Mermaid Tails by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wondering about what mermaids would be like if you saw one. Cleverly written children’s story about Mermaids and pulling other sea creatures and how a mermaid may resemble some of their features. The illustrations are beautiful and highly creative. I think children will absolutely love this book.
Oscar and Emmy Foster Kittens by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What another fun chapter in the Oscar and Emmy series. This time, their mom is fostering kittens. Oscar and Emmy want to help her. She teaches them the rules of fostering. The story takes us from 3-4 days old to 11 weeks, after their spay & neuter surgery, when they are adopted. I really enjoy reading these stories because the other does such a nice job of explaining cat care in a way that children can understand. My grandson always loves to have these books read to him. The story is well-written and easy for kids to follow. The pictures are colorful and can hold attention.
The Glow in Loretta’s Garden by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another great adventure for Loretta this time in the world of fireflies. An education takes place inside this story about fireflies that every young kid will enjoy! There is beautiful watercolor illustration in this story that really makes it come full circle.
A must read for elementary school kids! My 5 year old loved it!!
Mistaken Identity by Stephanie R. Caffrey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was such a thrilling read that was action packed right from the start. The twists and turns in this story kept me hooked and the chemistry between out two main characters is recognisable from the beginning and sizzles throughout the book. This is also the first book in the London Detective Agency Series so I can’t wait to see what else the author has in store for us.
Evelyn was all set to embark on her new life and adventure but a accidental collision with another person and picking up the wrong bag has changed her plans and added a whole level of danger to her life.
The problem is the woman she collided with and that she looks almost identical to is a lady on the run. As a witness for PI Patrick Miller against a crime family she decides to flee.
However in doing so she has now placed Evelyn in harms way.
When Patrick catches up to her the chemistry and attraction between them is instant but he knows has to protect her from the family who are looking to get rid of the witness against them.
Together then now need to work together to bring this family to justice while making sure the Fitzgerald crime family don’t get to Evelyn.
This story is action packed and fast paced. I enjoyed how the romance between Patrick and Evelyn was slow burning in the background of this story which only made it better.
The characters are both well written and likeable. Both are strong in their own way and I loved how Patrick was focused on getting justices, you get the feeling that even if there wasn’t chemistry between him and Evelyn he would still protect her with everything he had.
I am really looking forward to reading more.
Amese of Animalis: The Borosa Legacy by M.J. Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
“Amese of Animalis: The Borosa Legacy” by MJ Murray is a magical and enchanting tale that takes readers on an epic journey through a world filled with ancient elemental magic and powerful guardians. The story follows 13-year-old Amese as she embarks on a quest to fulfill her destiny as a ruler and master the skills necessary to maintain balance in the universe.
Amese is a strong and relatable protagonist who must overcome challenges, face her fears, and prove her worthiness to the other rulers. Her journey of self-discovery and growth is both captivating and inspiring. The theme of trust and self-belief is woven throughout the story, adding emotional depth to Amese’s character development.
The plot is engaging, the world-building is vivid, and the characters are well-developed. I highly recommend this book to readers looking for a thrilling and immersive fantasy tale filled with mystery, magic, and adventure.
Make Me Burn by Alicia Street
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is he 9th book in the series but have no fear, if you just grabbed this one; you can read it without reading the others first. I alway recommend reading the other books in the series because you can get more intricate details of the characters and the story line. This book hooked me in from the beginning and it kept me entranced through the end. I love a missed connection type of love story. The main characters met before and due to circumstances they couldn’t explore that spark that they both felt. Jump forward some time and they have another meet cute. Guys, this story just melts you into the chair and allows you to just sink your teeth into you lip and read. I could not be disturbed by anything while reading this. Food – I just walked while reading to get something to feed my face. lol. I could not put this book down as the growth with the characters developed so did my grip on the book. It was a quick read for me because of that reason. I feel like this book was very well written and written in such a way that you don’t even realize that you got to the end of the book by the time you finish it. I highly suggest reading this book and the whole series. You will not be disappointed.
Reviewed by: @bbohls
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Charming Chapter : A Later-in-Life Just Kisses Romance by Lori Haas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Laura lost the love of her life, but she made him a promise that has her traveling to London to fill in as a dog walker while getting a vacation and researching her family history for free. Laura uses this opportunity as a new chance in her life, while she is an older woman it doesn’t mean she has to throw in the towel and can still enjoy an adventure. What she doesn’t expect is meeting Hugh has her rambling but the second meeting finds Laura enchanted. As they begin to get to know one another it is not a smooth ride as they both had hoped, but can it last between them?
I thought this was thoroughly enjoyable. A refreshing story with older characters who find something remarkable in each other. I thought the chemistry was charming and you are swept away in their story. Will most definitely read another book in this series.
The Closer by Rowan Rossler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
When I say that the twists and turns Rossler threw at me in this book had me absolutely blindsided and flabbergasted…I mean it! At one point, my husband looked over and asked why my face looked like that and all I could say was I didn’t see that plot twist coming so…just beware that you will make faces, audibly gasp, and definitely loose sleep reading this book! And if that doesn’t make you want to get it right now then I don’t know what will. Maybe the excruciatingly slow burn between Dallas and June (who’ve been at each other’s throats for years) will intrigue you. Or maybe the inadvertent foray into the seedy underbelly of the South American mafia. Or maybe forced proximity…enemies-to-lovers…a curvy, voluptuous (done perfectly THANK YOU so much Ms. Rossler) take-no-shit FMC who absolutely dominates and can hold her own vs a hot-as-hell damaged MMC who has been pining after the FMC but could never admit it. I mean…what more could you want? And the spice…I mean once we finally get there (and trust me…the burn on the way is so, so good) is just out-of-this-world fantastic. I could not put this book down. It is the third installment in the Hustlers series but you can definitely read it as a standalone…I did. But am I going to go back and read the first two books…abso-freakin-lutely! Rowan Rossler has peaked my interest with this book and she will definitely be on my radar for new releases!
Reviewed by @meggs1717
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Kris & The Pirates: The Adventures of Kris by Art Blegen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
“Kris & The Pirates: The Adventures of Kris” by Art Blegen is a thrilling and action-packed story that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The story follows Kris, who sets out for a fun day at the beach but ends up on an unexpected adventure filled with pirates, danger, and excitement.
I was immediately drawn into the story by the vivid description of the island and the suspenseful encounter with the pirates. The author does a fantastic job of building tension and keeping the reader engaged throughout the story. Kris is a brave and resourceful protagonist, and her determination to rescue the crew and escape from the pirates is inspiring.
The plot is well-paced, and the action sequences are exciting and well-written. The author’s attention to detail and descriptive writing truly bring the story to life, making it easy for readers to visualize the scenes and feel like they are right there alongside Kris on her daring adventure.
Oscar and Emmy Foster Kittens by Terri Sabol
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I just love the Oscar and Emmy series! The way Sabol addresses everyday issues and concerns relating to animals and pets but does it such a way that is age-appropriate for children is simply fantastic. I love that her books are honest yet optimistic and hopeful. I appreciate that she writes from the children’s perspectives but still gives voice to the parents. The illustrations are fantastic. I cannot recommend these books and this series enough!
Reviewed by @meggs1717
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Oscar and Emmy Foster Kittens by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I absolutely adored “Oscar and Emmy Foster Kittens” by Terri Sabol. This heartwarming story follows Oscar and Emmy, two loving cats who take on the role of nurturing three bottle-fed kittens from the local animal shelter. The author does a fantastic job of detailing the first three months of kitten development and showing how important it is for people, including children, to play a role in saving animal lives through fostering.
I loved how the family, with the help of Oscar and Emmy, prepare the foster kittens to be adopted by other families. The bond between the cats and the kittens is beautifully portrayed, and it’s heartwarming to see the love and care they provide for the little ones.
Hell Hath No Fury by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the second installment of the Life is Hell series and I literally read it in one sitting. I could not put this down. I absolutely love how Valkyrie focuses on a set of different characters but we still get glimpses of past and future characters and they are just as integral to the story. In this story, we follow the demon Sheridan as she battles to keep her crush (and one of the three town deputies), Millicent, safe from an unforeseen force. The twists and turns in this story were great and kept me on the edge of my seat and reading well past my bed time. I can’t wait for the next book in this series to come out. Valkyrie is quickly becoming one of those authors I binge read and add-to-cart as soon as a new book hits the shelves.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
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Web of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is book 2 in the Hani Daughter Mysteries series, and I did not read book 1 prior. I may have had a little extra insight on some of the characters, but it did not really impact my view of the book. This was an interesting murder mystery that takes place in Egypt. You get an interesting perspective as a reader as you follow Neferet and the others as they go on a journey to try to solve a potential murder of a man whose body was found in the water nearby. There are many historical and geographical parts of the book that the author does a great job of including in the story. I felt like I learned a lot of historical information about Egyptian living while reading this book. The story was very interesting and I enjoyed it a lot.
Finders Keepers, Cowboy by Rachelle Paige Campbell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Meg Hawke comes from a founding family line for the town of Herd, Montana. While she didn’t grow up there, she did visit her grandparents nearly every summer. As she grew up, she realized that her heart belonged to the town and worked her way to moving back permanently. Her shop, Finders Keepers, is a resale shop of vintage items that she finds. When her neighbor Hank Kincaid asks her to go through his shed of treasures, she cannot help but jump at the chance. Hank is like a bonus grandfather to her and his grandson, Ryan, has taken over the farm for him. She’s always had a secret crush on Ryan and looks forward to seeing more of him. Ryan, however, is not thrilled with having Meg underfoot and is in fact annoyed; until he realizes what life would be like without her. Can he get past himself and his insecurities to find his happily ever after?
I really enjoyed reading this book. The storyline moved along at a good pace and the characters were relatable as well as likeable. I could not help but root for Meg. I thought the author did a wonderful job of developing their love interest and even interspersed some peer pressure that Meg did not capitulate to. I liked that the author had her hold her ground. Hank was a loveable meddler in his grandson’s life. He could see the good thing that Ryan could have if he just got out of his own head. I am looking forward to reading more about the rest of the single characters in the town of Herd getting matched up by Hank!
Mistaken Identity by Stephanie R. Caffrey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. The fast-paced, action-packed journey of Evelyn and Patrick is enjoyable and full of emotions.There’s crime drama, relationship building and drama, international travel drama, suspense, and so much more! Lots of drama, but in the best way! I thought this was a very entertaining story and I will definitely be looking to read book 2 in the London Detective Agency series!
Code Dog by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Code Dog by Lois Wickstrom- 5 out of 5 stars
This is a cute kids mystery book. In this book the kids are on the hunt for a 200 year old time capsule that has been moved. The kids have to use their problem solving skills to crack codes and figure out clues. All in all this book was very engaging and easy to follow. I highly recommend this book.
Managing Mischief by Alyndra Quinn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Managing Mischief is the second book in the Shattered Embrace Series and is a continuation of the couple Zachary and Ashton in book one. The author says it can be read as a standalone, and there is enough details, clues, and context added that would allow you to read it as a standalone, but I always love to read in order as it makes the whole relationship between the two deeper and helps me understand what’s what. Book two focuses on the relationship dynamics, more ‘real life’ over ‘club life’, between the two rather than the club dynamics of the two as book one did, but it was as equally entertaining as book 1. The chemistry between the two was still high, and there was some spice. I loved the point of view being from them both. Overall this was a great follow up and I am excited to see where book three takes us.
Oscar and Emmy Foster Kittens by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Oscar and Emmy Foster Kittens is a wonderful children’s book with beautiful illustrations and has valuable teaching lesson to go along. Learning the value of fostering an animal is very important and as Abby and Charlie embrace wanting to help their local shelter foster kittens for the first time to help them be social and adoptable.
I love the lessons that this story teaches and how there may be a lot of work in fostering but it is also valuable to not only the kittens (or any animal), but also helps the shelters as well. Although this story is more for ages 5-10….I highly recommend this story even for the young at heart. This is a wonderful story.
Before You Say I Do by Marina Hanna
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Multi pov with some chapters having both POVs (Clearly labeled)
Before you say I do by Mariana Hanna is a fast burn. There is spice.
Emma- Bartender. Doesn’t want a relationship, and only has one nightstand due to her ex.
Liam- Lawyer “hottie” who doesn’t want anything serious but also wants only Emma.
The MCs met at a bar and after weeks of trying to get with her, the MMC finally got her information and had a chance. After having “fun” a few times they decided to become FWB- MMC idea- but both right away feel more of a connection than just FWB and don’t speak on it. There are twists in the plot and has a HEA ending even though it seems it might not. I personally didn’t care for the beginning of the book, but it did get better so if you are struggling just give it some time before deciding if you want to continue or not.
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/205203410-web-of-evil” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Web of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries Book 2)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1704981891l/205203410._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/205203410-web-of-evil”>Web of Evil</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20117057.N_L_Holmes”>N.L. Holmes</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6391948914″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
The second book in this series continues in the same historical descriptive way of the first. WE continue with Neferet and Bener-ib continue their investigations as a corpse is found washed up on the bank of the river. They young ladies find themselves entangled in another web of deceit, murder and lies, revolving around a local family of weavers.<br />Fully engaging and well written.<br />
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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/34425105-tracy”>View all my reviews</a>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/146919228-flowers-of-evil” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Flowers of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries Book 1)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1683212370l/146919228._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/146919228-flowers-of-evil”>Flowers of Evil</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20117057.N_L_Holmes”>N.L. Holmes</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6391910130″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
A new author and subgenre to me. I found this book interesting and well written. <br />Engaging and historical, full of facts which builds a world in ancient Egypt, intriguing and immersive. We follow the story of the two young women and their dispensary, they try to get to the bottom of an apparent murder, there is suspense, malice and rivalry all rolled together into a book that paints a world vividly and keeps you entertained. I am away to read the second book in the series straight away.<br />
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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/34425105-tracy”>View all my reviews</a>
The Closer: An enemies to lovers dark romance by Rowan Rossler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wow talk about hooked! I just couldn’t put this one down. Dallas and June are fiery characters that draw you straight into the story right from the very start. I had to keep turning page after page because I simply had to know what the hell was going to happen next! Filled with steamy moments, drama and storylines twists you won’t expect this is one you don’t want to miss! This is the third book in the series but you could absolutely read it as a standalone if you really wanted too. I have to say though that I did love the other books of the series to so give them a go too!
Secrets of the Moon by Kristy Centeno
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Secrets of the Moon (Chronicles of the Lost Child Series) by Kristy Centeno
Secrets of the Moon ( Chronicles of the Lost Child Series) is a Paranormal/YA/ Fantasy Romance that will have you turning the pages till the end. This is a fairly new author to me and I’m definitely going to check out what other books they have written. Their style of writing grabs you from the beginning and doesn’t let go till the end. The characters are developed, complex and connected. I truly enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend reading. I’m looking forward to reading more from this Author
Sugar & Spice by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I was drawn into this storyline right from the start and loved every minute of the book through to the end. Phoebe Alexander’s Sugar & Spice has so many unexpected events that you will not want to put the book down! I love how our main character, Jolie, role plays in a sweet factory as The Red Velvet Queen, what a great character that draws in such a huge audience to come and see her. Jolie is the perfect person to fulfill this role, but unfortunately, the pay and the benefits are just not enough for anyone to be able to support their family. This is especially true for Jolie, who is a single mom supporting her two sons, one of whom has a lot of medical problems, as well as her mom who lives with them to help out. Cy is one of the heirs to the Sweetopia business and is sent to go undercover to figure out who is heading up a group of disgruntled employees who are going to the press to disclose the unfair treatment that they feel they are receiving from the business. The second Cy sees Jolie, he falls head over heels in love with her and is torn between doing what his family expects of him or doing what he feels is right for the woman of his dreams. What a dilemma our characters find themselves in, will Cy and Jolie be able to work out their situation and make their relationship work, or will Cy’s true identity be too much for Jolie to accept? From the dynamic characters to the realistic descriptions that beautifully draw a picture of Sweetopia theme park, you will feel like you are right there along with the characters experiencing the fun, and magic of such a wonderous place, you can practically smell the divine scents of the baked goods. What a magnificent picture that the author paints for her readers as she draws you into her magical paradise of Sweetopia.
@Brandy Rymer
03/2024
Sugar & Spice by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a surprisingly good book ! It took me a couple chapters to get really into , but once I did I couldn’t put it down . Good amount of spice , & it was delicious ! Sweet storyline & cute love story . Some parts of their conversations were a bit off for me , but still cute . Can’t wait to read the next ones !
Review by @lalilovely
The Closer by Rowan Rossler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The Closer is Book 3 in The Hustlers Series and wow…..I loved this enemies to lovers story, with dark and twisty secrets, romance, drama and chemistry off the charts between June and Dallas. While this book could be read as a standalone I highly recommend reading this series in order as characters are intertwined into this final book in the series. I am sad this series is over as I love the characters so much but I am also looking forward to more in the future from this talented author.
June is in need of help when a scandal hits one of her start up companies and the investor catch wind and starts pulling away. The one thing June did NOT want to rely upon for help was from Dallas Evener…the same man she never wanted to deal with ever again as their past history has been nothing nice. Dallas is arrogant and gets what he wants….all business…and also wants June to give a big portion on her company for his help. When June is at her wits end and makes a deal with Dallas for the financial help that she needs….things can get dirty. Dallas is plagued by the past and hidden secrets…..with it all said and done…will Dallas help June out of financial worry while the chemistry between them continues to spark with un-deniability?
Definitely read and find out.. This story took me one a roller coaster of emotions….I loved every page!
Charming Chapter : A Later-in-Life Just Kisses Romance by Lori Haas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The title says it all. Charming Chapter. Chapter after chapter will have you turning the pages and living vicariously through the main female character Laura. Laura follows the advice of fellow bookclub members and travels overseas to learn of her ancestry. Great book.
Mistaken Identity by Stephanie R. Caffrey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Mistaken Identity (London Detective Agency Book 1)
I did something I didn’t think was possible, I read this book in one day and it was a holiday on top of that. But once I got started reading I had a very hard time putting it down.
One minute Evelyn is running through the airport with her biggest concern being making her connecting flight out of London. Running into a total stranger changes everything and thankfully it’s not all negative.
Evelyn and Patrick are like oil and water. Then they were so much more. Throw in running from dangerous people only adds to the danger and intrigue of their situation.
I will be keeping up with this series and hopefully will enjoy the next book as much as I enjoyed this one.
Mistaken Identity by Stephanie R. Caffrey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
On her way to Greece, Evelyn runs into a woman who looks a lot like her – down to the bag she carries. Unfortunately, before either can think too much about the coincidental meeting, their dropped bags are collected and they part ways – but it’s not long before Evelyn realizes she’s just taken possession of the wrong bag. In a rush, Evelyn decides to take the bag to the airport lost and found on her way to her terminal, hoping her own bag can be retrieved and sent to her while she travels. This is when Evelyn is practically abducted and comes face-to-face with a private investigator – who seems to be searching for her doppelganger. And this is where the adventure begins. Full of fast-paced, well-written mystery and chemistry, this book is a must-read that will leave you wanting more!
Secrets of the Moon by Kristy Centeno
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Secrets of the Moon was definitely an interesting read. Filled with drama, suspense, and a touch of romance. The overall storyline I found intriguing, while the actual delivery was a bit disjointed. I found some parts of the story to be fast-paced and full of information while other parts were disconnected and felt like it just reiterated what had already been told. I felt like Marjorie and her friends were portrayed more like high school age rather than early 20s. This was also the case for the community college setting; I felt like it was more like a high school rather than a college. The small-town setting, however, was perfect for this story. The world building of Kristy Centeno was pretty good though. I could see the shadows of the trees, feel the breeze on my face, and hear the sounds of the forest while reading. I felt that this book had a lot of potential, but fell just a little bit short of what I was hoping for. However, I would be willing to read more by Kristy Centeno.
