A Way Out by Tami Lund
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A Way Out was a hard book for me to get into. I’m not sure if it was because of the story line or just an off day of reading. Nonetheless, I did finish it and would recommend it to anyone wanting to read it. The story is full of drama and chemistry. Maria and Oz run a bumpy first meeting and have that instant connection but it’s a first meeting so it can’t be anything else, right?
The Book of Hours by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I did not realize this book was a second in the series till I got further into the book and realized the details were missing because I was missing the first book, The Coin. The Book of Hours was a mystery with suspense. The story is told from Gabriella’s point of view. The story is full of great imagery and will give you strong feelings about all the characters involved. It did take me a bit longer to read and get into than I assumed but it is worth the read.
A Way Out by Tami Lund
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Rock star, Single dad, hard working, hot as all, this is the perfect man for this story. There is instant attraction between Maria and Oz. This is the 2nd book in the series but the first I have read and I was not lost or confused in any way. I am sure there is overlap in the characters but that is ok.
I really enjoyed the pace and character development throughout. Watching Maria step up and take over certain aspects was refreshing.
Looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
Brutal Nights by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Isla Vaughn does it again with Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite #4), I could not wait to get my hands on this book, and let me tell you it was so worth the wait!!! I loved continuing the story of Damon and Skylar’s romance. These characters are so well written, you just feel like you’re right there watching everything unfold, hoping that everything works out. The setting has stayed the same throughout every single book in this series, it’s amazing how much I feel like I’m a part of the story. There are so many surprises and twists that I did not see coming, that I was on the edge of my seat most of the time, cheering on Damon and hoping that for once he could get and keep the girl. You do not want to miss this exciting story in this series, it just keeps progressing, bringing back all of the old characters that we know and love from the entire series. I cannot wait to start reading the next book in the series, it’s so hard waiting, this series is one of my favorites! It is a must-read for anyone who loves a good high school romance with lots of high-flying emotions and of course the mean girls.
@Brandy Rymer
7/2023
A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley, #1): A Small Town Fake Relationship Romance by Theresa Paolo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Phoebe and Laurent’s story is a second chance trope. I really loved Laurent. I did feel the beginning when they met for first time in several years was rushed. I would have liked more build up to that crucial moment. Great secondary characters who I want to know more about. Beautiful world the author created. Overall, it’s a great story of second chances, forgiveness, and a love that didn’t end.
A Way Out by Tami Lund
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This nice guy, this average Joe, this hardworking, hard-loving family man. This is who rock stars should be. It doesn’t hurt that he has the best butt on Insta!! Oz is caught between his reality and his dream. Can he have both? Maria is figuring out her life was never her own. Now she has a chance to not only discover who she is but grow her relationship with her sister, and finally get out from her stifling mother. Will she take it or will Maria fall back into her old habits?
Oz Garcia is trying to do right by his sister by raising her three children after the immense tragedy that was her marriage. It takes three jobs to keep a roof over their heads, food on the table, clothes on their backs and shoes on their feet. He doesn’t hate it, Oz will do whatever it takes to keep his family together. He is just steps away from his dreams. It is right at his fingertips, if he could find a way to pay the bills when playing rock star with his fledgling band.
Maria married the man her mother would approve of and she is not happy. Maria had her daughter because her husband thought it was time to start a family. The minute he started discussing having a second child Maria decided she wanted a divorce. She wasn’t going to have the life her mother did. When her ex tells Maria that she has to leave the house despite the arrangement they agreed to in the divorce, Maria escapes to the only place she feels safe, her sister’s house. The only problem, her sister isn’t there. She is in another state for the last days before her wedding.
When Maria hears Oz’s band play, she is memorized. The lyrics, the music, the sound, everything is ready for the next steps except a significant lack of funds. Maria takes a leap of faith in Oz, in his band. With the band, Maria finds happiness and a real place where she can feel successful. When family issues arise threatening Maria’s daughter, she drops everything and runs home. Will this cost Maria not only her new life but Oz?
OMG!! Prepare yourself to strap in for this emotional rollercoaster ride! The ups, the downs, the twists, the turns, the flips and swirls are all worth it. The author provides us with the rock star we all can love. He is funny. He cares about his family. He makes sacrifices for them and his band. He is sexy as all hell…o!! Did I mention he is good with kids? He is patient with the teens and the toddlers. He is the next great heartthrob!! Going to catch up with the rest of the band now!! I am hooked. Sell me a t-shirt and a hat, I am a Demigoddess Revival groupie now and forever!!
Hole in the Rock by Rebecca Bischoff
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Hole In the Rock by Rebecca Bischoff is a fun adventure story aimed at middle grade aged children (8 to 12 years old).
We follow Lizza as she learns some hard lessons about choices, making mistakes, consequences/repercussions, taking responsibility, communication, family, friendship, sticking together, and forgiveness.
An entertaining and thought-provoking story with some very interesting, and quirky characters…. and a little mischief.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Rebecca Bischoff!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
My Goodbye Girl by Anna Gomez
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this book! Tessa and Simon meet on an airplane when she is standing on his seat putting her purse away. They don’t get to talk as the middle seat person sits down, but they both sneak peeks at each other. Tessa is an author and is on tour for her new book that made a big splash. Simon is a scientist and has some amazing discoveries. They meet again at a conference where she is doing a book signing and he is speaking. Tessa and Simon start to have feelings and much of the book is the two of them meeting in different places around the world. I love to travel so I loved reading about all of the places that they visit. Tessa doesn’t like to make commitments and Simon has some strong feelings for her. They maneuver through their travels, their work, and their lives. There are twists and turns and a lot of emotions that happen throughout the book. I was cheering for them and then they separated but we don’t know why. I couldn’t stop reading and needed to know what happened to them. I hope the author comes out with more!
Fetching Dreams by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a story of two young ladies from opposite ends of the world. One girl lives in poverty and without water, while the other has all the modern comforts but trouble with her health and family. They support and encourage each other and develop a meaningful, important friendship.
The Master of Demise by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Twists and turns that keep you guessing. This is the second book I have read by the incredible Nadija Mujagic. Once again, I am kept on the edge of my seat trying to guess what direction the story will take but left guessing until the end.
Mitch Wegner is a well-respected college professor and researcher at a small Vermont campus. Married for many years, his wife seems to finally be ready for the next step, kids, only the twists leave him angry and confused where the woman he married went. The first chapter has you feeling like you know what the big finale of the book will be. Twists and turns keep you engaged as you watch Mitch’s marriage and career fall apart. The passing of a second student in less than a year causes ramifications for all moving forward. Only this time it is linked to a poor grade leading to a grading inflation that Mitch strongly disagrees with. Being blamed for the student taking his own life, Mitch feels something more sinister is at play. Not everything is adding up, a diary implicating that the student wanted the “professor in a ditch” seems the opposite of taking his own life. His students begin lashing out at him, with negative hurtful statements. Determined to keep the rumors and campus situation from his wife, more distance forms between them and more questions form as to what happened with them. Constantly feels as if he is being watched when seemingly alone. Without realization Mitch seems to be a living embodiment of his own research, “the effects of childhood post traumatic disorder and how it affects decision making in dire situations. Multiple flashbacks give insight into the trauma Mitch endured at age fourteen that caused him to lose memory of his middle school years. Only now everything is coming back like a shadow haunting his every action.
Can Mitch save his career and his marriage? Is he being framed for giving a student a bad grade? The sheer depth of the author’s ability to give you question after question and never slipping until she is ready for the grand review builds up the thrill. When the reveal finally happens, you’re left in shock remembering the little queues sprinkled throughout that gave hints but never enough to know for certainty how it would end. Nadija Mujagic has become my go-to for an in-depth psychological thriller that gives nothing away until the perfect moment. Can’t wait to read more of her amazing work.
A Teacher’s Heart by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a sweet illustrated books that emphasizes how all teachers have a big heart. Despite all the differences in personality and style, each teacher is a person that wants to help others. The artwork is adorable, this is a lovely book.
Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I will say this, there is one thing about this author i dislike, and it’s the freaking cliff hangers. But at the same time, I love the cliff hangers, because it makes the next book so much better! What a wild start into Phoenix and Aspen’s story! This book is a super short read, but it’s packed full of detail. I absolutely loved it, and I’ll be waiting for the next one on pins and needles!
House of Arsceneaux by Caterina Novelliere
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Caitlin DeDanann is a woman full of ambition. She loves her job but is looking forward to a good break from it. Her boss has other ideas that include adding on a week of work to her vacation. And as much as she hates to do it, she does. Little does she know that the past is about to catch up with her. When she is drawn to a strange chef, she finds out that they have a shared history. As it all start rushing back to her, they find out that there is a more to their past lives than they originally thought. Can they find a way to beat the curse that was laid on them centuries ago? Or are they doomed to be lost to each other again??
This is my first time reading this author and now I feel like I need to read more of their stories! The story drew me in very quickly with all the little hints as to what was going to happen. And just as I thought I had it figured out, there was MORE! It was a good read, quick paced and fun. I enjoyed the characters and how she wasn’t a damsel in distress that needed to be rescued. I look forward to more from this world that the author has written.
This is an adult book. 🙂
Falling Again by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Falling Again is the third book in the Buckeye Falls series. Each story can be read as a standalone, focusing on a different couple, but the same characters are in all of the books so it’s good to read the series in order to see them develop and avoid spoilers!
Anthony and Nathalie really need to work on their relationship. With plenty of other urgent commitments and emergency situations coming from work, the kids, and their extended families, they’re struggling to make time for each other. Occasional romantic moments are undermined by a myriad of distractions and it’s clear to both of them, and seemingly half of the town, that something has to change.
This is an enjoyable and fun read! I like that this series focuses on different kinds of relationships – reinvigorating an old relationship can be just as romantic as starting a new one! The kids, Maddie and Otis, are great and add a lot of playfulness (and glitter!) to the story.
Although she’s not the focus of this story, CeCe and her amazing baked treats are back and feature prominently enough that I would recommend having some snacks available as you read this book! It gets five stars from me.
Serafina Giordano is a half English half Italian mafia princess, a girl who happens to know exactly the kind of future someone like her may have: a bargain chip to negotiate when the moment her father decides is appropiated.
Salvatore De Luca, born into a once great family, he had to earn his place in the family of his progenitor, this just so revenge can take place under the right circumstances and with the correct princess to use and discard.
A perfect enemies to lovers story that would have you wanting for more, the more you read.
House of Arsceneaux by Caterina Novelliere
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This talented author is a new author for me and I am very happy to have found her. She weaved a fantastic storyline and gave us readers a great mix of characters to both love and hate. Evariste and Caitlin in particular were wonderfully written characters with amazing, undeniable chemistry who draw you in right from the start. I was captivated by this book and highly recommend you all give it a read! I can’t wait to read more by this wonderful author.
Falling Again: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Falling Again by Libby Kay is available now in eBook and Paperback
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review
Libby Kay has won me over once again! Falling Again is the third installment of the Buckeye Falls Series but can easily be read as a standalone. Each novel revolves around a specific couple in Buckeye Falls. Previously we met CeCe and Ginny. This time we are introduced to their friend Natalie and her husband Anthony. Natalie and Anthony have hit hard times in their marriage. They have two young children and very demanding jobs. Natalie owns a business and Anthony is the mayor. With the demands of their everyday lives they have not been able to devote any time to their marriage and one another. When given the opportunity to spend the weekend at the family lake house they attempt to rekindle what is left.
There are many days that I struggle to balance my kids and my job and realize sometimes by the end of the day I am too tired to give my husband the attention he deserves. Despite this being a work of fiction, it reassured me that this happens more than people know. Marital struggles are real! Kay’s story line and characters are down to earth and relatable in so many ways. This installment was definitely spicier than any of the others but this couple deserved every moment of it. I consistently found myself rooting for Anthony and Natalie in hopes they could rekindle their love and have their second chance at love. I highly recommend not only this novel, but this series to all romance readers. These are an absolute must read!
Brutal Nights by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love Isla Vaughn books. Such a great writer who keeps the story interesting all the way through. It’s also a very easy read. I never want to put the book down.
House of Arsceneaux by Caterina Novelliere
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this book! Towards the end it seemed to lose my interest as I was easily distracted from it but it could be just my ADHD. I loved the flow of the story and attention to detail. This is an amazing love story with gods and ancient beings. There isn’t anything bad I have to say about it!
Twisted Oath by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I could hardly tear myself away from this book to go to bed. This book is such an intense, dark story of mafia romance. It initially starts like a dark Romeo and Juliet story and slowly transforms into what reminds me of Jax and Tara’s romance in SOA. Roberts takes readers down a dark path of the criminal mafia world from a child’s perspective as she grows into a woman and slowly, but surely, begins to understand more and more of what surrounds her. The love, heartbreak, and hope that this woman feels was transferred into me as I read her story. There are a few erotic scenes in the story as well that I think are so well placed. I was 100% addicted to this book from the very beginning and could not leave it alone until there was no more left for me! This is the first of Roberts’ books of many that I intend to read!
@jowright
Twisted Oath by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was AMAZING. I made myself put it down because I needed sleep, but trust me when I say, I was diving back into as soon as I could. The world than Roberts has built for us to experience is one that I’ve always wanted to visit. I could have crawled into this book and lived forever. Salvatore and Serafina have the kind of life that most would consider unconventional, but it seems to work for them, (most of the time) mostly because, they really have no other choice. It wasn’t so much that they CHOOSE the life, as much as that the life they grew up in was chosen for them, and they just learned to survive and in both their own ways, they also learned to love the things they couldn’t change about each other. I can’t wait to read the rest of the books in this series. I’m so hooked!
Review by: Manda Kelly 2023
The Finding by A.M. Porto
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
This book will invoke all kinds of emotions. I found myself all over the place and a couple of times I had to put it down for a brief moment to just breathe. This book is listed as a young adult book but does come with a warning that it’s not intended for anyone under eighteen due to the sensitive nature of the topics that are covered. This book will stick with me for awhile.
Logan (Lo) has a great life with a mom who loves him dearly. At the tender age of seven, he begins to learn that not everyone has life so great.
Victoria (Vic) lives with her step-dad. Her mom died recently and she’s stuck with Zach. He doesn’t seem to care much about her at all. He spends most of his time in a drunken stupor. Vic lives next door to Lo and one day invites him over to play.
This story is told from both perspectives of Vic and Lo, starting in the past and building up to the present. This story is very dark and deals with extremely difficult topics. The things that Vic especially, endures are horrific and terrifying. I just want to hug them both and let them know everything will be ok.
I don’t want to say much more because I don’t want to spoil anything. However, it’s only fair to warn readers that this book does contain very strong language and scenes/situations that are not appropriate for immature readers. I do look forward to learning more about Lizzie’s story and what’s going on with her.
Hole in the Rock by Rebecca Bischoff
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Hole in the Rock is a quick paced fun tale for children in middle school aged 8 – 12 years. It is a story with a message that will imprint on those who listen.
We follow along with Lizza’s adventures, her antics and plans that go awry. One where she soon learns that actions have consequences. What they mean not just to her but for her family.
Not everyone has to agree and everyone makes mistakes and learning from them helps us grow and that is one of the messages that will be taken away by those that read this.
This unique tale is full of action, family and friends and is learning tool for young minds to take in and ponder when making decisions for themselves.
A good book for kids for special occasions or just because.
Reviewed by @jennadb
The Sisterhood of Secrets by Winnifred Tataw
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is the fourth in the series and I would highly suggest reading them in order to fully enjoy the experience. This is a fast paced fantasy story that is well imagined and interesting to read. It really feels like the characters go on a journey through this book. The author weaves in so many elements that is keeps the story fresh and intriguing.
This is an author I have recently started to read a bit more of and I have to say I have enjoyed everything so far. The books she creates are imaginative and original and easy to get in to. I am already looking forward to whatever is next.
Grand Slam by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is another great addition to this series, and I think it is my favourite so far. I love a good enemies to lovers story and I really seemed to connect with this one. I loved the characters in the book and how their story progressed. After not having the best start they really build their connection but it is done in a way that I real and genuine.
I have enjoyed getting to know this authors writing style over the course of these books and it is one that I find engaging and easy to read. I easily get into her stories and look forward to the story she is going to tell. I am excited to read the next book in this story and see what else this author has to offer.
Twisted Oath by A. S. Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Twisted Oath
By: A.S. Roberts
This is the fantastic start to a brand new Mafia series. It contains the perfect elements of what will become an absolutely fantastic series. It contains an absolutely unstoppable alpha in Salvatore. Partner that with Serafina being the foil to her mafia family. She wants to undo all the damage done in the only way she can. She wants to be a doctor to heal. Their paths cross and that is where the best part of the story starts. This definitely contains the best mafia parts – secrets, revenge, love, violence, twists and turns, and everything else I’ve come to expect from a good mafia story. I definitely cannot wait to see where this series goes and if Salvatore and Serafina’s story continues in the other books.
The Finding by A.M. Porto
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a dark emotional romance about 2 friends who fell in love and despite all the odds are determined to be together. This is the first book in the Berrycreek Heights series and I can’t wait to see what else the author has in store for us.
This is a dark story that deals with violence, abuse, danger, agendas, love and obsession.
Victoria has had a horrible childhood. Her mother passed leaving her with her mother’s boyfriend. He is a nasty piece of work and treats Victoria appallingly.
When Logan meets her there is an instant connection. Right from the start he feels a need to protect her and make sure no harm comes to her. As they grow together their friendship turns to romance and Logan realises that he will protect Victoria no matter what the cost or what he has to do to insure her safety.
When Victoria and her step-dad disappear this causes Logan to spiral down a dark hole as he tries everything to find her and when he eventually does hearing her story almost breaks him. It takes a lot of strength for him to keep control of his emotions and be there for the girl he loves.
This is a very emotional dark romance with some subjects that maybe triggering to some people. It is a story that will grip you and I couldn’t put it down until i reached the end. I can’t wait to see what the author produces next.
A Teacher’s Heart by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is so heartwarming! It has a melodic rhythm. There is a pleasing rhyme scheme. The illustrations go hand-in-hand with the words of the author. It makes my teacher- heart say, “Awwwww.”
Falling Again: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Although this is fiction, the author realistically portrays the reality of marriage when life has intruded upon it. I love how the main characters are parents who struggle to communicate with one another. Their kindergarten daughter runs around with a swear jar, ready to collect money from any adult in her house who happens to cuss. I think that’s funny, because I, too, have a swear jar (my swear jar is a large baby bottle whose contents get donated to a local crisis pregnancy center on an annual basis- I tend to think of this as “charitable cursing”). Marriage is messy. Communication within a marriage can be messy- but the outcome can definitely be worth the struggle.
House of Arsceneaux by Caterina Novelliere
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Loved Loved Loved this book. This is the first book I have read from this author and I will be reading more for sure. She has a way of writing that brings you right into the characters and keeps you there.
Fate can be a cruel beast at times and these characters prove it.
Everiste (Gage to his family and friends) is a man/vampire that will not sell his company to anyone, although they try their hardest to get him too. He’s a successful business man with a penchant for fishing and being away from people. He’s stubborn and very protective of those he loves.
Caitlin (Cate) (Cher) is planning on vacation when her boss strong arms her into a working holiday. She is to investigate Everiste’s company for new clients wanting to buy it. The one problem is that he will not meet with her and keeps disappearing until his sister gets involved.
There is so much going on behind the scenes that we learn as we read. I ended up reading this book in one day as I couldn’t put it down. The things that are revealed will keep you reading and excited and pained all at the same time.
