Sasha Smart: Short Stories for Girls by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Sasha loves science and learning, but doesn’t want to be different from the other kids. This book covers the full range of character traits like, bullying, being there for friends, confidence, etc. An uplifting and inspiring book for young readers.
Review by Terri Jo McAllister
View all my reviews
Hidden Mischief by Alyndra Quinn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Zachary & Ashton pulled me into their world effortlessly and I loved my time with them. I love Ashton’s character she may be a submissive in parts of her life but don’t mistake her for a doormat or some shy person. She’s so sassy and I love everything about her. Zach will give you all the heart racing vibes. There’s plenty of heat but this author doesn’t over do it, there’s plenty of great written story with steamy parts sprinkled in. I will say while obviously we’re all about the main characters, you’ll also really enjoy the supporting characters also. I really enjoyed my time with this book and definitely can’t wait for more. Four big stars and highly recommended!
Dark Sky at Dawn by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is a well written and detailed historical romance story and it really felt like it connected with the characters. Their struggles, their fights and the journeys they go on all felt so real and relatable and even though it is a time and place I have no experience of.
The author has done an amazing job of transporting you into the story and I loved watching it all unfold. This author is one that I have read a few books previously and they are always this good. I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish and I am looking forward to the next book.
Bailey and the CEO: A Corporate Love Story by Amy Q. Barker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book! It is an alternating point of view, but not chapter by chapter, more like by section. Bailey, one of the main characters, is in her late 30s, a widow, raising two teenage girls, and is one of the VPs at her company. She is likeable and so real. She is doing really well in work and life until a few brushes with the CEO of the company. He is handsome and has brushed by her and sent sparks through her body. They end up on the same plane and sitting next to each other. Bailey was rushed and almost missed the plane and then was overwhelmed and nervous to be sitting next to Fox, the CEO. Fox is a divorced dad of two teenagers and spends a lot of time at work and the rest with his boys, but Bailey has caught his eye on more than one occasion. Fox is handsome and also a really likable character, a good man. Bailey starts to relax when talking about work and they enjoy talking for the two hour flight. When they are walking in the airport Fox asks her out, clumsily because he hasn’t dated much since his divorce. They both have so many questions: Will they be allowed to date? Will dating be worth the trouble and work it will take with HR? Will they both be able to overcome some issues from their past? They decide to give it a go in secret and the sparks fly. This book is more romance than spice and was a quick page turner. The author is working on a series and I can’t wait to read more!
Master Botosoni by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Master Botosoni is Book Nine in the Masters of the Consulate series. It is a dark vampire fated mates romance with action, suspense, mystery, intrigue, passion, danger, drama, tension, and emotion galore. This book is part of a series with some overlapping details and background information, so I do recommend reading the other books first. However, it can be read as a standalone because the story focuses on its own two main characters and is told from each of their POV. This book is the story of Master Botosoni, a vampire with a thirst for blood, and Catalina, a down-on-her-luck psychic. Master Botosoni will do anything to stop the rogue vampires and as fate would have it Catalina is the one who can lead him to them. Their romance is forbidden but the chemistry between them is off the charts and undeniable. Will Catalina choose Master Botosoni and immortality in the name of love? A great read with high stakes, vampires, witches, shifters, pure bloods, magic, and a feud that has been going on for centuries. The vivid scene descriptions and wonderful characters fully immerse you in the story and keep you hooked until the final pages. Bring on the next book!
Hay Goes Home by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
My kids loved this book and made me read it to them several times. they love Cray and Hay and their woodland adventures.
As a parent I really like how the characters show kids it’s okay to be scared and how to overcome it and be brave. I think this would also be a great resource for teachers as well.
Beach Ball Blunder by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
My family loves the Adventures of Cray but this one is the best one yet. They loved all the returning characters, as well as meeting the new seal, Grey. The kids were excited to see what antics the beach ball would get into and we’re thrilled to see the throwback to A New Day for Cray.
As a parent I enjoyed this book because it teaches kids the importance of telling the truth and self accountability.
Master Botosoni by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book could be read as a standalone, but you’ll have a more comprehensive reading experience if you read the previous books.
If you love romance stories about vampires, chances are, you will enjoy this story. It’s got a bit of everything – romance, danger, betrayal, suspense, steamy scenes.
I will also note that I found it interesting how the author blended the old-world vibe in with more modern vibes. Keeps the reading experience fresh.
Group Hug by Ariella Talix
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is so much fun! This is actually the first MMF story that I have felt drawn to ready, and I’m glad I did! It is for mature readers, but I did not find the sexy parts distracting or over-gratuitous at all. The characters are unique and well-developed and the way they intertwine makes the story compelling and relatable. Weston, Petra, and Callum find themselves as roommates, and the reader gets to watch the chemistry brew until it bubbles over. To be totally honest, I chose the book because of the cover – because dogs – and, boy, was I ever pleasantly surprised and swept off my feet! I am intrigued by this author and am glad I picked this up. I highly recommend this book even if it’s not something you would normally reach for.
Dark Sky at Dawn by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I found this a really interesting read. As this is a story about America and it’s history I went into it not knowing very much, however the authors amazing attention to detail and the research that was put into it really brought it to life for me. As well as all the historical references which I loved the author has created characters which are great and really make you invested in their stories and their lives and how everything that was happening at the time affected them no matter their social status, colour or job.
Everyone was affected by the happenings of this time and it was humbling to read about the struggles that went on for a lot of people during this time.
There is so much going on in this story with danger, corruption, war, hope, dreams of freedom and so much more than I can ever explain.
It is a book which it keep you reading until the end and as it is book 1 in the Freemen and Dreamers series I can’t wait to read more.
Magic Wanda by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Enchanting and captivating, this book is a delightful journey into the world of magic and the special bond between grandmothers and granddaughters. From the very first page, I was drawn into Carrie’s magical adventures. The author skillfully weaves a tale that is both heartwarming and exciting, perfect for any little girl with a love for magic. Carrie’s grandma is a charming character, embodying the warmth and understanding of all grandmothers. The unique relationship between Carrie and her grandma adds an extra layer of sweetness to the story, one that many readers will relate to. As Carrie discovers the magic of the Wandas, readers are taken on a whimsical journey filled with wonder and excitement. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a magical escape into a world where anything is possible.
Master Botosoni by Sylvia Black
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Master Botosoni has been tasked with hunting down rogue vampires and traitor shifters who have taken up hiding in his region. When his local bosses send him to a known psychic living in his town, he finds himself in the middle of not only a hunt for the enemy, but also a responsibility to save this young woman from her terrible family. The rest of the masters show up with their mates, and the confrontation is set up. Master Botosoni does his due diligence in furthering the mission first, but will it cost him his mate?
I have been reading this series for a while and enjoy this author. The storyline moved quickly and characters from past books played a role in this book. The traitor was a surprise to me and left me wondering if I had misread past books! I would have liked to have had more information about moments in the book, or more set up for things that occurred. It seemed like an event happened and then there was a little bit of information after the fact. This author is usually very thorough with their writing, so I was a little surprised by it. However, because I have read the previous books, I could fill in information on my own. All in all, this installment moved the series forward and is setting up for the finale.
Portrait of Deception by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Margo must have felt like she was floating – she was so close to really starting to live her dream that she could taste it! As she waited, she was given an offer she wasn’t expected to be able to refuse – but her instincts told her to just keep following her plan and not associate with this unstable man, so she turned it down. Little did she know, the second he had chosen her, her fate had been sealed.
Now she’s been drugged, woke up to unimaginable damages to her hotel room, and is removed from the competition she’d been working so hard for. Margo is forced to rethink her former decision and approaches him about the job offer he’d given. As she begins what she thinks of as just a job to pay off the debt she now owes, the demands her new boss begins to make are getting out of control and she is feeling unsafe. Will she be able to protect herself and make it through the job?
House Valdis Origins: Xenobia by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A short story that packs a lot into just a few pages. The intensity and the dialogue kept up the whole time but there’s still a lot of emotional pull throughout. This is a great opening into the first book of the series and I can’t wait to read more in this series.
Perfect Office Pact by Maria Jane
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is a nice slow burn, clean read, romance. I feel Mira’s character started out strong; I really liked that she knew what she wanted, wasn’t going to take any crap, and pushed herself. During the half way point she really started to bug me and I felt she needed to get over herself. I enjoyed the other characters, Cade is great and I’m glad they developed a friendship. Usually having so many characters to keep up with bothers me but I felt the amount of characters interacting in the book was good and no one clashed to make it confusing. I really liked her friends and glad to see there are other books with her friends romances. I do wish there was more of the actual relationship of Mira and Declan but I am glad they got their happy ending. The short time we see them together I feel they had good chemistry so I’m not mad with the ending.
Kingdom of the Oceans by Martin Ferguson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I had read a few books from this author but this series is by far my favorite. This is the sixth and final book of the epic relic hunters series. This time when I started to read this book it was bittersweet. I really wanted to read the conclusion of this story but I didn’t want it to end. I could not put this book down until I finished it and it only took me a few hours. I can’t wait to see what this amazing author will write next.
Adam and Matt are finally getting to know about their family history. They only have one more mystery to solve and that could be the biggest myth of all. The Hunter brothers are going to find out if there was truly the wonderful world of Atlantis. They are not the only ones that are searching for Atlantis. The brothers rivals are also searching and they won’t let them find it first. Adam and Matt need to find it so they can protect with is their family history. Will the brothers find what they are looking for or will someone else get there before they can?
Savage Lies by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have read a couple of books from this author and she continues to blow my mind. This is the first book in the very addictive series Hidden Valley. I love good enemies but lovers’ stories and this one is in my top three. I think you should read the prequel to this book just so you know the back story. I love how this author writes from both of the characters’ points of view. It makes me feel more emotionally connected to them. I can’t wait to read book two.
Riley and her mom move a lot but when they come back to the small town again she is shocked. She is going to the Hidden Valley High now and she already has made an enemy Cole. He remembers who this girl was and he is not going to let her forget it. When Riley finds out that her mom is dating Cole’s father it gets even worse for her. Riley has secrets that she doesn’t want to find out but when her past comes back to haunt her will she turn to her enemy for help?
Review by @heatherbass
Savage Truth by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Isla Vaughn really knows how to make you keep reading and turning pages to find out what happens.
I was so excited to get my hands on this book so that I could read how things ended. Some very hot sex scenes that lead to hate turning to love. A fabulous conclusion to the story of Riley and Cole. The past finally catches up and is put to bed forever!
Dark Sky at Dawn by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Dark Sky at Dawn is the first book in the Free Men and Dreamer’s Series by Laurie L.C. Lewis. It is another superb historical fiction story that is full of plenty of heart and soul. What sets this story apart from others in the same genre is not only Ms. Lewis’s wonderful storytelling talent and skilful writing, but also all the historical detailing that drew me in and transported me to the early 1800’s, and the founding of a nation.
Ms. Lewis has crafted an engrossing tale full of American history, secrets, emotion, family, faith, spirituality, liberty, sacrifice, freedom, hope, politics, espionage, corruption, war, violence, dramatic developments, challenges, intrigue, and so much more- all through a window in time.
There is a lot going on here, with a lot of information, detailing, passion, and clever touches that results in a cleverly constructed and choreographed saga, showcasing (at least for me) the authors passion for history. It’s apparent from Ms. Lewis’s attention to detail here that all that passion, as well as plenty of research, has gone into her work- making for a great read.
I can’t wait to continue this saga- so on to Book #2!
The series contains:
-Dark Sky at Dawn (Book #1)
-Twilight’s Last Gleaming (Book #2)
-Dawn’s Early Light (Book #3)
-Oh, Say Can You See (Book #4)
-In God Is Our Trust (Book #5)
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Laurie L.C. Lewis!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Hidden Mischief by Alyndra Quinn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What a talented author ! This is a unique storyline I’ve never seen before . I had a hard time liking these characters or their interactions together , but they were still well written . Moments of self reflection & character growth are always great to give depth . Love the instattraction !
House Valdis Origins: Xenobia by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
There is a lot going on in this very short read. The author does pull you in from the get go. It does set the reader up for knowing the history behind the main character. I don’t typically read these types of books, however, it was very unexpected how everything turned out and the author’s descriptions and events kept me intrigued. Can’t wait to read the rest of the series!!
Bailey and the CEO: A Corporate Love Story by Amy Q. Barker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4/5 stars
This is such a cozy romance. It would hit the spot reading this in the fall. I wish there was more interaction between Bailey and Fox. I feel like the first date mentioned was almost out of nowhere because the interactions were limited.
Hidden Mischief by Alyndra Quinn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was good! This is one of the first books I’ve read by this author and I enjoyed it overall.
The main characters in this book were great. They had amazing chemistry and I enjoyed reading how their relationship developed through the story. I was rooting for them and their happily ever after.
I liked this authors writing style and I am looking forward to reading more by this author in the future!!
Happy Reading!
House Valdis Origins: Xenobia by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This really wasn’t I expecting but I was pleasantly surprised, in a good way. it was a very short read but so worth it in every way. This book is a paranormal story, its like a pre book to the series, and I will be definitely reading the next book. So I’m very happy to read this one first. This book has some interesting things in it thou, living in a house for slaves, never making friends for they could leave, until one day two girls Xenobia and Urd are sold. This book really packs a punch from sadness, sorrow, to happy and exciting, to suspense, to fighting, love, and so much more, this book might be a fast read but it is so worth every bit of it.
House Valdis Origins: Xenobia by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Xenobia has the sixth sense to avoid falling victim to betrayal. At a young age, she knew not to trust anyone. That is, until Urd became her new roommate at the training center. Headmistress Xiomara assigns Xenobia to make sure that Urd learns the rules; she would be responsible for anything Urd failed. Somehow, Xenobia lets down her guard with Urd, and they become best friends. Unfortunately, every slave’s happiness comes to an end when the Chief Slave Traders arrive. Headmistress Xiomara takes Urd early in the morning. Xenobia worries throughout the day, and Urd enters the room after the night is half over. Xenobia notices a red welt on Urd’s back. The following morning, Urd doesn’t eat with Xenobia but goes to kneel before the Chief. Later that evening, Xenobia sees the man strike Urd. Xenobia attacks him and is thrown into an outbuilding in chains.
The girls are sent to their new master together when they learn that Xenobia can heal Urd’s wounds. One evening, they learn that Prince Xavion is coming, and Xenobia knows they have to escape because Xavion’s reputation for his treatment of slaves is dire. Xenobia had hoped to find the rumored Underground so they could be freed from slavery. Now, they don’t have time and must escape before the prince arrives.
House Valdis Origins: Xenobia makes a solid foundation for the series by featuring Xenobia’s early life. Xenobia’s attachment to Urd becomes almost as though they are sisters. It becomes evident that Xenobia isn’t human since she has blue skin, can heal wounds, and has a feral anger that causes fangs to appear. The detail is excellent and doesn’t overwhelm the unpredictable plot. The novella is a quick read but is full of emotion and action that held my interest and left me eager to read the sequel.
House Valdis Origins: Xenobia by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a super quick 30 page read. But did those 30 pages pack a freaking emotional punch. I can’t say too much without spoiling however, I loved that we were shown Xenobia and given the small inkling that she is something more.
House Valdis Origins: Xenobia by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was so good. The author has created a very vibrant and engaging story that really captured my interest. I enjoyed the story and found myself vested in the future of Xenobia and Urd. I was so hoping that everything would work out for them in some way. This was a great start to the series and I really look forward to the next chapter.
House Valdis Origins: Xenobia by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I am utterly amazed at how well the author can craft a story in such a short amount of time! This was a very quick read that took me less than 30 minutes to get through, and I absolutely cannot wait to pick up the other books in the House Valdis series. I was gripped from the very first page as the author paints a vivid setting where women are mistreated and abused. Xenobia tries not to form relationships with anyone because people tend to go missing. When she meets Urd, her rules go out the window and they try to find a way through this awful life together. I don’t want to give anything away, but trust me, you’ll hang on to every last word through this short book. I highly recommend picking it up as you’ll probably find yourself reaching for the rest of the series as well!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Murder She Meowed by Ruth J. Hartman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I would be lying if I said I didn’t choose this book based on it’s adorable cover art but I definitely stuck around for the cozy mystery. Murder She Meowed was a fun read with truly enjoyable characters and great imagery. I haven’t read the first book in the series (yet) but that didn’t hinder my enjoyment of this one. I am definitely a cat person so I truly loved having fun loving felines in the mix. If you’re looking for a fun story with great characters this is a win.
Group Hug by Ariella Talix
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Group Hug is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review
“Life is always better with dogs in it.” I was originally sold on the cover alone for this novel. Then I noticed the novel was dedicated to Willow and I knew this novel was meant to be. Group Hug is a MMF romance that is full of fun, laughter, and spunk. Weston, Callum, and Petra will send you on an emotional roller coaster ride: from laughing, to crying, to cursing out loud. This novel is full of tense moments and knock-your-socks-off romance scenes. This was my first time reading a novel written by Arielle Talix and it definitely will not be my last. I enjoyed her writing style. Her characters were down to earth and relatable. I loved the side characters: Gus, Dave, and Goliath. They added the final touches to this novel. I highly recommend this novel to a mature audience who love a good romance story, and of course dogs!
