To Catch An Elf: Pennsylvania Fighter Pilot by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Romance, suspense and drama
This book has a bit of everything – mystery, suspense, drama and romance. I was so vested in Marcie and Ted right from the start. The writing drew me and had me on the edge of my seat, the anticipation was intense. If you love a good romance with a dose of mystery and suspense- this is one not to be missed. Recommend.
Alien Redemption by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
“All Claudia wanted to do was escape the mistakes of the past and start over. But when she answers an ad for a medical officer on a merchant ship in the Fringes, the captain recognizes her and blackmails her into taking the job. She finds out that not only can Captain Bennet not pass up a bargain, neither will he allow morals to hold him back from climbing the power ladder at the borders of the Dominion. Can Claudia stop the impending exploitation of a newly discovered sentient species all on her own?”
Alien Redemption by Gloria Oliver is a great, twisty, sci-fi adventure story with plenty of suspense, tension, drama, action, secrets, mystery, agendas/plots, high stakes, blackmail, betrayal, intrigue, emotion, discovery, challenges, space travel, new beginnings, and aliens.
I was pulled into the story right from the beginning- reading the book in one sitting as I really needed to know how things would play out. There were twisty moments where I wasn’t sure where the story was headed, but in a great way- it had me avidly reading to find out what would happen next. I was invested in Claudia (‘Z’) right from the get-go, I really felt for her and the circumstances she found herself in- and was rooting for her the whole way through (and her new ‘friends’). Some of the characters made me angry- Captain Bennet in particular, and spent a considerable amount of time plotting Claudia’s revenge along the way. All in all- this turned out to be an intriguing and engrossing sci-fi story…
Looking forward to whatever Ms. Oliver does next- hopefully more of ‘The Discoveries of Julia Xero’ series- but I know whatever she does will make for a fantastic read!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Gloria Oliver!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Triple Trouble at Amberwood: A fast-paced middle-grade story set in a ballet boarding school haunted by friendly ghosts by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Triple Threat at Amberwood is the fourth book in the Amberwood Hall Ballet School Adventures series by Eleanor Dixon. This book continues the ghostly adventures of Lauren (and Grace) at Amberwood Hall ballet school, whom we have met, and followed, from Book #1.
This is another intriguing paranormal children’s story (missile school- ages 7 to 13) with ghosts, mystery, friendship, fun, drama, unexplained and troubling happenings, adventure, mischief/hijinks, high stakes, ticking clock, loyalty vs commitment, and a touch of the paranormal.
Triple Trouble at Amberwood could be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading right from the beginning to fully appreciate the story and characters.
I have been enjoying following along on this charming adventure series since the beginning, and think was this is another great instalment to the Amberwood collection.
Another great little story for all ages.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Eleanor Dixon!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Dreamscape by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Dreamscape
J.J. Morris Book 2
By J.N. Sheats
Review by: Susan Ratchford
5 Stars
The first thing that drew me to this book was how entrancing its cover art was. Once I started reading, I was happy to see that it was just as entrancing on the inside. Unfortunately, I did not read the first book in this series called Lineage and I will be remedying that shortly because I absolutely loved this book! Even though I didn’t read the first book, Dreamscape was pretty easy to follow as a stand alone. I found Joey’s character to be relatable and J.N. Sheats made it so easy to see her world through Joey’s eyes. Her writing is phenomenal and riveting with a plot that is intriguing and complex. Truly a wonderful thriller with all things paranormal! The J.J. Morris series is turning out to be a new favorite of mine! I cannot wait to read the first book to see how it all started!
I Am a Bold Asian Boy: A Positive Affirmation Book for Asian Boys by Yobe Qiu
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first time I’m picking up a story by this author, Yobe Qiu. What first drew attention was the artwork 🥰 it was cute and colorful, really eye catching! The message was amazing to read, to love yourself and be proud of who you are and what your culture is. Which I think is real important for everyone to know.I also love how in the background on the book stand the author put her other books on there 🤣🥰really creative. I look forward to reading more from this author.
To Catch An Elf: Pennsylvania Fighter Pilot by Debra Parmley
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3 Stars
To Catch an Elf appears to be the first book in a new series- Pennsylvania Fighter Pilot– by Debra Parmley. It is a romantic suspense with drama, challenges, a creepy factor, stalking, sinister intents, agendas, secrets, dramatic developments, K9 companions, an antique elf with a story to tell, abduction, connection, and more.
This is Marcie Hayes and Ted Barrett’s story. Marcie has been hired to house sit, to look after a dog and document the activities of a strange elf for her employers to enter a Christmas competition. What happens when strange things start happening? Ted Barrett has a neighbouring home that he is looking forward to spending the holidays in for the first time. He and Macie seem to connect, but then she disappears while he is away for a family wedding. What happened? Things are not all as they seem.
I think Ted is the twin brother of Jack from ‘Montana Marine’ – which is one of the Brotherhood Protector series stories. If so, in a way, this book/series could be a bit of a spin-off to that. In ‘Montana Marine’ though, Jack’s last name is Barr- not Barrett. So that made me a little confused. But all the other factors fit, like his fiancé being Lucy, the same as Ted’s brother’s fiancé in this book…. So, I think I am right about them being twins and the connection.
Happy Reading!
Thank you, Debra Parmley!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Mission Improbable: Vietnam by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 Stars
Mission Improbable: Vietnam is the third book in the Blanche Murninghan Mystery series by Nancy Nau Sullivan. I didn’t realise going into this book that it was the third book in a series. I loved the bright, interesting cover and clicked a copy before I noticed it was well into the series. Luckily, it can be read as a standalone without feeling like you are missing anything- but having said that, I am intrigued enough to want to find out what happened in the first two books- so I will definitely be going back to explore them too, soon.
This is a mystery with interesting character who set off on a quest to discover the truth- and end up on a bit of a journey of self-discovery, dredging up the ghosts of the past along the way. With travel, amateur sleuthing/investigation, history, family, discovery, challenges, adventure, and some emotion- this story made for an intriguing read.
Set against the sights and sounds of Vietnam, added an extra layer of interest to the overall storyline.
Another great read from this talented author.
Happy reading…
Thank you, Nancy Nau Sullivan!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Lela’s Choice by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4.7/5 stars
This author writes some great books! This one is no exception either. There’s good character development and good world building. It’s engaging and captivating.
Wicked Ends by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Isla Vaughn’s “Wicked Ends” delivers an electrifying and satisfying conclusion to the turbulent journey of Winter and Shane in this dark college bully romance. From the opening pages, the story captivates with a relentless blend of heart-wrenching emotions, intense passion, and unyielding suspense.
Deceived by the complexities of their hearts, Winter and Shane’s connection is a tumultuous ride that seamlessly weaves the past and present, leaving readers on the edge of their seats. The author masterfully explores the aftermath of betrayal and revenge, taking the characters through a rollercoaster of emotions that are both raw and authentic.
The plot is rich with unexpected twists, keeping readers guessing and eagerly turning pages to uncover the dark secrets lurking in the shadows. Vaughn skillfully builds tension through threatening notes, creating a palpable sense of impending danger that adds layers of complexity to the narrative.
What truly sets “Wicked Ends” apart is its exploration of trust and redemption. As the characters evolve, so does the depth of their connection, battered yet unbroken. The author navigates the delicate balance between vulnerability and strength, making Winter and Shane’s journey a compelling exploration of self-discovery and resilience.
The enemies-to-lovers theme is expertly executed, with the angst and passion between Winter and Shane leaping off the pages. Vaughn crafts her characters with nuance, making them relatable and endearing even in the face of their flaws.
In the arms of Shane Bennett, Winter finds safety amidst the chaos, and readers will find themselves equally ensnared by the magnetic pull of their love. The stakes are high, and the question of whether Shane is truly worth the risk lingers throughout, creating a delicious tension that propels the story towards its heart-pounding climax.
“Wicked Ends” not only concludes the Wicked Games duet but does so with a resounding and well-earned happily-ever-after. Isla Vaughn delivers a riveting and emotionally charged tale that will linger in the hearts of readers long after the final page is turned. For fans of dark romance, this book is an absolute must-read, earning its well-deserved five stars.
Hidden Scars by A. Akinosho
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Naseer does something that leaves him angry and distancing himself from anyone who was close to him. Jade has had her life uprooted and is living in a new place with an empty heart. While working on a class project she meets Naseer, two broken souls find themselves connecting and Naseer realizes she is his one. This is the story of their journey of finding one another and what happens next.
Overall great idea for a story. This is the first part of Jade and Naseer’s story. There are so many facets to their relationship and you want to know more about this couple. I thought Naseer was a bit spoiled in the beginning but he makes up for his behavior later. Jade was an intriguing character who becomes a very strong woman. I would be curious as to what happens next.
Woman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Woman Unbroken is so not what I expected…
I’m a romance reader. A smut reader. A bully reader.
This…this was the journey of a woman beaten down by a narcissistic husband. One she leaves. One she’s divorcing.
The journey of her come back.
This journey is told from Deborah’s perspective because it’s her story.
It’s full of raw emotion. Highs and lows. Fears and hopes. Learning. Discovering.
It’s an unfortunate truth many women can relate to.
Will relate to…
Perhaps there will be a Woman Reborn?
Great read for new chapter readers. This is a fun story with problem solving and character building. Very engaging and a fast read. I recommend this book for early readers and teachers to read out loud.
Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Great read for new chapter readers. This is a fun story with problem solving and character building. Very engaging and a fast read. I recommend this book for early readers and teachers to read out loud.
To Catch An Elf: Pennsylvania Fighter Pilot by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Intriguing romantic suspense story that was hard to put down and I enjoyed the story very much. Never expecting to be creeped out by an elf, I can honestly say the story-line definitely had it share of a bit of twists and turns and had me a bit uptight to find out what happens next.
What can possibly happen while dog sitting for a customer over the holiday season…..Marcie Hayes finds out and not in the easiest of ways…..Marcie being hired to take care of Ginger, a King Charles Spaniel, while her owner, Beverly is out of town during the holiday. Marcie did not realize that not only dog sitting she was tasked with but also in the means of an antique elf. While Marcie is not familiar with the Pocono Mountain surroundings, she meets friendly neighbor, Ted Barrett and their attraction hits immediately. While Ted and Marcie get to know each other better…you never know who is watching…..until Marcie is missing.
Will Ted be there when she needs him the most? Definitely read and find out. I dont want to give an spoilers away…but I love the suspense in this story. It had me on edge….
To Catch An Elf: Pennsylvania Fighter Pilot by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a fun, intriguing read full of lots of twists and turns. Let’s not forget that there is a creepy elf that must be photographed daily too! The deeper into the story you get, the more intriguing and harder it is to put it down. There’s enough romance (a little steamy too!) and a lot of mystery to keep your eyes pealed into this read!
Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story by Winnie D. Pagora
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Unclutter by Winnie Pagora is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐+ Book Review
Unclutter is a young adult novel about fighting abuse. This was my first time reading a novel written by Pagora and I would not hesitate in the future to pick up another novel written by this author. Within this novel, Pagora touches on very touchy subjects such as sexual abuse and self harm. Her ability to touch on these topics with such delicacy and poise really attracts me as a reader. Tina’s story of surviving and overcoming trauma sent me through a whirlwind of emotions. I found myself routing for her to overcome her horrific past. I personally have not been in this type of situation, but someone very dear to my heart has. To read of such strength gives me hope that people who have undergone this type of treatment can live a fulfilling life despite it. I highly recommend this book!
I Am a Bold Asian Boy: A Positive Affirmation Book for Asian Boys by Yobe Qiu
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book made me smile ear to ear. I may not be Asian or a boy, but the positivity in this book just made my heart soar!
I wish there were affirmation books like this when I was younger. This book is diverse and showcases the numerous characteristics that one can be.
I really enjoyed the illustrations as well.
‘I am bold, big hearted, brave, brillant, balanced, blessed, beautiful, bilingual, and bountiful. I’m all of these and more.’
What a way to bring the whole book full circle!
Encounters with Old Coyote by Laura Koerber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
‘Life isn’t a moral vacuum and life is not meaningless.’ She peered down her nose at Andrea and added, ‘it’s okay if some
things are a mystery.’
Encounters with Old Coyote was a very well written short read that had far too many “oh, that’s good” quotes for me to count. We follow our main character after death, a plot that I can’t recall ever really reading in the past in this capacity anyway.
The characters are enjoyable with a lot of insight and depth. I loved listening to each story within the story, especially those like her brother vomiting, the casual “huh, why did I just say that” type of story.
If you’re looking for a short, unique and thought provoking read, Laura Koerber created it here.
Murky Murder by Hazel Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ivy has just been promoted to the position of head housemaid at the Hotel LaFontaine. She has her first date with her boss which is a success. A body is discovered in the hotel and Ivy decides she must solve the mystery. A page turner that kept me guessing. I will definitely read more by this author!!
Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Luna The Howling Husky Finds Her Howl is a children’s book designed for kids between the ages of six to ten years of age. The book tells the story of a young Husky puppy that does not seem to fit in with the rest of her siblings. She looks different because her eyes are brown and not blue like all her siblings. Luna also cannot howl at the moon like her siblings are able to do. One day while out playing Luna finds a quiet cat and the two become fast friends. When Luna finds her forever home with a loving family, she is finally able to find her voice. This was a beautifully written story with messages about friendship, love, acceptance, kindness, empathy, family, and finding your voice. The illustrations are bright, bold, colorful, and really bring the story to life. I highly recommend this book for children of all ages.
Renewed by Sara Vinduska
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
In this book, cowboy Hayden meets Ruby, who is running from her past, in a unique circumstance. The two take turns caring for one another. I loved this book! It is book 6 in the series, but I read it stand-alone and still really enjoyed it. Hayden is every woman’s dream cowboy. Ruby is a sweetheart, though a bit of a damsel in distress. Together, they make a sexy, unstoppable couple. The love scenes in this book were steamy and enjoyable. There was enough other action and storylines to entertain me the entire time. This is the first book I’ve read by this author. It was so good, I binge-read the entire book in 2 days. I look forward to book 7!
Bad at Being Good by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I am not going to lie. I am a sucker for brother’s best friend romances. Do I read them often? No. So it is a familiar troupe that I enjoy even more when I do.
Benji promises his best friend Kellan that will not try to get with his little brother Milo, romantically. He promises without shame, knowing that Milo, who is the perfect son and dancer, is off limits.
When tragedy strikes and Benji sees the pain in Milo’s eyes because of him, he may not be able to keep his promise anymore.
From the cover I thought this was going to be a cute MM story. No, this was one hell of a ride! An emotionally rollercoaster that I was unsure if I wanted to get off and wait how others felt, or keep going and see how I felt towards the end.
Grieving the heartache of grief, I know all too well. It changes you in more than way one especially when you are grieving over the loss of someone close to you. This also handles forgiveness and secrets.
As much as secrets annoy me, I do anxiously wait for when the secrets get told.
I don’t want to say too much about this story. For MM lovers, I recommend it.
Dangerous Rhythm by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Dangerous Rhythm was another great edition of The Echo Series. In this romance, Curtis, the guitarist of Canis Major, runs into a little bit of trouble with a mob family and needs protection. Lina, is a retired military, who now does private security and has worked with Canis Major in the past. She immediately becomes concerned for Curtis and does to talk about security options. The two have not seen each other for a little while, but always had crushes on each other. The threat on Curtis becomes more than just a little security and Lina and him have to go on the run. As they are trying to figure out how to handle the situation, a romance builds between the two. The tough thing is he is seen as a player, and she is too professional to let this get in the way – or are they? Will the feelings they have for each other get in the way of each other’s safety? Can they find a way to get past this to finally enjoy each other in life?
Just as all the other books in the series, the plot and character were well done. The book kept moving and was always entertaining. The characters were so easy to love. Curtis isn’t all he seems to be, he becomes a sweet, loving character. Lina is a badass with a hard shell that starts to soften to allow more for herself. The dynamics were just great with how the two characters complimented each other. I recommend the book to anyone looking for a romance that flows, easily wants to connect to characters, and loves a little danger and spice.
Alien Redemption by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was so much better than I thought it would be when I started reading, and I got into it straight away. I thought the story was really interesting and had a lot about it. The start really made me sit up and pay attention and after that I could not wait to see where the story would go.
I loved the main character as well. She has such a dark past that she is trying to get away from, yet her strength and fight is obvious to see. For me, she definitely added so much more to the story. This is a fantastic story that I really enjoyed and would highly recommend.
A Journey for Dorothy by P. Creeden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A Journey for Dorothy: The Reluctant Wagon Train Bride P. Creeden
4.5 stars
I have only read one other book by this author, but I really enjoyed it and was happy to settle into another. It is a simple, sweet and clean, standalone romance.
A Journey for Dorothy: The Reluctant Wagon Train Bride is a sweet, heartwarming historical romance story. This captivating tale is fast paced, with plenty of hope, drama, angst, suspense, tension and danger in the wild west. The journey is full of hardships and harrowing plights and so easily imagined due to Ms Creeden’s rich narrative.
Not looking for love after becoming a widow her heart is still broken but needing more Dorothy sets off for a new start, but she quickly realises that marriage even one of convenience is what she must do. Reverend Elias has a calling to go to the wild west. However, he finds himself in strife before he even steps foot on the Wagon Train. Will he make the journey or will all be lost before it even begins.
Ms Creeden’s writing style is interesting with wonderful characters. The plot was well done, and the characters were well thought out and well written. They are relatable, and real that I was invested in them and their journey.
With twenty brides there are lots of stories to come. I look forward to reading more books in this delightful series.
Reviewed by @jennadb
To Catch An Elf: Pennsylvania Fighter Pilot by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book really isn’t what I was expecting when I started reading it. Honestly, it took me a little while to get into the story but I did connect with the characters quite easily. Marcie and Ted were interesting to read about and I wanted to get to know them both more.
Once I had warmed to the story I did find myself enjoying it. The romance was the focus point for me and it was made a bit more exciting with the action towards the end of the story. This was an overall enjoyable book.
To Catch An Elf: Pennsylvania Fighter Pilot by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 stars
To Catch an Elf: Pennsylvania Fighter Pilot is a story that is filled with action, intense suspense, excitement, a lot of weirdness and passion just to name a few.
The story is well written and is intriguing and will have you engaged and on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Debra’s descriptive writing is easily imagined and draws you in to the chaos. You will find yourself all hot and bothered and on the edge of your seat in suspense.
It was supposed to be an easy gig. House sit and dog watch, oh and one creepy elf. But let’s not forget the stage instructions that have to be followed. I hate creepy dolls. Marcie finds strange things happening and now she is in a situation she can’t get out of and only hopes that her connection to Ted will be enough for him to try to find her.
Confused Ted make is way home, only what he finds is not what he was expecting. Who has her and why?
To find out the mystery of the elf you should add this book to your TBR list.
If you love sexy, strong, heroic men then grab a copy.
I cannot wait for the next book.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Murky Murder: An Utterly Addictive Cozy Murder Mystery by Hazel Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Murky Murder (A Maid Ivy Cozy Mystery Book) by Hazel Smith. This is such a good, clean, cozy mystery! I really enjoyed this book and will be reading more by this author. Its set in London and Ivy is the maid at the LaFontaine Hotel and a big conference is in town. When she goes on a date with a new guy it goes great and everything seems to be working out but when a guest comes up murdered Ivy has to try and figure it out. Along with her 4 legged friends and some 2 legged friends they are digging into the mysterious letters that have begun arriving. This book is short and sweet and can be read as a standalone. I truly enjoy reading the books in order so that I get to know the characters better. This is such a fun mystery series and I can’t wait to read more!
Mission Improbable:Vietnam by Nancy Nau Sullivan
Mission Improbable is the fun third book in A Blanche Murningham mystery. I haven’t read the first two books in the series, but I did not feel like I was missing anything.
Amateur sleuth Blanche is intrigued and compelled to help a woman find her roots and see the country in which she lost her father. The journey is not so straightforward when some discouraged their adventures but there were others that we more than happy to shed light on what happened. What they learn will have long lasting effects as they uncover their heart-breaking stories.
There is raw, and emotional moments with connections, bonds, friendships, hopes, and strength of character, sadness, humour, angst, and adventure.
This is a story that is set in Vietnam and really tugged at my heartstrings, as we are reminded of a war that destroyed many. The story is well written and had me flipping the pages so I could find out how everything played out.
There are great characters along the way who are unique, interesting, real, and colourful.
I enjoyed the story so much I am going to go back and see what I missed in the first two books.
Worth the read.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Alien Redemption by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Alien Redemption by Gloria Oliver is a sci fi story set in deep space. I have only read one other book that Gloria has written, and I enjoyed it immensely as I did with this book. Emotions run high in this story making it feel like you have run a marathon.
Gloria’s has once again cleverly woven together complex threads in a multi layered story. Her world-building is done well, and the plot is intriguing in a story that has something for everyone that likes a good sci fi story.
With a new identity, intelligent humanoid species, first contact, uncharted planets, blackmail, shocking betrayal, and sinister plots Gloria has written a tale where the pages keep turning desperate to find out how it will end.
The story is fast paced, and action packed and full of suspense, tension, frustration, fear, desperation, aliens, secrets, mystery and more.
Gloria’s narrative and a few twists and turns makes it easy to become intrigued with the characters and their journey.
Claudia is overqualified and needs a new start in life but that new start doesn’t turn out how she thought it would. Things go from bad to worse and she wonders just what she has gotten herself into.
I look forward to reading more.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Renewed by Sara Vinduska
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
While this is the 6th book in the series, it is completely stand alone. This is the first book by Sara Vinduska that I’ve read and will absolutely read more! Renewed was a lighthearted and easy to read romance, with plenty of steamy scenes. The danger and intrigue element made the book hard to put down. The characters were wonderfully written and looking forward to more.
