Jake by Toni Denise
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was such a nice easy to read romance! The author is new to me and I really liked her writing style! I was thoroughly pleased with how the book flowed and I adored the characters! Jake and Lauren were the couple that you just hoped lasted a lifetime! The book had a good balance of drama, excitement and sweet moments! Would definitely like to read more of the series!!
Magic-Scars by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is by far one of the best series I have ever read. The amount of creativity and originality that went into creating this book is amazing. I could not put it down. I fell asleep reading it and picked it up as soon as I opened my eyes. I rejoiced in the small victories and hurt when Troy experienced the losses. I felt a sense of pride as his character evolved and he embraced who he was (lineage) while maintaining who he wants to be (better than his father and all the leaders focused on being the most powerful). Especially after what he went through in prison. I was completely shocked with learning about the door opener Lirih. The characters are so greatly written that any loss felt like I lost them. I highly recommend this book. It’s full of action, steam, love, and magic.
Necrosis by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Fighting to stay alive and trying to protect the one thing you hold dear in all the world but that world has turned into a vicious dark world of survival and the unexpected.
Necrosis is a quick intriguing read that is action-packed and an emotional read. It will break your heart and warm it at the same time. I was glued to the pages finishing it in one sitting. I have read all of CL’s work and I have enjoyed them all and was excited to see she had a new book out. I think this is one of her best works.
A zombie apocalypse, a mother’s love, sacrifice and redemption and lots of nail-biting suspense.
This gripping tale is a must read if you love things a little dark and zombies.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Scepter Of Fire by L.M. Preston
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This action packed YA fantasy is book two in the series and it is by far the best one yet. This book is once again told from Dex’s point of view so if you haven’t read book one or book 1.5 then I would recommend reading those two first. But this book really is the best of the series it’s full of action, tension, betrayal, magic and so much more that it will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat. So if you want a good new series to read make sure you run out and pick this one up today.
A Love Restrained by Becky Flade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a romantic suspense with twists and turns. This story has love, romance, danger, deceit and family. Kylee and Jayson go through a lot of ups and downs in their relationship. As I was reading I felt the emotions along with the characters. There were some moments that were a little confusing because of the writing style but as soon as I figured out what the author was doing I was able to move on without any more confusion, overall I thought this was a very good read.
The Girl Who Escaped by Mark Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Gripping thriller….the perfect whodunnit mystery! Wish I could rate greater than 5 stars!!! RUN to get this book!!
Angie Taylor & 3 of her friends were out one night celebrating spring break when they were abducted. Angie miraculous was the only one of the girls to survive. Angie is the authorities number one suspect, as they assume she suffered some sort of mental break, resulting in her brutally murdering her friends. Due to the trauma of the events that Angie was witness to, she lost the ability to speak. It seems as though everyone is certain that Angie is the killer, until FBI agent, Brenda Reynolds realizes that Angie was also a victim & not the culprit. Agent Reynolds races against time to protect Angie & to get her to speak again in order to identify the kidnapper before it’s too late!
Non stop read—read the entire thing in one seating! This was my first book by author Mark Nolan, but it absolutely will not be my last!
Burn by Joanna Morgan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
Gathering of the Four is a futuristic dystopian sci fi tale and the first book in this series. It is also my first read by this author and I really enjoyed the writing.
It is well crafted and cleverly woven together to draw the reader in. The world building and the narrative of the Realm gives us a whole picture of this post-apocalyptic world as each character is introduced. I love that we get the story told in multiple POVs showing the depth, backgrounds and stories of these compelling characters.
This intriguing and magical multi-layered adventure will have you wanting more. I enjoyed the fact that it was set in a future that is not usually the norm.
AE has set the stage and there are so many options to explore for future books so I very much look forward to future instalments!
Reviewed by @jennadb
Aloha Series Box Set Books 1-3 by Jill Brashear
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Aloha series box set is 3 separate stories set in Hawaii in the 1960’s. The descriptions of the islands and its rich history are captivating. The characters in each story are connected and well developed. You can feel the emotion on each page. You can feel not only the connection with the characters but also with the islands themselves.
Aloha Series Box Set Books 1-3 by Jill Brashear
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I love a good boxset three books for the price of one you cannot beat a deal like that in my opinion!
The fact that it was about my beloved Hawaii was an added bonus! I love the vivid imagery the author gave, I was instantly transported to the Hawaiian Islands. Imagining it in another time too was interesting, I often imagine myself in the place of the heroine in the books I read and that was very easy to do with this series. I look forward to reading more from this author!
Magic-Scars by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Crown of Stones: Magic-Scars is the second installment in The Crown of Stones trilogy and it is amazing! With the action, drama, and fantasy, there isn’t anything the author left out.
Ian Troy wakes up not only wondering where he is but WHO he is. As his memory slowly seeps in with bits and pieces of what has happened, he questions what kind of person he really is. His purpose is to fix the Crown of Stones, but what he uncovers may be more than he can handle. Will he be able to successfully repair this and heal what has transpired amongst his people or will he be rendered useless?
I think C.L. Schneider created an absolutely stunning realm in this series. I cannot wait to grab the last installment of this trilogy to see where we end up. This is one of the best fantasy books I have read this year!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Azreya, Aztec Priestess by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Azreya is a story about a young girl who is trying to find out who she is meant to be. She was marked from birth with different eyes and a mark on her hand. Her parents sought out the help of a shaman and the shaman ended up deceiving Azreya’s parents. She stays with the shaman for a few years until her eyes are opened to the deceitful ways of the shaman. Azreya leaves the shaman and is finally able to let Tecuani, her inner animal run free. Does Azreya/Tecuani fulfill their mission of letting the truth known? You’ll just have to read the book to find out! P.S. this novel has illustrations to help the imagination!
September, 2022
Mary Espinoza
Aloha Series Box Set Books 1-3 by Jill Brashear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
These were all beautifully written romances. I was immediately drawn in by the beautiful descriptions, allowing me to feel like I was right there in Hawaii with the characters, seeing what they were seeing. I enjoyed the small sample of Hawaiian culture with the words that native Hawaiians use when talking to each other, like haole. I always love learning more about the characters as they get to know each other. Bones, Keoni, Declan, Lou, Penny, all of them, and every other character we get to know, are so interesting and complex. They don’t have that one dimensional, basic personality type that sometimes happens when romance is the focus. Although, I definitely adore the bits of their friendships that we get to see during their stories. If you’re looking for a beautiful view, strong friendships, fabulous characters, and romance in late 1960s Hawaii, this is your pick!
Destiny’s Daughter: It was the best of times. by Lynda Filler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
If you’ve followed my other reviews, you’ll see a pattern of fiction book, with a heavy taste in fantasy and historical fiction. It’s not that I don’t like non-fiction, it’s just I normally don’t pick it up.
However, this book pulled me in. Aside from a book written by a family friend of mine, and a book I read in high school, I haven’t really read any memoirs.
This author is someone bursting with stories that I could listen to forever. I highly recommend this book, and I’ll be delving into her other memoirs. If you do decide to read this book (which I HIGHLY suggest), it would work better formatting wise on a Kindle Fire or tablet/phone or in print, because there are some gorgeous pictures that don’t show up on my Paperwhite.
It’s clear that she poured love into this book. There were some things that took me by surprise, in a good way. I loved it. 100%, five stars.
The Lonely Hearts of San Sity by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Jules ends up in small town San Sity talent scouting for a reality dating show that will be filmed in the town. Majority of the towns interesting characters think they have what it takes to be on the show but Jules sets her sites on hunky rancher Mitchel who wants absolutely nothing to do with the show. There is something between them that both try to deny and fight (and fight with each other) at every turn. Will they overcome their differences and fears to be together?
The character development on the main characters was really quick and not very good on the auxiliary characters in my opinion Like I would have liked some more on Jules assistant and Mitchel’s aunt. But it was a cute story and an easy fun read.
Tropical Date by R.S. Jonesee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The moment that Weston arrived back to Postscript Island, I was sucked into the book and transported there myself! This is the first book I have read by this author but was instantly a huge fan, she has a major talent for writing quality romcom books! She has such a unique way of putting humor into the story, and the connection between the characters made them easy to fall in love with. She has you guessing until the very end about what will happen between the two of them, another thing that I loved about the book! I’m definitely going to be reading more of her stories in the future!
Jake by Toni Denise
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is Lauren and Kake’s story and it was so good. These two meet and hit it off but he is keeping a big secret from her and it just might make their relationship over before it even begins. This book was so good, both of these characters have serious relationship issues but cannot stay away and they grow closer together and their hearts become involved before they even realize. I enjoyed this book so much, everything about it was done beautifully.
Hard Lover by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wow Noah and Cali’a story was hot, suspenseful and oh so good. Noah has to protect Cali but he wants her as well, pretty soon both of their hearts are involved. But, they have some serious suspense going on for these two. Will they get their hea?
Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book about Harry and Ashley was so good. I love a little bit of magic and this one had so much more then magic. I could not put this book down, the story flowed great and the chemistry was amazing, the book had everything and then some.
Necrosis by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Amy just wants her daughter to survive, no matter what. During a zombie apocalypse, they venture into town and get met with all kinds of challenges. Amy is all about protecting Lila, who is only nine years old. On the hunt for food, water, and shelter, they end up surrounded by a zombie horde. Luck is on their side, and they find refuge. But once again, things go downhill and fast. Will a mother’s love for her child be enough to save her or will her daughter not see what all she has given up for her?
This was a quick but excellent read. I absolutely loved the story. It truly proves how far a mother is willing to go to protect the ones she loves.
In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Thrilling mystery that leaves the audience completely captivated and unable to turn the pages fast enough. While I was able to read this book as a standalone (this is book 8 in the series), I can not wait to go back to book one and read the rest of them! My first book from Valerie Davisson, but certainly won’t be my last!
Newlywed Logan McKenna is newly married to Ben, the love of her life, and together they have settled down on the Oregon coast. Logan is over the moon to be volunteering at their local wildlife refuge, and she is enjoying her time with all the beautiful creatures that’s she working with. One day, Logan discovers a coworker dead and it’s soon after that she realizes the sanctuary isn’t what it seems. It isn’t long before Logan rounds up some local friends and they dig deep to try and uncover the real killer of her dead coworker. Twists and turns galore, will leave the audience guessing until the very end! Highly recommend!
Magic-Scars by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ian Troy has gone through so much already with book one! Now he has to go even further to help out his friends! There is trial and error with his magic as his scars increase with learning more truth. This one is still fully packed with great adventures and drama. How far will he go? Take a shot, but make sure to read the first book to follow this one!
Fractured World: Courage in the Apocalypse Collection by Maira Dawn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was such a neat read! So many authors in one place. These are all stories about survival and it is interesting to see how each author tells stories in their own way. If you are into post-apocalyptic tales, this is the book for you. Story collection books are a new reading type for me but after this, I will definitely be reading more!
Battling Beckett: A Contemporary Step Brother Romance by T. Christensen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Greer’s life is dramatically changed when her mother gets engaged to the father of the football god of Oak High, an exclusive private school for the richest of the rich. Greer wants her mom to be happy, so she transfers to the school and does everything she can to make sure her mom doesn’t know what she’s going through. Beckett Dawson, her new stepbrother has not made her new life easy. He is constantly putting her down or ignoring her at school. Instead of making Greer have a pleasant experience at Oak High, he does whatever he can to make her want to pack her bags and move out of her fancy house. Greer has a crush on Beckett, even with him treating her badly. She is beaten up at school and that changes things. Beckett begins to help Greer whenever he can. Can Greer survive her senior year and put this all behind her or will the drama of the elite be too much for her?
This was such a good read, I was addicted! I hope there will be a sequel of Greer and Beckett in college. This book is filled with friendship, drama, action, twists, and even love.
Fractured World: Courage in the Apocalypse Collection by Maira Dawn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I ‘binge read’ this anthology of apocalyptic and dystopian stories, each one very different, but all set in an apocalyptic world. Each story in the collection highlights the traits of courage and perseverance against adversity. In each story there is a hero or heroine who overcomes their fears and suffering to bring hope and salvation to others. This was definitely the case in, Courtney Konstantin, story ‘Babysitter of the Apocalypse’, in which an alcoholic bar owner and loner is left being responsible for two young children. Their mother leaves them with him to ‘babysit’, and never returns, as the zombies take over the city. This short story was a real page turner and had me gripped from start to finish. The whole anthology had me hooked, and I definitely recommend this collection, but maybe don’t read it at night!
Jake by Toni Denise
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Jake is having issues finding a woman interested in him instead of his money and social status. He accepts his friends setting him up on four blind dates through a new restaurant his friend, Evan, was investing in. The new place was made for blind dates, where the room was dark, and the patrons were unable to see each other.
Meanwhile, Lauren is looking for a new place to live since she was living with a toxic roommate. Her best friend, Catherine, keeps offering her a place to stay. The only problem Lauren has is Catherine is the sister of her boss, Cade. Cade dismisses the idea and even pays for her move.
Jake has gone on his first blind date. He couldn’t get away from the woman fast enough. He decides he will text the next blind date throughout the week to learn more about her.
Catherine begs Lauren to go on a blind date, stating she knows the perfect person. Lauren finally relents. At the blind date restaurant, Lauren finds herself at ease with the stranger on the other side of the screen. He asks her if they could continue the date outside the restaurant, but Lauren declines. However, she agrees to continue messaging him to get to know him better. Could Lauren let her walls down and meet her mystery date? Can Jake find someone who didn’t care about his money?
Unearthly Magik by Matilda Reyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
One of my favorite things about this book is the unique aspect of the world of magik. It’s one thing to create a mystery and adventure around the magical genre, but another to bring it to life in the way I’ve seen in this book! The characters feel well-rounded and I adore the banter from each one. Learning about Ava’s agency and life was so unique to me, and I really like how the author allowed for a build-up into the world we see throughout the story. I can already tell this is going to be an awesome series and I’ll be looking forward to reading more in the second book!
Hungry Business by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a short story told in first person by a woman who is one of very few humans left alive after a zombie apocalypse. She is lonely and tries to find someone to spend her time with. Date after date it seems there are no good men left. Zombies pretending to be human just to try to get a taste of her, literally, going through the motions of what they remember from being human. The woman states that she is done with dating but loneliness gets the best of her and she once again tries the dating world. Her only joy is the cat who lives across the road as he symbolizes hope of fellow humans.
This short story was not what I was expecting at all but I still liked it. It was a very quick read but was still very detailed.
Necrosis by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What another incredible book by one of my favourite authors. Everything this author writes is just amazing and this book is right up there with some of the best. I was engrossed in this book immediately and had to read it all in one sitting. I wanted to see how things would turn out, what would happen to the characters.
The book is exciting and gripping, I was pulled into it from page one. This author never fails to write a book that hits the mark perfectly. I love her writing style and how each book is always different from the last. This book is fantastic and an absolute must read
From Brick & Darkness by J.L. Sullivan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was exciting from the moment I started reading. It is a fast paced, YA fantasy story that really caught my attention. I loved how easy it was to engage with the story developing, and the characters it brought to life. I found myself pulled into the story and could not put the book down.
The Djinn lore is always something that has fascinated me and I loved seeing it brought to life on these pages. The author has created such and interesting and captivating story that is suitable for a range of audiences. I would highly recommend you read this book!
River Witch by Cheryl Burman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book truly took me by surprised with how good it simply is. I was intrigued by the description, and even more so when I realised it was set in the UK, so wanted to see what the book had to offer. It is a well written fantasy book that takes you on an imaginative journey. The characters, mainly Hester, carry you with them as they navigate their lives and their dreams.
The author has created a vivid story that really makes you feel like you are there. I could so easily picture what she was describing and become invested in what was going on. This is a brilliant book that I would recommend to everyone.
