This is a story of Norse Mythology and the history of Finn and his family. When a curse is put upon Finn when following his brothers he is now having to deal with becoming brave. The narrator was difficult for me to understand at first until I got used to the accent. An interesting story overall.
Thorfinn’s family was cursed by a witch down three generations. Two generations have succumbed to the curse before Thorfinn’s story began. A young boy of 10 Thorfinn must overcome people plotting to unalive him. His own clansman fear him and he is now an enemy. He must also accept his new fate of being a boy by day and ghost by night. This was a fascinating book. I enjoy history but have never really gotten into Norse culture aside from the Hollywood version. I’m sure the author did a lot of research to describe things so wonderfully. It was like a movie playing in my head as I was able to visualize everything. I can’t wait to see what the next adventure holds in this series.
BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE 
The Rise of House Valdis by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The Rise of House Valdis by Naomi Valkyrie
Rise of house Valdis is about a woman who has exceptional abilities and is not of this world. Having a terrible experience having her want to start over she comes to earth. Saving a group of women and establishing herself as a business woman who creates a safe space for woman to work when everything in her life changes after being so careful.
This book does have some triggers in the beginning that were not listed.
Overall it was a decent read, not something I would choose specifically for myself but you or a friend may like it.
Critical Care by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 – 4.5 Stars
Critical Care is the sixth book in the Chase Care Series by R.L Dunn. As mentioned before, this medical thriller series is a spin-off from one of Ms. Dunn’s other great series- ‘Chase Security’- but the books can definitely be read as standalones, if you wanted. But, having said that, you might just find that one book won’t be enough to satisfy your new cravings.
This is a medical thriller/romantic suspense- with action, darker elements, second chances, dramatic developments, tension, danger, mystery, thrills, love, sacrifice, thrills, agendas, secrets, angst, intrigue, chemistry, sizzle, intensity, and much more.
Tim and Willow are going to be put through the ringer here that’s for sure. Bringing plenty of heart pounding moments as well as tugging on the heart strings, and even a few cheesy moments that made me smile. I don’t want to give too much away and spoil it for you- but Tim’s personal battle thrusts him into a situation he never saw coming and intertwines his path with Willow’s/. What happens makes for an engrossing multi-layered story that had me completely invested the whole way through.
I’m not sure whether there are more books in this series still to come, but no matter what, I am happy to read whatever Ms. Dunn produces next.
Happy Reading…
Thank You, R.L Dunn!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Family Ties Family Lies by Jacqueline Boulden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Family Ties Family Lies is so well written and is one of those books that will stay with long after your finished reading it. Part mystery and part family dynamics, a lot of emotions in this book. Love, loss and the absolute importance of forgiveness. Characters very well written and likeable. Definitely a book that will grab you in and you will want to just finish it curled up on the couch all cozy, but you may want a box of tissues.
Hay Goes Home by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Cray was so excited to be going to a birthday party!! It is Fox Hay’s mamma’s birthday high up in the mountains. It would be a long trip, but also an adventure! They saw animals of all kinds, plants high and low, and they even needed help along the way. It can be scary facing new things, but you can still be brave. Asking for help when needed can make adventures less stressful. This book was so cute!! If helps younger kids build courage through out different obstacles they may come across in life. Being scared and facing those fears. I think that this book is wonderful for kids, BUT it is also great for adults to read too. The tips in the back are so helpful and I encourage adults to read this one!!
Bailey and the CEO: A Corporate Love Story by Amy Q. Barker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book hit me on a few levels. It was so adorable first of all! Talk about second chances after kids! And not only second chances but honestly true first loves. This story is about Bailey and Fox. Their story is electric! Fox has become a CEO of a company that Bailey has worked for, for quite some time. She has worked her way up the ladder so to speak. Finally becoming VP in her department! After her husband passing away, it has taken a lot of time to get passed some things. But by chance her and CEO Fox, end up on a plane ride together and hit it off. It’s like they are old friends. Talking about everything. Anything! Finding common ground in so many ways! Both single parents. Trying to navigate the corporate world, but also be mom AND dad at the same time. Kids are a job in themselves. They need to eat right. Get outside and off their devices! Spend time with what family they have. And most impotently be supported by their parent! Right? Fox isn’t your typical CEO. He was brought in to fix issues and he sole focus it his kids and doing just that. Turning the company around will take a lot of focus. Does he have time for anything else? I found the characters so relatable. The author hooks you in with both of their stories that will put you into some emotions!! You can’t help by feel for all of them! The kids and the trauma the adults have fought through! Defiantly a cute romantic must read!
The Mating Chance by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the 3rd book I’ve read in this series and it’s my favorite so far! The Mating Chance has a lot going on, but it’s easy to follow. It’s just a matter of the decisions the characters make. The author does a wonderful job presenting the story, the character growth, and making you fall in love with at least one of the two main characters. For me it was Boone. Who could it be for you?
Boone has been hit by the call. Never expecting it to be cut and dry, just sweeping his mate off her feet, he didn’t expect what would be walking into. Cricket has been through the mating call before, knows the feel and the process. She had her mate and unfortunately lost him, but not before they had a son. Now all the sudden she’s getting a second chance call. One nobody has ever heard of happening before. So many questions and not many answers. The two biggest being: should she accept it? And will he accept them?
Of course you can’t get through these books without human drama and interference into shifter life. And it’s definitely here. Employees are being poached away hoping to force their hand to sell. Yet Cricket and her family stand their ground no matter what Mr. Grace says and does.
Will they come out on top?
I enjoy these books as well as this author and I look forward to more in the future.
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/201055964-critical-care” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Critical Care (Chase Care Book 6)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1698689733l/201055964._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/201055964-critical-care”>Critical Care</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17127840.R_L_Dunn”>R.L. Dunn</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6309071428″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
I have enjoyed the books that I have read so far in this series. I normally try to read a series in order, but somehow I have read every other one. Either way, this was another fantastic book by this author. The twists and turns will keep you turning the pages to see what happens next. Tim and Willow discover that someone has been tampering with chemotherapy medication. They put their lives at risk to stop whoever is sabotaging something that could harm millions of people. Will they be able to stop the bad guys? This can be read as a standalone but I can guarantee that you will be going back to read the other stories in this series. Hats off to the author for not only another great book but another great series.
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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/106111308-charlisa-wahtomy-alba”>View all my reviews</a>
It Comes From Within by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Must read prequel and book one first. This book picks up six months after the events of book one, The Rise of House Valdis. The author does it once again. Multiple perspectives give you every detail and angle of the story as the twists reveal themselves and Mistress Xenobia and her House fight to keep their territory.
Xenobia never wanted to be a leader, while large parts of her memories are missing the goal remains, to protect women and to keep those she has adopted as family safe. Matthew, Onyx, and Chi at her side an unexpected White Queen is behind it all. A memory unlocks itself and Xen is at a loss on what other important memories she is missing, and why are they missing. Merging two houses isn’t easy and Xen is drowning in the chaos that the White Queen is weaving. Deeper still are the connections between Xenobia, Matthew, and Onyx, they are all emotionally broken people trying to claw their way out of trauma. Fighting for any chance of a happy life.
Who is the White Queen? What will happen when Xen finds out? Can House Valdis survive and come out on top again? Naomi Valkyrie you amazing woman, my heart the entire book just kept racing harder and faster with each chapter. The author doesn’t do anything partially, she gives you the good, the bad, and the ugly side of this world and the struggle of living within it. These characters aren’t puppets they take you on a rollercoaster that left me gasping for air. Torn between needing more, what will happen next when or if she is sanctioned to let the nightmare side out. The darkness within her has been there too long and to be in complete control of herself she can’t keep it inside anymore. Will there be more? Will Xenobia return?
The Earl’s Match by Holly Bush
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is an enjoyable read that will lead you through family dynamics involving murder, adventure, angst, romance, and lots of drama. I enjoy reading historical romances, especially those involving families like the Thompsons. This book can be read as a stand alone, which is how I came across this one. I’m looking forward to reading the previous books in the series. The characters are very loveable and because of that, I want to read more on the other siblings featured in previous books.
If you love historical romance with a great storyline, be sure to check this one out!
Critical Care by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
R.L Dunn is one of my favorite writers. Her books always keep me on the edge of my seat wanting more. T.L. Dunn is one of my favorite writers. Her books always keep me on the edge of my seat wanting more. The story of what Tim has to go through and Willow by his side is so endearing. So much pain and a loving outcome. I highly recommend this author and series. The story of what Tim has to go through and Willow by his side is so endearing. So much pain and a loving outcome. I highly recommend this author and series.
Divinely Dramatic by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Divinely Dramatic is Book 2 in the Divine Vintage series and this story could be read as a standalone I still highly recommend reading this series from the beginning. I was eagerly anticipating this release and I enjoyed this book very much…with spirits, puzzling occurrences, ghosts, mystery, romance and intrigue. What can possibly happen helping out at a local theatre when you are needed…
Marcy Alexander is recruited to help as a costumer at a local theatre production, things do not go off as planned. Being on the director Mike’s not so good side off the bat, Marcy is trying to do what she can. As Marcy navigates her abilities with auras, her friend Tess, who has other special abilities, also helps out when there is a secret that happened at the theatre long ago..what could have possibly happened? With everything coming to full circle, Marcy must navigate on helping out with production, solve a mystery…can there be sparks between her and Mike as well…
Definitely read and find out. This was a fun read and I highly recommend this book.
Fearless Love by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Fearless Love is book 5 in the series and a great addition. I loved being able to read as everything unfolded with Roy and his health, James losing who he thought he wanted to spend his life with and then meeting and falling for Sara.
Both James and Sara fell for eachother pretty quickly. James was the white knight she didn’t nessessepeirly need but welcomed. Aside from what happened with Noah and the dogs that first day, James always cared for, loved and treated Noah as if he was his own family. Sara has been working as a traveling nurse for quite a few years. Was She was running from something or someone? When she finally explained to James why she chose to be a traveling nurse, he understood and backed her up thru everything going forward. I think, I love James the most out of all the characters in this series. Definitely a great read.
Review by @xchellex
Web of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the second book in the series and a great follow up to the first book. I loved getting involved with this main character again and the mystery she is trying to solve. I was intrigued from the word go and thoroughly enjoyed the journey the author took you on.
As I have come to expect with books from this author, it was detailed, well written and complex. The way it was written made it so easy to picture everything happened and, for me, made the story even better to read. I am already looking forward to reading more.about these characters!
Basil by K. Rose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I didn’t really know what to expect going into this book, but I thought I’d give it a try.
I got a few chapters in and quickly discovered that it is too cutesy for me.
That being said, it would be a great read for anyone who enjoys a fluffy story. There’s a sparkling, vegan vampire, clones of the J. Green Giant, a snowman shifter, and other unique characters. It also has steamy scenes to keep things spicy.
Even though it wasn’t my kind of read, I’m giving four stars for originality. I applaud the author’s use of imagination in creating the characters.
Web of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Web of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries) by N.L. Holmes- 5 out of 5 stars
This book is the second in this series. I absolutely love the historical details the author makes sure to includes in each mystery! Like father, like daughter. Eagerly waiting to read the next book. I highly recommend.
The Rise of House Valdis by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Rise of House Valdis by Naomi Valkyrie- 5 out of 5 stars
This quick read held my attention until the end. It is a well written and enjoyable debut novel. I love how the main character is a strong woman who supports other women. Can I also say just how gorgeous the cover art is on this book. I absolutely love this series. I recommend reading this book.
Murder At Music Hall by A. J. Ullman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A. J. Ullman has created an awesome murder mystery! He truly set the bar high with the first book of this series, Murder at Music Hall. This first book seems like a very interesting series from A.J. and I love me some really good crime stories. A.J. has a unique way of writing dark crime stories and has a way of making you feel like you are part of the mystery. I started reading the book and before I knew it, I was completely consumed by the story. There was so much mystery and suspense, drama and angst.
True knows this case is going to take everything he has and is going to take some major thinking outside the box. The murder isn’t even his biggest hurdle he has to jump, it’s the rich, snotty, and pain in the butt people that seem to be making things more complicated for him.
It was a long night of reading because even if I wanted to, I could not put it down.
This story is full of lies and betrayal, and manipulation. I found myself lost in every word turning page after page and I am looking forward to reading more from A.J.!
Mary Espinoza, February 2024
Basil by K. Rose
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Basil is a delightful concoction of paranormal romance and comedic adventure that left me craving more! K. Rose masterfully weaves together elements of the supernatural with the everyday struggles of modern life, creating a unique and captivating world.
The protagonist, a curvy biomedical engineer turned vegan vampire, is refreshingly relatable as she navigates the unexpected twists and turns of her newfound existence. From opening a juice bar and tanning salon to attracting the attention of a diverse array of supernatural suitors, her journey is both heartwarming and hilarious.
Rose’s writing is witty and engaging, drawing readers into a world where danger and passion collide. The chemistry between the protagonist and her suitors is palpable, keeping me eagerly turning pages until the very end.
Basil is a must-read for fans of reverse harem romance and paranormal fiction alike. With its clever premise, lovable characters, and pulse-pounding action, this book is sure to leave readers thirsting for more.
Bailey and the CEO: A Corporate Love Story by Amy Q. Barker
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is an okay story. I really wanted to like it as I love a workplace romance. This one moves along very slowly and honestly I found myself flipping pages and did not miss anything. Bailey is an intricate character as she has had a difficult past and had kind of become a new woman. I liked the connection between them but again there is a lot of thought processing in their heads thats the author is using to connect the characters to the reader. I am not a fan of too much of that. So this one was a struggle for me. Others might enjoy but to me its just okay. I fo love the cover though!
Shadowed Deception: A Psychological Suspense Thriller by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A gripping psychological thriller with plenty of suspense and romance and a touch of humour. Investigative journalist, Finlay Giammarino has an article fit for the front page, but it has also put her life in danger. She wants to expose the owner of a trendy nightclub in the heart of Paris, as she’s discovered it is a front for a human trafficking ring. It is also the only lead she has to finding her friend’s missing sister. Finley is determined to bring the men at the top to justice, and so in desperation asks former Navy SEAL, and journalist hater, Drake Reeves for help. The pair then find themselves immersed in a world of secrets and lies but to find the truth they must unravel the deception. This was a real fast paced, page turner with an action-packed storyline and plenty of plot twists which kept me hooked. Both the characters and the setting come to life through the descriptive narrative making me feel immersed in the story. It is the third instalment in an enjoyable and exciting series of standalone novels.
Reluctant Spy by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I absolutely love Hildegarde the rat and Grandma…though I do have a soft spot for pet rats 🙂 Wickstrom has done it again with her chapter books…I love reading a chapter or two with my kiddos at night or during our weekly reading time. Wickstrom’s books (picture and chapter) are so engaging and have so many lessons woven throughout them. I love Grandma’s sense of wit throughout the book and I feel that Hildegarde had her own wit as well. Timmy’s first meeting with Hildegarde made both myself and my kids giggle and I love his reluctance to really trust “a rat.” I really miss the illustrations of Wickstrom’s picture books because they are just so well done (I know, I know…it’s a chapter book…but who says you can’t have pictures too!). This is a great read for anyone wanting to spend some quality time with their kiddos. It really does make for a great read aloud.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
Divinely Dramatic by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story is fun and kept me at the edge of my seat wondering how Marcy was going to handle everything thrown at her! Marcy is a costume designer for a particular play set in the 60s and encounters obstacles at every turn. The well-developed characters’ interactions with each other weave the story together dramatically. Paranormal, romance, intrigue – a little bit of something for everyone. It is a book that I dove into and barely came up for air. It was done way too fast! I definitely recommend this book and can’t wait to get my hands on another from this author!
Divinely Dramatic by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
In this wonderfully divine sequel, we get more insight into Marcy, the store clerk from Divine Vintage, and we meet Mike, the sexy director who has a rather nasty girlfriend and, in turn, is rather grumpy. I love the continuance of the paranormal aspect and this time it’s Marcy who is being called on to help the spirit in need. I think I liked this one a bit more ONLY because the plot line interested me more due to the particular play (The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde) that Young chose for her storyline. I enjoyed the character development (as individuals and otherwise) and I also really enjoyed getting to see characters that we previously got to know in the first book. If you are looking for a paranormal mystery romance with a bit of a grumpy/sunshine trope then this is defiantly the book for you! This is the second book in the series and I feel that you can read it as a standalone…but honestly why would you want to miss out on another great book so just go read the first one too 🙂
Reviewed by @meggs1717
Bailey and the CEO: A Corporate Love Story by Amy Q. Barker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this heartwarming romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Bailey is a widow who’s raising two teenage daughters and works as VP of Quality at Havelin. Meanwhile Fox is divorced and has two teenage sons and is the CEO of Havelin. When the pair have a chance encounter whilst on a plane journey, they are instantly attracted to one another, and sparks definitely fly. They soon discover that they have a real connection, and despite neither of them looking for romance they both want to take a chance on love. However, relationships between employer and employees in the corporate world is frowned upon and they find their developing relationship has many obstacles for them to overcome. This is a feel-good, uplifting corporate love story which I literally could not put down. I found this was a real page turner with a romantic storyline between two likeable and relatable characters. The descriptive narrative brought the setting to life, whilst the plot had enough drama along with the romance to keep me hooked. The chemistry between Bailey and Fox sizzled off the page and I enjoyed the dual narrative as this enabled me to feel engaged with them both. An enjoyable and engaging read and one which I recommend!
I really like the story. The character development was strong, the characters each had a crucial role, and the ending wrapped everything together nicely. Listening to the book was challenging as at times I had a hard time figuring out who was talking as first person as it was told in different characters point of view but once you learned the narrators voices, it was much clearer. The narrator for the book was fantastic and was the perfect choice for this genre. I really felt like I was with the characters. Transition music was also nice as it set the tone for the next passage. Overall, I enjoyed the book.
Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Divine Vintage is the intertwined love story of Tess and Trey and Edward and Phoebe. Tess and Trey meet when Trey and his grandmother, Esther, come into Tess’s newly opened vintage clothing store. It’s a whirlwind from there when a literally spark between Tess and Trey ignites a shocking revelation in Trey’s family’s murder-suicide of Phoebe and Edward. Young’s ability to seamlessly go between the storylines of the characters is flawless and amazing. I loved how she is able to rope the reader in from the beginning and keep the reader on the edge of their seat until the very end. This story has it all…intrigue, paranormal, love, suspicion, romance, and mystery all wrapped up in a neat little package. I can’t wait to see what awaits the other characters in the upcoming books in the series.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
Dancing Butterfly by Debra Parmley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the second book in the Butterflies Fly Free series. This story follows Suki and Frank. Suki works in a club as a flapper and Frank works for Al Capone. The club comes under fire and Suki barely escapes with the help of Frank. She is injured and will not be able to dance for weeks. Frank claims her as his own and can take care of her. This was a great glance into what life looked like during the Roaring 20’s.