Where’s Gramma? by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Such a cute quick book for beginner readers. Tricia makes sure each grandson has a unique imaginative adventure but makes sure they have time altogether too. The illustrations bring everyone’s personality to view with each adventure.
Oscar and Emmy Visit the Vet: A book to explain how visiting the vet with your pets can be fun! by Terri Sabol
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Abby and Charlie are taking Oscar and Emmy to visit the vet. This quick read shows kids that pets need to see the “doctor” every year like we do to make sure that they are staying healthy. Goes over shots, brushing hair, and even teeth. Shows kids how to properly take care of their pets. Great illustrations and information for children. The end gives good information on pets health and how to keep them healthy and happy.
Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Readers are transported to Chicago of the late 1800s/ early 1900s. The culture is different from our culture of today. Readers are treated to characters who strive to treat everyone with dignity. Readers learn about an historic confidence scheme. Characters learn about the statute of limitations, as well as restorative justice. As with all books in this series, family, (either born or chosen) features as an important theme.
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60486159-blood-ravens” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Blood & Ravens (The Casket Girls, #1)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1645685979l/60486159._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60486159-blood-ravens”>Blood & Ravens</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19177816.A_D_Brazeau”>A.D. Brazeau</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6749328408″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
What an Intriguing and encompassing book, definitely a 4.5* read<br />A new Author to me and I can say I will certainly be reading the rest of this series as it becomes available.<br />A mix of historical references, paranormal and romance <br />We meet Greer and follow the kidnapping, where she finds herself ensconced into a Convent and a marriage is arranged, and Theron the mystery man she senses is next to her bed. Theron cannot help but fight to change this=ns=gs as he has feelings for ‘the girl’ that he has not had in the past.<br />The world is described in vivid colour and the characters continue to develop anad grow as you find yourself falling deeper into the story.<br />
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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/34425105-tracy”>View all my reviews</a>
“ABSURD,” SAID BIRD.: A mouse plans a trip to the moon. by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Absurd, Said Bird: A Fun Children’s Adventure About a Mouse Who Dreams of Travel is the First Book in the Traveler Series. The author has taken her years of experience on a ranch as inspiration to write this entertaining story about ranch life and ranch animals. This delightful little story is about a Mouse who wants to build a plane so he can travel to the moon because he thinks that it is made of cheese. He convinces his barnyard friends to help him and tells them that he will bring them all back some cheese from the moon. The only friend who does not want to go along with Mouse’s plan is Bird, who thinks that Mouse’s plan is absurd. The ensuing story is a delightful little adventure about friends who band together to help a mutual friend. This book will surely delight readers of all ages with its cute story, colorful illustrations, and delightful characters. Looking forward to Book Two in this series!
The Rebirth by Crystal Dawn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first in this series and sets up the storyline. Andrea has been looking for Atlantis since she was a child and finds it. She goes through a doorway that is really a gate to another planet. Here she becomes the hope of the new planet. Great story! This was well written and is a new spin on the idea of Atlantis!
Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5/5 ⭐️ but really it’s more like 100/10. This book was so freaking good. I read it in one sitting. I could not put it down. I love a strong female lead and Gillian measured up.
The best part of this story was the depth of each character. There was so much more to them than just good, bad. Getting to know and understanding each character was refreshing. Even the “bad” characters had you understanding their need, pain and loss.
I do not know if there will be a sequel or not but there are so many questions that I need answers too. The other witches who hid, do they know what happened? Can they feel the change? Is Marius truly the last dragon? I have a ton of other questions but they would be spoilers and I don’t want to ruin it for everyone else. But do yourself a favor and read this book!
***Side note****
This is indeed part of a series and I am ecstatic. Rushing over to read the sequel now.
Where’s Gramma? by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
As a gramma with mobility issues, I love this story. It’s like playing hide-n- seek in book form. Colorful illustrations guide us through the story. Guided descriptions are given as to what and where gramma is. We sure enjoyed it when I read it to my grandchildren. They loved telling me what was in every picture. This is a neat book that would be a wonderful collection to any kiddo’s library.
Where’s Gramma? by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Where’s Gramma? by Tricia Gardella is such a fun children’s story book- with cute, colourful, and engaging illustrations that really brought the ‘adventure’ to life.
It is told in a rhyming/lyrical verse-like style which added an extra element of interest to the overall story.
The story is all about the adventures to be had with gramma/what happens at grammas house. This is definitely one fun and adventurous gramma, for sure.
Get set for a fun story…
Happy Reading!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Oscar and Emmy Visit the Vet: A book to explain how visiting the vet with your pets can be fun! by Terri Sabol
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 – 4.5 Stars
Oscar and Emmy Visit the Vet is the fourth book in the Oscar and Emmy series by Terri Sabol. This was an interesting children’s story, not only with adorable illustrations- but with a valuable message about pet check-ups and the importance of preventative care- making sure your pet is healthy, and stays that way.
We all know the importance of having a regular check-up at the doctors- and it’s no different when it comes to your pet. Regular vet checks ensure that they stay up to date with their vaccinations, dental care, and other health factors. This cute book goes over what you can expect at the veterinary clinic, and goes over a little of what the Vet will do during their examination. Touching on topics such as vaccinations, nail trimming, dental care, worming etc. Then at the back of the book the authors provide some helpful advice on how to brush your cat’s teeth, the symptoms of feline dental disease, how to trim your cat’s claws, cat vaccinations (the what and whys), and how to prevent furballs/hairballs in your cat.
Another great instalment in the Oscar and Emmy series.
The Series contains (so far):
-Oscar and Emmy get rescued (Book #1)
-Oscar and Emmy Weather a Hurricane (Book #2)
-Oscar and Emmy Visit Grandma (Book #3)
-Oscar and Emmy Visit the Vet (Book #4)
-Oscar and Emmy’s First Christmas (Book #5)
-Oscar and Emmy Gain a Friend (Book #6)
-Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend (Book #7)
-Oscar and Emmy Foster Kittens (Book #8)
Looking forward to seeing what other adventures they get up to.
Happy Reading…
Thank You, Terri Sabol!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Oscar and Emmy Visit Grandma by Terri Sabol
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 – 4.5 Stars
Oscar and Emmy Visit Grandma is the third cute book in the Oscar and Emmy series by Terri Sabol. It is a sweet children’s story that is woven around some really cute illustrations.
My grandchildren love Oscar, Emmy, CJ, and Lara- and all the ‘adventures’ they get up to in this series- while learning some valuable lessons along the way.
This time Oscar and Emmy go to stay at grandma’s house while their family goes on vacation. It takes them a little while to get used to being in a new environment, but they soon settle in and enjoy their new surroundings. What happens when a little mishap looks like it might put a dampener on their stay at grandmas? This is well worth the read to find out.
The story also provides information on what to do with your pet when you need to leave town. It offers the pros and cons of pet sitters, and also gives guidance for those who are not used to providing everyday care of pets/animals (such as a prospective pet sitter).
Another great instalment in the Oscar and Emmy series.
The Series contains (so far):
-Oscar and Emmy get rescued (Book #1)
-Oscar and Emmy Weather a Hurricane (Book #2)
-Oscar and Emmy Visit Grandma (Book #3)
-Oscar and Emmy Visit the Vet (Book #4)
-Oscar and Emmy’s First Christmas (Book #5)
-Oscar and Emmy Gain a Friend (Book #6)
-Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend (Book #7)
-Oscar and Emmy Foster Kittens (Book #8)
Looking forward to seeing what other adventures they get up to.
Happy Reading…
Thank You, Terri Sabol!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3 – 3.5 Stars
Dark Is the Wood is the first book in the Enchanted Tales With Dragons series by Kristin Ward. It is a YA romantasy (romance/fantasy) with dragons, witches, magic, action, adventure, agendas, emotion, chemistry, high stakes, family, and dramatic developments. It has a definite ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ fairytale vibe, with the added lure of dragons.
When Gillian’s brother succumbs to the wasting illness that sweeps the land, she is prepared to do whatever it takes to restore his health- even if it means entering the forbidden Shadowlands. And so, her adventure begins….
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Kristin Ward!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Where’s Gramma? by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What a delightful story! “Where’s Gramma?” is a heartwarming tale about family, particularly about Gramma and her grandchildren, and the fun activities she does to entertain them. Gramma seems to always be on the go as she can’t sit still for long. The boys have to find her, making it an exciting search.
I fondly remember being the “cool Gramma” to my older grandsons when they were younger. While I miss those days with them, this wonderful book allowed me to relive those special moments.
I especially enjoyed the charming illustrations by Greg David.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Shadowed Storm by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the fourth book in the Shadow Defense Security Series. While I haven’t read the other books in the series this book stands well on it’s own. The plot of a bio-engineered algae specimen capable of contaminating freshwater sources is unique and intriguing. That’s plenty of twists and turns in this high stakes thriller with romance and humor. You’ll keep reading until the end.
Falling for a Star in the City by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I like this author. So I couldn’t resist jumping into Falling for a Star in the City. I’m usually a sucker for sports romances but this one I struggled with. Don’t get me wrong I enjoyed it but it took a while to actually get into it. So push through if you feel that same way, it’ll be worth it in the end.
Paige just had the worst day of her life. A day dealt with nagging and loss. She finally got the acting role she wanted and it’s now permanently on hold. Between that and her grandma being in her head she sends her boyfriend Walker packing. She was done taking care of him. But were they truly done?
Will Walker end up back in the picture?
Viktor was on his college hockey team. He also is a man dealing with an extreme break up. So when Paige catches his eye it’s unexpected. They get along well but there’s been some misunderstanding that causes them to think there’s an issue with the other. When reality is, they are interested in each other.
Will they act on it?
Will Walker end up getting in the way?
Again I’ll say I struggled at the beginning, but as the story went on I did enjot it!
Shadowed Storm by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was absolutely amazing!! I have loved every book in the Shadow Defense Security series, but this one takes it to another level. Alexis and Seb are magnificently written characters. Alexis is incredibly intelligent with a quite wit while Seb’s mission is to protect. While these books can technically be read as a standalone, I highly recommend picking up the previous books as well. There is a lot of background and overarching themes that are continued through each installment. I definitely lost quite a bit of sleep just so I could stay up and finish reading this. If you are looking for a book that is going to keep you on your toes, make your heart pump with non-stop action, and fulfill your romantic desire, look no further. This should be your next buy! I am on pins and needles waiting to see what this author has in store for us next. Bring it on!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
The Rebirth: Part One by Crystal Dawn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Rebirth: Part One: Aliens and Royalty (Planet Amazon Book 1)
By Crystal Dawn
I must be honest when I first started to read this book, I did not think it was going to be for me. By the end of the first chapter the storyline had me wanting to know what was next. I like how all the main characters in the book had their own strengths with the females of Amazon being slightly stronger than the men. She is Andrea Stanton, and she has found the doorway to Amazon and has gone through it. On getting through the door Andrea wakes up feeling so dizzy she did not want to open her eyes. Queen Lydia had hit her on the back of her head with a staff. It did not take long for Lydia and Andrea to become close friends in fact over time Andrea became Lydia’s second in command. Andrea noticed Marcus as Lydia was showing her around and was told she could not have him just yet, Andrea has also noticed Jonne, she found herself attracted to both of them on sight. I love how the storylines of the two men that become part of Andreas life are so different, yet they both are a perfect match for her. The storyline continues to build throughout the book and at no time does not hold your attention. What we have in this book is romance, lust, action, and a war between two worlds. I can honestly recommend that this book be read.
Where’s Gramma? by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Gramma is quite the adventurous gal! She wants to show her family all the places that she can be found and, in the process, they discover what a fun-loving, free spirit she is! She’s also not afraid of hard work!
A cute book to share with your littles while they are curled up in your lap!
Finding Hope: A Small Town Beach Romance by Erin Brockus
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
When Hope wins a raffle, and the prize is a scuba resort in St Croix, her life just might be getting the change that it needs. Alex is the diving instructor at the resort, there to escape his own past. These two are determined to keep things professional…and keep those walls up. But, as time passes, and unexpected things are happening around them, the two must work closely together to figure out what’s going on. The more time they spend together, though, the closer they become. Will they both let their walls down, and let each other in, to see if they can have a future together?
This was a good read. It was the perfect book for reading at the beach…imagining myself on the sand in St. Croix. I could almost feel myself there with the descriptions given in the book. I enjoyed both characters as they got to know each other as the book progressed. As this was the firs tin the series, I will be looking forward to future books!
Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This series never disappoints! We continue following Emma and Jeremy on an investigation that would involve some of their very own “family”. This investigation leads to Emma and Jeremy having to play the role of being someone else, being away from their family and brings more family into the picture.
This particular book in the series just kept me guessing all the way until the end! Just when you think Emma was going to solve it, or that you had guessed what was next, something else exciting happened. This case has Emma and Jeremy working with Tony and Peggy in order to find out who killed the brother of Peggy. So much is uncovered and revealed in this book in regards to a con scam, and missing jewels.
This could be read as a stand alone, however you should read from book 1 and continue. It will make the character connections make sense and just answer some questions that could come up with certain characters in this book.
No One Could See the Flea by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Sometimes an itch is just an itch. Honestly my favorite book by Tricia Gardella so far. Such a cute little story of relatable everyday kid stuff. All of Jack’s friends work together to help him help his dog Shank. From the different home remedies that each child has heard to their own interpretation of what to do was a fun silly read.
No One Could See the Flea by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
No One Could See the Flea was a cute and easy read! Poor Shanks apparently has a flea, but no one can find it! Your kiddos should enjoy it. A really funny and sweet book.
The Apothecary’s Curse by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
In Victorian London, Simon Bell makes an elixir created by Gaelen Erceldoune from an ancient manuscript. Simon gives his wife the elixir meant to cure her cancer but instead it kills her. Simon takes the leftover elixir only to discover he can’t die. The two men connect 5 years later as they try to conceal their immortality. The novel continues to weave through time following the lives of Simon and Gealan.
I really enjoyed this first book in the series. It took me a little longer to get into the book as I found the first half moved slower. Although I usually find this the case with books from a series – it just takes longer to build the characters and their histories. It’s worth it because the characters in this one are well written and the story is fantastic.
Reviewed by @aliciaknoke
Where’s Gramma? by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is an absolutely adorable book about four young grandsons and their grandma. Where is she? Out doing something unique each time! This is one cool grandma! She shares what she is doing with the grandboys. The pictures in the story are perfect for this book.
Wildfire Knockout by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Beth and Scott are working the women’s featherweight boxing circuit. Scott fell in love with Beth a year ago but since then, Beth refuses to let him get close again. Beth visits a children’s cancer center and meets Tilly. Returning to the hotel, Scott is shocked to see Beth’s hair is gone. She had her hair cut to make Tilly a wig.
In Denver, Bob enters the locker room while Scott uses the bathroom. Seeing Beth standing frozen and Bob telling her to give him a kiss, Scott rushes to her side, telling Bob to leave immediately, claiming to be her boyfriend. Later that evening, Scott discovers Beth has a hidden secret. She takes a step to confide in Scott, telling him the details as to why she doesn’t trust anyone. Instead of abandoning her, Scott consoles her and declares he will always be there for her. In Dallas, Beth and Scott are closer, though she still isn’t fully committed to Scott. They are spending time in a dance club when someone from the past changes the future of Wildfire’s rise to the championship.
The dive into Scott and Beth’s love/hate relationship was written tastefully. I found the sentimental recollection seen through Scott’s memory of their night in Las Vegas during K.C and Chamberlain’s wedding gave a better idea of how he was willing to abandon his playboy reputation. Beth’s visit to the Children’s Cancer Treatment Center brought tears to my eyes. I would have had the same reaction as Scott when he learned why she shaved her head. The surprise revelations were captivating. Connecting with the emotions of the two characters was effortless and the transitions between each point of view were seamless. The use of italics in Scott’s recollection of the path made it clear what point of time was being reflected. I would recommend this romance novel to mature adults who enjoy seeing both sides of a relationship as it develops.
This book was really all about Beth (K.C.’s best friend) and how she got where she is today. There is a continued love/hate relationship between her and Scott (Chamberlain’s best friend). There are really sad parts throughout the story and I feel for Beth and everything that she has gone through since she was abandoned by her mom. I wouldn’t even now how to feel if that had happened to me. Can you relate to her? Scott is a ladies man and never that a relationship could ever happen but there is just something about Beth that he can’t quite get and he realizes that he wants the same thing as Chamberlain has. Can they find love within each other or are these two destined to be alone for the rest of their lives? You need to read the series in order to really get the answer.
Wildfire Knockout by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was really all about Beth (K.C.’s best friend) and how she got where she is today. There is a continued love/hate relationship between her and Scott (Chamberlain’s best friend). There are really sad parts throughout the story and I feel for Beth and everything that she has gone through since she was abandoned by her mom. I wouldn’t even now how to feel if that had happened to me. Can you relate to her? Scott is a ladies man and never that a relationship could ever happen but there is just something about Beth that he can’t quite get and he realizes that he wants the same thing as Chamberlain has. Can they find love within each other or are these two destined to be alone for the rest of their lives? You need to read the series in order to really get the answer.
“ABSURD,” SAID BIRD.: A mouse plans a trip to the moon. by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
“Absurd” Said Bird is a cute children’s story. When Mouse wants to build a plane to go to the moon to get cheese, Bird tells him it is absurd. When Mouse’s plan doesn’t work, Bird helps him figure it out. This is a fun book to teach about teamwork. The rhyming flows beautifully and will help engage children. The lesson regarding teamwork is wonderful. The illustrations are colorful and beautiful. I highly recommend this story for small children.
Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Art of Deception is the latest book in The Notebook Mysteries Series. Emma and Jeremy find themselves investigating the murder of their friend Peggy’s brother. As they investigate, they also have to juggle the care of their ward Hen. This story is very intriguing. It is interesting to see how they fit Hen into investigating. She is such a sweet and curious young lady. I loved the mystery but I also loved the family aspects. Emma and Jeremy love their friends and family, which shows in their care to disrupt things as little as possible. The story is well-written as usual. The plot is engaging and there is plenty of action in the story. This book was a very enjoyable continuation of the series.
Word Play by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Very relatable story for anyone with an eager learner. Once again Tricia Gardella takes you on an adventure, this time with little Joe. His first day at school his teacher takes too long to talk about reading so he decides to go on an adventure to find the “right” place to learn. The fun and colorful illustrations bring the interpretation of a child’s journey to learn how to read into an easy-to-read book for little learners. Biggest lesson he learns is patience, nothing is learned in a day, and it takes time.
“ABSURD,” SAID BIRD.: A mouse plans a trip to the moon. by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Absolutely love Absurd…. Tricia Gardella has quickly become one of my favorite children’s book authors. Her work is always so fun and with vibrant illustrations and easy rhyming for all ages of reading. This book was a perfect example of teamwork and even overcoming limitations. Birds and planes can only go so high. But solutions are found a new plan is made together.
