Hay Goes Home by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a cute story about courage. Hay is trying to get home for her mom’s birthday and faces some challenges. With some help from her friends, she is able to overcome them and make it. The illustrations are fun and colorful. The story is happy and full of rhymes. A cool addition to a child’s library. Educational fun.
Treasure Hunt by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Carrie has found a new tool in Grandma’s closet this time. In the box marked Dowels she finds some rods and goes on a treasure hunt. I found this story to be a bit of fun when reading because my grandson had all kinds of questions about them. He wanted to have his own hunt. He also wants to know if I’ll make a closet of treasures. It’s a neat story of exploration and sparks a child’s curiosity. Carrie teaches kids about imagination and learning. The author always gives us a spark to light the learning. Another neat book to add to the family library.
Cray Saves the Day by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Cray Saves the Day is Book Two in The Adventures of Cray Series. It is a children’s book told in rhymes that follows the adventures of Cray the Crab and his friends. The newest adventure has Cray, Ray the Seagull, Fay the turtle, mermaid Queen Mer May, and Hay the fox cleaning up the beach. Garbage is everywhere after the human’s have spent the day at the beach, so the group of friends work together as a team and pitch in to clean up the litter from the beach. This book teaches children the importance of kindness, friendship, teamwork, and the importance of being environmentally friendly. The illustrations are bright, beautiful, and really bring the story to life. A beautiful and whimsical read containing valuable lessons for both children and adults.
Cutter: Devils’ Spawn Daddies by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
“Cutter” by Victoria Saccent is a gripping and emotionally charged novel that explores the intricacies of love and loss. . Saccent’s writing is both haunting and beautiful, capturing the raw emotions of the characters and pulling readers into their world.
One of the standout elements of “Cutter” is the depth of character development. The protagonist is portrayed with great sensitivity and authenticity, allowing readers to connect with her struggles and root for her as she finds the strength to overcome her demons. Saccent masterfully weaves together a compelling plot filled with twists and turns that keep readers engaged until the very end.
The themes explored in “Cutter” are powerful and thought-provoking. The book addresses issues of trauma, forgiveness, and the power of personal growth. Through the protagonist’s journey, Saccent offers a poignant exploration of how love and self-discovery can heal even the deepest wounds. “Cutter” is a captivating read that will leave readers reflecting on the complexities of the human experience long after turning the final page.
Treasure Hunt : Grandma’s Closet Book 4 by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Grandma has the most interesting closet that has the most magical things in it.
Treasure Hunt is the fourth book in the Grandma’s Closet series by Lois Wickstrom. The illustrations are done by Francie Mion in this children’s adventure story book. The story is filled with a bit of everything to make it interesting for children and their imagination.
As with all the other books in this series Carrie feels closest to her grandma when she discovers things in Granma’s closet. In this the fourth book in the series Carrie finds Dowsing rods that takes her on an adventure for treasure.
What will Carrie find and where will the dowsing rods take her?
Reviewed by @jennadb
Hay Goes Home by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Hay Goes Home is another charming story by G Pa. This beautifully illustrated tale captivates children with its rhyming prose and bright and colourful pictures.
Erica Leigh has brought to life G Pa’s unique and colourful characters. Not only is it a good story but like all his stories they come with a message that teaches children something important.
Hay Goes Home is fun and engaging as Cray and Hay set out on another adventure.
This is a great book and would be a must for any home, schools and libraries.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Delayed Redemption: DAG Team Series: Book 3 of 4 Special Ops Romantic Suspense by Kel O’Connor
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Delayed Redemption is Book Three in the DAG Team Series. It is a romantic suspense with drama, danger, action, suspense, tension, mystery, angst, romance, chemistry, secrets, the mafia, and Special Ops. The story centers around the characters of Janey and Mateo who are thrust together by fate and circumstances. Janey has worked hard to overcome more than her fair share of tragedy, abuse, and trauma. Leaving everything behind she went to college in pursuit of fulfilling her dreams. When she gets kidnapped and thrust into danger there is only one person who may be able to help her. Mateo is attempting to free himself from the life of crime and turn his life around but to do he must perform one last job for his drug lord boss. When his latest job involves an old childhood friend named Janey, he is forced to confront his past and make decisions for his future. Can that future involve Janey? Can he save her from the danger that lurks around them? Will Janey be able to love Mateo for the kind man he is under that gruff exterior? I loved the character of Janey because she was strong, determined, kind, and smart. She overcame numerous obstacles and never gave up which I found admirable. Mateo was tough, street smart, and led a life of crime but deep down was kind, loving, and cared for Janey. A great read full of twists and turns that will keep you riveted until the final pages.
Cutter: Devils’ Spawn Daddies by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Cutter is a protector in his MC and has the rap sheet to prove it. He’s used to being on the lookout for cops and to being the one the cops choose as their patsy. However, when he runs into an attack while on club business, he can’t bring himself to run when he has the opportunity to keep someone from being alone in their last moments. As expected, the cops suspect he and his club brothers are the reason for the carnage. It feels a lot like a bad case of deja vu, considering last time these cops arrested him he ended up in jail, regardless of his innocence. The only pro to the entire situation is that the rookie cop at the time, Emily Mayhew, has given him years worth of fantasies in his DD life.
Emily has since made detective, and while she plays coy, Cutter and the delicious temptation he offered was never far from her mind. Secretly, she knew Cutter was dominant and wanted to bask in it but her past experiences made her afraid to share her desires. Regardless of her personal fantasies, Cutter was the perfect person for the case she is trying to break wide open. Will he take her up on her offer of partnership to bring the new MC down, or will it become more than that?
Magic Wanda by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Carrie once again finds something magical in Grandma’s closet! I love how Wickstrom encourages kids to use their imagination and yet she’s always teaching lessons within her books. Carrie and the Wandas’ story is very intriguing and fun and as always the illustrations are fantastic. I love reading Wickstrom’s stories to my kiddos.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
House Valdis Origins: Xenobia by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
House Valdis Origins: Xenobia
By Naomi Valkyrie
Review by: Susan Ratchford
5 Stars
Wow, I never thought a novella of 29 pages would elicit so much emotion from me. The relationship between Xen and Urd grabs you by the heart and won’t let go. Naomi Valkyrie creates a hard but interesting world that I can’t wait to read more about. This is a great introduction to her House Valdis series and I will be looking for my copy of The Rise Of House Valdis (her first book in the official series) very soon!
Murder She Meowed by Ruth J. Hartman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the second book in the series and you can read it as a standalone. I would describe this as a cute and cozy mystery. It’s nice…it’s sweet…it’s not going to give you nightmares. I really liked Hartman’s writing style. She’s too the point and her characters are well-rounded. There’s a little bit of everything in here: mystery, intrigue, romance, deception, feel-goods…Murder She Meowed really has it all. If you are looking for something on the lighter side of murder with a side of romance then this is the story for you.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
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Cray Saves the Day by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story is perfect to read before a day at the beach. It will remind our children how to keep the beach clean not just for us but for the animals and sea creatures we share it with. The story is fun as well as engaging. The book has many open conversations which is always a great idea as well as a learning tool. This author writes the cutest stories. They are a must on our children’s bookshelves. While this story is short, it is full of fun and information. Not to mention the beach critters are cute as well. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
Review@cinful
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Very fun read! Kept me on the edge of my seat. The narrator had just enough in their voice to draw you in, but not enough to give away the next moment. Very well done!
The Curse of Jean Lafitte by Mary Walsh
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Curse of Jean Lafitte by Mary Walsh is a gripping and thrilling adventure set in the mysterious and supernatural realm of New Orleans. Juliet Vance’s journey from food critic to pastry chef to treasure hunter is a captivating tale that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.
The story’s unique blend of food, history, and the supernatural adds depth and intrigue to the narrative, making it a truly engaging read. The dynamic between Juliet and the infamous buccaneer Jean Lafitte is fascinating and adds an element of tension and excitement to the story as they navigate the haunted streets of New Orleans together.
Walsh’s vivid descriptions of the French Quarter and local ghostly legends transport readers to the heart of the city, immersing them in its rich history and mysterious atmosphere. The race against time to break the curse and find the hidden treasure adds a sense of urgency and suspense that keeps you eagerly turning the pages.
Treasure Hunt by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Treasure Hunt by Wickstrom is an enchanting and imaginative story that follows Carrie on a magical adventure to uncover hidden treasures using dowsing rods found in Grandma’s mysterious box. The story beautifully captures the essence of the special bond between Carrie and her Grandma, as well as the excitement and intrigue of exploring Grandma’s Closet full of treasures.
As Carrie sets out on her treasure hunt, readers are taken on a journey full of surprises and discovery. The author does a fantastic job in building suspense and keeping readers engaged as Carrie follows the dowsing rods to unknown destinations. The element of mystery and the sense of wonder throughout the story make it a captivating read for children and adults alike.
Hay Goes Home by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I highly recommend Hay Goes Home as a delightful and heartwarming read that both parents and children will enjoy. The charming characters and colorful illustrations bring the story to life, making it engaging and entertaining for young readers.
Overall, Hay Goes Home is a wonderful book that teaches valuable life lessons in a fun and imaginative way. It is a story that children will love to read again.
Hay Goes Home by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a super cute book that talks about being brave. Hay faces some perils along the way to a birthday party but together with his friends, they make it safely.
This would be a great book to sit and read with a youngster facing a difficult situation. It can be used to help them face the situation more bravely.
The illustrations in this book are very well done as well. They are very vibrant and engaging!
Hidden Mischief by Alyndra Quinn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Mmmm! Yes, everything about this book. Super sexy hot boss, check! Ashton is trying to do better, get better. With her new job she is beginning to thrive. It may be due to the fact she is falling quickly into her new boss’ arms and he is her best friend’s brother. I absolutely loved this story. The writing, the plot, everything is perfect. Just the right spice for me too. Can’t wait for more from Alyndra Quinn.
Vacation Flirtation…or More? by Stacey Komosinski
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Blue eyed strangers, am I right? I don’t know anyone who hasn’t had an attraction to a blue eyed stranger. Giuliana is no different when she is unexpectedly alone for the beginning of her vacation. This is such a sweet story about how quickly attraction can change your life. I really enjoyed this book. It has everything; beach, fun, attraction, and who doesn’t dream of this fantasy sometimes?
The Other Side of Together by Emily Cox
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A light but real romance full of heartache, love and everything that can come in between. This story brings you back into those first love feels and makes you want to cuddle up and scream at the same time. It was a first kind of book for me. I had so many feelings and emotions but absolutely loved it. I really hope that Emily Cox and Nicole Allen write a second and make a series, a set, something for sure!
Master Botosoni by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is book 9 in the series and it can be read as a stand alone. I however, would recommend reading all the books before this one. This would just allow you to be able to fully understand all the backstory that leads up to this book. Not meaning that you need it for the characters but for the actual storyline. It would give you a more in depth knowledge of this amazing storyline that you find in book 9. IF you happen to find yourself reading this book first, you will be fine doing so. It has everything you need to fully understand what is going on. You won’t have as much background but it isn’t needed unless you are like me and crave to know everything when you fall in love with a series. You will find yourself swept away in a world of vampires, witches, shifters, and seers which bring you amazing action, loyalty, love, steam, and more. There is BDSM in this book and I feel like it was spicy enough for me to maybe become various shades of red while reading but not fanning myself over the steam rising off of the pages. I will say that you might squirm a bit in your seat if you are reading this in public. This book sucks you in from the beginning and will have you not able to do much else with your day until you finish it. That said, it was a quick read for me (a day) and I felt like I didn’t want it to end. It does end in a cliff hanger just an fyi. However, that means that there will be another book and that makes me really excited. This book was really well written and had tons of characters that you find yourself attaching to each of them (a good reason to read the other books in the series). This is a great book to just lose yourself in for a day or make it a week and read the whole series.
Reviewed by: @bbohls
Delayed Redemption: DAG Team Series: Book 3 of 4 Special Ops Romantic Suspense by Kel O’Connor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Mateo is one DAG operation away from leaving the gang he joined as a kid but all he must do is help bring down one of the biggest drug dealers and that’s it. Sounds simple but when things go sidewards and get complicated can he keep his head on and get the job done, but there is a twist that when a blast from his past comes into play, he must work with them to find out what is really happening.
Janey got herself out of the house, neighbourhood and tried to get herself a better footing in life but when her brother steals information from the gang he is with she becomes embroiled in the danger when she is kidnapped, scared and alone she meets a blast from her past who is determined to help her, but when they discover they must work together to uncover the mole and escape there attraction to each other increases.
This story is full of suspense and romance which will have you engrossed from the first chapter. Mateo’s character although involve in the heinous world of gangs and violence has decided a while ago to leave but you see his strength of character to want to get his life together. Janey characters although you find her start in life not to good is a perfect mirror to Mateo and you get to see of beautiful relationship blossom in the dark depths of the story.
The story is full of action and with the twist and turners makes this a compelling read and wanting to get to the bottom of the mysterious it unveils throughout. The story is well written, and the characters are full and rounded and I enjoyed reading this story. Although this is part of a series, I read this as a stand alone story but would love to go back and read the two books before.
Savage Lies by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Always on the run, always changing appearance, locations, schools. Never one for being in the same place for long, can Riley fit in at this Elite school?
Lots of trigger warnings, but if you have no triggers and like Bully romance this will be perfect.
Savage Lies is an enemies-to-lovers, new adult, high school bully romance with plenty of angst.
Deceptively Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Harper and Gabriel were in love and had plans to marry after graduating, but one fateful night throw there plans out of the water and Harper will forever regret her decisions.
After Harpers parents had died, she got rushed away to live with her uncle, but this was not a happy existence and when something hideous happened to her she had to break Gabriel’s heart and this has always played heavy on her heart, but with a cruel twist of fate she needs to protect him, but will he put aside the heartache and listen to her.
Gabriel is suddenly thrust into the old emotions that tear through when he sees Harper for the first time in nine years, all the hurt and anger comes flooding back but with that is also the lust and passion he felt all those years ago she was his soul mate, and can he put his feelings aside to help when she needs him. Although a lot has changed over the years can he forgive and forget.
This is a spin off series from The Titans in Manhattan and is just as addictive, the main alpha in Gabriel is wonderful to read and does show his vulnerable side within the story. Harper’s character is a great compliment to Gabriel’s and provides with just enough heartache and with what she has been through to feel sorry for the situation she landed in.
I must warn you there are trigger subjects within the story and you may find uncomfortable to read but this is part of Harper’s story to who she has become, and the writing is sympathetic to the story. I love the way Anise writes and this story has you emersed in a world of dark goings on and a thriller full of twists and turns. This has me engrossed till the end.
I can’t wait for the next books in this series.
Cray Saves the Day by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
Cray Saves the Day (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes
Cray Saves the Day ( The Adventures of Cray Series) is a cute children’s book that children of any age will enjoy reading. The colorful illustrations help to bring the story to life and my almost six year old son loved them. I love that this book teaches children about caring for the environment and why it’s so important. Follow along with cray and his friends as they clean up while trying to protect the environment. We highly recommend reading this book and look forward to reading more from this Author.
Savage Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Isla Vaughn has a great series.
In this prequel is sets the precedence of cliff hangers unanswered questions, a dark past, hidden truths, lies, and bullying first loves.
She’s new to town but not to cons and this is just another assignment or so she things. Things are about to a turn; we aren’t sure if it’s better or worse. But the fact reminds this is her life now and she must adapt.
I couldn’t believe the twists in this sweet romantic mystery. I mean who saw the crazy coming! This is my first Eve Sawyer adventure.
Eve Sawyer is a journalism major at a local college. She wants to be an investigative journalist. It seems like she is starting early by helping the police solve crimes in her spare time. In this story, Eve is contacted by her friend’s mother, stating that her friend never came home and is missing. Eve soon discovers that the friend’s boyfriend is missing too. Are the two disappearances linked?
As Eve starts looking for her friend, she discovers so much going on. A bad break-up, a deceased father, an overprotective mother, a mystery ancestry hit, and an unexpected ransom situation. What seems connected may not be but could be. The crazy series of events that led to the big truth reveal was out of this world. Not to mention the budding romance between Eve and her investigation buddy.
Overall a good listen for the afternoon!
Dirty Heartbreaker: Hamilton Steelhawks Book 3 by A C Sheppard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is one of the best hockey romances I have read in several years. The authors’ knowledge and understanding of hockey, the game, the players feels real. This one is different. There seems to be a real love of the game here, not to mention the name dropping. This helps make the book more enjoyable.
Gabby and Colby have both been hurt. Each resigns themselves to a life of one and done’s. Except every time they are in a room together, they are pulled together like magnets. Neither of them want to admit that it is more. Neither want it to be more. The first night they are together, he sneaks out. The second time, she does.
Now, Gabby’s best friend is marrying his friend and teammate. This means they will be in each other’s orbit more and more. Gabby is the Maid of Honor and Colby is the Best Man adding a level of togetherness neither wants to experience. Fireworks and mayhem ensue. When the wedding is done, so is Gabby. She won’t keep flying close to the flame that is Colby hoping not to get burned.
So, not going to add spoilers here. The team are fantastic characters. I want things to work out for Gilly. I need Rocky to find a shy, introverted librarian. Can’t wait for the next in the series. Looking forward to adding a Steelhawks jersey to my collection!! Love it!
.•°*°•. BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE .•°*°•.Goodreads – Treasure Hunt (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom
Bookbub – Treasure Hunt (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom
~ AMAZON ~
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Click here to view the Book Trailer for Treasure Hunt (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom
Lois Wickstrom lives in a world where imaginary playmates are real. She doesn’t remember being born, so she finds unbirthdays are more exciting than the official once-a-year date on the calendar. She’s taken so many science classes that she believes science is the solution to almost every problem, including the dilemmas in fairy tales.
Jean Lorrah is a New York Times Best Selling author. She is also a retired English teacher, and an award winning artist. She has written Star Trek books with Jacqueline Lichtenberg, and books in worlds of her own creation. Together with Lois, she is co-author of Coal for Christmas which won the Gold Remi at Worldfest.
.•°*°•. BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE .•°*°•.Bookbub – Hay Goes Home (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes
Click here to view the Book Trailer for Hay Goes Home (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes
Gary Wakstein is known to young readers as G Pa Rhymes! After a lifetime in the restaurant industry, Gary discovered his true passion: writing children’s books that teach important life lessons through the magic of rhyme and reading. Partnering with the talented illustrator Erica Leigh, G Pa Rhymes created The Adventures of Cray book series, inspired by his own family’s adventures.
G Pa Rhymes captivates kids with his “rappin’ and rhymin'” stories and instills values like friendship, honesty, bravery, and environmental stewardship. Now a sought-after speaker, he travels to schools, museums, libraries, and anywhere else he can bring joy to children’s lives.
G Pa Rhymes tries to inspire young readers with every book he writes. He resides in Plymouth, MA, and spends his days with his children and grandchildren on Cape Cod, Asheville, NC, and Victor, Idaho.