Made to Love Her: Romantic Suspense Novella by Michele Sims
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book can be read as a standalone. It is a quick read full of romance and suspense. Good book!
Forever to Fall by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Libby Kay has done it again. This can be read as a standalone, or with the series, which is great! A great love story with an emotionally roller coaster. Great read!
El Diablo: A Jessica Watts Southwest Suspense Novel by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Jessica left behind a life of danger to have a ‘normal’ life. She married her best friend and is a paralegal. As time goes on, she starts to miss the dangerous past. When her friends daughter tells her about a pastor who seems to be preying on young teenage girls, Jessica takes it upon herself to investigate the man. The man also just so happened to be a client of her boss who just closed on a property.
This man seems sleazy but very charismatic so everyone seems to love him and think he is a wonderful man. Jessica seems to be the only one to see through his facade. Jessica wants to protect the innocent girls but she will have to delve back into her dangerous past.
I love Jessica as a character. She is so caring and willing to put herself in a bad spot if she thought you were in danger. She tries so hard to move on from her past but it doesn’t seem to want to let her go. Even though this is a series, you can read this book as a stand alone. It has enough detail that you won’t be confused. There is mention of the previous book but only in passing. The author has a way with making the story come to life. Twists and turns, there’s never a dull moment.
Forever to Fall by Libby Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is number 5 in the Buckeye Falls series. This book can completely be read as a stand alone. I have read all the other books in the series, and I really enjoyed the continuation of characters. For the most part, books in this series have centered around a set of two main characters with characters from previous books set as supporting cast. I love reading more about all them! This book is the story about Mallory Dawson and Beckett Fox. Mallory has loved Beckett for as long as she can remember. She has learned to live without him. When he moves back to Buckeye Falls, she doesn’t know if she can continue to live without him. Unbeknownst to her, Beckett is also in love with her. It was a sweet story about the two of them finding their way to each other. I’m not sure that I believe in love at first sight at all, much less in kids, but I still enjoyed the book. Worth the time to read as a story and as a series.
Made to Love Her: Romantic Suspense Novella by Michele Sims
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Having read and enjoyed the ‘Moore Family Saga’ series I was excited to read this romantic suspense novella. The storyline focuses on Cade Moore, a famous jazz saxophonist and his wife Lecia. The couple are in Greece as Cade and his band are back together and performing a series of concerts during the Millennial Olympic Games. However, their dream vacation quickly turns into a nightmare of international intrigue following a shocking revelation. Cade and Lecia find themselves in a world where loyalties are tested, trust is rare and the sins of the past haunt them. As the couple try to work out the lies from the truth, they will find out if their love is strong enough to survive. Although this is a short read it is action packed. I was hooked throughout by the relatable characters, stunning settings and gripping plot twists.
Murder in Prospect: An Eve Sawyer Mystery by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
An aspiring journalist’s help is requested by one of her college classmates. Over their spring break, they look into the death of the mayor of a former mining town turned ghost town, which has ultimately become rebranded as a tourist destination. The history of the wild west is evident throughout the town. The young adults must sift through family secrets and old romances to uncover the truth. How far will someone go to stop them before the details come to light?
Murder in Prospect: An Eve Sawyer Mystery by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Murder in Prospect is the fifth book in the Eve Sawyer Mystery series. Although it is part of a series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone mystery. This is a fast pace, quirky little story. We begin with the main character Eve Sawyer, we is supporting her friend, Bob, who just lost his uncle whom he was very fond of. However something isn’t quite right and Eve becomes suspicious about the events leading up to Bob’s Uncle’s death. A great read for those who love a good mystery.
Forbiddenly Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Forbiddenly Yours is the 2nd book in the serious and was a such a great, hot read.
Nicole is on vacation and decides to act alittle out of character for her. Callum is also on vacation. And they end up meeting and having a deliciously hot night together expecting to never see eachother again especially since they live nowhere near eachother. When Nicole moves to Chicago to attend school, everyone is surprised to see her new English professor is the hot guy she spent the night with in Costa Rica. Neither can forget the night they shared. Callum is a Titan and he always gets what he wants. He wants Nicole!! He doesn’t realize Nicole’s father and Uncle are also Titans and will never allow him near her.
Callum and Nicole start to see eachother in private but, it’s not so private when her stalker finds out and uses the information to his advantage. Callum is set up and made out to be her stalker. Will Nicole finally realize that Callum is the good guy in her life and he would never willingly hurt her? This was a steamy book with the student / teacher storyline. All books by this author have been amazing and this is no different.
review by @xchellex
Back in the Ring by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Back in the ring is part 4 of the series and it’s definitely a 5 star read. In this book, there will be parts of characters from previous books in the series and I recommend reading them In order to prevent spoilers. Noah has just moved to a new town after losing his wife in a tragic accident. Bijou and her late husband opened up a youth center that is now become hard to Maintain and keep running. The center needs a lot of work and donations haven’t been coming in as they have in previous years.
When Noah offers to help Bijou with repairs free of charge, she doesn’t know what to think. She is attracted to him as soon as she met him but, she tries not to let that secret out. Will these two be able to have a relationship after the heartbreak they both endured ? Will the center be able to remain open or will Bijou have to close the doors on her late husbands dream? Definitely a great addition to the series.
Review by @xchellex
Forever to Fall by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Forever to Fall is the fifth book in the Buckeye Falls series. Each book in this series is a romance focusing on a different pair of people in the Buckeye Falls community. With her brother Evan’s wedding approaching, Mallory is worried about the lifetime of spinsterhood that seems to lie ahead of her. Her childhood sweetheart coming back to town, and preparing to be her brother’s best man, complicates her feelings further.
Each book in this series can be read as a standalone, but reading them in order will let you get to know the characters as they are introduced. I like seeing the couples from previous books enjoying their lives together further down the line!
Although the romance is at the centre of this book, I love all the friendships around the sides. Mallory, Evan and Beckett have a friendship going back decades with lots of fun traditions. As she struggles with her feelings, Mallory leans on friends like Alice and CeCe.
Beckett’s family farm provides a lovely setting for much of the story, including the childhood memories he shares with Mallory and Evan. It’s also a space that holds a lot of grief for him after losing his grandparents, so part of the story is him learning how to navigate his changing relationship with the place.
This is a comforting and fun read. I’d recommend it to fans of romances built on foundations of strong friendships. It gets five stars from me!
Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Dark Is The Wood
(Enchanted Tales With Dragon Scales book 1)
By: Kristin Ward
Review by: Susan Ratchford
5 Stars
Such a fun and enjoyable read! Dark Is The Wood is a perfect blend of the fairy tales that are so nostalgic to us, mixed with enough uniqueness to make them new again. It makes it all the more cozy and comforting to read! Gillian is strong, brave, and believable as a character. Ward’s writing style and character development hits the mark without feeling overwhelming and just makes you want to know more. I will definitely be looking for her next book in this wonderful series Treacherous Is The Tower!
Picking Pismo by Emi Hilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Claire has to come to Pismo after her mom passed, leaving her to take care of her teen sister and get things in order before returning home to her job/life. She meets David along the way, who is Alexis’ (the sister) orthodontist. Both are not really in a position to start a relationship but can’t deny the connection. David is hesitant because of his past marriage and because Claire isnt staying in Pismo permanently. Can they come to a compromise in living arrangements and give into their feelings? This was a nice beachy clean romance I really enjoyed. Would love to read more from this author.
El Diablo: A Jessica Watts Southwest Suspense Novel by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the second book in the Jessica Watts Southwest Suspense series. I do recommend reading these in order because there is a lot of character details in this first book that will make this book even more enjoyable. I loved Jessica’s character, she has been through a lot( as you find out in the first book) and she has struggled to get where she is today but she is a strong determined woman who wants to protect those more vulnerable that she is and that is what she sets out to do in this story. This is a story that is gripping, filled with tension and danger, crimes, family, emotions and loads more. Once I started I couldn’t put this book down.
We are back with Jessica in this story. When she hears stories about a Pastor who is at the local high school maybe taking advantage of girls on the Christian group she knows she needs to investigate to get to the bottom of who Pastor Wright is really up to.
He is a man of god spreading the good word and helping young girls through life or is all that just a cover up for something more sinister?
Jessica knows she has to battle and face her own demons from her past while also embracing the ruthless, risk taking side of herself that she thought was left in the past. Just how far is Jessica prepared to go to find out the truth? And what will it cost her to play this game of cat and mouse with a dangerous opponent?
This book was really well written that I couldn’t put it down until the end.
Kathryn Dodson’s *El Diablo* is a gripping and intense thriller that plunges readers into a world where danger lurks beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary lives. This novel tells the story of Jessica, a former adrenaline junkie who is thrust back into the heart of darkness when she decides to take on the case of a youth pastor accused of disturbing behavior. What begins as a quest for justice quickly spirals into a harrowing game of cat-and-mouse with a sadistic criminal hiding behind a mask of piety.
Jessica is a compelling protagonist, driven by a complex mix of guilt, anger, and a thirst for justice. Her past as an adrenaline junkie gives her an edge, making her a fearless, if not reckless, amateur detective. However, as she delves deeper into the investigation, it becomes clear that she’s not just battling an external threat—she’s also fighting her own inner demons. Dodson does an excellent job of fleshing out Jessica’s character, showing how her quest to bring down the criminal forces her to confront the parts of herself she had hoped to leave behind.
The novel’s antagonist, a psychopath who manipulates others while hiding behind a veneer of righteousness, is chillingly portrayed. The contrast between his public persona and the monstrous reality adds a layer of tension that keeps the reader on edge throughout the story. The cat-and-mouse dynamic between Jessica and this villain is the driving force of the narrative, with each encounter escalating in intensity and danger.
Set against the backdrop of an unforgiving desert, *El Diablo* is as much about survival as it is about solving a mystery. The harsh environment mirrors the brutal psychological and physical challenges that Jessica faces. Dodson’s descriptions of the desert are vivid and atmospheric, creating a sense of isolation and peril that heightens the suspense.
The novel’s pacing is relentless, with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end. Just when you think you have the plot figured out, Dodson throws in another curveball, making *El Diablo* a true page-turner. The action scenes are well-crafted and pulse-pounding, but it’s the psychological tension that truly sets this thriller apart.
At its core, *El Diablo* is a story about the thin line between good and evil, and the lengths to which a person will go to seek justice. Jessica’s journey is one of self-discovery as much as it is about stopping a criminal. Dodson expertly explores themes of redemption, guilt, and the dark side of human nature, making this novel not only a suspenseful read but also a thought-provoking one.
*El Diablo* is perfect for fans of gritty mysteries and heart-pounding suspense. Kathryn Dodson has crafted a story that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant, with a protagonist who is as complex as she is courageous. The novel’s blend of psychological depth, relentless action, and unexpected twists will keep readers hooked from start to finish. If you’re looking for a thriller that doesn’t pull its punches, *El Diablo* is a must-read.
Jane Suen’s Murder in Prospect, is a captivating mystery that pulls readers into the charming yet eerie atmosphere of a small, historic mining town. The story follows Eve Sawyer, a journalism student with a knack for solving crimes, as she takes a break from her studies to help a friend and finds herself entangled in a perplexing murder case.
The novel begins with Eve conquering her fear of flying to support her friend, Bob, who is mourning the sudden loss of his Uncle Will. Though Will’s death has been ruled as natural, Bob’s intuition tells him something is amiss. Eve, with her investigative instincts and previous experience with murder cases, can’t resist the urge to dig deeper into the circumstances surrounding Will’s death. From the moment she arrives, Suen builds a sense of unease that hints at the dark secrets lurking beneath the surface of this seemingly peaceful town.
Eve Sawyer is a relatable and determined protagonist whose passion for journalism and justice drives the narrative. Her methodical approach to uncovering the truth is compelling, as she carefully peels back the layers of the mystery. Suen does a commendable job of balancing Eve’s intellectual curiosity with the emotional stakes involved, making her a character readers can root for. Eve’s relationship with Bob adds a personal dimension to the story, highlighting the theme of loyalty and the lengths we go to for those we care about.
The novel’s setting—a small mining town steeped in history—adds a rich, atmospheric backdrop to the mystery. Suen’s descriptions of the town and its inhabitants are vivid, creating a sense of place that is both quaint and slightly unsettling. This contrast between the town’s picturesque appearance and the dark secrets it hides heightens the suspense, keeping readers on edge as they follow Eve’s investigation.
As the plot unfolds, the tension escalates with the sudden murder of a guest at the local inn. This new crime raises the stakes for Eve and Bob, as they realize they may be dealing with a killer who is still at large. Suen skillfully interweaves the two cases, using them to explore themes of trust, deception, and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets. The twists and turns in the narrative are well-executed, leading to a satisfying and unexpected conclusion.
Murder In Prospect is more than just a whodunit; it’s a story about the search for truth and the impact of uncovering long-buried secrets. Suen’s writing is crisp and engaging, with a plot that moves at a brisk pace, making it a quick but fulfilling read. The novel’s mix of mystery, suspense, and character-driven drama will appeal to fans of cozy mysteries and amateur sleuths.
In conclusion, Murder in Prospect is a delightful and intriguing addition to Jane Suen’s body of work. With its relatable heroine, atmospheric setting, and a plot full of suspense and surprises, this novel is sure to satisfy mystery lovers. Eve Sawyer’s sleuthing skills and her determination to see justice served make her a character worth following, and readers will likely be eager to see what mysteries she unravels next.
Release by Rowan Shaw
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the fifth and final book in the series and I have not read a book quite like this before. I loved how the author gives the reader a bit of an update of the characters from the first four books. It really helped tie everything together and I am a sucker for finding out more about the characters from the other books. I highly recommend reading the other books in the series so you can fully understand what is happening. This is a collection of short stories about each of the other books. It doesn’t mix the characters in each story but it does tie them together in a way that makes it a very nice flowing book. There is the steam, romance, and there is still a little bit of drama. I can say that this book really just put a great closure on the series and really helped the reader stop wondering what happens to these amazing characters. It is set 3 years in the future from the last book. I just really love being able to see what is happening to the characters that I have fallen in love with through out the series. This is a must-read after you’ve read the rest of the series. If you happened to pick this book up first, please go back and read the rest of the series so you can fully understand what each character when through to be where they are in this book.
Reviewed by: @bbohls
Oscar and Emmy Visit Grandma by Terri Sabol
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I enjoyed this book because it really shows what pets can experience when they are left in a new environment. This book dealt with pets having to be boarded while the family was away on vacation. Thankfully it was with the grandmother but for the Oscar and Emmy it was still an unfamiliar place and scary for them. I highly recommend this series and author to parents with children who have or are interested in adopting a pet as it provides many helpful tips and suggestions on how to make the pet feel safe and loved.
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
This is a cute little story. I love this series for children because it’s a fun way for kids to learn about what is all involved with having a pet. This story explores what happens when you take your pet to the vet. It illustrates how a pet can find the experience a little frightening and what the child can do to help them cope. I recommend this series of stories to parents who have children with pets as it helps them learn about their pets and how to take care of them.
Back in the Ring by Brooke May
Back in the Ring by Brooke May is an awesome feel-good story! Brooke May never disappoints with any of her books! So, we are introduced to the main character named Bijou and we find out that she has lost Elijah who was her everything, and unfortunately leaves her alone with their daughter, Claire. Bijou has enough on her plate and Claire, who is going through a rough stage, isn’t making it easy for her mom. Bijou and Elijah had a dream…and now Bijou doesn’t know if she can keep maintaining that dream with a defiant child on her hands. Of course, like life usually does, Bijou is thrown a curveball when Noah unexpectedly turns up in her life. Bijou has enough to deal with in her life, and a sexy man like Noah isn’t helping her! Little does Bijou know that Noah is her saving grace in more than one aspect, will Bijou be able to keep her cool around Noah and stay friends only, or Bijou give into her body’s wants? This is the fourth book in The Predator series, and I can only imagine how all of the other books are, I am definitely going to go back and read all of the books before this one. Brooke, I love your books…keep them coming! Hopefully, y’all will pick up a copy and read for yourself…you can either be like me and read books out of order or read the series in order…. either way, I don’t think you will be one bit disappointed!
Mary Espinoza, August 2024
G is for Gossamer: A Children’s SMART & SOPHISTICATED ABC’s Book by Miss Whitaker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The first book I have read by Miss Whitaker, and I must say those illustrations were STUNNING. We spent more time looking at everything on each page than reading all the definitions in the back. Both of my younger sisters are currently about to have their first baby, and this book is getting added to their gifts as well as one for my house. So beautiful.
Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first book I have read by the inspirational Jill Monaco, and it was perfect. Even as an adult we need a reminder that just because we don’t have physical armor, we always have our spiritual armor. Beautiful illustrations complete the wonderful message that Andrew goes through.
Oscar and Emmy Visit Grandma by Terri Sabol
Oscar and Emmy’s family are going on a cruise, but what will happen to Oscar and Emmy while they are away, what if they are left on their own the whole time? These are the questions being asked, but lucky for Oscar and Emmy, they are going to stay with Grandma!
So off they go in their crate to visit somewhere new, they are both a little scared and so they hide until they feel comfortable, but then the adventures start for both them and Grandma too!
This is a wonderful story which talks about the serious job of pet sitting from the viewpoint of a family member who can’t wait to spoil their new visitors. It is educational in a very fun way which anyone will be able to enjoy and understand.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
You Are Special by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
You Are Special is the first book in the Buddy the Blue Corgi series by Suzanna Lynn. It is a sweet and uplifting story that encourages us to accept our differences as they are what makes us special. It is a story about embracing our differences and loving ourselves. It comes with very cute, bright, colourful, and engaging illustrations that help to deliver some valuable life lessons. The story finishes with a scripture passage that helps to reinforce the messages in this book.
My grandson loved reading this with me- and thinks Buddy is the cutest… he wants a puppy just like him.
Looking forward to more Buddy stories as the rest of the series unfolds..
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Suzanna Lynn!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Midnight Falls by John (ronin) Evans
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 Stars
Midnight Falls by John Evans is a dark and moody werewolf thriller that reminds me of all the ‘classic’ horror movies I devoured growing up in the 80’s. I can see this making a great John Carpenter-esque horror movie, or something along the lines of The Howling etc.
Mr. Evans writing style is detailed and descriptive, which set the scene and mood of the story to a gripping and chilling level- the whole way through. I loved how the story twisted and turned- never quite letting me get too comfortable. The story is imbued with plenty of dark, broody, moody tones- with mystery, suspense, secrets, and intrigue aplenty.
This book brought back a lot of nostalgic memories of my teenage self, devouring every horror novel I could get my hands on- not to mention the countless hours spent watching double feature horror movies at the local cinema with my friends… good times.
I will definitely be keeping my eye out for more from Mr. Evans in the future.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, John Evans!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Our favorite mystery-solving duo is back again in this great addition to the Notebook Mysteries series. Emma, with Jeremy by her side again, has a new case. Their very pregnant friend Peggy has contacted them because her brother has gone missing. When he is found deceased, the case is afoot! While they’re used to working on jobs together, they are not used to having to factor in family related responsibilities while they do.
While they already wanted to quickly solve the case for Peggy’s sake, when multiple suspects appear with an interest in money from the victim, it becomes apparent that if they don’t quickly find the solution that it may be too late to catch the culprit. Layers of mystery and lots of chaos are loaded into the newest addition to the series. As usual, the story is beautifully well written with tons of great visuals and historical aspects to get you in the scene. This can be read as a standalone, but the world is so well described and the character building throughout the series is a joy to follow from book 1. Another win!
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: 5 of 5 stars
Another magnificent book by one of our favorite authors! This is part of the Oscar and Emmy series, and if you haven’t read any of them yet, this is your sign. You can read these in any order you’d like so no worrying about where to start. My two kiddos and I sat down to read this book full of excitement. We read about how to properly take care of our furry family which means also taking them to the vet. It was cute to see my youngest give pep talks to our cats as he tried to give them strength even though it can be scary. As with the others in the series, this book is just as beautifully illustrated all while being incredibly educational. This would make a fantastic addition to a classroom, daycare, or home library. Share this with all the younger ones in your lives to spread the word about cat care!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Oscar and Emmy Visit Grandma by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Oscar and Emmy series is one of our favorites in our household, so everyone was excited when I brought a new one home! The illustrations are absolutely beautiful and definitely add another layer to the story itself. It also helps keep younger kids’ attention as well as provides context clues. It is a well-timed read since we are planning a vacation, and my kiddos are a little anxious that our fur-mily can’t come with us this time. This is a very educational and informative read to be enjoyed by all ages. It would be a perfect addition to a home library, school, or daycare to share with the young ones in your life.
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Back in the Ring by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the 4th book in this series but can be read as a standalone. Even though this book can be read as a standalone I still recommend reading the other books in this series because they are all good reads. I have enjoyed every book I have read by this author and this one is no different. This story has love, loss, second chances, chemistry, drama, great characters, and so much more. This book kept me glued to the pages which made for a quick read. I found myself completely invested in Bijou and Noah’s story. Can they move on from their past traumas to love again? Will Bijou be able to keep the youth center running? These are things you will find the answers to when you dive into this enjoyable story. I recommend this book and I can’t wait to read what comes next.
Corpse Pixie by Sinister Styx
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
If you enjoy Dark, Paranormal, and Romance this is a great read for you. Even though it’s a quick read Sinister Styx has filled the pages with a tale of Greif, revenge, love, and the paranormal that keeps you flipping the pages.
Driving into the Night by Amanda Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Driving into the Night by Amanda Kay
Driving into the Night by Amanda Kay is a MM Romance that is fast paced and will have you turning the pages till the end. I wasn’t real sure what to expect going in . I had a hard time getting into the story until several chapters in. I had a hard time connecting with the characters and I thinks it’s a me thing and not the story. I’m definitely going to put this on my re-read list and see what happens. This is a fairly new author to me and their style of writing is a bit different than I’m used to but once the storyline picked up I was hooked and read till the end. This is a story about a demon angle, a hunter and what happens when you leave love up to fate. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I’m looking forward to reading more from this Author.
