Before You Say I Do by Marina Hanna
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What a delightfully fun read. Nothing like a fun romp with a great story to get your weekend started. It’s a quick read. The characters are fun and entertaining. I love how this author writes. Her characters are always written to feel so very real. It’s was a story that I would recommend.
Before I Let You Go by Kellie Wallace
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a beautiful story. This story is so well-written that you can feel it in your soul. Your emotions go for a little bit of a roller coaster ride. I really can’t tell you much about the story without giving it away. Elspeth is a strong woman that has tended to feel beaten down by everyone. The opportunity arrives to make a big change in her life. Little does she know there will be some romance, mystery, paranormal suspense. It comes down to good vs evil and justice being served. Fate can intervene to make your life better. My favorite is to just say “no.” It’s okay to tell that to people, including your family. Don’t let them guilt you. I enjoyed the writing. Watching Elspeth mature and come into her own. Seeing her know who she is and what she wants was very nice. Several of the antagonists were getting on my nerves but they seemed to come around toward the end. It’s a wonderful book that will be on my favorites list for this year. I would definitely recommend it.
A Girl, Stuck by Kelly Elizabeth Huston
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A Girl, Stuck by Kelly Elizabeth Huston, is the third book in the Found Families series, and a new author for me, and I will say that this is an extremely fascinating book. This book took me on a ride that I did not expect and that I found myself not wanting to get off of! The book was so full of twists and turns and just overall mystery. There were people’s characters truly not being who you think they were. I felt that the character of Harry and Trey were two very strong, developed and likable characters, and that was a big part of making the story what it is. While the book is a series you can definitely read each of them as a standalone. I am very much looking forward to going back and reading the other books in this series! This book and this author did not disappoint, so pick up a copy and read it for yourself!
Mary Espinoza, March 2024
Fearless Love by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Fearless Love by K.G. Fletcher was a sweet, steamy read that had me flying through the pages!
This is the final book in The Bennetts of Langston Falls Series. I have not read the other books, but I felt like it could be read as a standalone. James is the Bennett brother who had his life planned out, but we all know how that sometimes turns out. After he experiences a bad break-up, he isn’t looking to jump back into a relationship anytime soon. However, he wasn’t expecting the beautiful traveling nurse who was caring for his father or her precocious son. He tries to set boundaries, but he can’t stop thinking about Sara. Sara certainly isn’t looking for a relationship. The only man she has focused on is her son, Noah, but there is something special about James. She is thinking about him as much as he is thinking about her. As soon as he discovers that she and Noah are staying in a local hotel, he offers a room in his home. Their flirty banter soon has the potential to become so much more.
These two are such great characters. James is everything a book boyfriend should be….sexy and so caring. Seeing him with Noah melted my heart. Sara is everything a heroine should be. She is beautiful and strong, and most importantly, a wonderful mother!!!! The chemistry is so strong between these two, and readers can see how much they belong together. There isn’t too much angst or drama. There is a mystery about the identity of Noah’s father, but it doesn’t affect the relationship between the two. Her impulse to run is the biggest hurdle for them to overcome.
The characters, even the secondary ones, were engaging and pulled me into the story, but the way the setting was written pulled me in as well. I could picture the farm and winery so clearly in my mind. I felt like I was a part of the story myself.
KG Fletcher is a new writer to me. I thoroughly enjoyed the book. She won me over from the very beginning when she introduced me to James’s beautiful Labradors. I’m a Labby mom myself to two yellow fur babies, so I was completely hooked. Those two sweethearts were characters themselves. The epilogue was the icing on the cake!!! I’m very happy that I discovered this fantastic writer. I will definitely be reading more from her!!!
The Hidden Present by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a cute little book that reminds us that everything is not always as it seems and that birthdays (or unbirthdays!) are not always about presents. Sometimes they are more than that! What role will Caspian’s grandpa play this time? Has he forgotten Caspian’s unbirthday? Share this delightful tale with a little one in your life and find out!
Reviewed by @sparkinside
Sugar & Spice by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Sweetopia, a family theme park that is wonderful and family-friendly for everyone except those who are employees there. Long work hours, not great insurance benefits, are making some of the employees unhappy and there are rumors of an impending strike. The owners have sent their son, Cy, undercover.
Jolie, a single mom, working long hours at the theme park and a second job just to make ends meet, really has no time to spend with her 2 boys.
The chemistry between the 2 main characters jumps off the pages. They are always looking for each other and cannot keep their hands to themselves when they are alone, but will their respective secrets drive then apart?
Wonderful start to an amazing series. New discreet covers and this first book has additional material. I adore the Spicetopia series and this authors other works as well.
The Changed Man by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book 4 in the Olympic Peninsula Series and this author has done it again. I have thoroughly enjoyed this series and highly recommend them all. while they could be read as stand alone stories, I do suggest that they are read in order because the characters do overlap in these books and you will see how they grow and continue developing their relationships. It is really cool that even though this is Jake’s story, we still get to follow Joe and Ali and how their lives are developing together. Love, love, love this series!
England: Cultured, Classic, and Charming: A Guide to Hidden England by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
England: Cultured, Classic, Charming: A Guide to Hidden England is the third book in the Hidden Gems series by Christy Nicholas. This is another great travel guide in this informative series, with a lot of information on the different historical and interesting places to visit ‘off the beaten path’ around England.
Ms. Nichol’s has a keen eye for detail, and a passion for history, which when combined- makes for a comprehensive and detailed travel guide. She has incorporated the historical information with some myths and legends, as well as plenty of tips and insights to help you find some truly intriguing hidden gems- as well as help guide you on your travels.
With a comprehensive list from planning, research, packing, creating an itinerary, as well as tips on finding flights, accommodation, transportation, and even ways of dealing with jet-lag- Ms. Nicholas leaves no stone unturned.
So, if you are looking at travelling to England and want some incredibly helpful and insightful tips, as well as suggestions for more interesting places that you might not find in other travel guides, then this is definitely the book for you.
Happy Reading, and Happy Travels…
Thank you, Christy Nicholas!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Scotland: Stunning, Strange, and Secret: A Guide to Hidden Scotland by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Scotland: Stunning, Strange, and Secret: A Guide to Hidden Scotland is the second book in the Hidden Gems series by Christy Nicholas. This is a great travel guide with a lot of information on the different historical sites to visit ‘off the beaten path’ around the stunning Scottish countryside.
Ms. Nichol’s has a keen eye for detail, and passion for history, which when combined- makes for a comprehensive and detailed travel guide. She has incorporated the mythical, mystical, and historical sites and information with plenty of tips and insights to help you find some truly intriguing hidden gems.
If you are looking at travelling to Scotland and want to visit some of the more interesting places that you might not find in other travel guides, then this is definitely the book for you.
Happy Reading, and Happy Travels…
Thank you, Christy Nicholas!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Code Dog by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 Stars
Code Dog by Lois Wickstrom is an intriguing little children’s adventure chapter book. Unlike most of her other books this doesn’t contain any illustrations, but is original and imaginative as I would have expected from Ms. Wickstrom.
As I mentioned above, this is an intriguing adventure with plenty of mystery, action, investigation, suspense, sci-fi elements, a sprinkle of drama, high stakes, a time crunch, lessons, investigation, and a little danger.
When A 200year-old time capsule goes missing and an intriguing map falls into their hands, Timmy, Beth, and Arthur find themselves thrust into an adventure that non of them will soon forget. Add in a special dog named Cody who understands and uses morse code- and this story takes off. What happens makes for a fun read.
It is a much longer story than any of her picture books, so it’s great for reading a chapter or two before bedtime.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Lois Wickstrom!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Planting Seeds: Growing Mindful Children Through Yoga by Janice Pratt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Planting Seeds: Growing Mindful Children Through Yoga by Janice Pratt and Lenora Degen is aimed at giving parents and teachers some different concepts to engage children and teach them some valuable life skills.
The book ‘plants’ different concepts on using movement, science, nature, and growth to help a child find focus, concentration, mindfulness, compassion, empathy, and breathing better. This is done through Yoga techniques, planting seeds, affirmations, games, moving activities, mindfulness activities, and even songs.
We learn about Yoga principles, Yoga movements, Plant growth, and much more. I think this is a great tool that has a different approach to raising healthy children- body, mind, and spirit.
Well worth the read!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Janice Pratt and Lenora Degen!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Charlotte’s Control by Maggie Sims
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Charlotte’s Control is the first book in The Control series by Maggie Sims. This is an historical romance with a reverse age gap, femdom, chemistry, sizzle, tension, tender romantic scenes, fate, societal norms/customs of the time, insta-lust, love letter/lust letter exchanges, agendas, passion, drama, angst, challenges, and emotion.
Charlotte never imagined being a widow at the age of 30, but there she is alone in an age where responsibility and societal expectations seem quite daunting. When fate intervenes and she crosses paths with the very young and charming William- things take a bit of an unexpected and steamy turn. What ensues made for a great read.
Looking forward to continuing the series.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Maggie Sims!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Stars in the City: Second Change Romance by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 Stars
Stars In the City (Stars in the City Series) by Krysten Lindsay Hager is a YA romance story- with all the teenage drama, friendship, angst, jealousy, romance, and emotion you could expect from a YA romance story. It also has some sweet moments that made even my old, jaded heart, flutter for a beat or two.
As with the other books that I have read by Ms. Hager, this is a well-woven story, but definitely suited to a younger audience.
If you love YA, romance, soap opera stars on the rise, emerging pop stars, basketball players, angsty teen drama, friendship, connection, first love, love-triangle-ish storylines, and sweet moments- then you will definitely want to add this to your TBR.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Krysten Lindsay Hager!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Before You Say I Do by Marina Hanna
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Before You Say I Do by Marina Hanna is a contemporary romance with plenty of chemistry, steam, ‘ex’ drama, emotion, and just enough angst to keep things interesting.
This was a fun read that had me invested right from the get-go. As expected from Ms. Hanna, it entertained me the whole way through. We follow Liam and Emma through their highs and lows, as their ‘one-night-stand’ turns into more- will they take a chance on love? Well worth the read to find out.
Another great read from this talented author. Looking forward to whatever Ms. Hanna has in store for us next?
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Marina Hanna!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Charming Chapter : A Later-in-Life Just Kisses Romance by Lori Haas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 Stars
Charming Chapter is the first book in the Boomer Babes Book Club series, and debut novel by Lori Haas. It is a sweet women’s fiction story about finding love again later in life. As this is my first read by Lori Haas, I really didn’t know what to expect from one of her stories- but the cover caught my attention, and the story promised something a little different to what I have been reading of late, so I took a chance, snapped up a copy, and set off to see what happens.
What I discovered is exactly what the title promised, a charming tale capturing a later-in-life romance (clean), friendship, finding love after loss, interesting older characters, sweet + heartwarming details, fun, challenges, and just enough drama to keep things interesting.
The characters were really well-developed individuals with their own unique personalities, quirks, and flaws- making the story quite realistic and entirely believable. It was great seeing that it’s never too late for love. And the friendships were a fun addition, adding extra interest to the overall storyline.
If you love women’s fiction, clean romances, and stories with charming mature characters finding love unexpectedly — then this is definitely the book for you…
Looking forward to Book #2, ‘Surprising Chapter’ (due to release in June 2024)…
Hapy Reading…
Thank you, Lori Haas!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
•°•☆ PREORDER ☆•°••°•☆
Mermaid Tails by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
Mermaid Tails by Suzanna Lynn is such a wonderful children’s fantasy book (aimed at children aged 3 – 12 years old), with divine illustrations that really capture the imagination. Along with the lyrical style of the writing, it all results in pulling the reader into the magical world of mermaids.
This story is a little different, as it doesn’t just give us the ‘traditional’ mermaid/s we are used to seeing. Instead, it helps us imagine what different types of mermaids there might be, and what their tails might look like. The delightfully cute illustrations really do make the story come to life, capturing a plethora of different mermaid tails to inspire the imagination.
There is also an educational component to the story, with each page offering a ‘fun fact’ about marine life, the sea, and morsels of mermaid legends. This adds an extra element of interest and fun to the overall reading experience.
What a fun little adventure this turned out to be. It was so enchanting, engaging, and cute. My granddaughter loved reading this with me and pointing out all the different mermaids.
Looking forward to seeing what Suzanna Lynn does next.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Suzanna Lynn!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
The Archcrusade: Tome One: The Archspawn – Pilgrimage & Prophecies by K.M. Hogenson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
If you are looking for a short, quick read, The Archcrusade is not for you. But, if you are in the mood for amazing characters and fantastic world building, K. M. Hogenson’s book is for you! This fantasy book is full of angels, demons, humans, and many forms of otherworldly creatures. Although the creatures do not exist in the world, the descriptive writing made it so I could see them in my mind while reading. The characters are so well-developed, each with their own story, but each inexplicably connected to one another. K. M. Hogenson beautifully weaves a tale of adventure, drama, danger, destiny, and magic. There are many character points-of-view so it did get confusing, at times, keeping all of the characters strait. But, I was so lost in the descriptive writing that I was not put off by the changes. Overall, an epic, well-written tale of adventure and fantasy. I would happily pick up another book by K. M. Hogenson.
Stars in the City by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a good 4 star read. This was a great story, I was pulled in right from the beginning. I really liked the characters, the author does a great job with her writing. You could feel the emotions with the character as she experienced them. If you are looking for a sweet YA romance this is the book for you. I look forward to reading more from this author and series. 1-click and get started today.
Reviewed by@mab54615
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Charming Chapter : A Later-in-Life Just Kisses Romance by Lori Haas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4/5 stars
This book hits just the right notes of romance and intrigue to keep you hooked. The characters feel like people you’d want to be friends with, making it super easy to dive deep into their stories. The setting is so well-drawn, you practically feel like you’re living in it. Sure, the plot might not surprise you every step of the way, but the witty banter and a few clever twists more than make up for it. Giving it a solid 4 stars because it’s the perfect pick-me-up read for a lazy weekend chill.
Give Us Bad Boys and Billionaires by L.M. Mountford
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Give Us Bad Boys and Billionaires: A Dark and Steamy Romance Collection
You can usually tell what to expect from a book by the first chapter and this book while is a bunch of different short stories/novella that are absolutely hot and worth the read.
I think the first one was my favorite, there was the Cougar thing happening. I felt myself connecting with Elizabeth, older, adult offspring, married for a long time, and lost and under appreciated.
Though Kora and the Senator were almost as hot as Elizabeth and Hugh. The setting of their story was intriguing, it definitely delivered just like the remaining stories.
None of the stories were especially long, I was able to read some of them completely while taking a break from work and stuff at home.
Hope to see more of these collections and additional books by this author in the future.
The Missing Red Envelopes by Yobe Qiu
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a cute story!
Lorie and Weina are sisters we meet in this story who give us a peek into Chinese new year traditions! The story starts with the lunar new year and the sisters watching the parade on the sidewalk. As the story progresses you learn about red envelope gifts are to kids every year, why they are the color red and what’s inside! As we go along on the story you’ll uncover a heartwarming reason the girls are pooling their gifts and what their plan is.
This was a great short chapters book probably best suited to at least a 7th or 8th grade reader (or more advanced younger reader) but also is not lost on the younger kids as I read it to my 5 year old who loved it too.
Great book for kids highly reccomend
Before I Let You Go by Kellie Wallace
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a quick-paced read that is packed with mystery, intrigue, romance, angst, and so much more. If you are looking for a paranormal romantasy, then this is the book for you. I adore and admire Elsbeth’s character and the way Wallace keeps the plot moving is fantastic. I was up well into the night because I couldn’t put this one down. This is a great read…especially if you are in a funk right now and can’t decide what to read or just don’ know. Pick this up for a quick read that will jump start you!
Reviewed by @meggs1717
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Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog by Giselle Nevada
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book takes you on a rhyming adventure of what to do if you think you want a dog, what kind of dog might fit in your life, what you need to prepare if you have decided to adopt one and what kinds of things you’ll need to do (early vet visits, potty training, making your home safe and dog friendly and so much more!)
This is written in a cute rhyming song like style that kept my 5 year old engaged and she could guess some words coming thanks to the rhyming. She also enjoyed all the different dogs and pictures! Well done!
A Girl, Stuck by Kelly Elizabeth Huston
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Loved this book! Harry was such a great character that had me loving her from the very beginning. So many layers, lots of character development, and a few twists and turns to the reader on his/her toes. Leo made the perfect neighbor/bestie and just so much wonderful content in this book. I went through so many different emotions while reading this book and just couldn’t put it down. So good! I’ve never read anything by Kelly Huston, but this one was fantastic and I will definitely be reading more!
Give Us Bad Boys and Billionaires by L.M. Mountford
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Give Us Bad Boys and Billionaires is a dozen beginnings of steamy romance stories, with a couple of full stories. This is the second book collection I have read by this author and as a smut lover, it did not disappoint. This is a collection of many different tropes from bully-to-lovers; stepsiblings; dad’s best friend, etc. If you like smut, there is a little bit of everything for everyone and is one steamy story after another. If you are someone who also likes to read spicey teasers, this is for you. While the plots tend to feel they don’t have too much to them, the spice normally starts from chapter 1 and is pretty amazing. This author is a good steamy, romance writer but it might not be for everyone. I liked each story for different reasons but I would say my least favorite was “Falling for My Son’s Best Friend” and my favorite was “Daddy’s Forbidden Temptations”.
Family Ties Family Lies by Jacqueline Boulden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Family Ties Family Lies is different than many of the books I’ve read lately in genre but well worth reading. While the storyline was rich with emotion and dramatic, it was very well written. I was not sure how emotional the storyline would be having lost my mother a year and a half ago but the book had me engaged from the very first chapter. I liked the characters and felt like they grew together through unexpected twists. This was a great introduction to a new to me author.
Sugar & Spice by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Phoebe Alexander’s ‘Sugar and Spice’ is a delectable treat for readers seeking a steamy romance with a side of humor and heart. From the first page to the last, Alexander’s engaging storytelling keeps you hooked, balancing spicy passion with genuine emotion. The chemistry between the characters sizzles off the page, drawing you into their world of love, lust, and laughter. What sets ‘Sugar and Spice’ apart is its refreshing take on romance, celebrating diversity and embracing unconventional relationships with authenticity and respect. Alexander’s wit and charm shine through in every scene, making this novel a delightful indulgence that will leave you craving more.
Give Us Bad Boys and Billionaires by L.M. Mountford
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
If you’re looking for a little heat and spiciness, look no further. This book includes a number of sexy romance story collections that are steamy and short enough to keep you intrigued. I enjoyed some stories more than others depending on the point of view but that made this collection so brilliant because you will be onto the next story in no time. I wish some of these were much longer and more in depth characters but that’s not possible with short stories like these. You can read these all in one sitting or choose one per day. Either way you’ll be entertained.
I give this 4 out of 5 stars.
The Complete Echo Series by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is an amazing series. As soon as you start reading you are not going to want to put any of them down. Each of these books contain their own stories that are full of romance, friendship, second chances, drama, angst, and great characters. This author does a wonderful job pulling me into each story and keeping me captivated throughout. I recommend reading these books in order because there are some returning characters from previous books. I’m not going to give away anything from these 4 books, but I will say that you don’t want to miss out on this box set. I love this author’s writing style, I get completely invested in the characters’ story and their outcome. This series is definitely one that you can binge read. I highly recommend this series.