Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was amazing. This is not my first book by this author but I was blown away with this one. I was pulled into this book from the very beginning. I kept wanting more as I was reading. I related to this book while thinking about my past. I highly recommend it.
Seven Strengths: A Tale from Turaset by P.L. Tavormina
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I did not know what to expect when diving into this story…but it sure had a way to keep my attention from beginning to end.
Celeste has grown up in Collimais, working at the family’s inn. However, she wanted more than owning the inn someday in the future. She had a a dream of leaving Collimais, chasing her own dreams, and making her own decisions about her future. She did not want to be confined to the traditional ways of businesses being passed down through generations and marriages being arranged. When an opportunity arises for her to leave and head into the city for schooling, she finds a way to make it happen (even when everyone around her is telling her “no”). But, while she’s away, she is learning about a world that is so different than her own, falling in love, and being reminded of the reasons her foothills upbringing is being threatened by those in the city. When she visits home after a year, and to escape the stressors at school, she finds that maybe the way she viewed the confines of her home-life were not as stifling as she once thought. But, when one of her family members is attacked, she sees the danger that the city people pose. What will she do after graduation? Should she find a job in the city or return to the foothills?
This is a story of the grass isn’t always greener on the other side…just different. People are always searching for something more…something better…but sometimes that doesn’t exist. I enjoyed Celeste’s desire and pursuit of finding herself. I also enjoyed her learning and acceptance that life, and people, aren’t better away from home. It was an interesting story that I enjoyed reading.
Doctor D’s Orderly Affair by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a short read giving you an inside view of the hospital gossip surrounding Dr D and his life. Even though her is known for one night stands, he takes an interest in Emily after a brief run in at a bar. Sometimes life isn’t fair and plans go astray and a relationship ends as quickly as it begins. I enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read the other books in this series
Seven Strengths: A Tale from Turaset by P.L. Tavormina
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Well written and Futuristic!
This was a first read for me from this Author and I was very impressed and enjoyed the book.
Celeste is a great character who at 17 has to decide her place in the world. Lots of action and adventure.
Seven Strengths: A Tale from Turaset by P.L. Tavormina
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is a tale of a young girl , celesta who dreams big and wants to make a difference in this world . Tired of her rural mundane life , when she gets a chance to do something different, she grabs the opportunity, but what it appears to be is not what it is .The plot is gripping and is full of action and adventure . There were few loop holes in the plot but overall a gripping read .
Doctor in the Outback by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Doctor in the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction, Book 3) by Nicole Flockton. This is a great 3rd installment in the Welcome to Bunya Junction series. Its the story of Scott who is the CEO of Waratah River Hospital and he has just hired Franceen Lewis as the new Obstetrician. Franceen has moved to the area to get away from a bad marriage and a tragic loss. A loss so great it has changed her life. Franceen is a great addition to the hospital except for the fact that Scott is so attracted to her. Sparks fly when they meet and the feeling’s don’t seem to get better as time goes by. Scott knows is not a good thing for him to get involved with a fellow Dr but he is seriously attracted to her. As they work together and get to know each other better the feelings continue to grow for both of them. Will they give in realize that love is worth the chance? Read this great romance to find out!
Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Karina Kantas
4 out of 5 Stars
Gemma is battling the demons from her past as she tries to find a footing in her future. Her attraction to Shep, a street racer, puts her eerily close to a lifestyle from which she is trying to break free. As the new MC starts to feel like family to Gemma, she finds herself in difficult situations. Gemma finds a true support and partner in Doc. Doc is there through hellish episodes, cementing his place in Gemma’s life.
This book moves at lightning speed. It gets a little confusing at times when they don’t discuss the time jump but as the story moves along, you can figure out the timing. It is hard to believe Gemma makes it through so much in this book and, as her history is revealed, in life. Gemma is strength and resilience. Hopefully Doc is her HEA.
This book contains depictions of assault and rape. Do not read if you find yourself triggered by those topics.
Doctor D’s Orderly Affair by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Doctor D’s Orderly Affair (Doctors of Eastport General) by C.A. King . This was a great short read. Its the story of Dr. D who is a bad boy, one night stand kind of guy who meets an orderly named Emily. Emily is too busy trying to make it at her job so she really doesn’t have time for romance so when she hears all the rumors about Dr. D the handsome, bad boy Dr. she’s not really interested. Even when she meets him she’s not that into him until she realizes he likes her so she gives in and goes out with him. She realizes the next morning that when he is gone she is just another notch on his belt. She continues on her journey in the medical field trying to learn as much as she can. When she meets Dr. D again things are a little different. Read Doctor D’s Orderly Affair to find out what happens!
So Right by Renee Regent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
So Right, was so right in so many ways! This author is starting to become a favorite of mine. Though I think I need to go back and reread all in this series as a refresher.
Petro & Amara, what is there to say?!? Amara wanted nothing to do with this fake fiancé assignment. Petro looked at it as a potential opportunity. Did everything work out for them?
These 2 characters are written with so much pain in their past, it makes one feel for them. Are they able to move past it, or does it hold them back?
Part of a series but very much a standalone novel in its own right. It’s a sweet romance! If that’s your thing? Take a chance, and as you read you will understand why.
The Ghastly Gumball by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have personally never read anything by this author before but she is quickly becoming one of my favorites. This paranormal romance had so much to offer including Magic, mystery, drama, family, curses and more. This book introduces us to amazing characters, a beautiful and exciting world, and an intricately woven plot. However this book included such wonderful characters that I really hope several of them get their own story because I would love to read more about them and this wonderful world that our author provided. So if your looking for a great new read make sure you pick this one up today!
Lingering Spirits by Nikki Lynn Barrett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another captivating supernatural romance story in this fantastic series. This is the fourth book in the series, and I recommend that you read them in order. Trust me you won’t be disappointed. I have said it before, but I will say it again Nikki has a way of telling a story that completely consumes you. I love that it is told in from several POV’s that give this story and characters so much more depth and insight. Emotions within the story makes your heart melt and fall in love with the characters.
We meet old friends and discover new ones in this paranormal tale where one connection is like no other.
Reviewed by @jennadb
The Worry Knot by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a really great middle level novel that I will be reading to my 6th and 7th graders! The main character, Rourke, describes a worry knot building in his stomach. He worries about his friends, a new girl at school, and mostly his brother who has autism. Rourke is a 7th grader and his brother is a 9th grader so they are attending the same school this year. This book deals with mean girls, bullies, and many middle school issues that all kids should read about. I loved that each chapter started with a worry from different characters, it was a great way to get insight for the characters and some secret worries too. This book really shows that you never know what people are going through. A great book that I couldn’t put down and will be sharing!
Reviewed by @bibliophilenerd
View all my reviews
Doctor in the Outback by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A sweet romance set in the Australian outback. This is the third book in this small-town romance series. You can’t help but fall in love with the wonderful characters. It is an enjoyable read where there is heartbreak, loss, pain, but there is also laughter, fun and family.
Dr. Scott Carruthers is the third sibling in this series, and he gets his story told in this book. When a new obstetrician comes to town there is instant attraction but a real slow burn as they work through their own painful pasts.
I also love the connection of twins between Scott and his sister Sindy and laughed as the poor man had some of his sister’s experiences whist pregnant.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Depending on You is most definitely a 5 star read. I grew up in a small town and my adulthood friends are the same women that I have known since elementary school. The bonds in this book meant a lot to me and while my best friends and I have not dealt with what Cate or Patti endured, I felt that their friendship was so relatable.
I can’t really say anything to do this book justice. There are so many elements but the biggest take away is in the meaning of friendship and family, blood or not.
The story really had depth and the storyline flowed seamlessly. I was really drawn to the writing from the very start and I was along for the ride through every bend in the road. I always enjoy when authors alternate between perspectives of the main characters so seeing the story through both women’s eyes was another element of the book I appreciated. Every character in this book was enjoyable and had the potential to tug at your heartstrings. I could literally go on forever. I loved this book. And it wouldn’t be a review of a Jessica Aiken Hall book if I didn’t mention how much I appreciated that she tied in her love for Tom Petty within the storyline as well!
Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Divine VIntage drew me in with the name and the cover of the book. I am so glad I picked this one up. Set in the current day but brings in a mystery from the Edwardian period. How does someone solve a mystery from over 100 years ago? I love the premise, the characters, and the story. The book was engaging and exciting and kept my attention. I hope more stories are coming from the author soon.
I look forward to reading more from her in the future and will definitely keep her on my to-read list.
Terrifying Love: A Halloween Anthology by Serena Nova
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Terrifying Love: A Halloween Anthology
4 out of 5 stars
The new stories of the frightening ways love can manifest are interspersed with haunting love poems. Each tale takes you to the edge of your seat. Will strangers risk everything for each other? Does true love last through the centuries? Can beings see past their differences or long-held beliefs to find true love?
One of the stories that had me gripping my pillow was Reflections of the Past by Melody Calder. Mary’s story started with feeling out of place where she should have felt at home. The chances Mary took to find belonging led her to real love. When everything in Mary’s world is destroyed, she finds a way to get her revenge. Sins of the past haunt Lia in ways she doesn’t even know yet as Mary’s vengeance collides with Lia’s heart. With Lia’s understanding, Mary is finally able to find peace.
The other story that caused my pillow distress was Runes and Fangs by Victoria Larque. Kayla has every reason to hate after what she has gone through. Minette should feel the same way but doesn’t let her light fade because of the actions of others. When Kayla first meets Minette, Minette should cower but doesn’t. Minette finds it within herself to be strong. Kayla should despise Minette but can’t seem to feel anything other than protective. Together, they seem to be able to accomplish the impossible while finding love.
Which story will be your favorite?
Doctor in the Outback by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is an romance that will touch your heart. Touching on a sensitive topic or two, this author writes in a way that speaks to your both your emotions and your heart. The two main characters are both dealing with rough times in their pasts. The question is can they move past those to be together? Or can they work together to heal? It looks good for them but you must read to find out. This author is one of my favorites because her plots feel realistic. They are made from things that people have gone through which makes everything pretty relatable. I have never been to Australia but her descriptions in the book make you feel like you are in the story. She is a wonderful author and I look forward to reading more from her. I would definitely give it more than a 5 if I could. Highly recommend. You should read the whole Outback series.
Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is the debut novel of Sandra L Young. I loved the fact that it was a historical mystery. I felt like I was in the past with the characters. Her descriptive writing really painted a vivid picture in my mind. Who would have thought that an antique clothing store would produce a mystery? This story is not just a mystery, but also has romance, murder, and some drama to the mix and that is what made this story interesting. This is about Tess and Trey. They are working on the murder mystery together. Their relationship started to blossom in this mystery. I love watching the relationship grow. I highly recommend this story because you are going to want to see what Tess and Trey have found and where their relationship grows into.
Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Two stories in one, both prequels to the Logan McKenna Mystery series. Bella: An Appalachian Love Story, I loved reading about the hardships of a time so long ago. Being raised by her grandfather, which I can relate to as my grandmother raised me, Norah, finds happiness in the things her Aunt Leila taught her medicinally and her grandfather taught her musically. To be given a gift of a $7.00 violin from the Sears catalog was an amazing for Norah. I loved the way the story went from past to present, giving so much background and history.
Jagged Dawn: Logan’s beginnings, we meet Logan McKenna, the great granddaughter of Norah. Can Logan fight through all the ups and downs and have some new beginnings? And what is in the mysterious package?
I love the strong characters in these two prequels and cling to the fact that we can prevail through anything.
A Bride for Noah by Cheryl Wright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Noah expected to inherit the family land when his father died. Until he discovered that in order to do that, he has to get married and stay married for a while. With very few available women, it proves to be a struggle. Mary’s father is tired of taking care of her and wants her married. She has the choice of a not so nice man from the past, or a marriage of convenience with Noah. She chose Noah. When the two first get together, they notice all the differences between them and their backgrounds. Mary is sweet and innocent, and wants nothing more than to secure herself a future better than her past. Noah is a man’s man. He is used to living alone and is surprised in many ways by his new wife.
This was such a wholesome story of self discovery and learning to let someone in. The interactions between Noah and Mary are so sweet. I loved getting to know them and seeing them grow and develop in the story. I am looking forward to reading more stories in this collection.
Reverence of a Ronin by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a well writren historical Fantasy Fiction book that felt refreshing and unique. It is a short story so if easy to get through quickly. I really enjoyed the characters of this book. It feels like you go on their journey and watch them develop throughout. Everything is centred around them.
The author has a created an interesting story. It would definitely have stood up as a full length novel however I enjoyed it nonetheless.
Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Divine Vintage is absolutely amazing. Much like Trey, I was a skeptic due to this being my first book that deals with spirits. After only a few paragraphs, I was a believer like Tess. I definitely put this one down as one of my favorite books of the year. The story of Trey is sweet and romantic. The story of Phoebe and Edward is tragic and romantic. Put these two together and it is simply mesmerizing. Well written, multi-layered characters and a well-formed plot make this book insanely difficult to put down. This story invokes so many emotions. I adored Tess and rooted for happiness and well-being all the way through. I kinda hated Brett and had a very visceral reaction to him. Nevertheless, there was no black and white here and it was easy to see the motivations of the characters and empathize with them, even if I didn’t agree. I can’t wait to recommend this book to everyone I know.
Reverence of a Ronin by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I was immediately drawn to this book by its cover! The black background mixed with hints of red and a beautiful geisha made me wonder what secrets hid behind this story. Set during a Revolution in Japan, the main character, Ono Aia has dreamed of becoming a geisha. However, her curves are unlike other geishas and she is ridiculed for her size. On a special night, Aia has the opportunity to be a geisha and meets a mysterious guardsmen named Nen. His dark eyes and large figure scare and intrigue Aia. Soon, he introduces her to a world she’s never experienced before. As Japan transforms its society, adding western influence, Aia questions her future. This was my first book by this author. I enjoyed it very much but wish it was a little longer.
Reverence of a Ronin by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is quick paced historical fiction. We are met with a group of geishas, and we focus mainly on Aia.
She is thrown into this despite still being in training due to one being unable to pull through. Then we are met with Nen.
While with Nen she learns there is more to this world than she can ever imagine. It was a fast romance and a wonderful build of fantasy.
Although historical fiction isn’t something I lean towards, this was a very beautifully written one and would love to see more from this author.
Review by @michellerenee6590
Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a really good read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The authors writing was really engaging and I felt like I really was being transported back in time. The authors attention to detail was really good and this enabled me to imagine exactly what I was reading at times. The mysterious storyline kept me guessing the whole way through the story. The characters Tess and Trey were great to read about and I loved the originality of the story.
Overall a really good read and I look forward to reading more from this author again!
Return of the Elf Lord by Heidi Vanlandingham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A well written fantasy with detailed world building. A slow lead up resulting in lots of action, romance, fantasy and suspense to keep you hooked. I liked all the characters and found myself easily immersed in their story. This is the first book that I have read by this author, and I will definitely be looking into her others.
Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story was fast paced and had me on the edge of my seat throughout. It is a paranormal story with a bit of romance. It contains an arranged marriage, vampires, abusive partners, tragedy, hope and love.
I lost myself in this book and was not able to put it down! I fell in love with the characters easily and felt angry with the villains. It has been a long time since I have been able to fully emerge myself in a book, but this one did it. I can not wait to read book 2. If I had the entire series today, I believe I’d finish it all in a weekend. Highly recommended to young adult readers as well as anyone who loves to get lost in a paranormal story. Possibly slightly triggering to some readers who have been in an abusive relationship. However I felt empowered by the way she dealt with her recovery.
Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book has two beautiful stories full of hope and inspiration. Both characters face challenges yet they both overcome. The details are described in such a way that a clear picture just forms in your head. The stories are well written. The characters are so beautiful done (very relatable). You just can’t stop the stories once you start. I highly recommend.
Reverence of a Ronin by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Reverence Of A Ronin
By Bree M. Lewandowski
Review by Susan Ratchford
5 stars
Ono Aia has always lusted for the life of a geisha even through all the hardships her sisters and her face everyday at the Okiya. It is all she knows in these uncertain times until chance brings her Nen, the deadly swordsman with obsidian eyes who seems entranced by her. She too feels a special connection with him and his larger than life size that overwhelms and excites her. With Nen, Aia learns of a mythical world and Japanese spirits that could threaten the balance of their very existence. Will man’s reality be lost? Or will the balance be maintained?
I have never read anything like it! I absolutely enjoyed every second! Bree M. Lewandowski created a beautifully vivid story with characters that are relatable yet otherworldly. I am a big fan of cultural mythologies and love to see them woven into a story so effortlessly and believably. This whimsical and unexpected tale will stay with you long after you finish the last page. I highly recommend this book!
Seven Strengths: A Tale from Turaset by P.L. Tavormina
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Beautiful energetic Celeste wants so much more than to work in the family business. She wants adventure, and her parents want her where she is. What a hard decision for Celeste. She is 17 and thinks she knows best. OK not really, she just wants more than the Family Inn offers. She takes a trip out of the country and into the city. Where she finds life to be much more than she expected, and not in a good way. This “new to me,” author writes a story to interest the YA readers. Her story is fast paced and keeps the reader interested. The characters are strong and experience many emotions which keeps you the reader reading. I enjoyed reading the story and look forward to reading the series. Bring on the next exciting read.
Review@Cinful
