To be a Fae Rogue by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is the fourth installment in the Realm Chronicles series. This YA fantasy read is enjoyable. Titania is selfless if fighting for her people. She also wants to protect humans. Can she do both?
A Pig and A Poke by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Angela wants to catch and win a pig but Bruce is determined to win for himself. Bruce is a bully and is mean to Angela. Angela persists and ends up winning. Cute book.
Down By The River by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Love Tricia Gardella’s books, yes all of them. They are always so beautifully illustrated and amazing for young readers. This one is about rivers, life inside them, above them, over them, and around them. Easy to read and beautiful illustrations gave me classic Disney feels of Winnie the Pooh.
Cam Creates A Hero: Growth Mindset Book For Kids by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Beautiful message in this one. While I found a few of the pages confusing on the order to read the talk bubbles the story was amazing. Dagmara Sitek shows an easy to understand for young readers what empathy is. How your imagination is only the first step in the creation of amazing things. Cam and his siblings might not be engineers, but his imagination and creativity created a hero that all of them could believe in and helped so many that needed to believe in good.
A Safe Place by Becky Flade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A Safe Space is another great book by an author that I have really come to enjoy. This book is part of the Philly Heat series and is a great addition to the series. For me, this book was all about the characters. I seemed to really engage with them and I loved the dynamic they presented. Even with everything going on around them, you could feel their connection. And not just the main characters, but also with Kat.
The story is exactly what I have come to expect from this series. It is exciting, action packed, fast paced and a truly enjoyable read. I would definitely recommend this book (and series and author!) to anyone.
The Discovery of Magic by L. J. Evias
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Intriguing. This one started off slow for me but eventually picked up. The characters for me became relatable in the sense that Alice deals with a lot of the same things any normal teenager does. She has her friends, she is trying to win a scholarship, her parents want something for her other than whats for herself. I like that the story I’d from her and her friends points of view. I don’t think the book would have been able to be any other way and make sense. Sometime sit is hard to tell who is really your friend and who is in it for themselves even in the real world. Alice and her friends were trying to navigate the real world and then get sucked into a magical one. I do feel like this is a book focused on the characters and their relationships/friendships with adventure thrown in a long the way. Just like any real world friendship there will be some lies and secrets also. I would recommend if you like books with multiple points of views and adventures.
Night Sweats and Hockey Nets by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Night Sweats and Hockey Nets is the third book in the Hot Flash Hookups series by Marika Ray and Sylvie Stewart. I really enjoyed this book, it was refreshing to have a main character in a romance book who seems real, Chloe is 42, perimenopausal, and not a size 2, and I loved her for it. A lot of the time main characters are not the easiest to relate too but Chloe would be my friend. When Chloe returns to live in her hometown after the death of her husband, she throws herself into her passion, starting her own junior hockey league. As her dad is the head coach of the local NHL team, hockey is in her blood. Niko, the star goalie for the team, is struggling in a custody battle with her ex wife and doesn’t want any distractions, however after a chance encounter with Chloe, he is definitely distracted, and when Chloe suddenly becomes the answer to his childcare problems he is unable to stay away from her. I thought this book was heartwarming, sexy and laugh out loud funny at points. Definitely recommend.
A Tale of Two Crushes by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a very fun, quirky YA clean romance. This author never fails to impress me with their story telling and the ability to bring the characters to life making you feel like they could be your friends (well when I was a teenager lol)
As expected for a YA story it is full of drama and teenage angst as they all go through their lives trying to discover themselves as well as dealing with the confusion times that life sends our way.
Holland has never had a crush before. Growing up where she has it’s a small place and everyone knows everyone so she hasn’t really taken an interest in boys. That is until her family moves and she now finds herself with not one but 2 crushes. Of course things aren’t simple and with teenage boys being teenage boys it’s not always straight forward as Holland tries to work out and through her feelings, as well as meeting new friends and changing relationships with her family.
This bring back memories of my teenage years and all the fun times as well as the times when I never really had a clue what was going on.
Joining Holland and her friends as they try to untangle things and make sense of it all while developing themselves at the same time was a great read
The Viper’s Bloodline Awakened: The Fifth Book in the Urban Fantasy series The Gods’ Scion by Winnifred Tataw
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the fifth installment of the gods Scion series. It is recommended that you read it in order. It is about Roderick’s and Arcelia’s journey.
This book has lots of drama, fantasy, magic, and action in it. The characters are put through some intense situations dealing with their loyalty and trust. They have to figure out how to cope with having all of that tested. The characters are complex and the journey is wonderfully detailed.
Overall, I would give this book four stars. However, I recommended that it be read in order with the rest of the series as it’s very confusing if you don’t read it that way. The author does a wonderful job describing the world in such a way that you are immersed in it. I am definitely looking forward to another book.
Strings Attached by Loriana Cappello
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
An enjoyable heartwarming story. The main characters, Ash and Calla, are well written and I cheered for them thru out the book to find themselves and each other. The story is heartwarming and draws you into not just their lives, but those of their friends and family. I can’t wait to see how the other characters stories turn out as well.
To be a Fae Rogue by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The series just keeps getting better. I was riveted to this one as Titania had faked her death to hide as to protect her family. The story really kept you engaged and intrigued because of the action and drama. There was mystery also around what was coming up next. Part of what I enjoy in these stories are the characters. Titania has really grown into her role through the series. She’s become stronger and a bit more confident. Her supporting characters are really quite perfect for the story. It’s a delight to read and I always look forward to a new one coming out.
“This Box Set doesn’t just contain The Crown of Stones Trilogy. It holds an epic fantasy adventure that transports you to a shattered land in need of rescue, an immersive reading experience that drops you into the mind of exiled soldier Ian Troy: a man born with an addiction to magic, living in a world where magic is reviled, and its users are enslaved. Feel this dark saga come to life as you journey through war-torn Mirra’kelan and meet its ever-evolving cast of characters, all struggling to survive and find their own path to peace. You’ll cross realms divided by years of conflict, molded by secrets and lies, and governed with dark intent. Learn their tangled history. Unearth the lore. Navigate the twists and turns, as friendships are put to the test and love straddles the line of hope and tragedy. Discover the true origins—and the danger—of the ancient Shinree’s powerful magic. Travel with Ian as he returns to the past to save the future, crossing time to solve the mystery of The Crown of Stones, his true connection the artifact, and the role it played in shaping all their lives.”
If you like fantasy and all the things that go with it, like witches, kings, and magic, this is the book for you.
Great storyline and great characters in each book. I give each book 4 stars.
The Trouble with Possibilities by Nancie Abuhaidar
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a good read. I like the themes of second chances. I did have a little bit of a hard time connecting with Del. Overall, I did like how the characters developed within the plot. The way they went through complex situations while moving through was good.
A Tale of Two Crushes by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Such a page-turner! I did not want to put the book down. Holland is the new girl and meets Asher on her first day of school—she beings to crush on him right away. But, a few days later her locker gets stuck and Chandler swoops in to save the day. She begins to have a crush on him as well. Holland soon discovers that Asher and Chandler are brothers! They convince Holland to go on dates with both of them so that she can choose who she wants to be with. After some good and some not so good dates, and some family struggles for Holand, she eventually makes her choice. Who will she choose?
Cam Creates a Hero by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was so cute. My kids enjoyed it as well. It follows a boy named Cam as he embarks on a mission to fulfill his dream that will also help many others. Will he succeed? Read to find out.
The Viper’s Bloodline Awakened: The Fifth Book in the Urban Fantasy series The Gods’ Scion by Winnifred Tataw
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3½ stars
This is the 5th book in the series.
I highly recommend reading this series in order so you won’t be lost like I was.
Even though I had no idea what was going on, this book was still really good.
I was intrigued with the way this authors says of world building.
This is a very interesting sci-fi fantasy. It’s creative, full of drama and heart break.
I loved the complexity of of the characters and their journey.
Overall I do recommend this
Unmasking A Cowgirl by Rachelle Paige Campbell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Down By The River by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A cute story about what goes on in and around rivers and lakes. It is a good book to get kids interested in nature. The illustrations are beautiful. I have read quite a few books by this author with my 7 year old son. We always enjoy them.
Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf by M.J. Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another Detective Dylan story! My 7 year old son and I have read a few of these in the series. We always find them to be fun and entertaining.
This one deals with Dylan going to camp with his sister. He is pretty bummed at first, especially when it rains the first few days. Then, things start to look up when it’s time for camp games! But, the trophy goes missing! The camp owner says no games until the trophy is returned. Looks like a mystery perfect for Dylan! He ends up being joined by his sister, his dog, and a couple others on the hunt for the suspect. The list ends up getting bigger and bigger before they track down the culprit. Read to find out who stole it, and more importantly, why!
Night Sweats and Hockey Nets by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Night Sweats and Hockey Nets is the third instalment of Marika Ray and Sylvie Stewart’s Hot Flash Hookups series, and follows Nikolai Drugov, a hockey player in the midst of a custody battle with his ex-wife over their young daughter, and Chloe, a widow who has recently moved to Florida and is currently going through menopause. Like Mood Swings and Hockey Flings, it was really refreshing to read a romance story focused on two leads in their late thirties/early fourties rather than their twenties. Chloe feeling like she was starting over so late in life and still finding happiness, and everything she’s ever dreamed of, can and should be an inspiration to all. My favourite character was Chloe and my least favourite character was probably Peyton. I recommend this book because it’s a refreshing read and a good love story with a happily ever after. I also feel like the authors did a good job of portraying the voice of someone who speaks English as a second language. ‘My voice sounds foreign—a sharp strum on a cable stretched tight enough to snap.’
Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this shifter story by Valkyrie. The short story is well written,with characters who keep you wanting to see what will be on the next page. I really enjoyed this storyline. I would recommend this book to others.
Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was a very unique read about fated mates and the path that they had to take to be together. What a wonderful story of a woman’s passing, and the final act of kindness that she was able to bring about as her dying wish. The fact that this story contains jackals, vultures, and other shapeshifters was so cool, I really enjoyed reading this short story. This had such a great moral to the story that no matter how different people may be, what truly matters is that we stand up for what we believe in, be a part of the change for good, and follow our hearts wherever they may lead us. If you like to read paranormal romances, I highly recommend reading this short story by the amazing Naomi Valkyrie. She never disappoints with her unique style of writing intriguing stories that interest you right up to the last page. Happy reading my friends, until next time!
@Brandy Rymer
09/2024
A Tale of Two Crushes by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A Tale of Two Crushes by Cori Copper is a great read for people who are into Young Adult Romance. The book is focused on this girl Holland who wants to graduate but she finds two cute guys, one who reads and the other who is the love of her dreams. The book is one of those old romance movies where the main character has to choose between one or the other. Who will Holland choose? Will she keep focusing on school and attend college with her best friend Alica? Find out in a Tale of Two Crushes.
Stephen Rymer
09/24
The Discovery of Magic by L. J. Evias
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3 – 3.5 stars
The Discovery of Magic is an intriguing read and L.J. has craftily woven plots amongst plots as the adventure of new worlds, magic, mayhem and friendship ride out in this epic fantasy.
The story starts out strong but there are a few ebbs and flows along the way that slow things down at times, but it does sort itself out and was still an interesting read.
The Discovery of Magic is told in multiple POV of the engaging characters, and it is those friendships/relationships that make the story. It is a journey where there is magic and many things for them to learn and explore as they travel through portals, worlds and people. But there are also lies, secrets, and conniving and menacing characters that they must deal with along the way.
Things were left unanswered in the end, so we have to wait for the next book to see how things pan out.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Reunion by Jocelyn Lindsay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 stars
Reunion is a fun and refresh look at a supernatural/paranormal urban fantasy tale full of action. It’s great to see more authors turning to heroines that are not what most would consider the normal age. No, this heroine is over 40 and can kick ar$e and drink with the best of them. Being the keeper of Hells Gate a place of evil will do that to a gal.
Reunion is jam packed full of action, suspense, and humour and so much more. It has all the elements I love in a great book.
I loved this book. I loved the character, Meg. Actually, I enjoyed the witty and quirky characters that Jocelyn brought to life. Meg not only has to save the world but deal with the supernatural once again to boot, but she must deal with real life problems as well family, kids, friends and I use the term loosely at times, animosity, and much more.
Jocelyn has cleverly crafted a tale that is a tangled web of complex threads to bring about something that readers will thoroughly enjoy.
This wonderful fast-paced tale is the first book in The Hell Gate Chronicles, fantasy series and what a start it is. I can’t wait for more of these characters and the mayhem they get into.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Hi Little Brother, I Love You: A Sweet Gift Keepsake Book Welcoming a New Baby Brother to the Family. by Deniese Dennis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Hi Little Brother, I Love You is a sweet children’s picture book about welcoming a new baby brother to the family. Full of charming illustrations which accompany the cute story of sibling/brotherly love as big brother shows love and care for the new addition to the family.
An engaging little story for children aged 1 – 5 years.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Deniese Dennis!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
HEAVEN ONLY KNOWS by Laurie Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
Heaven Only Knows is the third book in the Silver Buckle Brides series by Laurie Lewis. This is a woman’s fiction/contemporary romance that packs an emotional wallop. A wonderful story about second chances, overcoming pain and loss- faith, hope, and finding where you belong.
The Silver Buckle Brides series follows the Brockbank brothers on their individual journeys to finding love. And this time it is Barrett’s turn. And what an angsty tale Ms. Lewis has delivered. A heart-tugging, slow burn story of finding love unexpectedly, imbued with culture, and the spirit of New Orleans.
I love all of Ms. Lewis’s books, and I love how she infuses so much heart and soul into her stories, leaving them brimming with emotion. Her characters are always so well developed and have so much depth to them, they really bring the story to life and deliver all the ‘feels’.
Looking forward to the next release from Ms. Lewis!
Happy Reading!
Thank you, Laurie L.C. Lewis!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Hi Little Brother, I Love You: A Sweet Gift Keepsake Book Welcoming a New Baby Brother to the Family. by Deniese Dennis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a super good book portraying the love for siblings. I would love to read this book to my 4 year old! I think he would really enjoy this book as much as me! I can’t wait to read more from this author! I really enjoyed reading how siblings have great relationships starting as kids!
Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Acheron is a Vulture Shifter, an outcast that has been shunned by other shifters for touching the dead. Someone has to though, right? He has been feeling restless as of late but has the opportunity to travel to the town of Mandara at the request of a dying soul. There he meets Clarissa, the dying soul that requested his presence, and Errapel who happens to be his mate. Acheron follows the rules and one of the major ones is that he should never take a mate. How can fate have played such a cruel joke? Will Acheron and Errapel get a happily ever after? This was a quick read that can be read in about 30 minutes. I have read a few other books by this author, even under another pen name, and they were all good. I enjoy the writing style and how she described these characters. There was a lot packed into roughly 60 pages and I wanted more once it ended. I will hold out hope for a longer version.
The Discovery of Magic by L. J. Evias
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
L. J. Evias is a first time author for me, but after reading The Discovery of Magic, it certainly won’t be the last. The Discovery of Magic is the first book in the Intrigue of Magic Series. This Young Adult Fantasy book is lengthy, 545 pages, but has so much included; drama, mystery, danger, friendship, “normal” teenage angst, and of course, magic! The world building is amazing; I could feel the tension and confusion as Alice and her friends navigate the magical world of Parsa, see the desert sands of South Parsa, and experience the opulence of the palace in North Parsa. The characters in this book are all well-constructed, realistic (even the magical characters), and believable. While Alice, Jamie, Jordan, Emily, Yasmin, and Darien are the main characters, there are many other engaging individuals who make the story complete. Told from different point of views, The Discovery of Magic has plenty of twists and turns that connect to one another in an oddly satisfying way. I cannot wait for the next book in the Intrigue of Magic Series.
