Flying at Recess by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. I love how she flew only at recess and knew exactly when to return. It was so full of imagination. I’m glad she still had her friends at the end. I would 10/10 read again!
In the Midst of Omens by Nicole Bailey
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
King Gilgamesh beats to his own drum, he is a man of power who has begun to have nightmares that have him feeling like things are about to change. He meets Enkidu and finds someone who is completely different than the others. The problem is during a time of war and change life can veer in a different direction in a heart beat.
This was entertaining, the pace was fast and I thought the character of Gilgamesh was intriguing. I felt like we were placed into a story that was already developed so some of the characters, for me, I would have liked to know more about. I would be curious as to what happens next.
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Anne was a cynic when it came to love…so imagine her surprise when she finds herself falling for a player like Declan. However, a single text shatters that belief she had in a happily ever after. Years later, Declan returns wanting a second chance…but Anne is engaged to someone else. How far is he willing to go for the one woman he truly loves? Will Anne give him a second chance?
There were more than a handful of times when I found myself frustrated with these characters. The author really put them through it. Anne is a strong lead character…but was definitely weak when it came to Declan (which is not always a bad thing). There were plot twists that kept me guessing what would happen next. And the ending made it all worth it in the end. I will definitely be reading future books from this author.
Bad Enough by Nicole Craig
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
All I can say is get ready, get tissues and get settled. You will be here for the long run. That is just my opinion as that is what happened to me. This is TB and Sylvan’s story. What a story it is as well. Plenty to keep you reading and the twists and turns will keep the story intriguing. He is an information specialist and she is a romance writer. The couple meet online and that is all I will tell you. This is my first book from this author. WOW she is quite the writer. She keeps her readers guessing and stuck in the moment. Making this a must read. Please take the time to read book 1 in this series, as there is plenty to build up to book 2. Now I have to go get book 1, read it and then read book 2 to prepare for book 3. Be prepared as this is NOT for those under 18.
Review@cinful
Salt Love: A Summer Romantic Comedy by Marika Ray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
An entertaining and engaging romantic comedy which kept me happily turning the pages. Kenna finds out that her husband’s been cheating on her. Then her boss gives her promotion to Kenna’s work nemesis, resulting in her threatening him and then being escorted from the building. She then learns that her Aunt in Florida has passed away, and with her life in such a mess she decides to fly to Sunshine Key to deal with her Aunt’s estate. Kenna learns that she will inherit her Aunt’s oceanfront house and half of the boat club, but only if she lives on the tiny key for a year. She meets her new neighbour the handsome but scowling Dec, who owns the other half of the boat club business. Kenna and Dec develop a love/hate relationship which becomes more love than hate as they share boat rides, sultry nights and gator encounters. However, Dec has secrets and despite her best efforts Kenna can’t get him to open up to her about his past. As secrets get revealed and old family wounds are exposed, Kenna must decide whether to stay or go when her year in Florida is up. This is an enjoyable second chance at love story with plenty of emotion, romance and laugh out loud moments. I was hooked from page one until the guaranteed HEA.
Double Delight: The Complete Series by Julie Castle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a great book filled with 2 stories. Both of them were steamy reads with our main characters having a lot of chemistry and passion between them. These stories are both short and I read then both in one evening as I couldn’t put them down.
Book 1 is April’s love. After savings herself for marriage April was devastated when she catches her ex cheating. When she meets her old school flame Will she decides he’s just what she needs to get over her ex. When Will offers to teach her all the ways of making love she doesnt object. But what happens when the one night stand April plans turns into something more? Could a relationship work between Will and April?
Book 2 is Monica’s Manhunt. Monica is April’s friend and she is back looking for Mr right after her last marriage failed. Matt is best man at his friends wedding he isn’t interested in the whole happy ever after thing but when he meets Monica he can’t deny the pull and chemistry between them. Could Matt be Monica’s Mr Right? Can they both get what they need and want from this relationship?
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho is a contemporary romance book. After graduation, Declan makes a deal with his father to marry although he has no interest in marriage. After 8 years, he meets 18-year-old Anne and his feelings change. Declan soon chooses to leave Anne. This story is an age-gap, second-chance romance. The story has an interesting premise. There is a lot of possessiveness on Declan’s part. I got the feeling he was supposed to be an alpha-type. People who like age-gap and second-chance romance may want to give this a chance.
Flying at Recess by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Flying at Recess is a fantasy children’s book by Lois Wickstrom. Soara is a young lady who likes to fly. We get to go along with Soara as she flies high over the trees and hangs with the butterflies. The only rule is that Sora can only fly at recess. This book is sweet and easy to follow. It shows how you can do anything if you use your imagination. It also shows the benefit of boundaries, so you don’t miss out on important things like school and time with your friends. The book will allow children to use their imaginations like Soara. The illustrations are bright and beautiful.
The Silent Forest by David Duane Kummer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Silent Forest is the second book of The House on the Hill series and CAN be read as a standalone, but I would recommend grabbing the first book ahead of time. Early on I was a little lost, and it DOES start slow, but after about halfway it picks up quickly. (This is why I say read the first book, some things will make the second book easier to understand, but it can be followed without the first book too.) The main character, Kaia, is a great example of resilience, strength, dedication and loyalty. When her friend, Allison, turns up missing, Kaia refuses to give up hope, even when everyone else has. As the story develops, secrets begin to emerge, and some would prefer the secrets stay hidden. This is my first read from this author, and I will definitely be going back to read the first book, and hoping for a third to emerge as well. The writing is believable and if you enjoy psychological thrillers, this one checks all of the boxes.
Reviewed by @zoltrixes
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Catch A Cowboy by Rachelle Paige Campbell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I am so glad to have found this author. This is the first book I have read from this author and I was not let down. I am a huge romance fan. This book was a great way to get into a new subgenre of my favorite and introduce myself to age gap romance. I really enjoyed this book and found that the author did a really good job of this subject. The characters really jumped off of the pages and I found myself getting so absorbed into this romance. I love the fact that it was sort of forbidden love. I will definitely read more from this author in future.
Review by @caraleeloonat
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Oscar and Emmy Weather a Hurricane by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the yet another great book by this author. I really like how the author is able to bring the adorable cat characters to life and teach valuable life lessons. The author is able to handle this topic really well and explain it to kids. I just wish my kids were younger. I definitely would recommend this to parents with kids. The characters are well written and the illustrations to this book are really good. I definitely would read more from this author.
Reviewed by @caraleeloonat
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Double Delight: The Complete Series by Julie Castle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Who doesn’t love getting two books in one! Double Delight features the books April Love and Monica’s manhunt. Both stories are wonderfully written with great characters and plenty of steam to keep us readers very happily turning page after page. These fun and spicey reads are not to be missed.
Bad Enough by Nicole Craig
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4 – 4.5 Stars
Bad Enough is the second engrossing instalment in The Deadman’s Tribe by Nicole Craig. This series is definitely getting better with each new instalment- as Ms. Craig ups the anti on this second instalment,
This is a complex, cleverly woven romantic suspense with multi layers, intriguing developments, and a stellar cast. So if you love those protective alpha-type MCs, security personnel/military element, dramatic developments, twisty plots, intensity, chemistry, sparks, danger, violence, tension, mystery, secrets, action, banter, team dynamics, emotion, adventure- then you should definitely snap up a copy of this to read asap.
Again, as with the first book, I loved how well-developed the characters were, as Ms. Craig proves to have a talent for crafting fully-realised individuals with their own unique personalities, quirks, and flaws, and making them ‘real’, believable, and with ‘that’ certain quality that makes them so easy to invest in.
An alternating, duel POV also added depth and intrigue to the story, and I loved being privy to the characters perspective and inner dialogue- as again, it really added an extra element of interest to the whole story.
If the first two books are anything to go by, and the fact that I am now a little addicted to the Deadman’s Tribe, and Nicole Craig’s storytelling, I am really hoping that this is going to be a loooooong series.
Bring on Book #3.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Nicole Craig!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Vague Directions: Into the Woods by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Vague Directions: Into the Woods by Debra Parmley
Vague Directions: Into the Woods is a Fantasy/ Paranormal Romance that will keep you turning the pages till the end. This book didn’t quite check the boxes for me this time. I had a hard time getting into the story but once I did I had a hard time putting it down. I didn’t connect with the characters at all. I just didn’t feel it this time. With that being said I will revisit at a later time and reread to see what happens. I’m a fan of this author and I’m chalking this up as I’m having an off day. I still highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I’m looking forward to reading many more books from this Author.
Ten Little Sea Turtles: Ocean and Marine Life Books for Children by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ten Little Sea Turtles (A Counting Collection) by Kim Ann. This is the perfect preschool or Kindergarten age book for kids. Its such a fun book about Sea Turtles and counting. Each page has a different Turtle and number and facts about the turtles for kids to enjoy. The illustrations are beautiful and my 6 year old nephew loved it. The pages explain all the sea life that turtles are around and how they go about their days. Its such a fun, educational read. Would make a great gift for all families and even teachers. I will be getting another copy for my new grandson coming in September!
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Handshake Agreement (Book 1) by A. Akinosho. This is such a good age gap, second chance love story. Its the story of Declan & Anne, Declan is a playboy who is not going to settle down for anyone. Anne is determined not to fall in love with anyone because it will only get you hurt. When Anne finally falls in love with Declan and he hurts her in the worst way possible she will never ever trust a man again. Declan is determined to win Anne back if its the last thing he does. He knows everyone thinks he is just a playboy but the reason for that is he can’t get Anne out of his mind. Anne has finally found a man she trusts with her heart and is finally going to let him in and then Declan shows up again. She can’t believe her heart still melts at the sight of him. Will she let her guard down and let Declan in again or will she continue on with her new man. Declan is determined not to lose Anne again and will do whatever it takes to get her back. Read this romance to find out who Anne chooses!
Oscar and Emmy Weather a Hurricane by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oscar & Emmy Weather a Hurricane by Terri Sabol. This is such a fun series that makes you laugh out loud and also teaches you a lesson. This is the story of Oscar & Emma, rescued kittens that Abby & Charlie take care of. Abby & Charlie are siblings and they have been taking care of the kittens since they came to their family. In this story Hurricane Harvey is coming and the kids are learning everything they need to know to prepare for that storm. Not only do they need their supplies but they will also need the kittens supplies. This cute book even includes a list of things that would be needed for your pets. These books are always a great gift idea for the younger child in your life and even for a teacher. They make a great addition to any library.
Wasabi by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wasabi is the third book of the Evil Sushi Trilogy and all 3 books take place one after the other. If you haven’t read the previous books, please do.
Humanity is gone as we know it. Death and decay is everywhere and no one is safe. The group from the second book “Sashimi” has been separated. Aileen, Rod and Ned were left behind with Paul, Arthur, Karlson and a dog. Sally was taken into an underground military base.
With hordes of fish zombies and killer plants everywhere, the group is not safe. They decide to head to the mountains to get away from the water in hopes of making their chances of survival higher. The question is can they make it. Meanwhile Aileen is still seeking revenge on the enemy Sashimi for killing her brother. If she gets the chance, she will take it.
Things on the base aren’t so good either. The general is old and is making bad decisions for the survival of humanity. Instead of seeking a cure and eliminating the enemy, he instead wants to repopulate underground. His second in command has other plans and will stop at nothing to get the general to step down out of leadership position.
This was an exciting end to a weird but wonderful trilogy. C.A. King is one of my favourite authors. I have not found anything I did not like from this author. I recommend this book and any others written by them!
Vague Directions is an urban fantasy set in medieval times. Heather is the MFC, and Rylan is the MMC. Heather finally agrees to go with her friend to the medieval reenactment for the weekend. There is angst, scary situations, fear, confusion, rats, ratmen, owls, holes opening in the ground, and peppermint. There is a lot going on in this book, but the author tells it in such a way that it all flows perfectly.
Ten Little Sea Turtles: Ocean and Marine Life Books for Children by Kim Ann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a cute little counting story. I think many children will enjoy the story as they learn to count. The rhymes are cute and enjoyable. I think this author is really good and I I highly recommend her books to parents with children who love stories.
Murder by Moonlight by K.L. Montgomery
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Murder by Moonlight is the first book in the Felines of Fairytale Forest series. Set in an amusement park, the author takes the reader into the world of the custodial staff and a clowder of cats who keep everything running smoothly. I was excited to see a new, cozy mystery from this author. She always brings an exciting group of people; with this series, she brings a group of cats. When one of the custodial managers shows up dead, the rest of the staff have to figure out what happened. I enjoyed the story and characters. The story was interesting, bringing a bit of a fantastic element to what might have been a typical cozy mystery. I look forward to reading more books in this series and learning more about the amusement park and its inhabitants.
Whiskey Throttle by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What I love most about this book is that the perspective of what is going on in this particular character’s life is from Parker’s point of view. There is no other point of view involved like these type of books usually are. It does show that not only women go through difficult situations and struggles, it’s also men. Parker does show a lot of character development especially showing the reader how he was (his past) compared to how he is at the end of the novel. The minor characters show a lot of support towards Parker to show that he’s not alone.
Double Delight: The Complete Series by Julie Castle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Short and spicy small town romance. Loved it, not often that I’ve read stories where the FMC is an adult virgin. Really enjoyed this!
By Your Side by Ashley Erin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What a beautiful story of new beginnings at a second chance for love. A broken heart can often make us think there is no chance but these two brought some hope. This was a journey that kept me engaged in the story and rooting for them. An absolutely sweet story and I loved the grumpy contractor. I’m a sucker for sweet stories like this. This is a new author to me and I’m glad I found her. I hope to see more.
Finding Love by Julie Navickas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
So sweet a story, I love to see good come from being stood up. This story also brought out the feels. You could feel the passion in the story. I could relate to her struggle. I enjoyed the story, the characters and watching how it went. This is a fantastic romance series. It’s the closest to realistc that I’ve hit upon in awhile. One of my favorite authors, I always look forward to her books and I can’t wait to see what the next book brings.
Trusting Love by Julie Navickas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I fell in love with this contemporary romance. I’m a sucker for a couple dealing with a painful past that they have to get over. The strength it takes to make a go is worth reading. I found their chemistry to be exciting. The story is entertaining and got a few giggles out of me. It is engaging and the characters are relatable. The one thing I can always enjoy in this author’s books is the fact that her characters are so unique and so very relatable. Another winner in my book. I recommend this one.
The Story That Ties Us by Nicolette Terry
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Oh my goodness, this one worked all emotions. Both heartbreaking and heartwarming, this story will take you on a journey of two hearts that work their way back to each other. The writing is beautiful and you can feel the passion and love and pain in the writing. The characters are very well-written. I was so into this one. My kindle app was glued to my hand. A beautiful story that needs to be read.
The Music That Ties Us: A Rockstar Romance by Nicolette Terry
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Wow, this was an awesome book. Cadence had some lessons to learn. Boy, could I relate to this story. Once I started, it really wasn’t possible to put it down. I was talking to Cadence as I was reading. Life coaching as you go along. Strong writing made this a story that just grabs you. Yes, Cadence had her whiny and weak moments but don’t we all. Watching her grow was nice. The steam is fabulous. Their chemistry is their but I do like a male character that does the right thing. This is one of those stories you should read.
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. I was drawn in by the writing. Declan seemed raw with daddy issues but still strong. Anne really hit me as sweet and vulnerable. Part of me wanted it to work and the other part was “run.” I was pulled in by the moment their eyes met. My heart skipped a beat and I was hooked. I had to go on and see where this went. This is a beautifully written story of second chances. I found that it made me feel all the emotions. Though mostly a romance, there is a touch of suspense. this really added a nice touch to the story. I found the characters, especially Anne, very relatable. It’s definitely a story I would recommend.
Vague Directions: Into the Woods by Debra Parmley
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is the story of Heather, AKA Lady Wren, Rylan, AKA Sir Roland, and the rat-men. The story is okay…I really liked the medieval aspect of it and the added drama of the rat-men was fine. I believe that this was originally a short story that Parmley has turned into a novella, but there are still some kinks that need worked out. The rat-men part of the plot line is shaky in parts and doesn’t get fully addressed in the book. Heather and Rylan’s relationship is extremely rushed and it’s cute and sweet, but 3 days and they are already talking forever? I don’t know…it just doesn’t seem like they are the type of characters to do that. This was a quick read so it has that going for it if you are looking for something in-between longer reads. I really liked Heather and Steph’s friendship…Parmley did that relationship really well.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
