Driving into the Night by Amanda Kay
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
It’s a very interesting story of demons and angels. It’s a M/M story. I found th action, drama and suspense intriguing. The story seemed to be well-written. The characters seemed to be well-developed. The little bit of history at the beginning was a nice touch. Overall a good story.
Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I LOVED this book! Every spare moment I had, I’d pick it up and read a few more pages.
The cover is beautiful! The characters are interesting, funny, and likable. I made predictions at the beginning of the book and I was wrong about most of them. I was surprised multiple times. I loved Gillian and the relationships she made throughout the book. 5/5 I definitely recommend this!
Offsides: Game Time Series by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
An entertaining sports romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Despite all of Chessly’s friends hooking up with Wildcats players her goal is to work with the athletes not date them. Then she meets Finn McCabe, the big D-lineman but he has a history of having questionable taste in women. However, as soon as Finn sees Chessly he’s hooked and is determined to win her heart. A sweet, angsty, steamy romance which I couldn’t put down. The chemistry between Chessly and Finn sizzled off the page. They were both likeable and relatable characters and I felt engaged in their story. I was cheering them on hoping they would get their HEA!
Driving into the Night by Amanda Kay
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This supernatural mystery is not your typical romance story. You meet the two main characters, Kenai and Mikael. Both teenagers attend the same school and have noticed each other for quite some time. Unbeknownst to each other, they find themselves attracted to each other. Yet they never seem to manage to garner up the courage to speak to each other.
Fate seems to push them together at a high school party with the standard truth or dare/spin-the-bottle’esque game. Of course, the first spin lands on Mikael who is challenged to kiss Kenai. From there their lives are changed and further intertwined.
Behind the romance you see both boys are challenged by their expected roles to play in a mission that was long ago foretold by their families. A ring is provided to one, immediately impacting their life while endangering that of the other. While the origin story of the demon angel vs hunter is not thoroughly investigated or explained in this book, I feel that this story definitely laid the foundation for the possibility of this being a future series, should they choose to expand the story further.
I found myself wanting to know more so I was glued to the pages and did not want to put the book down.
I give this three out of five stars.
Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel by Sarah Biglow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
An enjoyable and engaging Arthurian inspired portal fantasy adventure. Morgan le Fey lives in modern day London leading a normal life despite her family’s witchy history. Morgan can’t even cast simple spells and when her magic fails to protect her loved ones she believes she’s not a witch. Her Aunt always told her that she was the lost heir of Camelot, but she thought it was just a story. However, when a stranger appears telling her she has a destiny to fulfil she realises it wasn’t just a story. As soon as she steps through the portal into Camelot she feels her magic. In honour of Prince Arthur’s coronation a tournament of magical champions is being held, but Morgan will need to master her skills if she’s to take part. Morgan must decide if proving her claim to the crown and taking back her throne is worth risking her life for. The descriptive narrative brought the magical world of Camelot vividly to life making me feel immersed in the story. The storyline had me hooked and I loved the retelling of the Prince Arthur story, especially with Morgan le Fey being the main character. I look forward to future books in this new series.
Porter and Midge: Paws and Pastries: A Kid’s Guide to Homemade Dog Treats by Giselle Nevada
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I absolutely love how each and every one of these Porter and Midge books have a very learning and informative story to each and everyone of them. This story follows with learning about healthy snacks for your dog. This book really followed well with the illustrations and where colorful and engaging to my kids. After we read this the kids wanted to make healthy snacks for our dogs because this book also shared some snake recipes. This is a great book for kids to learn and engage them into doing activities.
Corpse Pixie by Sinister Styx
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This short story had me hooked from the first page, being a short book, I thought the story would be rush and everything will be jammed into it and then had a bad ending, but boy was I wrong on all of this. Even for a short read this story flowed very well and was very well written. The story line itself was well done and flowed very well that I never felt lost or didn’t understand what was going on. The characters were so amazingly done that it was hard not to relate or find yourself rooting for them. Rene had lost his siter and trying to cope he turns to substance, but then he starts hallucinating a woman. Belladonna has lived her life in a forest and everything she has been living for is not all that great, but then she finds Rene and it seems to her everything has changed. There was so much packed into this story there’s drama, magic, the supernatural, a dark romance, thrill and a murder mystery to be solved.
Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Loved this book! A great read. Kimberly Mullins has created another story filled with adventure, action, murder & of course mystery. I loved the family feel this community of mystery solvers. They go all out helping a friend. Included in the story in their new responsibility, which added another sweet expression of family. Great plot with a great group of created characters and a detailed story to keep you hooked. I highly encourage you to go back and read all books in the series if you have not.
Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I will say that this was a really well-done children’s story, the illustrations were done very well, and the story had a great flow with the pictures, that my children really enjoyed. However, I didn’t realize this book was religious, which I have no problem with, but my kids had a lot of extra questions about it. but it is about how we can be brave, strong and courageous in everything we do. It was easy for my children to follow and understand and they still enjoyed the book.
Hooked: The Merciless Few by S Courtney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I started Hooked, thought I would read a few pages, then put it up for the night. That was not at all how that played out. Once I started Hooked I couldn’t put it down. I ended up staying up until 1:30am to finish. This wasn’t your average romanticized motorcycle club romance. At first I thought there was going to be no plot and I kind of wondered to myself if it was going to be worth reading. It was nitty, gritty, spicy, full of action, but did end with a happy ending which made it so much better after that wild ride. I don’t have triggers, but I can see where some of the subject material could be triggering to some, and it’s definitely not for anyone under the ages of 18 at least because of that. It was well worth the read.
G is for Gossamer: A Children’s SMART & SOPHISTICATED ABC’s Book by Miss Whitaker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was one of the most beautifully illustrated children’s ABC books that I’ve ever had the chance to read. I even, as a 34 year old woman, learned a word from this book, Hirsute, which meant hairy. I’d never heard that before. There was even a helpful glossary at the back of the book in case you run into a situation such as that. Well done!
Picking Pismo by Emi Hilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
If you are looking for a sweet, quick easy read with characters you’re guaranteed to fall in love with, this is your book. The plot was well written and it was a fast developing story. Fair warning…. fully expect to tear up many times as Emi Hilton puts the reader right in the middle of the grief of sisters Claire and Alexis after losing their mother. Don’t worry though, the relationship between Claire and her sister’s quite handsome orthodontist David adds some spice to the story!
The only reason I did not give this five out of five stars is I would have loved a bit more development and growth of the characters themselves, and feel like the story got “stuck” in certain places, but overall, this story was a win and I would definitely recommend it.
Her Sapphire Blade, is an enchanting and refreshing take on the Arthurian legends, blending modern-day London with the timeless allure of Camelot. The story follows Morgan, a young woman whose life has always seemed frustratingly ordinary, despite her family’s mystical background. Living in the bustling streets of London, Morgan has long dismissed her aunt’s claims that she is the lost heir to Camelot, especially given her apparent inability to perform even the simplest spells. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when a mysterious stranger appears, insisting that she has a destiny to fulfill in a kingdom she believed existed only in legend.
The novel’s premise—that everything we think we know about Morgan le Fey is a lie—hooks the reader from the start. By reimagining Morgan as a relatable, modern-day protagonist struggling to find her place in the world, the author breathes new life into a character often depicted as a villain in traditional tales. Morgan’s skepticism about her heritage and her frustration with her failed magic make her an endearing and authentic character. Her journey from self-doubt to empowerment is one that readers will find both compelling and inspiring.
Upon entering the portal to present-day Camelot, Morgan’s connection to her long-dormant magic suddenly ignites, setting the stage for a high-stakes adventure. The author skillfully blends the ancient with the contemporary, creating a version of Camelot that is both familiar and new. This Camelot, while filled with the mystical beings and legendary figures we expect—witches, fae, dragons, and of course, Prince Arthur—feels vibrant and alive, a place where past and present collide.
The novel’s plot revolves around a tournament of magical champions, a thrilling backdrop for Morgan’s quest to prove her right to the throne. The tournament is not just a test of her magical abilities but a crucible that will force Morgan to confront her own fears, challenge her beliefs, and decide what she truly values. Each encounter with her opponents, from skilled witches to fierce dragons, is more than just a battle—it’s a stepping stone in Morgan’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance.
One of the novel’s strengths is its exploration of destiny and choice. Morgan’s struggle with her identity and her place in the world is mirrored in the broader question of what it means to have a destiny. Is it a path set in stone, or do we have the power to shape our own fate? The narrative deftly balances action and introspection, making it as much a story about personal growth as it is about magical battles and political intrigue.
The supporting characters, including the enigmatic Prince Arthur, add depth to the story, each bringing their own secrets and motivations. The relationships Morgan forms—with allies and adversaries alike—are complex and often surprising, challenging her and the reader to question the lines between friend and foe, truth
Her Sapphire Blade is a captivating read that redefines a classic legend for a new generation. With its blend of modern sensibilities, magical adventure, and a strong, relatable heroine, it offers a fresh perspective on the Arthurian mythos. Fans of fantasy, magic, and reimagined folklore will find much to love in this novel. As Morgan faces the ultimate choice—whether to risk everything for a destiny she never wanted—readers will be left eagerly anticipating what comes next in her story.
Hooked: The Merciless Few by S Courtney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oh my gosh ! Just looking at Fiend in the cover I just want to hug him and tell him it’s all going to work out 🙈🤗 I know these biker boys have a reputation but they have good hearts , soft hearts , sone just hide it well ….
Fiend ( Jett) had a tough childhood and he ran from home because he didn’t want to be like his dad , fortunately for him , Lucifer , MC of the Merciless Few and his “ old lady “ came across him and took him under their wing , not ideal for mist but I love me a biker family 😉 he worked hard to earn his patch but yet he always feels like the black sheep , the outcast 😢🤷♀️
Good grief Jett and poppy had me in an emotional mess ! I was in a state and I very nearly stopped reading but I I also couldn’t do that because I had to see them get the HEA they deserve and I had to finish their story I mean I can’t just walk away !?
I think I overlooked the danger and suspense because of a broken heart but will I do it all again ? Oh hell yes ! I’ll put myself through it all again for my Jett , Poppy and their people 🥰
Picking Pismo by Emi Hilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I just loved this cover and I just wanted to climb into and live the story more so after devouring each page 🥰📚
Claire has to head back home, Pismo Beach , her mum has passed away and she becomes an instant mom to her younger sister Alexis , quite the blow , loosing her mom and the responsibility of raising her sister .,,,
Claire wants to be in New York , that is where her life is after all but that means uprooting her sister which will be met with resistance and she has to sell her mom’s house and sort through her things and that is already very hard and my heart breaks for I know how broken I was when I had to pack my mum’s things …..
David Clark , orthodontist and divorcee , nervous of woman after his wife left him and he also happens to be Alexi’s doctor so when Claire walks into his rooms with Alexi I think my heart beat faster than his did 🥰🤣🥴
David and Claire really hit it off but she’s leaving soon and grieving but you know with love there’s never a right time so they enjoy each others company but both have baggage they have to work through and realise they worthy of happiness , together …..
I cheered hard but I cried harder and this definitely has Hallmark movie potential 🥰
She’s My Rhinestone Cowgirl by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
She’s My Rhinestone Cowgirl (My Cowboy Series) by Brooke May
She’s My Rhinestone Cowgirl is the seventh book in the My Cowboy Series and is a Western/Romance that once I started reading I couldn’t put it down till I finished. Although this could be read as a stand-alone I highly recommend reading the previous books as they are just as good as this one. Her characters are always on point and make the story come to life. I could picture myself being right along with them the whole story. This is Trinity and Shooter’s story . I love second chance romance stories especially the ones that show us that we may be missing out as well. I loved their story and the chemistr. I don’t want to give anything away so I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I’m looking forward to reading more from this Author.
Malice by Melissa Stevens
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Malice was a very good read. Bonnie had recently ended a relationship with a guy named Phillip but, he kept showing up and one night at a diner, he tried to force her to come with him. Luckily for Bonnie, Malice ( Corey ) was at the right place at the right time. He helped her when she needed a stranger to step in and help her. They ended up exchanging numbers and he told Bonnie to let him know if she ever needed his help again considering he didn’t think Phillip was going to give up that easy.
Of course one morning when Bonnie was leaving for work, she walked out of her apartment to find her car was vandalized. She called the cops and then called Corey and told him what happened. He showed up and took her back to the ranch with him for her protection. Corey and Bonnie continued to get close living together and of course Phillip still hadn’t given up. He turns to illegal actions when he kidnaps her in the middle of the day. Will Corey be able to find her before he hurts her to badly?
This was a really good book and I enjoyed it from the very beginning. It was sort of a forced proximity romance due to some domestic violence. Definitely something you don’t want to miss out on.
review by @xchellex
El Diablo: A Jessica Watts Southwest Suspense Novel by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Loving the cover art ! I couldn’t wait to catch up with Jessica
So Jessica is studying be a lawyer while working as a paralegal and one of the clients gives her the jeebies and rightly so …,
The thing about the past is we can’t always get away from it and that’s exactly what happens to Jessica , a teenager , close to her , confides in her about the going ins with the local youth pastor and I’m sick to the pit of my stomach 🤢
Despite her wins demons that haunt her she has to get to the bottom of everything and protect innocents that are being prayed upon …. Predators are vindictive , cruel , sly and vindictive but she’s not giving up the fight so easily no matter the threat ….
Jessica is fiercely protective and she finds herself in danger of not only her life but loosing her family , marriage and her job but again she’s determined to expose the “ good pastor” , he’s pure evil if you ask me !
All I can say is be prepared for the unexpected 🥴
The Human Mating Site Box Set 1 : A Steamy, Dating Humour Novella’s 1-4 by B.L. Wilde
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Human Mating Site, Complete Series (The Human Mating Site Series) by B.L. Wilde
5 Stars
13 books in 1 and I enjoyed the different stories very much. Each story is different and fun! I’m not into much romcom but this was a very fun read to get me out of my current reading stump. I love Bella the main character and felt some of the things she got into. Not sure I have a favorite Male character, but it was fun reading how she gets through the dating game.
Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is beautifully written and illustrated. The message behind it, that when we put on the armor of God, we can be brave, strong and courageous, is gently intertwined in a way that makes it’s point but also draws children in. Presented in a way that everyday children can relate to and understand, this book is one I would highly recommend to anyone reading to a child in their life!
Reviewed by @sparkinside
Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Dark in the Wood is a fantastic young adult fantasy with action, adventure, and romance. Gillian decides to go into the woods to potentially save her brothers’ life. It is dangerous in the woods and forbidden, full of monsters, and old magic. Will Gillian be able to save her brother Rory or even return home alive? I highly enjoyed this book due to all the world building, including multiple Gods to worship.
Made to Love Her: Romantic Suspense Novella by Michele Sims
Made to Love Her by Michele Sims is a great short read. The book focuses on two people who meet at a bar and find out that someone was killed. The story is a good who done it and trying to figure out who is the person behind the crime. This story also focuses on a great love story between the two main characters, Cade and Lecia. Hope you enjoy it and add this to your next-to-read list!
@Stephen Rymer
09/2024
Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Loved this book ! Such a unique story told in a beautiful way . The writing is lovely & there are so many meaningful lines . It’s the unwavering love of family & personal growth for me tbh . Every character has importance & layers in a way a lot of books dont portray , & it’s so impressive . Very mild touches of steam . This author is overflowing with talent & creativity !
༻•BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE •༺
I’m Amanda Kay, a married mother of two. I have a degree in Multimedia Journalism with a minor in Political Science. Writing has always been a way for me to release the stress of everyday life. After a while I decided I wanted to share my stories.
Picking Pismo by Emi Hilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Picking Pismo is a cute romance. The author gives the reader hope. After an unexpected death a woman gets a chance to make some changes in her life while taking care of her little sister.
Claire left her home in Los Angeles when her mother unexpectedly passed away. Now taking care of her sister. She takes her to get her braces adjusted and meets someone unexpected.
David just met a gorgeous woman. One that he’s willing to take a chance on. He hasn’t even thought of doing it since he got a divorce. She’s unexpected and he’s looking forward to seeing where it goes.
The author takes you on the adventure of Claire and Alexis(her sister) and Claire and David.
Will one interfere with the other?
What will Claire decide to do about her mom’s house, or even her place in Los Angeles.
I enjoyed the character development by the author. Especially Claire, I could relate to her and what she was going through. Probably one of my favorite characters I’ve ever read.
Take a chance, it’s a wonderful story. Enjoy it!
Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This young adult fantasy is a really great story. The description of the book from the author is “Red Riding Hood & Beauty and the Beast meet Dragons in this fast-paced fantasy about a young woman caught up in a world steeped in danger and all the power and fiery heat of dragons.”
This book is meant for more mature teens I have a 17 year old and I would not be opposed to her reading this book. The character growth from chapter one is steady and just reading and watching them develop their strengths and overcoming the obstacles that are thrown their way is awesome. I really enjoyed this book.
Alchemy of Glass by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Alchemy of Glass is a slow burn continuation of The Apothecary’s Curse( the first book) just like the first. This book is a compelling blend of historical fiction and fantasy. It also excels in creating an immersive setting, filled with rich details and a perfectly woven journey over different time periods. Barnett’s writing is engaging, and her characters are well-developed. It offers a unique and atmospheric read with its detailed historical backdrop and intriguing plot twists, though it may appeal more to fans of historical fiction with a touch of fantasy rather than pure fantasy enthusiasts. Either way I still suggest you read it. It will not disappoint with its unique storyline. I look forward to more from this author.
Hooked: The Merciless Few by S Courtney
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Hooked: The Merciless Few
Reading this one was a much different experience than reading the first one for me. I had no clue about Fiend’s history, the most recent history may have caught me more off guard than his teenage years.
Jett who we all know as Fiend has so many problems and it seemed to me that most if not all of the problems came from his relationship with his dad. As someone who has had a complicated relationship with a parent I know how hard it is to let go and try not to let it affect every day life, it’s basically impossible.
He has several setbacks and stumbles but he works on improving himself all the way around.
I loved that the book had some crossover in the timeline but instead of Reaper’s perspective see how everything unfolds through Fiend’s eye.
I enjoyed this book and really liking the series overall. Not sure which one is going to fall but I’m expecting it to be in spectacular fashion.
Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a wonderful book for boys!! You see all the “girl power” books out there about self esteem and being strong and overcoming, but, never have I have seen one for boys. This book is wonderfully illustrated and even references the Bible on many pages. I love how at the end there are even scriptures and more references to find in the Bible. An absolute joy to read this book.
Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The world building in the one was amazing! Gillian leaves her home to find a way to help her brother who is dying from a sickness. She overhears her mother talking and leaves in the middle of the night to try and find the witches in the shadowlands for a cure. She is found by Roman and tries desperately to return home but he won’t help. She is to become the mate of his father, the Great Dragon, and he is determined to get her to his father. There are new creatures and new worlds and magic in this book that I enjoyed. Gillian has unknown powers, she is wanted and lusted after by many, and all she can think about is escaping and returning home. This was a great YA enemies to lovers fantasy. It kept me hooked and I hope more is to come!