the details and how she was knocked out by the blast she is stunned to discover the campus shows no signs of an explosion of any kind and that the building has minimal external damage. More so the reason for the fire the police chief gives her is at odds with the physical damage she sees. The windows didn’t crack, or explode, they melted. Mystery alive again until she sees Gwen and her stomach drops.
What could melt the glass of the windows? Why is Gwen looking into the fire? Was Joey really awake or was the explosion just another dream? The world the author creates is reality based having been to Pennsylvania in the winter I feel the cold in my bones as Joey does. Her characters are easy to sympathize with and to understand, seeing yourself in their position both in the good and bad moments as she wrestles with reality from dreams. Having devoured this book, I will certainly be going back to book one to discover all the details of senior year and surviving “The Great Hunt”.
A Journey for Dorothy by P. Creeden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I loved this story so much. This is a new author to me and I was not sure what to expect, when I read the snyposis I decided to dive in and this made my heart happy. Two people whom met on chance that brings a long journey on faith, humanity, courage and love.
Dorothy Mason holds on to memories of her late husband Peter while trying to live her life day by day. With letters exchanged with her sister, Dorothy decides to venture out west to be with her sister and family. Elias Stone’s calling in life is to spread the word of God, that leads to a decision to head west to spread the word. When Elias’ journey goes very bad, Dorothy and her dog Scout, save Elias’ life. Building on getting his strength back to make the trip, Dorothy also wants to venture out West as well but is told she does not have permission unless she is married due to her safety. When Elias proposes marriage to Dorothy so she can make it to her family as well…what leads from a marriage of convenience to a very long journey that tests their wills, strength and illness…will Dorothy and Elias love each other through the hard journey ahead….
Definitely read and find out. This story was fantastic…the journey…the faith…the love between Elias and Dorothy was pure and authentic….. I am definitely circling back to the rest of the books in this series. Very highly recommended.
A Journey for Dorothy by P. Creeden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Dorothy has been a widow for just a few short years and she’s not looking to get married again. She and Scout have made a decent life for themselves on their little piece of land. When Dorothy gets a letter from her sister, she decides that maybe she can make some changes in her life. Along her journey, she meets a man named Elias and together they forge a way to Oregon on the wagon train. Can their relationship sustain the rocky hills or will there be an annulment in the future?
I love books like this! Historical reads are my favorite and add that it’s a clean read and it’s a win-win! This was a fairly short read as well. Made for an enjoyable end to an evening!
Finding Your Heart: A Journal for Discovering Your Heart by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a great healing journal/book to work through! I was unsure if I would be ok with working through a book like this. I really liked that you could dive as deep as you wanted to and work through what you choose to. It was a well thought out layout and I really enjoyed the way it was put together. This journal really helps you to feel empowered and to open your heart. The artwork was well done and the positive way of working though the past really was amazing. I definitely recommend giving this journal a try even if this isn’t your typical read!
Finding the End Zone by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Jamaica Winslow catches the eye of football player Callahan O’Reilly, but she makes it clear she is not interested at all. When Jamaica is assigned to partner with Callahan over the class project, Callahan takes the opportunity to dispel the notion he is just another dumb jock. Callahan is riveted by Jamaica, he wants to get to know her more but a pesky mean girl is determined to keep them apart. Can Callahan prove he is worth taking a chance on or will the fan girl he wants nothing to do with tear them apart.
Terrific banter, sizzling chemistry. Exceptional college romance book. It had a little bit of everything I like in this type of story. Jamaica is full of sass and Callahan is a charmer. One of my favorite scenes is Jamaica’s education to football, brought a huge smile to my face.
Dangerous Rhythm by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The newest installment by the talented C. R. Alam. I have enjoyed the previous books in the series. We find Curtis, of the group Canis Major, is in some trouble and is transported along with his parents to Paris for safety. In Paris is his sister Callie and his band mate Brandon.
What I enjoy about this series are the people and their continued friendships that help each other through tough times and good times. The characters are relatable and the world building is wonderful. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
Finding Your Heart: A Journal for Discovering Your Heart by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Finding Your Heart
I’m a firm believer in things happening for a reason and this journal happened to pop up when I needed it the most. It was thought provoking, helped me get my thoughts and feelings in order and an easier time to articulate those thoughts and feelings. I will be getting copies of this book for both of my daughters.
The Amish life is always so interesting to me, so reading a Amish Christmas Courtship by Jennifer Spredemann was an easy choice and once I began reading I loved it and didn’t want to put it down. Anne Eicher loves everything about Christmas but she is alone, after her betrothed left the community to become English. Andy Stolzfus craves Annie, she is the faithful and true heart that he needs and wants. She gets letters from a secret admirer and then her ex comes back. What will Anne do, read this to find out!!!!
I truly loved this read and the only thing is I wish it was longer because I didn’t want the world of Anne and Andy to end. I highly recommend this read to anyone looking for a sweet, fun, warm holiday read. Truly is book to enjoy on a winters day with a cup of tea and a cozy blanket.
Finding Your Heart: A Journal for Discovering Your Heart by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I feel like this is a beautiful journal for someone who is ready to dive a little deeper into feelings and self-discovery with affirmations sprinkled through. Something that I wasn’t expecting was the variety of beautiful illustrations throughout. I’ve seen plenty of journals that have repetitive pictures, sayings, and even prompts which may fit someone else just fine, but I crave the unique style I’ve found here. It’s incredibly apparent that a lot of thought went into the pictures, prompts, and layout of this journal and I love it. I appreciate the focus that is on self-discovery which I have found helpful in the most stressful areas of my life. The thought of decluttering your home is one that is widely known, but decluttering your heart should be a main focus as this journal shows. I highly recommend picking this up and sharing a copy with your loved ones!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
This is the first book that I have read by Rosalind. It’s the first book in the series. Sparky, is an 11 year-old orphan. She has been accused of murdering a little girl, that she found on a park bench. Can she help the police find the killer and clear her name or does she wind up doing time for something that she didn’t commit. I like it but I did have a hard time wanting to read it. While it was an interesting story, it really wasn’t my kind of book. I could always give it another chance as well as read the other books in the series.
The Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the first book that I have read by Rosalind. It’s the first book in the series. Sparky, is an 11 year-old orphan. She has been accused of murdering a little girl, that she found on a park bench. Can she help the police find the killer and clear her name or does she wind up doing time for something that she didn’t commit. I like it but I did have a hard time wanting to read it. While it was an interesting story, it really wasn’t my kind of book. I could always give it another chance as well as read the other books in the series.
Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Dylan loves a show about detectives called ‘Youth Sleuths’ and wants to be one himself. After saving his allowance he ordered a detective kit. When the kit came in he was eager to begin his new job. When he finds out his neighbour’s mail is missing, he jumps on the case with the help of his little sister and dog.
Dylan and his sister run around the neighbourhood looking for clues, they start off by asking the adults around the street, then moving on to the children. Will they be able to solve the case of the missing mail?
This book was very fast paced which would keep children engaged from start to finish. I also like the relationship between Dylan and his little sister. Even though she is younger, he still tries his hardest to include her in his game. Plus the dog was cute and funny.
Woman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first book I have read by this author and hope to read more of hers. It’s about being in an abusive relationship and finding her way out to begin a new life for herself. I hope anyone who is in an abusive relationship can relate and to be able to start over themselves. Good book!
