Cecily in the City by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story follows Cecily and Andrew. Andrew is a pop star and Cecily is an actress. She was excited when she got to move to the city for a job on a soap opera. This meant she could be closer to Andrew. But she quickly learns, this business isn’t for the faint of heart. Will Cecily make it?
Concert Hall Hit: A Darcy Gaughan Mystery by J.C. Kenney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Concert Hall Hit (A Darcy Gaughan Mystery) by J.C. Kenney. This is such a fun murder mystery. This is the story of Darcy and her being so excited because the legendary blues guitarist Derek Tufnell is coming to Marysburg Music to sign autographs and visit with fans. Darcy owns Marysburg Music and she is a former musician so she is super excited in fact the whole town is. When Derek shows up he ends up murdered and Darcy becomes their prime suspect. Darcy is not going to just let them throw her in jail so she starts her own investigation. Once she digs into Derek’s background she finds more suspects than you can shake a stick at. This story is full of adventure, twists, turns and craziness to keep you flipping the pages to see if Darcy can clear her name. Such a fun read!
Cecily in the City by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Cecily in the City (The Cecily Taylor Series Book 3) by Krysten Lindsay Hager. This is such a good series. I have loved each book and this was no different. We continue to follow Cecily as she tries to pursue her goal in life to be an actress. She also has a boyfriend who is famous himself and during this story Cecily begins to enjoy fame as well. Along with getting her foot in the door and making a name for herself she also loses Andrew her boyfriend. Cecily has never had to do things on her own so she is scared but determined. Cecily is only 17 but seems older because of the life she has led so far and she’s not going to let the fact that she lost her boyfriend ruin her dreams. This is a fun young adult read but even I as an adult really enjoyed it.
The Vassal of Magic by C.B. Lyall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
~ Teen Wizard Returns ~
First of all, if you haven’t read the first two book in this series, you will definitely want to pick them up!!! C. B. Lyall is such a unique author that tells stories in a way that just sits you right down in the plot and takes you along for the journey. You really feel like you’re in the adventure right along with Wilf, and finding things out as he does. This is the perfect YA for anyone who enjoys Magic, coming of age stories, family drama, or finding identity overtures.
Wilf continues in his quest to be finally free from all the magic that seems to be unwilling to let him go. Unfortunately it looks like he will not be able to return to his “Normal” life as he would wish it to be. What I love about the third book in the series, is watching Wilf attempt to control the magic that he hates, in order to possibly be rid of it for good. It brings up a lot of conflicting feeling for the reader, especially if you err on the side of enjoying magic LOL.
When Wilf finds a piece of the shattered Mages Crystal, he starts to question so many things. The biggest heartbreak is watching Wilf’s affection for Katryna come into question. Their love story is so cute and sweet to watch unfold, and now I’m finding everything I loved about them come into question.
Overall there are so many choices Wilf has had to make. Watching him struggle through forever abandoning his dream to return to “normal” or allowing magic and Katryna to perish *sad*.
Thank you to the author for this incredibly fun series, and sharing it with the world. Lovely characters, fully dynamic quests in a very streamlined easy to understand world, and just wonderfully exciting to read!
Review by @taylorkstephenson
Hero Complex by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ivy has lived and breathed the ranch life for what seems all her life, inheriting Moonrock from her grandfather was the biggest honour he could have bestowed on her but as she sits looking through the books something must change, she is failing miserably. Having to let the only ranch hand go she is stuck in the cycle of chores and sleep until one night at he friends she meets the man of her dreams, and he also needs somewhere to stay for a while.
Ace is lost, being medically discharged from the Marines he is wondering a path he has no purpose to now, but when he decides to move and accepts Ivy’s offer of somewhere to stay he offers his services as a ranch hand as compensation, but he is drawn to this strong woman but will she let him in and love him the way he loves her or will his literal scars push her away.
This is the second book I have read by this author, and it was a lovely romantic story. I always love a flawed character and Ace was one of not only physical scars but was also trying to comprehend the man he is now to the man he was is heart-breaking to read. I loved that Ivy was although at times shy and reserved her character was brilliant to read as she blossomed with the help of Ace and that she helped him love himself again.
The secondary characters added to the story and as the story twists through the misogynistic characters it just makes Ace’s character more lovable as you see the true determination to protect this woman with all his heart.
If you are looking for a quick read I definitely recommend this book and you will fall in love with the characters as much as I did.
Brutal Days: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oh my goodness….Brutal Days….amazing! I absolutely loved it and can’t wait for the next book. How am I supposed to wait like a month or more to find out what happens. I’m sorry I strongly disliked Damon in previous books but this book….I think I love him. He seems like the egotistical jerk but when he finds someone who may or may not be his type and finds something that he wants, he won’t stop trying to get it. No one ever says no to the elite but Skylar isnt like most girls ( the elite fan club ) she’s trying to be a good friend and help her best friend complete her senior list of what she wants to accomplish. Even if that puts her close to the one guys she can’t stand. This whole series so far is soooo good.
Brutal Nights can’t come soon enough!
review by @xchellex
Brutal Days: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the third book in this series which I enjoyed reading just as much as the previous books. This is an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up. I never hesitate to pick up her books. One of the things I enjoy most about this author is her ability to pull me into the story with her writing skills and details. This book is no different. It is a well written story that is hard to put down. It is an enemies to lovers story that you don’t want to miss. It is fast paced and engaging. The characters pull you into their world and keep you coming back for more. They have great growth and chemistry throughout the story. A story where a plan made may not be followed and the unexpected happens. I really enjoyed this story and how easy it is to read. An entertaining story that I highly recommend. I also suggest checking out the other books in this series by this author, you wont be disappointed.
Review by @bjwagner
Concert Hall Hit: A Darcy Gaughan Mystery by J.C. Kenney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the second book in the series which I didn’t initially realise but that wasn’t a problem when reading. There is enough information given about the background to understand previous events and not feel lost reading. I will go back and read the first book later though!
I loved this cozy mystery, it’s one of my favourite genres, and this book certainly lived up to the expectations I had. It was fun, full of adventure and mystery which was cleverly constructed to keep you guessing and trying to solve the mystery alongside Darcy. There were plenty of old school music and film references sprinkled throughout so I was in my element – I was hooked from the first page!
I loved the cast of characters, they were fun and unique which made an already enjoyable book miles better. I loved Darcy and her journey in solving the case and working towards clearing her name.
This was great fun to kick back and relax with, reading something engaging but laid back was just what I needed. I’ve fallen in love with this series and look forward to meeting Darcy again!
Brutal Days: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oh, the things we do for friends. Sky’s best friend, Gia, is crushing on Damon Savage. She’d due anything to help her friend, even due what Damon wants. The chemistry between Damon and Sky is off the charts. Forget the Elites and those gossip-mongers. These two have some sparks going. This is one hot and steamy romance. They both have some issues to deal with. Damon shows that he’s just as much of a &*)hole as his brother, Cole, could be. All I can really tell you without spoiling is that the story is worth reading. The characters are so dramatic that it’s easy to relate to them. The plot runs faily smooth. This book might combust in your hands but it’s so worth it to pick and read. The drama and romance is better than one of those cheesy shows on TV. You know what I’m talking about. Hit that One-Click button.
Punk by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is another great book in a great series. This is an age gap romance but it is where the leading lady is older. It is a gripping story that allows you to be able to get caught up in all the action within the first few pages. If you haven’t read the other books in the series, I highly suggest you read those because the characters from those books make appearances in this book. It would also help you to understand their situations as well. This book did not disappoint it has everything from dark intense story line. It has romance and steam all throughout. It is well written that you feel like you are part of the group or at least a fly on the wall to what is happening. I wish that I could go further into detail about what went down in this book but I can’t because that wouldn’t be doing you the justice you deserve by being able to read it without any spoilers. I find that going in knowing that the character development, the dark, twisty suspense, and the romance are all there is better than knowing what actually happens. It leaves an air of mystery to the whole book that will have you turning pages as quickly as you can. It will be an easy read and won’t take much time because of how invested you will be.
Reviewed by: @bbohls
Hero Complex by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Hero Complex (Bluestone Series Book 3) by Isobel Reed
Hero Complex is a wonderfully written Second Chance Romance that once I started reading it was hard to put down. This is a fairly new author to me but I like her style of writing and attention to detail. The characters are well written, developed, relatable and at times raw and edgy. This is about two wounded souls who needs help healing. Can these two wounded souls be what the other needs? Can a fake relationship bring these two together? I love Military Romance and this one checked all the boxes. Ace is a wounded Marine who battles himself everyday about all his scars. Ivy sees Ace for who he is not what he is. These two pulled at my heart strings a bit. I highly recommend reading this fast paced story to find out what happens next. I look forward to reading more from this Author.
Consigliere’s Revenge by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Love this series. This thrilling addition will keep you wondering the entire time, who is playing who. Lorenzo and Izzy’s chemistry will singe you through the page.
Lorenzo’s smug confidence makes him perfectly suited for his role as Consigliere. As he fights for his family, he encounters a woman fighting for her’s by seeking revenge. Lorenzo must find a way to protect his family while finding his heart.
Izzy is a woman dead set in what she knows, or what she thinks she knows. Izzy is dead set on getting revenge for her father. This has her crossing one of the strongest mafia families and has put her in the crosshairs of Lorenzo. Can they work together against a common enemy once Izzy has more information regarding what really happened to her father without tearing each other apart?
As Izzy and Lorenzo battle each other, danger continues to seep in from the outside. Will Lorenzo be able to protect Izzy from everyone including herself? Through the multiple twists and turns, this author proves why she is one of the best again and again. Amazing addition to the series.
Stay For Me by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a feel-good romance and a perfect ending for The Balefire Series. Tam DeRudder Jackson has done it again in Stay For Me, by writing a very steamy, page-turning story that I could not put down from the second I opened the book. I have not been a big fan of Garrett throughout this series, hating him at times for trying to mess up everyone else’s happiness, since his own romance with Olivia had failed. Well everyone deserves a second chance, don’t they, even Garrett right? This was a great continuation, especially following the famous Balefire band, reuniting with all of our favorite characters and seeing how their own relationships are progressing. I love the spark that ignites between Garrett and Olivia, they are so perfectly matched together, and I am so happy to see the entire band finally get their happily-ever-after. Even if you’ve never read any of The Balefire Series books, they are so amazing that they could stand alone if you started with this book, but I highly recommend you go back and restart at the beginning once you’re done, you wouldn’t want to miss each of the band members stories of love, loss, and reconnections.
@Brandy Rymer 05/2023
Concert Hall Hit: A Darcy Gaughan Mystery by J.C. Kenney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I can’t get enough of these type of books. Always a quirky, sassy lead who gets stuff done and solves the murder. This author is new for me and I thoroughly enjoyed the writing style, ups and downs, and how easy of a read this was. It was exciting and mysterious without making me think too hard making it all in all a relaxing and enjoyable read 🥳
A Monster for Meg by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a cute book! So Meg doesn’t understand why monsters are scary, because she’s never seen one. You see Meg is blind! Her big sister tries explaining what it is that makes monsters scary only to have Meg compare each thing to something normal. At the heart of this story it helps kids see that monsters aren’t scary but they are good for something other than scaring, spending time with each other! Again super cute book and will definitely use it in a classroom!
Japan by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Tally is now taking us on an adventure to Japan in this 3rd installment of this series. This series is enjoyable for all ages and I do recommend reading this series in order from the beginning. I loved the first two books….book 3 was really good but some of the parts in the book took me a bit to get through.
Tally, her angel Jophiel and Tally’s father are onto Japan as Tally stays with a family while Tally’s father is off to work for a bit. The family that Tally stays with teaches Tally the customs and ways of Japan, while also exploring different areas, museums and the art of sumo wrestling and also meets new friends in Yoshie and Miyu. As Tally gets to know Yoshie and Miyu and learn from them she also is roped into a mystery herself that is full of a new challenge and Tally must be brave in order to save the day.
This is a very good story. I loved how the author really detailed the different Japanese customs and traditions into the story. I am hoping to read more adventures from Tally in the future!!
A Monster for Meg by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a cute little story and I did enjoy it. I enjoyed the interaction between the two sisters as they played their game of trying to describe monsters. This book is something many children will enjoy because it makes a game out of describing a monster that is countered by comparison to something normal, making them seem just a little less scary. This author writes cute stories and I think they are appropriate for many children.
Hot For Me by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This books draws you in from the very first chapter. You immediately fall in love with the main characters and you are rooting for them. This book is full of mystery, romance, and feels. The author writes in such a way that you feel like you are right there and the characters are your best friend.
Stay For Me by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The author has done it again. She draws you in from the very beginning and doesn’t let go until the last page. I feel like this book was a little bit heavier on the sweetness of the ever growing relationship of the main characters and a little less heavy on the romance part. It’s very much a feel good book but has enough mystery to keep you guessing until the end. Be prepared to fall in love with the characters and feel like you are right there with them.
Stay For Me by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Stay For Me (The Balefire Series Book 5)
I’m in love with each and every guy in Balefire and now I need to find the time go back and read their stories.
Each one of the guys has a different personality and Garrett while not in the band is one of the guys in every other sense of the word.
Garrett has made several mistakes in his life and while working with Balefire, some almost destroyed him, but I think his biggest regret was Olivia.
Olivia is just so cool. I would love to be like her if I were to ever grow up.
I will be looking at Ms. DeRudder Jackson’s current library and looking for more from her in the future.
Concert Hall Hit: A Darcy Gaughan Mystery by J.C. Kenney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Cozy mystery for any music lover. I really enjoyed this cozy mystery by J.C. Kenney. This book kept me in suspense till the very end. There were several points throughout this book that I thought I knew who did it and yet with a turn of a page my suspicions had changed. I loved all of the music references and puns. This is a fantastic, cozy mystery for any one who loves popular music. This was my first read by J.C. Kenney, but it will not be my last.
Brave Kids: Short Stories to Inspire Our Future World-Changers by K.J. Kaschula
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5/5 Stars
This was a great read! Although I’m an adult, I enjoyed how this book captured the essence of a young reader. As a mother, I’m always looking for children’s books that are written in a realistic child voice. This book does just that. It’s a great read to share with the younger readers in your life!
A Monster for Meg by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is one of our FAVORITE authors in our home because we always love the interesting stories that are told. The illustrations are beautiful and really add depth to the story. A Monster for Meg helps kids reimagine the scary, hairy monsters in their imagination and relate them to not-so-scary things of everyday life. Meg is blind and doesn’t understand why monsters are so scary. Her big sister, Sue, tries to paint a picture as best she can with her scary, creative voices, but Meg just says that all the scary depictions sound like normal life. My youngest is 7 and sometimes still has trouble with monsters, but this sparked a great conversation about how to reframe those thoughts. I enjoyed the diversity and inclusion in this book as well. Another favorite in our house for sure!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Consigliere’s Revenge by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I love good mafia romance, and a dark one at that. This is the 3rd book of the Silician Gods series and the author continues to tell great stories surrounding the Larussio family. Izzy and Lorenzo’s story is full of danger, suspense and revenge. It’s time to take a time-out and get started on this book!
The Guardian of Whispers by B.E. Padgett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Loved the story line even as an adult, and much in the lines of Percy Jackson, Wings of Fire, Harry Potter; yet less dark so suitable for audiences of all ages. I enjoyed the banter between the two main characters, Frank and Jon, and the connection they have being twins.
The role of minor characters is also important in this book, which I think sends a positive message that not everyone needs to be a lead character/person to make an impact in the world. The mystery aspect of this book was intriguing, and even as an adult I didn’t guess the culprit until he was revealed. I enjoyed learning about the different classes the 10 year olds attend, and the author does a great job “showing” instead of boringly giving a syllabus. Overall, I recommend this read!
Consigliere’s Revenge by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Consigliere’s Revenge: Dark Mafia Romance (Sicilian Gods Book 3)
Wow! I loved this book! There was never a dull moment and it kept me on the edge of my seat.
Izzy had no fear of the Consigliere for the Larussio family, or for anyone else for that matter when she maybe should have considering the power.
Lorenzo is the sexy, dark and dangerous type that is a great combination for a book boyfriend when in reality my husband is anything but dangerous.
I have been hooked on the Larussio family since I met them and I’m so glad they are a large Italian family with lots of men who need a good woman.
Consigliere’s Revenge by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I picked up this book and read it as a standalone instead of the entire series. I didn’t feel lost, but I am absolutely going back to pick up the first two books now! Consigliere’s Revenge is an incredible mafia romance with plenty of action, suspense, and steamy. Every time I thought I had the next move figured out, Via Mari would twist and turn the other way keeping me on my toes. I love that I never felt jarred out of the story with a bad flow or inconsistencies. This author did an amazing job creating a world that you feel like you dive right into with Lorenzo and Izzy. I’m picking up the previous books in the series now, so don’t pass this one up. It’s THAT good!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Afflicted Love by Autumn Sand
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first book I have read by this author. It’s a very good book and can’t wait to read the next one since this left you with a cliffhanger. It keep my interest all the way through that I didn’t want to put it down. What Kyle and Lyle endure growing up to where they are now is heart breaking. However the strong feeling between them will keep them together this time. Great book!
Consigliere’s Revenge by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Lorenzo is the consigliere of the Larussio crime family and he is the cruelest of the family. In the dark of the crime world, the Larussio’s are ruthless, dangerous, and powerful men who do not play around. Izzy is a reporter and is determined to get the story but gets the inside scoop from Lorenzo. Anyone who sees Lizzy and Lorenzo together can see that they have the same passion and fire that the other men in the Larussio family do. So when the DaRosas seek retaliation on the Larussio they go right for the reporter.
This is the third book in this series and it was just as fantastic as the first two. I could not put this book down. I have come to really enjoy this author and can’t wait to get my hands on more of her books.
Reviewed by @alape
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Stay For Me by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the 5th book in The Balefire Series, but the first one that I have read. Man I was seriously missing out! This book was so good. The characters have so many facets that you just can’t help but be pulled along for the ride. Garrett and Olivia both chose their career over being together 10 years ago. Now when their careers bring them face to face again will the old flame reignite? Ok now I am off to read the first 4 books in this series cause I totally need more of this world.
