I have really enjoyed this series and I was sad to see it end. I had a few questions about some back stories and then I see this come across my TBR pile and knew I had to complete the story. This is the story of Gene and Amanda. They showed up in other novels in this series but we never really heard their story until now.
They have a rather unique relationship from the beginning, with Gene witnessing Amanda’s accident. Then there is a mystery aspect to it, as well as healing all around.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading about their meeting and watching their relationship grow. I look forward to more books from this author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie Johnson2024-05-17 21:40:182024-06-11 10:39:04Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story (The Echo Series) by C.R. Alam – Review by Julie Johnson
This is the third and final installment in the Divine Vintage trilogy and it was my favorite! I felt that each book was better than the last and every time I didn’t think Young was going to be able to top herself but she did! While this is a trilogy and there are threads that tie each book together, they can be read as standalones too. I absolutely love the way Young has woven the paranormal, romance, intrigue, mystery, and so much more together to create this fascinating world. This final book is the story of Justine, the assistant museum director who has agreed to look at some vintage clothing from an actress who has recently passed and Jackson, the son of the recently passed actress who just wants to get out of the small town his mother grew up in and the far away from the secrets she’s been hiding. But when a ghost shows up and Jackson’s paternity is about to be revealed, will Justine be able to walk away or will she stick around to sort through not only vintage clothing, but emotions too? I cannot recommend this series (and this particular book because IT’S MY FAVORITE!) enough. Young has done a fantastic job and I can’t wait to see what she puts out next. Reviewed by @meggs1717
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Megan Kimleyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMegan Kimley2024-05-17 20:43:162024-06-11 10:38:47The Ghostly Diva (Divine Vintage Series) by Sandra L. Young – Review by Megan Rea
Murder on West Main is the second South Shore Mystery series book. While I enjoyed the first book, I enjoyed this one even more.
In this book, Kathleen’s brother, Colin, finds himself the prime suspect in his boss’s murder. His boss had threatened to fire him mere days before. Colin is certainly not perfect, but Kathleen knows he is no murderer. Daniel, the assistant coroner tasked to investigate, doesn’t believe Colin could do it either. He is determined to find the killer, but his feelings for Kathleen complicate matters, especially when she wants to investigate independently. As they try to solve the mystery, they discover that almost no one likes the victim, Brice. In fact, Brice may be the true villain in this book.
The author did a wonderful job of revealing even more about the characters, and each is still growing throughout the pages of this novel. In addition, the book is well-written. Her town descriptions made me feel like a part of the book myself. She kept me guessing. I had a suspect in mind, but I kept second-guessing myself.
Her secondary characters were some of the most developed I have seen before. I liked getting to know Daniel’s sister, Isabell, and Kathleen’s brother, Colin. I’m hoping these two are on the cusp of their own romance.
Foster created a perfect little historical mystery. She combined twists and turns, a little romance sprinkled in, and some historical facts (the beginning of fingerprinting and a new toy, a teddy bear), giving her readers a book that was hard to put down. I look forward to the next mystery these unforgettable characters have to solve.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christie Mitchumhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristie Mitchum2024-05-17 20:04:572024-06-11 10:38:40Murder on West Main (A South Shore Mystery) by I.M. Foster – Review by Christie Mitchum
Set in the 1950’s Italian American is a raw look at life for a woman from Rome as she sets abroad and into a new life with her American husband. It showcases their relationship, her relationship with her frost-bitten mother-in-law and those of others. Why they have such a tumultuous relationship I don’t know because the story doesn’t go into it which is a shame as it would give us as readers more understanding. Mariella understandably misses her family and longs to see them again. Italian American has emotions running high in this beautiful tale, but it also shows the strength, resilience and spirit of a woman between two worlds. It will have your heart aching as you will celebrate and commiserate her struggles, her passions and her happiness in this rollercoaster of a story. This book can be read as a standalone as I didn’t realise there was a first book, Greetings from Asbury Park until after I had finished. The author does a good job of pulling it altogether, so I didn’t feel as though I missed out. I will however go back and read it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2024-05-17 19:07:482024-06-11 10:38:22Italian American (Jack & Mariella Book 2) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Jenni Bishop
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book it is as heartbreaking as it is heartwarming. The characters are well developed and yet complex. Broken hearts and reunited friendships that lead to traveling together to try to heal but will it be enough. Some heart breaks are tough to get over. Just when all seems hopeless a bright and shining star finds a way to break down all the walls. Five Tries to Get It Right is a beautiful and haunting tale. A story of beautiful friendships, sisterhood, heartbreaking loss, love, betrayal, grief and mental illness just to name a few. It was easy to relate to Kate having dealings with mental health myself. It is a story that shows how resilient and strong women can be when all is said and done even if they don’t feel like it. Letting go of the past is sometimes easier said than done. The story is vividly rich in its telling and well written. It is one that should not be missed.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2024-05-17 18:55:472024-06-11 10:38:31Five Tries to Get It Right by Kathryn Dodson – Review by Jenni Bishop
What Lies Buried is the dynamic sequel to Secrets in the Mirror. I enjoyed the first book and was excited to see what this book had to offer, and it met my expectations. This book continues with Gavin still trying to fight his demons whilst trying to live a fulfilling life. Only his PTSD demons maybe too much for his wife who is trying to support him but has wants and needs of her own. I understand PTSD all too much as it is a demon that I try to fight daily. It’s a monster that is highly unpredictable and sometimes you wonder whether or not it is worth it and that makes me understand this character deeply. What was once in the past is now rearing its ugly head once again. It is one twisted ride. To find out what happens in this complex psychological tale that is raw, dark and full of suspense and intense moments you will have to read it for yourself.
4 stars Wow! If this is Leslie’s award-winning debut novel, then I look forward to seeing more of her work. Secrets in the Mirror is a gripping psychological suspense tale that dives into the lives of one dysfunctional family. Toxic relationships, narcissistic behaviour, abuse, mental health, crime, the Mob and much more is what Leslie gives us. The characters are well written, and they may be identical twins, but they could not be more different. It’s good versus evil but who will win out? Gavin has never been good enough, but he is expected to step in. He wants nothing more to do with the family ties that bind him to them. He was to be free to make his own choices to live a life away from the dark underbelly of his father and the dangers of his brother. I did feel there were some issues within the story, but I think as Leslie grows as an author and writes more these sorts of things will sort themselves. I am off to read What Lies Buried. Enjoy!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2024-05-17 18:36:162024-06-11 10:37:37Secrets in the Mirror by Leslie Kain – Review by Jenni Bishop
This is the first book by this author that I have read and thoroughly enjoyed it. I usually don’t read books that aren’t strictly romance or mystery but I think I will after this one. Can’t wait to read more by this author as well. Once you start reading the story just draws you in and keeps you wondering what will happen next.
Lydia and Kate have been friends for a long time. Both are at a rough time in their life. Lydia’s husband died and her daughter left home to take a trip. Kate and her husband got a divorce and then she finds out he has gotten the other woman pregnant. She had started a business from scratch and was doing quite well with it until she decided to take it Public. Then the Board of Directors voted her out of the Company and made her a billionaire.
When Kate attempted suicide and decided to give up on life, Lydia was by her side every step of the way trying to get her friend to feel better. They decided they both needed to get away and take a trip. They picked five places they went before when they were younger to revisit and decide what they were going to do with their lives from this point on.
Check out this book. I think you will be glad that you did
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Phylis Carpenterhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngPhylis Carpenter2024-05-17 17:28:222024-06-11 10:37:29Five Tries To Get It Right by Kathryn Dodson Reviewed by Phylis Carpenter May2024
Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story is the prequel to the The Crown of Stones trilogy. This is a full-length story focusing on the anti-hero Ian Troy. I was excited to grab this book because there was a lot of backstory to what had molded Ian into the man he was in the trilogy. Stepping back into the realms of Mirra’kelan the reader learns about their war for peace. Queen Aylagar, sends him on covert missions deep into enemy territory. All Ian wants is to prove his worth to his people. Will he come out of the trenches alive? The author brought me back into the world of Ian Troy. I enjoyed getting this new look into Ian Troy. I might have to go back and read the trilogy to see how any opinions I had before have changed. This can be read and enjoyed as an introduction to the Crown of Stones. I look forward to reading what this author releases next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sheri Schraderhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSheri Schrader2024-05-17 16:42:502024-06-11 10:37:16Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story by C. L. Schneider – Review by Sheri Schrader
An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance and having read and enjoyed book one in this series I was looking forward to being back in Emerald Creek and I was not disappointed. Living in Emerald Creek divorcee and single mother Shayna is used to being known as a ‘small town girl’, or ‘that poor girl’ or even as a ‘victim’. However, when Burke arrives in the town he sees a smart, interesting and beautiful woman and Shayna starts to feel like that when she’s with him. Burke can’t believe that she doesn’t know how amazing she is and is determined to be the man to show her. Despite both Shayna and Burke having had difficult relationships in the past and against their better judgment they can’t deny that they are falling in love with one another. Once again the setting was brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative, and I really felt the small town vibes of Emerald Creek. Shayna and Burke are both likeable and relatable characters so it is easy to feel invested in their story. Their chemistry came across in the narrative and I was cheering them on hoping they would get their well deserved HEA. No spoilers as I recommend reading this book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2024-05-17 15:45:072024-06-11 10:37:06Make Me Want to Love You (Love in Emerald Creek) by N.D. Jackson – Review by Jennifer Gordon
This is the second book in the Love in Emerald Creek Series. The author has always wrote stories that are emotional and have a very unique talent which allows the reader to connect with the characters. This is a story of second chance romance. Of two people who are perfect for each other but both come into it with baggage and issues which means their romance isn’t straight forward and easy but then what relationship in life is? I loved how Burke’s relationship progressed with Shayna’s children as well as with Shayna. You could feel him wanting to be a part of their lives as much as their mum’s which was nice to read.
Shayna is a single mum. After escaping an abusive ex she is moving forward and focusing on herself and the kids. The last thing she is looking for is love. But sometimes it comes when we least expect it.
Burke is best friend to Shayna’s best friend. When Burke meet Shayna they have chemistry and he is attracted to her because unlike other women she doesn’t seem interested in what he can give her. As much as he wants to be with her he knows he has to take things slowly for all of their sakes.
As things progress their connection grows but trouble is ok the horizon in the form of the past coming back. Can Burke and Shayna overcome the obstacles and finally get their happy ever after.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2024-05-17 15:07:202024-06-11 10:36:59Make Me Want to Love You (Love in Emerald Creek) by N.D. Jackson – Review by Kerry Carr
Another book by this author and another glowing review. I always feel like my reviews could be copied and pasted from book to book but what I write is applicable to them all. This book is fun, entertaining from start to finish and my kids loved reading it. It is such as well imagined story and the illustrations really bring it to life. This author really is a complete natural at writing children’s stories and there is not a single one we haven’t enjoyed. This book will again be read multiple times I am sure and has already been thoroughly enjoyed.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2024-05-17 15:01:562024-06-11 10:36:51Can I Keep Her? (Kingdom of Mir Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Kerry Baker
I will admit, the title is what grabbed me at first. A duck shifter?! I’ve read plenty of shifter stories, and some mentioned that all animals could be shifters. I was very intrigued by the cover and the title. I’m glad I gave it a chance! I had a few good laughs, and a few meddling mother moments that made me laugh. While I absolutely loved the MC’s, Trisha was far by my favorite. She reminded me of my best friend’s mom who liked to meddle. I found it absolutely adorable that Kobreon called Ducky his emotional support duck. This story is for sure a change of pace from your typical shifter/vampire stories. I’m really glad that I read this book! C.A never fails to disappoint me. She does such a good job with building her worlds, and the story-telling is out of this world. I can’t wait to read more in the weird shifter series!
I was really looking forward to getting back into this story and the characters after reading the first book only recently. This story was everything I expected it to be and it took no time at all to be swept up in the events going on again. The story was just as gripping as the first book and I loved watching how it developed as the story went on. This book deals with some delicate topics but it does so with absolute ease. It draws you in from start to finish and is even better than the first one. I loved reading this book and I am looking forward to the next one I will read from this author.
When I started reading this book I expected an intriguing thriller, which we definitely get, but I wasn’t expecting such an emotional and complex story. Everything is centered around the two brothers, who are completely different from each other but have a strong link between them. I was caught up in everything going on with them and loved watching how the story unfolded. The book was full of twists and turn and the author really knew how to move the story forward while keeping you hooked. I was never quite sure which way things would play out and I was happy to be taken on the journey. This is a great book that really will keep your interest.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2024-05-17 14:31:202024-06-11 10:35:50Secrets in the Mirror by Leslie Kain – Review by Kerry Baker
Summer of Mud by Rebecca Bischoff is an interesting book about a young girl who has big dreams. There is quite a bit of emotion in this book and the author had a great writing style that brought even more depth to the story. Even though this book was made more for the younger audience, I found it to be extremely entertaining and the characters were wonderfully created and animated in the book. This is a magnificent coming of age story that intertwines adventure and emotion. The main character, Scoob, is a character that is so easy to follow in the book. She is engaging and relatable and I found myself willing things to turn out for her the whole way through the book. The journey she goes on is captivating and absolutely amazing to watch unfold, and I loved how she is learning about herself and how to handle life. I felt that the overall pace of the book matched the feel of the story, Rebecca did a great job of making sure you didn’t feel lost in the story. The characters go through a major development, which only made reading about them even more enjoyable. This is a brilliant story that I would highly recommend to anybody who is looking for a great read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Mary E Espinozahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMary E Espinoza2024-05-17 11:48:372024-05-17 12:53:24Summer of Mud by Rebecca Bischoff – Review by Mary Espinoza
This story made me get lost in the past. It is such a gentle but not gentle reminder of what it was like during WW2. It has love, anger, hurt, fight or flight response, and tragedy. It is well written and very descriptive so you can picture everything that is going on in the book in your head like watching a movie. I was completely caught up in what was going to happen next that I kept turning the pages. It is a gripping retelling of young love that happens at the worst time. Then they keep in touch, it is heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. Their love is so pure and you feel that as you continue through the book. I had tears and I had hope. This book is just amazing and I can’t wait to read the second book in this series. I feel like we are only scratching the surface as to what is to come with the main characters. It is a journey I didn’t know I needed but I am not invested in. Reviewed by: @bbohls
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Barbara Bohlshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBarbara Bohls2024-05-17 11:23:352024-05-17 12:53:39Greetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love story (Jack & Mariella Book 1) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Barbara Bohls
This is the second book in the series and it follows along with the first one quite well. That being said, it is full of all the information that you could possibly want to be able to read them in any order. I don’t feel as if anything is missed should you read this book before the other. It would just be like looking backwards. This books carries everything in it, romance, laughter, and anger. This book gives you a look into what it must have felt like to move to another country in the 1950’s. It gives a love story that spans more than just your typical love story. It shows the struggle of what stress can do to love. It shows the battle of what it is like to move to an area where you don’t know anyone. It really makes the reader feel what the main female character feels. It was making me turn pages as quickly as I could. As soon as the leading female started to set down roots and grow in the area that she went to in order to follow love, something happens. It then causes turmoil that I didn’t see coming but made complete sense once it happened. I will be rereading this book numerous times. I am normally not a fan oh historical romance but this one had much more to it than the normal book in this genre. Reviewed by: @bbohls
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Barbara Bohlshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBarbara Bohls2024-05-17 11:09:002024-05-17 12:54:00Italian American (Jack & Mariella Book 2) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Barbara Bohls
What a beautiful piece of women’s fiction. This story brought out all the feels. Dealing with a life crisis brought these two back together. In dealing with the aftermath, they decide to take a trip like they did in their 20’s. The ensuing discussions and talks have them working through their life and the issues they each have. The writing is so descriptive. You feel it as you read it. I could empathize with some of the issues. The characters were each unique. That ending was a surprise. This is a story that I highly recommend if you love women’s fiction. It’s a must read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2024-05-17 10:17:582024-05-17 12:54:10Five Tries to Get It Right by Kathryn Dodson – Review by Shelly Kittell
The time has come. The last book in the Life Is Hell series by Naomi Valkyrie. I’m going to go cry in a ball in the corner. Okay, back. If you couldn’t tell, I absolutely love this series. The series is well written, with each book being better than the previous. I think my favorite is still the first book though. Just because you get that intro into this magical and supernatural world. The first look into the small, mysterious town of Juniper Lake. I highly suggest reading all five of the books and read them in order. They all have their own stories, but the characters and stories intertwine in the best way. This story features Hadassah, which if I remember correctly, is our first angel. She is a little uptight around all of the other supernatural characters since she is “good” and they are well… not. She is a fallen angel though, after helping her brother save a demon. She was punished by being sent to Earth to await her fate. Now, she must try to be on her best behavior in a town full of people who aren’t afraid to bend the rules. By doing that, she makes her brother pretty upset since these people are like his family. Someone goes missing, someone who drives her crazy. Should she help get her back and risk not getting back into Heaven? Or should she forget about her to make sure she gets back to Heaven, while forever disappointing her brother? Read to find out!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Crystal Brehanthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCrystal Brehant2024-05-17 06:31:002024-05-17 12:54:17A Cold Day in Hell (Life is Hell Series Book 5) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Crystal Brehant
This is a very great book to read. It takes a little girl to change the perspective of the grown ups on how they look at things. The illustrations are very colorful and capture the attention of the readers.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kristin Boutellehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKristin Boutelle2024-05-17 06:07:252024-05-17 12:54:27Can I Keep Her? (Kingdom of Mir Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Kristin Boutelle
Mr Bonbon owns a sweet shop and sometimes he runs tours so that people can come and see how his candy is made, however, along with the old women come is a young girl called Annabelle and Annabelle always stole sweets, but Mr Bonbon couldn’t catch her.
One day, Mr Bonbon was up bright and early and had a plan to catch Annabelle, he would make a giant marshmallow rabbit and place it somewhere easy to see and steal.
Will Mr Bonbon’s plan work and catch Annabelle, or will her crafty personality get her out of trouble again? This is a short story which talks about perseverance, morals and candy with a twist on an old classic which children and adults alike will enjoy.
Under the Bandage by Lois Wickstrom is a wonderful book. The illustrations are beautiful and the story is great for kids. It helps teach kids to keep calm, clean the cut, and let a parent put a bandage on it when you get hurt. As a mom of 2 kiddos who love being rough and always getting hurt, this book helped show my kids that it is not only ok when they get hurt, but also the importance of keeping it clean and covered, in a fun creative way.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Debshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDebs2024-05-17 05:28:082024-05-17 12:55:07Under the Bandage by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Deborah Joseph
Can I Keep Her? by Lois Wickstrom is book 2 in the Kingdom of Mir series but there is no order in these books that need to be read. This book has beautiful illustrations and the story is adorable; this book is more so for older kids than younger ones though, and would be an easy read. It teaches acceptance, no matter the difference, and that everyone deserves a chance to be loved.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Debshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDebs2024-05-17 05:20:542024-05-17 12:55:22Can I Keep Her? (Kingdom of Mir Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Deborah Joseph
Where is Terry? Erica is disappointed that her husband of nine months has disappeared on one of his mysterious “business” trips. As she is walking up to the apartment complex, she notices a large blue car parked in front of the building. Before she can walk upstairs, Mrs. Bressler, her landlady, stops her and says that two men are upstairs looking for Terry. Afraid, Erica runs away to a local cafe. Unfortunately, the men saw her flee and sit down in her booth. Sean and Andy claim that Terry owes their boss twenty thousand dollars for a gambling debt. Tearfully, Erica claims she didn’t know where Terry went but she gave thema note Terry had left her the previous week. Sean gives her a card and tells her to call if Terry shows up. On her walk towards her apartment, another man pulls up in a blue car. He claims he is a friend of Terry’s and wondered if she had seen him. Erica says no, the man introduces himself as Doug and gives her a card to contact him. Erica’s determination to help her husband leads her on an uncertain path for the future.
Come Home Death by Marilyn Levinson features Erica’s tumultuous life waiting for her inheritance. Her whirlwind romance with Terry Parker is unconventional. This unpredictable plot takes the reader on a journey seen through Erica’s eyes as she tries to make sense of who she married. Her dislike for Manordale is made clear, especially since she must deal with two eccentric aunts and the attempted romance advances both Doug and Jason make to her. Suspense builds as several revelations and murder fills each page. Whose life is on the line? Read this captivating novel to find out. Come Home Death will appeal to fans of intriguing slow burn romances.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephanie Runyonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephanie Runyon2024-05-17 01:09:422024-05-17 12:56:22Come Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson – Review by Stephanie Runyon
Can I Keep Her? is the second book in the Kingdom of Mir Series by Lois Wickstrom. We meet up with Wynnie again, whom we met in the first book- ‘Stop That Lion’- and join her new adventure when she discovers a dragon egg. What happens when the baby dragon hatches? Will Wynnie be able to train the dragon to not breathe fire, so the kingdom doesn’t burn down? This cute story is worth reading to find out. This is another fun children’s fantasy story, that again, has a bit of a fairytale feel. Along the way it explores problem solving, asking questions, finding answers, friendship, family, overcoming challenges, love for animals, basics on animal training, kindness, and compassion. With interesting and colourful illustrations, plenty of fun, some high stakes, interesting situations, imagination, and adventure – really did make for a great read. The illustrations are cute and done in a bit of a naïve style, which really suits the story style. Looking forward to more from Ms. Wickstrom. Happy reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-05-17 00:54:122024-05-17 12:56:37Can I Keep Her? (Kingdom of Mir Series Book #2) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Angela Hayes
Oo i was happy when I say a new book from this author was out, I grabbed it right up. I’ve enjoyed this whole series and I enjoy this authors writing style and i know whenever I pick up one of their books I know I’m going to like it. This one is no different. This is a orgin story so you’re getting a look at this cool fantasy world before starting book one. I am glad I picked this one up and I am looking forward to more by this author in future! Happy Reading!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Anastasia Dodsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAnastasia Dodson2024-05-17 00:40:352024-05-17 12:56:47Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story by C. L. Schneider – Review by Anastasia Dodson
You are crying. I am not crying. There are so many emotions in this book. How could you not be angry at RC? Were you not proud of Scoob when she won her trumpet back? Everyone knows you were anxious waiting to hear about Cherish. And, when Scoob found out who the three little girls in the picture were, you know you were thrilled but also so very sad.
Scoob and her brother, RC, have had the worst year of their lives. It actually started before that when their mother left without a word. In the last year, their father died suddenly, leaving them unprepared. RC was barely an adult and left to care for his 11 year old sister. They struggled, lost their apartment and all their belongings, lived on the beach and anywhere else they could find to sleep. The only thing they did have was each other.
Two days before her 12th birthday, Scoob tries out for a local band leader that she has known all her life. He agrees to let her play in the band for tips. Scoob can’t wait to start playing when RC packs her in car and tells her that they are on the way to Montana for a music festival where he has a job. On the way to Montana, they take a detour to Idaho. RC meets a girl and the detour keeps getting extended.
When RC finally comes clean to Scoob about everything, it turns out that he lied. RC didn’t have a job in Montana, he has known the girl for almost a year, they are moving to Idaho, and Scoob is supposed to live with some family while RC attends a local college. Just as Scoob has found a way back to California, the town she is staying in is flooded by a broken dam and chaos ensues. What happens next is just … devastating, amazing, outstanding, heartbreaking, fantastic. Yep.
Read this book for an emotional rollercoaster ride. Read this book to remember the bond between siblings. Read this book for the history of this small Idaho town. Read this book for hope.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00M Policicchiohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngM Policicchio2024-05-17 00:35:432024-05-17 12:56:55Summer of Mud by Rebecca Bischoff – Review by M Policicchio
Scarred by a lifetime of emotional abuse and traumatic violence, Gavin battles the triggers of Complex PTSD. His wife Katie is determined to support him despite the strain of his unpredictable reactions on their marriage.
But returning to Boston to settle his father’s estate reactivates Gavin’s childhood scars, and more triggers. Then when he uncovers his family’s mob history, his volatile reactions put him in the crosshairs of dangerous people. Worried for his safety, Katie packs up their toddler and joins him. While there, she begins sorting through her late parents’ keepsakes, finding evidence of the artistic talent she abandoned after her father died, when she became child caregiver to her disabled mother. Eager to revive her unfulfilled past, Katie copes with Gavin’s increasingly unstable behavior through her painting and new friendships that encourage her journey to self-discovery.
As Gavin resists treatment and goes off the rails, secrets of his family’s past threaten them all. The generational dysfunction in Kain’s award-winning Secrets In The Mirror continues, as Katie faces her own emotional wounds and must choose between saving her marriage or saving their child…and herself.
Leslie Kain writes “Psychological Fiction With Heart”, about flawed people whose greatest barriers to happiness lie within them.
Leslie was always writing something as a kid — fantasies, poems, secret plans, culminating in running away cross-country at fifteen, never looking back. Her careers in psychology, Government Intelligence and nonprofits limited her writing to professional and research pieces, but life has so many stories! So when she returned to fiction during spare moments, her short stories found their way into literary journals and anthologies. She developed personal relationships with her characters, who relentlessly nagged her into longer stories. After her Sept.2022 debut novel ‘Secrets In The Mirror’ (which has won numerous Gold and Finalist awards), the main character told her what the sequel must be! ‘What Lies Buried’ — already receiving early praise —launches May 14 2024. Kain leverages her education, training and experience in psychology to write stories about complex dysfunctional people and families. She earned degrees from Wellesley College and Boston University. Originally from “all over” the U.S. (although a piece of her heart remains in Boston), she now resides in Mexico with her husband and 17-year-old cat Sheba.
GOODREADS – Five Tries to Get It Right by Kathryn Dodson
BOOKBUB – Five Tries to Get It Right by Kathryn Dodson
When her best friend hits rock bottom, a lonely widow convinces her to join a worldwide voyage retracing their wild youth in a last-ditch effort to heal heartache and reclaim meaning.��Lydia is a small town teacher who can’t imagine life alone after her husband’s death. Kate built a successful career, but now faces emptiness after divorce and professional failure.��The longtime friends travel to the exotic locales of their youth, trying to find meaning amidst heartache and loss. In Spain, Amsterdam, the Caribbean, Australia, and finally Costa Rica, they reignite passions for life and love that time had extinguished. But Kate still plans to end it all, until a surfer from the past offers Lydia another chance, forcing her to choose between saving her friend or herself.
Kathryn Dodson grew up writing and riding horses in far West Texas. She graduated from SMU in English/Creative Writing and went on to get an MBA from Thunderbird and a PhD from Clemson. Now she spends her days writing about women who become their own heroes.
She has worked on both sides of the US/Mexico border and has held jobs with governments, chambers of commerce, and other businesses. Kathryn loves to travel and has visited 30 countries and 44 states. This inspires her novels about interesting women in fascinating places.
Originally from Texas, Kathryn had the good fortune to live in Spain, Mexico, Tanzania, and several U.S. states, and the good sense to end up in Carlsbad, California. She loves travel, fiery food, hanging out with the neighbors in the front yard on Friday evenings, and reading.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/five-tries.jpg1200801itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2024-05-17 00:01:352024-05-30 07:59:39Five Tries to Get It Right by Kathryn Dodson
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Healing Hearts by C.R. Alam
