The Befallen (The Unsung and The Wolf Duology) by Cambria Williams – Review by Kerry Carr

The BefallenThe Befallen by Cambria Williams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was captivated by this story. It is a fantasy adventure where the battle between good and evil rages on. But what makes this story so magical for me was Sloane. Despite her disability, despite everyone’s opinions of what she can and can’t do, despite her own self doubts and fears she constantly pushes herself forward to find a way to save the people around her. Her strength and faith shine so bright through this story it was beautiful.

When she returns to her village she finds that it has been destroyed by the Befallen. Now she finds herself alone and in need to find a way of stopping the Befallen before they can strike again.
But her journey won’t be a easy one, there are dangers in the outside world she never knew existed and then she has to convince people that what she is telling them is true and not just a myth and a story.
When she meets Sir Tolvar he is reluctant to believe her story. He has his own demons to deal with and believing this story could lead him even more down the wrong path. BUT what if what Sloane says is true, this could he his chance to redeem himself.
So together they set out to find the secrets of the Befallen and find a way to destroy them but what happens when some obstacles have both of our hero’s doubting themselves and their abilities.
Will good win over evil this time or are the odds just stacked to high against them.

This book was captivating and the character growth throughout the story was great. The author’s writing was so good that I felt like i was actually there going on this quest with Sloane and Sir Tolvar.
It is a great fantasy adventure.

View all my reviews

Festive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday Tales Anthology by SE Smith, Jill Wallace, Eliza Sinclair, Kyndra Hatch, Candace Colt, Natalie Palma, Winnie Winkle, Electra Gajdos, Stephanie Harrell, Pauline Baird Jones, Cassandra Chandler – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Festive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday TalesFestive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday Tales by Natalie Palma
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A festive anthology of eleven original stories by different authors which will get you into the holiday mood. This anthology is a mix of stories so has something for everyone, romance, fantasy, sci-fi, paranormal, mysteries and more. In ‘Searching for Thanksgiving’ by S.E. Smith, the youngest dragonlings are on a mission to find Thanksgiving. Whilst in ‘Twas the Fight Before Christmas’ by Pauline Baird Jones, Doc is not a fan of Christmas and is happier fighting than singing carols. Cassandra Chandler’s, ‘The Winter Queen’, sees a human man and a fae women come together, but he will have to melt her cold winter heart. ‘Home for Christmas’ by Candace Colt is a heartwarming paranormal romance where love and being together at Christmas are the best gifts.

‘Magical Mayhem’ by Winnie Winkle, is a fun and chaotic story featuring ‘Keeper’ Cleopatra O’Keefe. Stephanie Harrell’s ‘Wicked Beginnings’, is a steamy romantic story of missed chances, lingering love and mistletoe. Aliens are trying to stop Christmas in Kyndra Hatch’s ‘Christmas Trappings’. ‘Seshka’s Gift’ by Eliza Sinclair, is a story of dark forces and danger at the Mageguild Academy during the Harvestmoon. Whilst ‘Sunshine’s War’ by Jill Wallace, is a heartwarming story of love between a couple on different sides of a war.

In ‘Retired, but not Forgotten’ by Natalie Palma, a rather grumpy ex-homicide detective is paired with an extremely cheerful PI when a string of crimes occurs during the Christmas season. Electra Gajdos, ‘Unwrapping the True Spirit’, sees a billionaire weapons inventor discovering true magic of the holiday, after forgetting to buy his mate a present. I ‘binge read’ this anthology as I thoroughly enjoyed each story and was fully immersed in each one. A great weekend read to get you into the holiday spirit, which ever one it may be.

View all my reviews

Whispered Surrender (Sinful Duets Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by Shannon Fowler

Whispered Surrender (Sinful Duets #1)Whispered Surrender by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love reading Via Mari’s billionaire stories. First there was The Prestian Series, then The Torzial Affair and now The Billionaire Bodyguards! While I have not read The Prestian Series (yet), I loved the Torzial Affair. The three series mix a little with the characters. You don’t have to read one to understand the others, but it sure helps, and Mari’s writing style makes you WANT to read every word she writes!

Wayward is about Sasha and Jay. Sasha is a little lost and well “wayward”. But with the help of Jay, she is able to figure out her own worth and eventually understands that she is not all on her own.
I love the inter-connecting of the story lines and characters. Not only do you get to “meet” new ones, but you get to reconnect with old ones.

Undercover is just as good as Wayward. The action, the hotness, even the secrets being kept. It seemed that everyone was undercover for one reason or another! I kept trying to guess who the good guys were and who the bad guys were.
Matt is a bodyguard. He is also working undercover trying to uncover some mafia secrets and save innocent people. He is good at what he does. It doesn’t hurt that he is delicious to look at.

Marenah is the twin sister of Sasha from book one, Wayward. (You really don’t have to read book one to read Undercover, but it sure doesn’t hurt.) Marenah’s family has many ties to the mafia, which includes secrets of their own.  We know that her loyalty lies with her sister. We also know that Marenah is undercover, but who is she trying to help?! So many secrets!

Reading books by Mari makes good sense. These books are easy to read, adventurous, steamy and an easy way to escape reality.

View all my reviews

I Am A Bold Asian Boy (Asian Family Series) by Yobe Qiu – Review by Tonya Merritt

I Am a Bold Asian Boy: A Positive Affirmation Book for Asian Boys (Asian Family Series)I Am a Bold Asian Boy: A Positive Affirmation Book for Asian Boys by Yobe Qiu
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m a fairly new Headstart Assistant Teacher and we have been studying different cultures in children. I was thrilled to find this book and read it. The story helps teach affirmations, shows positivity, and teaches children that their culture does matter. I plan to read this story soon enough to the kiddos in our class. I’ve recently learned there is also a female version too.

View all my reviews

Ghost Takes A Vacation (Genie and Adriana Darling Cozy Paranormal Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Carmen Radtke – Review by Tonya Merritt

Ghost Takes A VacationGhost Takes A Vacation by Carmen Radtke
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In this second installment of the Genie and Adriana Darling mysteries, you follow a girl and her ghost aunt. Even though this is the second book, it is a stand alone though I always recommend reading the first because you get more details. Genie and her aunt love to travel and get wrapped in fun mysteries. Adriana will have you bubbling with laughter as they figure out how the auction house burnt down. A great read.

View all my reviews

Finding the End Zone (Game Time Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Tonya Merritt

Finding the End ZoneFinding the End Zone by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

That cover though, fans self. I’ve read a few of Tam Derudder Jackson’s books and let me tell you they are all this good. I loved this story of Callahan and Jamaica. I wasn’t sure cause I’m not a big sports fan but this book will bring you to a tolerate level of sports. The romance and caution in the story showing you their love is written amazingly.

View all my reviews

Wicked Ends: A Dark College Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Series, Book 8 ) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Brandy Rymer

Wicked Ends (Hidden Valley Elite #8)Wicked Ends by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was one of my absolute favorites in this whole series, and I have to say I loved all of them! Wicked Ends not only gave me the romance I have grown to adore from Isla Vaughn, but she also added in some deep dark mysteries to be solved as well, and boy was it fun to try to piece together all of the clues. I have loved getting to know all of the characters throughout this series, and the fact that they all continue to appear as featured characters as the next family member becomes the main character is just so amazing. What a great story of enemies to lovers that this book has given us with Shane and Winter, their stories from their childhoods are so heartbreaking to read about, but then to see everything that they go through in reconnecting as adults, adds to the intrigue of their relationship. I especially appreciated the bonus epilogue where we get to see into the future of what is going on in everyone’s lives, such an amazing way to end a series that has become so wonderful to follow along with. If you haven’t read any of the books in the Hidden Valley Elite series, you really should start back at the beginning, because each book builds upon the next book in the series. The only thing I regret is that the tale is over, but I cannot wait to see what the author has next in store for her next book or series, because she is an absolute amazing writer!
@Brandy Rymer
12/2023

View all my reviews

Wicked Ends: A Dark College Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Series, Book 8 ) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ashly Renner

Wicked Ends (Hidden Valley Elite #8)Wicked Ends by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I say this with every single review on this series, but this is hands down one of the best series I have ever read! The ending, as much as I didn’t want it to come, was fantastic, and genuinely everything I ever could’ve hope for! I cannot stress enough my love for this series, if you are on the fence or waiting to start reading it, PLEASE just start it now!

It didnt take me long to make an educated guess as to just who was behind everything bad happening in Shane and Winter’s lives. Everything designed to rip them apart only brought them closer. Absolutely phenomenal series, and I cannot wait to read more from Isla Vaughn!

View all my reviews

Children of the Wild (Children of the Wild Series Book #1) by Krysta Tawlks – Review by Angela Hayes

Children of the WildChildren of the Wild by Krysta Tawlks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3.5 Stars

 

Children of the Wild is the first book in the Children of the Wild series by Krysta Tawlks. This is the first book that I have read by Ms. Tawlks, so I really didn’t know what to expect going into the story. But Ido love a great YA fantasy, so I happily jumped in and set off on the adventure.
This is an easy story to read- it is fairly light-hearted- offering a tale of self-discovery, magic, family, friendship, adventure, secrets, facing your fear, emotion, overcoming obstacles, a quest for the truth, mystery, dealing with self-doubts, finding your true purpose, and some dramatic developments.
I thought this was a charming read, and I will certainly be keeping an eye out for more from Ms. Tawlks in the future.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Krysta Tawlks!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

View all my reviews

Festive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday Tales Anthology by SE Smith, Jill Wallace, Eliza Sinclair, Kyndra Hatch, Candace Colt, Natalie Palma, Winnie Winkle, Electra Gajdos, Stephanie Harrell, Pauline Baird Jones, Cassandra Chandler – Review by Angela Hayes

Festive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday TalesFestive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday Tales by Natalie Palma
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

Festive Fates Anthology is a collection of eleven engrossing stories by eleven talented authors. These authors all have different styles and approaches to their writing- but each one is unique and individual, adding its mark to the overall anthology. These authors have come together with a common purpose- to get us in the festive spirit, set the mood ready for the holidays.
We have a variety of stories, from sweet to spicy – we get sci-fi, fantasy, contemporary romance, paranormal, adventure, mystery, history, and more. We meet a variety of leading characters as each of the stories are cast with wonderful characters who easily pull you into their tale, getting you invested in them and the outcome of their story, and keeping you immersed the whole way through.
All the stories are set around the holidays, and while most are set around Christmas, Halloween and Thanksgiving are also represented.
So, find a comfy spot and settle in for a wonderful reading experience…

The Anthology contains:
Twas the Fight Before Christmas By: Pauline Baird Jones
Delilah Oliver Clementyne “Doc” has to make it through Christmas celebrations with the family- ugly sweater and all. She is a tough cookie, but this is a Christmas she won’t soon forget- especially when Santa and his elves enter the scene. This romantic science fiction story makes for an entertaining read, bringing action, adventure, family, love, courage, and opening your heart.

Home for Christmas At Christmas By: Candace Colt
“It never got old. If she lived to be a hundred, Rhea Tanner could never be jaded by the mind-blowing experience of cruising among the stars. The panoramic view out the window of the Xigard 200 was beautiful, of course. And mesmerizing. And always scary. As she stared into the endless universe, her thoughts turned to her family on Earth. It was Christmas— another one she’d missed with them.”
This is a great sci-fi paranormal romance with a sweet story, fantasy, witches, Christmas, and family. With the arrival of another Christmas, being so far away from home has Rhea feeling particularly homesick. Little does she know that her man has a big surprise planned. But will things turn out the way he planned? Will Christmas wishes come true? You really should read all the sweet details for yourself.

Unwrapping the True Spirit By: Electra Gajdos
This is a story about finding the true meaning of the season. With family dynamics, drama, mischief, pranks, mayhem, and things going awry- we follow as the Keen family learn what’s truly important.

Christmas Trappings By: Kendra Hatch
Christmas Trappings is a fun Sci-fi story with plenty of hijinks, family, aliens, humour, capers, the joys of the holiday season, and more. What happens when alien ‘friends’ take it upon themselves to save their human family from the ‘dreaded’ Santa Claus. Alex has his work cut out for him if he has any chance of salvaging Christmas for his family.

The Winter Queen (A Court of the Yuletide Fae Prequel) By: Cassandra Chandler
OMG- this is such a sweet story. Giving a new perspective on the Winter Queen folktales. We get pulled into Kris Kringle and the Winter Queen’s story- and I was entirely captivated the whole way through. I didn’t want it to end. So, I was excited to see that it is part of a series which I will definitely be diving into asap.
The Winter Queen is the prequel to A Court of the Yuletide series. It is a sweet paranormal romance with a completely charming storyline that you won’t want to miss!

Retired, but not Forgotten (A Madison Law Prequel) By: Natalie Palma
Retired, but not Forgotten is the prequel to the Madison Law series. It is a fantastic cozy mystery, with some edgy/darker tones that made the story even more intriguing. Madison is a medically retired police detective turned PI, who gets pulled into a missing persons case that leads to more than she bargained for. With drama, danger, tension and more- this story packs a lot into a small space. I have not read any of Ms. Palma’s stories before, so I was excited to dive into this short story and get a taste of what she can do. I love that this was a mystery- and really loved meeting Madison Law. I can’t wait to continue the series and see what else she gets up to. One of my favourites from this collection.

Sunshine’s War By: Jill Wallace
This is an historical romance set during WWII. We go on a journey of finding love unexpectedly in the most challenging of situations, promises made, hope, and emotion. Will the promises made during harrowing times be kept- or are they just words spoken in the heat of the moment?

Wicked Beginnings By: Stephanie Harrell
Another of my favourites of this series. This is a fantastic contemporary romance with an age gap, boss/employee attraction, chemistry, secret desires, a Christmas party, revelations, a grumpy/sunshine factor, a plus size FMC, tension, drama, and interesting characters. It is told from a duel POV, which gives the story an extra element of interest- as we get to see things playing out from both the MC’s perspectives. Highly recommended.

Magical Mayhem (Boogie Beach and The Record Series Prequel) By: Winnie Winkle
This is the prequel to Boogie Beach and The Record series and is a very entertaining urban fantasy. Set during Halloween this story brings magic, shenanigans, spice, humour, fun, paranormal beings, and so much more. Cleopatra O’Keefe is forced to work on the night of her 21st birthday- which she isn’t too happy about. But add in the fact that her cocktail mixing skills have got to be on point, and serving the magical community attendees, puts extra pressure on Cleopatra to not mess things up. Being a Keeper means she has responsibilities she can’t ignore. What is a keeper? Does she manage to not mess things up? How Does the night turn out? You really should read all the fun details for yourself.
“Halloween is coming up, Patra. This year, it’s falling on a full moon which means a night of absolute insanity. Either the holiday or the moon are already crazy; stick them together and it’s an epic mashup of magical mayhem. I need help, so starting immediately, you’re training on the magic side. Be prepared to recite cocktail recipes, hazards, and cleanup procedures at the drop of a hat. Screw up and you might die. So don’t.”
“Billy! That’s my twenty-first birthday! My real one, I mean. Sadie’s throwing me a party. I…”
Serious brown eyes stared me down. “Did you take an oath and accept your role?” “Well, yeah, but,” my voice dribbled off.

Seshka’s Gift (Mageguild Academy Prequel) By: Eliza Sinclair
This is the prequel to the Mageguild Academy series, which I will definitely be exploring after reading this engrossing morsel. Seshka and Rexi set off on a tour of the city. But what should have been an easy exercise takes a dangerous turn, thrusting the pair into a high-stakes adventure. This is a great little fantasy with magic, mages, a battle for survival, being put to the test, intrigue, and more.

Searching for Thanksgiving (A Dragonlings of Valdier Novella) By: S.E. Smith
This charming fantasy has all the ingredients needed to keep me flipping the pages to find out how everything plays out.
-Fantasy
-Dragonlings
_Adventure
-A quest to find Thanksgiving
-Shifters
-A little drama
-A sprinkle of mystery
-A touch of mayhem
-A pinch of the unexpected
All combined to make a fun read.

All the stories are so engaging, with wonderfully written plots, and well-developed characters. I have read books by several of these talented authors before- but most of the authors were new to me… so I was excited to not only read the contributions by the authors I knew and loved, but also to get an introduction to the authors who are new to me.
So, settle down for some wonderful reading. There’s definitely something here for everyone!
Happy Reading…

Thank you to all the contributing authors!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

View all my reviews

Woman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder – Review by Rayne East

Woman UnbrokenWoman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Relatable, emotional and raw
This story holds nothing back. It is raw and at times confronting. Devorah has faced unimaginable pain and suffering over the years and has finally escaped. Now she needs to rebuild her life and herself. This is well written and had me on an emotional roller coaster the whole time. Highly recommend.

View all my reviews

Hope For A New World (Gaia’s Voice Series) by Renee W Peek – Review by Brandy Vaughn

Hope For A New World (Book 1)Hope For A New World by Renee W Peek
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an interesting start to the series. The subject matter of the end of the world has a unique slant. It was intriguing with all of the spiritual and energetic connections between the characters, planets, and animals. The environmental and indigenous theme also made the sci-fi story more interesting!

View all my reviews

Woman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder – Review by Beverly Finnie

Woman UnbrokenWoman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Woman Unbroken is a woman’s story of perseverance and finding herself again after being oppressed down to nothing. Trigger warning for anyone who has been in any sort of abusive relationship. The story itself was written well but I struggled at times to get through it. It did get better as it went on. The author presents a very heavy topic. However it’s the way the main character grows and moves forward that’s empowering.
Devorah left her husband. Scared that he was going to hurt her with his paranoia and violent temper. He already reduced her life down to just him, what else did he want? She’s trying to move on but has no motivation most days. Until she meets Andrew, and those lack of motivation days start to lessen over time. He brings out a side of her she didn’t expect. Accepting and agreeing to things that surprise her. All this while still dealing with her soon to be ex-husband.
Does her ex-husband get to her?
Do Devorah and Andrew build a relationship?
That and so many questions come to mind while navigating this story. Again it’s central is dealing with a heavy topic and situation.
A story about women’s empowerment. If you enjoy a book around a strong female lead this is for you!

@placexba
View all my reviews

Wicked Ends: A Dark College Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Series, Book 8 ) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Hannah Porter

Wicked Ends (Hidden Valley Elite #8)Wicked Ends by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Noooo!!! What am I gonna do now that this amazing series has ended 😭😭😭 it’s sooo bittersweet. I couldn’t wait to read it but I didn’t want it to be finished. Geez this whole series has been an emotional Rollercoaster, and this one was no different. Shoot I think this one was crazier than the previous book. It really hit me in the feels 🥲😭. This author has built such an amazing world with such dark complex character, that i think i’m having a book hangover🤣.I gotta find another book to recover. The suspense in this gave me anxiety lol but getting to their HEA was everything or was it. You’ll have to read it so you can see what I’m talking about and while you’re at it, if you somehow starting on this one HIGHLY recommend that you go read all of them. By the way, I absolutely love the epilogue.

Isla Vaughn i will gladly offer my kingdom for a spin off 😏maybe 🤣 please lmao

View all my reviews

Murky Murder (A Maid Ivy Cozy Mystery Book) by Hazel Smith – Review by Manda Kelly

Murky Murder (A Maid Ivy Cozy Mystery, #4)Murky Murder by Hazel Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was my first read from this author. It was a good story. I enjoyed the mystery and the characters. I wish I could visit the Hotel LaFontaine. It sounds like such a magnificent place to see. Ivy seems to maybe have a knack for solving mysteries. I haven’t read any of the previous books, but I’m absolutely adding them to my “TBR” list.

Review By
Manda Kelly

View all my reviews

Doombringer by Marcel Liemant – Review by Ayla Phipps

DoombringerDoombringer by Marcel Liemant
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Heart stopping bone burning story from start to finish. Before stumbling upon this book, I had never heard of the talented Marcel Liemant, but his name is certainly one added to my list of favorite writers. Every day is a good day for a dark fantasy and today that was Doombringer. The incredible cover pulled me in, but the mystery held me from page one.
Oden has had a lifetime of pain and loss but now he faces the greatest fear. The Mages of the Red Hunger are getting closer by the day, the smoke fills the air with doom and the end of all that they know. Since the loss of his wife, he has spent every day protecting his daughter, Penny, from the dark truth of the world around her. Sadly, doing so has led to him bolting hundreds of crystals into his bone pushing him closer to Ash Bone. Hearing from Kimri, that there is a creature in Havoc Mountain that could win the war for them a chance encounter hearing the creature leads him to hunt for it. To hunt for a hope at life after the Mages reach their village. Finding the Havoc wasn’t easy, and the collapse of a cavern leads the other miners to think he is gone but a final push for a chance for his daughter to live sends him fighting for life not only for her but for the people of Shard Moure. The mountain erupts as lava flows toward the village the mages nearing by the moment as Oden heads back into the dark tunnels to find hope in the creature. With the hope that Magdela the Wise was telling the truth that he was somehow connected to the creature as his only comfort that he could find it again, and that it would help.
What will happen when Oden comes face to face with Havoc? Will the Ash Bone take him before he saves them? The author’s creativity is beyond anything I have read in a long time. Their world so alive that in the darkest moments I found myself gasping for air or holding my breath that it wasn’t too late. While the story is only told from one perspective you feel that emotions and fear of all of those that Oden holds dear, his daughter, his best friend, everyone left in the village. He fights to save them all, even willing to give his life if only for a chance to succeed, to survive the war. I desperately hope the author continues this world. On the last page I found myself excited and ready for more of this world, more of Oden’s fight and what will come next.

View all my reviews

Doombringer by Marcel Liemant – Review by Ashley Sugar

DoombringerDoombringer by Marcel Liemant
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A short quick read but it had my attention. Not my typical genre I go too, but I throughly enjoyed it. A well written dark fantasy tale with magic and monsters! It sucked me right in and I know it will for you too. I recommend this!

View all my reviews

Doombringer by Marcel Liemant – Review by Michelle Marlow

DoombringerDoombringer by Marcel Liemant
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a wonderful fantasy novella. It was truly a quick read but a powerful read. I loved the depths of what Oden, a father, would go for his daughter. The world building was top notch. And representation is so important! I cannot wait to see what else this author does.

View all my reviews

Ghost Takes a Vacation (Genie and Adriana Darling Cozy Paranormal Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Carmen Radtke-Review by Heather Knalls

Ghost Takes A VacationGhost Takes A Vacation by Carmen Radtke
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Genie Darling is a jewelry maker and enthusiast who can see the ghost of her great great aunt Adriana. They are now on a mission to find several items that once belonged to Adriana so that these items might help ground her to this existence. They are headed to Italy where they have learned that some of these items might be found. But will they be able to get more of these items or will they be bought by others or lost completely to a fire. What all could go wrong on this mission to help Adriana and will Genie be involved in more than she bargained for?

View all my reviews

A Christmas Amish Courtship (Amish Courtship Series) by Jennifer Spredemann – Review by Julie Johnson

A Christmas Amish Courtship (Amish Courtship #3)A Christmas Amish Courtship by Jennifer Spredemann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I found myself wanting to know more of the story than this short novella provided, but at the same time, it was just the right amount of story.

Anne Eichner is alone again for yet another Christmas after her betrothed of 5 years decided to go Englisch. She starts receiving letters from someone who knows her but she is not given his identity. The letter says that after a year of corresponding, they will marry. This has Anne intrigued and she begins to write back to this stranger.

Andy Stoltzfus is a teacher looking to relocate back to the homeland and to be accepted back into the fold. He’s currently between different homes and building another for himself and his soon to be bride.

Anne finds herself falling for Andy while still receiving mystery letters. She’s soon going to have to make a decision that could end up hurting someone. Then her old beau comes groveling back to her. Whatever will she do?

I absolutely loved reading this story! It had been quite some time since I read a novel about the Amish and I’ve missed it! This made for a very enjoyable read on a quiet afternoon!

View all my reviews

Doombringer by Marcel Liemant – Review by Shannen Kern

DoombringerDoombringer by Marcel Liemant
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I hadn’t read anything by this author before, but the cover alone drew me in. Once I read the synopsis, I knew I had to give it a go, and I’m so glad I did! I dove into this book and didn’t come up for air until the end. While this is a rather short read, I feel like the author did an outstanding job providing enough detail to satisfy any questions I had. I absolutely loved the gray LGBTQI+ heroes in this book and definitely want to see more like them! I highly recommend picking this quick read up as you won’t be disappointed. I am on my way to pick up more books by this author right now!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

View all my reviews

Doombringer by Marcel Liemant – Review by Audrie Harrington

DoombringerDoombringer by Marcel Liemant
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a short and quick read and I hope there is more to come. I want to know more about Oden’s wife and what happened before the time period of this short novel. I want to know more about the magic and more about what happens now. Oden is the main character and he works in a mine in Havoc mountain trying to find lucent crystals full of magic. He has infused many of these crystals to his body and is also doing a spell called Brillious so his daughter Penny can’t see the truth of what is happening to the small town. The town is going to burn again unless he can figure out what is happening and how he can fix it. Tinnor is his best friend and will sit and listen to his ideas but isn’t sure if he can believe him. This one was a short and quick read and I will be keeping my eye out to see if more is to come.

View all my reviews

Orenda (The Latitude Series) by T.S. Simons – Review by Netania Lim

Orenda (The Latitude Series Book 2)Orenda by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’ve been following the Antipodes series and now the follow-up Latitude series, and this novel is the latest installment. The story is gripping, perfect for fans of dystopian romance, and the characters are strong and well-developed. I also think that the series is unique in the way the author tries to incorporate different belief systems from around the world to create an imagined one. There’s plenty of drama and tragedy, and the suspense doesn’t let up until the end. I would recommend reading both series in order as it gets pretty complex and characters reappear. Can’t wait for the next book!

View all my reviews

Wicked Ends: A Dark College Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Series, Book 8 ) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kristin Boutelle

Wicked Ends (Hidden Valley Elite #8)Wicked Ends by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

First off, this book cannot be read as a standalone novel, I would recommend reading Wicked Games prior to reading this one. There is a rollercoaster of emotions and plot twists, it’s hard to keep up with what’s going on. The author does well in keeping all the characters in the prior novels in each story. The main characters, Winter and Shane, have shown emotional growth in the story, from how they were acting in the past to now. I like how the author incorporates events from the other novels in the series to this one to keep it all flowing as it should be. All the characters are very relatable with what’s going on. This series is a very good read and suspenseful.

View all my reviews

Secrets at the Café: A Novel of Suspense about Family and Friendship by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Devon Pulliam

Secrets at the CafeSecrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have loved every book from this author and this one was just as good as the others. I will say you don’t have to read A Mother’s Threat first but it ties into this one so much I would recommend reading it first.

Karina makes a promise to her grandmother as her last wish that she will run the Café. What Karina doesn’t know is that her grandmother has held a secret all these years, several in fact, and will send Karina on a puzzle solving mystery. But will Karina find the answers once the main item comes up missing?

This book is a quick and easy read that will suck you right in and keep you guessing until the end. You will find yourself trying to figure out who the thief is and if Karina will figure out the secret. I love the happy ending this book gives because both Karina and Violet deserve a happy ending.

View all my reviews

Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl by Samantha Shannon – Review by Deb Robinson

Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her HowlLuna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such a wonderful book. The beautiful bright cover grabbed my attention right away. I love animals and a husky is my dream dog. I loved the message in this story. Differences are not something to be sad about. Our differences make us special. Love is given to all. Luna and Nemo became great friends because they were different. Great great message to kids. I also enjoyed the bonus pages after the story to engage little ones with even more. I will certainly be looking for more books by this author for my grandson.

View all my reviews

Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3) by Rob Bates – Review by Jayme Raffauf

Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3)Slay It With a Diamond by Rob Bates
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Though I have not read the prior two books in the Diamond District Mystery Series, I had no trouble understanding the characters and their dynamics. This was a fun read that kept me guessing until the very end. I loved the various family dynamics and Mimi is a super relatable lead character. I mean, who doesn’t love a book about a cursed diamond?! Slay It With a Diamond is a fun mystery book and I look forward to reading the rest of the series and more books from Rob Bates.

View all my reviews

Ghost Takes A Vacation (Genie and Adriana Darling Cozy Paranormal Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Carmen Radtke – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Ghost Takes A VacationGhost Takes A Vacation by Carmen Radtke
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Genie and Adriana Darling Cozy Paranormal Ghost Mysteries series. I love a cozy mystery and I love paranormal stories so combining the two was right up my street.
I loved the idea behind the story, the deceased great-great aunt needing her old belongings to strengthen her and the search for these items resulting Genie and Adriana sleuthing about. It’s a fun and easy read, perfect for curling up in front of the fire.
I really enjoyed the dynamics of the relationship between Genie and Adriana, they have a great relationship and individual skills that come together nicely in their attempts to solve the mystery. The characters are fun and lovable, and I will certainly be going back to read the first book because I just can’t get enough of them!
I think Adriana’s gift is my absolute favourite and makes for some funny content. I won’t spoil it for people, but I’m sure you’ll enjoy it. I can’t wait to get my hands on more from this series.

View all my reviews

Ghost Takes A Vacation (Genie and Adriana Darling Cozy Paranormal Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Carmen Radtke – Review by Jennifer Ramos

Ghost Takes A VacationGhost Takes A Vacation by Carmen Radtke
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is my first Radtke and I found it quite entertaining. The imagery of traveling through Italy was great as Genie is on a quest to help her Great-Great-Aunt, Adrianna, who is a ghost who is missing her dearly departed earthly belongings. They take a trip over to Italy only to end up in some unexpected circumstances. Arson, murder and this dynamic duo are back on the mission in finding out what is going on. It is a great quick read and great for those who enjoy cozy mysteries!

View all my reviews

Raining Fish and Frogs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Raining Fish and FrogsRaining Fish and Frogs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Science is fun. Nothing better than reading a child a book. This one touches on science. Could it really be raining? Are those raindrops or fish falling from the sky? Strong winds do have a way of sucking up everything in its path. This is one of those stories. Only it explains weather in such a cute, educational way. I love this story. I also enjoy reading this author’s books. It’s a fast flowing read and the pictures are fantastic. Everytime this author finishes a book I am excited to see what my grandchildren will learn.

Review@cinful

View all my reviews