Railway to Murder by Danny J. Bradbury
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Railway to Murder was my first book by this author. I don’t normally go for westerns but I’m really glad I did. The characters were realistic and I really like the historical accuracy. It’s a super easy ready and I enjoyed it.
Midnight Deception: Later-in-Life Romantic Suspense by India Kells
Finally, a book with a grown adult woman! So refreshing! Midnight Deception follows the story of Sabrina Henry, unassuming Executive Secretary to billionaire CEO Brent Fraser by day, and MC of The Gilded Lily nightclub by night. When Brent’s former colleague turned nemisis tries to bring down Brent’s company, he and Sabrina work together to unravel the villain’s plot before it destroys everything Brent Fraser has built.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I loved that our FMC was in her 40s instead of a barely-adult who has somehow developed the emotional intelligence of a 35 year old. There was a little, realistic spice. Nothing over the top. Definitely a good place to start if you just want to dip your toes into sexy scenes. The writing was good, if not a bit repetetive. There are only so many times we can read about the storm brewing in a man’s eyes before we suggest medical attention, right? We get it. He’s full of unresolved emotional trauma. Perhaps some therapy for Mr. Fraser. But that dark and brooding attitude is a little sexy, so it’s fine.
I would have liked a bit more development in Brent’s backstory, and more of the double life of Sabrina at the Guilded Lily, because the plot rushed by pretty quickly. Another 50 pages, and I think this had the potential to be a 5 star read for me.
Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf by M.J. Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What wonderful story! Enjoyed the story, characters and the fact that there is downloadable material for classroom learning. It was quick read and any beginning reader can read. Loved that anyone one book in the series can be read in any order without missing a beat! I will be recommending to anyone with kids, especially ones just starting on their reading journey!
Night Sweats and Hockey Nets by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Russian goalie for nhl team, and the coaches daughter, sparks flying ! The intensity between them was incredible and I started rooting for them from the get go!
Had some laughs, some tears and even yelled at a character at one point. Definitely recommend to anyone who loves some hockey rom-com 😊
Unexpected Revival by E L Roux
“Unexpected Revival” by E.L. Roux is a thrilling sci-fi adventure that blends space opera, romance, and high-stakes action into a fast-paced narrative. The novel follows Shannon, a woman who wakes up after a thousand years in cryogenic stasis to find herself in a future far beyond her comprehension. With no memory of how she might have contributed to the destruction of Earth, Shannon must piece together her past while facing a looming planetary threat that could annihilate life as she knows it.
The premise is immediately gripping. Shannon’s disorientation in this futuristic world is portrayed with relatable confusion and determination, and the gradual unraveling of her involvement in humanity’s demise keeps the tension high. Roux’s world-building is vivid, presenting a future filled with strange alien species, corrupt corporations, and secrets waiting to be uncovered. The novel offers a sense of immersion in its space-faring settings and futuristic technology, all while maintaining a strong human element.
One of the standout elements is Shannon’s dynamic relationship with D’lane, a cat-like alien who initially comes across as intimidating but evolves into something much more. The slow-burn romance between the two is delicately handled, providing an emotional counterbalance to the book’s action-heavy plot. D’lane’s internal conflict, torn between his duty and his growing feelings for Shannon, adds depth to their connection, making their interactions engaging and believable. While the romance adds warmth to the story, it never overshadows the larger stakes at hand—saving the galaxy from another catastrophe.
The novel does an excellent job of blending mystery and suspense, especially with the overarching question of Shannon’s forgotten role in Earth’s destruction. The tension is compounded by enemies lurking in every corner and a corporation that may not have Shannon’s best interests at heart. As Shannon and D’lane race against time to prevent another planetary annihilation, the plot delivers several twists and turns that keep readers hooked.
However, some readers might find the pacing uneven at times, with sections that feel rushed in comparison to others that delve deeper into character development and world-building. While Shannon’s backstory and the larger mystery are compelling, the resolution might leave readers wanting more in terms of clarity and depth regarding some of the novel’s grander themes.
Overall, “Unexpected Revival” offers an exciting and emotionally resonant ride through a future filled with danger, intrigue, and romance. E.L. Roux has crafted a space adventure that is both fun and thought-provoking, with enough twists and emotional stakes to keep readers engaged until the very end. It’s a great pick for fans of sci-fi with a touch of romance and those who enjoy stories of forgotten pasts and uncertain futures.
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
This is such a cute book! It’s a sweet book to read to siblings for sure! I loved it! My daughter and niece and nephew thought it was super cute as well! Highly recommend!
Cam Creates a Hero by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Amazing book ! Loved the story from this author. The lessons learned from this book, dream big, perseverance and creativity, just to name a few. I read this book to the grands and they can not wait for me to get more from this author. The illustrations we absolutely perfect, the characters were well developed and the theme was spot on. Will be recommending to others with Littles.
The Crown of Stones Complete Trilogy by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Magic Price.
Ian Troy is a Shinree, a race of magic addicts whom have been taken into slavery, drugged and made to forget their history, identities and their addictions, but Ian was brought up differently, he was brought up to be a soldier for Rella, a kingdom in a perpetual war, but underneath is an innate talent for wielding magic which he wishes he could use more, but the Queen forbids it, until one day, in the midst of the latest battle, there is an earthly upheaval and during the throes of it, Ian starts to feel the vibrations of magic nearby. As he searches for the item, Ian is unaware of the power he is about to unleash, so when he finds the Crown of Stones, all he can feel is the magic within it, the pleasure and the pain combine and block out all sense and all he wants to find is peace, so he casts using the magic he has found, however, it isn’t until afterwards that he realises the price that he has just paid to achieve that wish.
As the years pass, Ian is devoted to another addiction, regret, his regret for what happened and the losses he still feels, so he tries to drown the pain and the need to cast with wine, women and bounty hunting, but as he is chasing his latest target, he is confronted with something entirely different. He has been chasing this particular woman for what seems an age, however, when she finally confronts him, nothing is as it seems and he is thrown back into that seamless addiction he had ten years before, but this time, Ian is not sure that he can control, or curb it again, but that is not the only thing that has him worried, this encounter has made Ian sure that the Crown of Stones is being sought by another.
As he makes his way back across the realms to Rella, he encounters more than he bargains for in both the people and the places he travels through, but deception surrounds him, as does magic and that is the one thing that he does not want. Will Ian be able to get to the Crown of Stones before anyone else has the chance to use it with nefarious intent, or will the danger and his addiction prevail?
Magic Scars.
Ian Troy is back and he is numb, everything has been taken from him, his memories, his magic, his will and his freedom, as well as the freedom of his friends. As everything slowly and painfully returns he is recruited into a desperate rebellion against the High King Draken, a long time enemy of Ian’s.
He is tasked with the job of retrieving and repairing the Crown Of Stones, an object he has used in the past which creates the magic scars which cover his body, it is an artefact of his people which is now lost again, but which is needed to overthrow the High King. Ian is reluctant to use it again and put himself in the path of addiction his use of magic causes, but he knows he doesn’t really have a choice in the matter if he is to save his scattered friends.
What he cannot understand is why his scars are multiplying even though he is not using his magic, this is where he learns about his ancestry and the secrets which have been buried in the past, but can Ian reconcile the man he was, the man he is now and the man everyone needs his to be?
Magic Borne.
Ian Troy returns and he has more magic scars than ever, but when his spells show him something he was not prepared for, he has to think about his past, present and future and base his decisions on the uncertainty surrounding him. He is still a fugitive, thanks to his past castings, but he is now wanted in multiple lands, as well as by his father, but he still tries to make the world around him a better place, even though as usual, it doesn’t always go to plan for him, or those close to him.
While he is casting spells to find out what his father has planned, he journeys to different times and places, but not all the answers he seeks are available to him and while on one of these journeys, he experiences a bleak future where everything he has worked towards has been thwarted. The resistance he has been routed, the tenuous relationships within it destroyed and nearly everyone he knows is dead and all hope that was there is now gone, so when Ian returns to the present, he is determined to stop this future in its path, so he uses the knowledge he gained while there to do this.
Meanwhile, tensions build between the lands of Mirra’Kelan as peace treaties are stretched to breaking point and political posturing is showing people’s true colours and is leading the armies closer to the return to the brink of war between the lands. Ian is also realising his increasingly apparent transformation his casting is causing, so he tries to stave off from casting in an attempt to buy himself some time, but as he searches the past for a way to defeat his father, bring peace to the lands around him and break the transformation the Crown of Stones is causing, he has to battle his inner demons too.
How far can Ian go before he breaks and how big a sacrifice will he be willing to make in order to reach his goals and will he be able to pay the price demanded?
This series is a race against time in a fantasy land where good versus evil and all the grey areas in between, as a reluctant hero faces the past and future in order to save a world which he struggles to merge with. A world where apartheid rules, magic is both life, death and currency and those who wield it are both saviours and destroyers. An epic aventure where one man has to face his demons head on in order to find the peace he truly desires, is what you will only be able to find by reading this addictive, roller-coaster of emotions until its conclusion.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
The Keeper by G.K. Brady
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Keeper is the first book in The Fall River series by G.K. Brady. This book features an enemies to lovers romance that is on par with a Hallmark movie though with a little more spice. It follows Noah, small town bar tender and big time heartthrob, and Hailey, large city dreamer and county inspector. The love/hate relationship between kitchen inspectors and restaurant owners is well known. What happens when they start to see eye-to-eye? Find out in the small town of Fall River and meet the people you’ll be waiting to see again in the next book.
Reviewed by @WhisperHymer
Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children’s Book About Bullying by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book does a great job in showing kids that there is a reason behind every bully. Beefy’s reason is jealousy due to his parents not being there. You find out that even though his parents give him everything he wants, he really just wants them to show up. This also gave ideas on how to help deal with a bully situation, which include asking for help and pointing out the good. While this does have a simplistic solution as to why Beefy is a bully and how the problem is solved it does relay a good message to kids.
Reunion: An Over Forty Urban Fantasy Novel by Jocelyn Lindsay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Reunion is the first book in The Hellgate Chronicles by Jocelyn Lindsay. It labels itself as an over forty urban fantasy novel but that doesn’t do justice to the unique book found here. As highschoolers, Meg and her friends saved the world from apocalypse at great costs. Now, 25 years later they are midlife and mid-life when the unthinkable happens and it is time to save the world again. This book was a thrilling read with plenty of relatable situations even if you’re only edging on forty and not in charge of stopping evil forces.
Reviewed by @WhisperHymer
A Tale of Two Crushes by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A Tale of Two Crushes by Cori Cooper follows Holland as she enters a new school and discovers not one but two hot guys in a matter of days. Coming from a smaller town, Holland is not used to running into guys that she hasnt known since kindergarten and are interested in her. Things get complicated as she navigates life in a new city, new friends, and brothers?! This book was filled with quirky characters and a relatable heroine. I found it to be a pleasant afternoon read that was perfect for a clean romance.
Reviewed by @WhisperHymer
Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I wanted to read this book because I can relate to feeling confused about your identity, especially as a child. Sheeba Varghese explains this really well at the end of the story, and delves into a little bit of backstory, history, and culture, but I wish we got to learn a little bit more and possibly have some stronger character introductions. I recommend this book because it could help children of colour better understand their identity, and other children learn about a different culture. The illustrations by Tori Tilahun are beautiful. “We are not just Indians today when we were these fancy clothes. We are Indians every day.”
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•*•☆ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ☆•*••*•☆
Following the advice to “write what you know,” ANISE EDEN authors psychological suspense and paranormal romance novels. Her qualifications include growing up in the countryside where rattlesnakes and cougars jumped out of nowhere; living with family members who are a little bit psychic; and having her life saved on more than one occasion by her SEAL Team of guardian angels.
After college, Anise soaked up life in NYC, Washington DC, and points in between. She tried her hand at grooming horses, scooping ice cream, and designing billboards before returning to school to become a psychotherapist. Though she left that field after many rewarding years, Anise remains a passionate mental health advocate.
Continuing her real-life adventures, Anise is now exploring life in Ireland with her husband. While her books have won multiple awards, Anise’s propensity for dropping glass objects while barefoot makes it highly likely that her next win will be a Darwin Award.
Anise is a member of International Thriller Writers, the Romantic Novelists’ Association, and the Irish Writers Centre. Learn more at https://aniseeden.com
Quarterback Keeper: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story was a lot deeper and more serious than I thought it would be, but I really enjoyed it and can’t wait for the next book. Kylian is the main character: star football player at the local college, mom is going through cancer treatments, and politician father who just wants to use him in his campaign. He has a lot on his plate and finding Gia on his boat is another one or could be the answer. Gia ran away from an abusive ex and is hiding out in a new city on a boat that has been empty. Yes, it is Kylian’s boat and he catches her one night when he takes it out to clear his head. They strike a bargain, she gets to stay on the boat if she pretends to be his girlfriend then wife to make his mom happy as she is dying. They are trying to make it work, they are getting to know each other, and Gia is getting to know his mom. Then Kylian’s father tries to ruin everything and Gia tries to call off the deal. This book had great twists and turns and was not all happy and sunshine, but I truly enjoyed it!
Unexpected Revival by E.L. Roux
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I read a book by this author earlier this year, so when I came upon this one, I picked it up immediately. They deliver a compelling narrative that blends high-stakes adventure with rich character development. Shannon is our main character who came out of a cryogenic stasis, finds herself grappling with her forgotten past and looming threat of planetary annihilation. The tension between her and D’lane grows immensely and leaps off the pages. Both characters go through their own evolution, but Shannon’s is my favorite. She goes from a confused and vulnerable figure to a determined protagonist willing to confront her past. The plot twists are well-timed, keeping me on the edge of my seats as alliances shift and the threat of annihilation looms ever closer.
Overall, this was an engaging and thought-provoking read that blends sci-fi romance, adventure, and a touch of mystery. Fans of sci-fi will find themselves eagerly turning the pages, ready to uncover the secrets of the past and fate of the galaxy. I’m excited to see what else this author has in store for us!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Railway to Murder by Danny J. Bradbury
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was my second encounter this author, and I was pleasantly surprised by their venture into a slightly different genre. The shift was absolutely refreshing and I found myself more engaged than ever. One of the standout features of the book is its pacing. The shorter chapters create a rhythmic flow that makes it easy to get lost in the story. I found myself eagerly turning the pages, eager to see what Buck, our main character, would encounter next. Buck’s journey is captivating as he stumbles upon a series of intriguing mysteries that unfold with just the right amount of suspense and intrigue.
The author’s writing style elevates the reading experience. It feels more immersive rather than just a leisurely pastime. I was drawn into the world they’ve crafted almost as if I was living the adventure alongside Buck. If you’re a fan of Westerns infused with mystery and adventure, you’ll certainly enjoy this book. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to dive into a thrilling read!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children’s Book About Bullying by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is such a heartwarming story!! Things are not always as they seem and sometimes people project things differently because of how they are treated by others. In this story, Beefy has good things happening but he’s mad. Really and truthfully, he’s probably more hurt. He takes these feelings out on others instead of directing them towards the offenders. When the foster sibling crew get ahold of Beefy, they learn a lot from him, and they from him. Love, courage, and friendship can never be over rated!
Shadows in the Dark by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I’ve read books by Anise Storm before although, I’ve never read anything by Taylor Ray, but I wouldn’t hesitate to do so again. I would definitely check your trigger warnings before beginning this book, but if it ticks all your boxes, pick it up. Shadows in the Dark was a quick, sizzling, mystery read that was full of spice, danger, and a secret BDSM club. Brynn and Adrian may be lost, haunted, and dark, but will they act on their chemistry, and can they come together emotionally, instead of detached and purely physically? I liked the book, but didn’t enjoy the cliffhanger at the end.
Shadows in the Dark by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a great 5 star read. This genre is one of my favorites and I really enjoyed this book. I was pulled in right from the beginning and didn’t want to put it down until I was done. I really like Adrian and Brynn and I can’t wait to see where their story goes. You could feel their chemistry coming off the pages. I don’t want to give too much away but will highly suggest this be an adults only read. Wowza on some of the scenes. I can’t wait to read the next book in the trilogy. If you like BDSM with some darkness this will be perfect for you. 1-click and get started today.
Reviewed by @mab54615
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A Safe Place by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A Safe Place is book six in the Philly Heat Series. As someone who has read all of the series so far even though they focus on a different couple and can be read as stand alone novels I always like to read everything in order. I can also attest that Becky Flade is a consistent author and this series continues to be intriguing, keeps my interest, keeps me on the edge of my seat, and full of anticipation. There is a lot of suspense, murder, and it tugs on your heart with the foster child aspect. You get some sweet romance, but it’s not overly spicy, which can be a good change from time to time. Another great addition to this series.
Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children’s Book About Bullying by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Beefy goes from bully to buddy was a good, well illustrated childrens story that covered important lessons for children to learn early in life. I thought Beefy was a little bit of an odd choice for a child’s name, but in a way made sense at the same time with the over aggressive, good at sports, jock type. I also enjoyed seeing the foster kiddos from the previous books have a roll in this one as well. It was a good addition to the series.
The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Eleven year old Sparky is on a new adventure, finding a place that’s hopefully safer but her luck seems to be on the wrong side. As always, I enjoy reading about Sparks’s life and all the adventures she seems to get into. This 4th book in the series doesn’t disappoint. The world built by the author is spot on and the characters that are around Sparky help make thieve books fun to read.
Betrayal by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Betrayal is the third book in the Choosing Family series. I haven’t read the rest of the series, although I have read other books by the same author, and I found the story easy enough to follow! I think it would be more enjoyable in the context of the whole series, though. It follows Anna and Hunter’s relationship developing from a rocky start with conflicting business interests into a romance.
I like the project at the centre of the book, creating childcare provision that meets the needs of Anna’s coworkers. It highlights the difficulties in accessing childcare, particularly for working single parents, and explores how an organisation could support the needs of its employees.
There are some great supporting characters, including Anna’s friend Bea who is instrumental in Hunter and Anna connecting! And Hunter’s father, Nick, makes a good antagonist.
There’s a lot going on in this story, which will appeal to fans of contemporary romance. It gets four stars from me!
It’s Cool To Be Kind: A Children’s Book on Kindness and Friendship by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I like the concept of It’s Cool to be Kind, but I think it missed its mark. The book didn’t flow for me, and got a little off topic in my opinion. It starts with the children discussing a school assignment, what are you best at. But then the kids throw around stories regarding kids being the first to do awesome things. The story continues and we see examples of each character being kind and helpful to others. I think it would have made more sense if their assignment was not “what are you best at?”, but instead “what are some ways you can be kind to others or make a difference in the world?” Regardless, I would read more of the author’s stories to my kids because I think there is potential.
Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy
Sarge: Going Deep by PhD Ledwith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A sci-fi series that brings the reader to new experiences, finding out more about Sarge and Scully as they get into covert operations and experience extra terrestrial beings. The story has suspense, intrigue, and so much more while at the same time the characters learn about other beings and how they help the main characters. The author brings a world I didn’t expect but one I’d like to learn more about. Overall, I enjoyed the story.
Ink and Intrigue at Ivy Tree Inn by Ellen Butler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ink and Intrigue at Ivy Tree Inn was an action packed book that I’m glad to have read. The cover did not draw me in, and had it not been for reading this author previously, I likely wouldn’t have picked this book up. There were a lot of characters with overlapping history and at first I had a hard time keeping them straight. I still don’t know how to pronounce the main character’s name! We know early on there is a death but don’t know who was the victim or who committed the crime. I think the author did a good job of slowly uncovering the story and maintaining the mystery until the end. I was quite invested in seeing how it ended and be sure to read to the verrrry end. I was fascinated when I read the pages after the story concluded, and learned the story is loosely based on historical events and people. Not that I have any idea who they are, but still fun to learn.
Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy
A Tale of Two Crushes by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A Tale Of Two Crushes by Cori Cooper is a cute teenage romance. There’s a few awkward moments that have you laughing out loud. It’s a quick and easy read if you’re looking for something fun.
Holland just moved to a new school. On her first day, she meets a guy, Asher, and they have an instant connection. The next day, while having trouble with her locker, she meets another guy, Chandler. He’s super cute and he makes her heart jump. Little does she know, they’re twins! And things get a little crazy. Now Holland has to figure out which boy she wants to date. She has a hard time deciding and they’re very competitive.
Gadrella by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Gadrella is a fun children’s book, and perfect to read during the Halloween season. Gardella is a young witch who has big feelings around the traditions of the witch community. It’s always the same and she longs for change. She doesn’t want to ride a broom, wear black, and make potions. She takes it on herself to challenge the norm, and make changes to make herself happy. She shows everyone she is brave enough, and gives her friends the courage to be different as well.
Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy
Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy: Children’s Book About Bullying by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek
Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy is part of the Courage Tales Series. My son and I truly enjoyed reading this book. Beefy is the schools biggest Bully. He likes stirring up trouble. He even tries to Bully Giorgio the hero bot. One thing I’ve drilled in my six year old head is be kind,be safe,be responsible. Being kind Goes a long ways. I’ve also taught him that sometimes people or kids act out because they crave attention and love they may not be getting at home. The colorful illustrations help bring the story to life. There’s a great lesson to be learned reading this book. We highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. My son and I look forward to reading more from this Author.
