Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love books about the world as we know
It ending. Apocalyptic stories get you thinking about how’d you survive. How would the world overcome the changes? This book drew me in with the science behind the spread. It all made sense. Especially living through Covid. How easily it can happen. The author did an amazing job with the characters and scenery.
Three Made in Heaven by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a steamy, sexy reverse harem with strong character development and a good plot. I was surprised how engrossed I became in this book and would highly recommend.
Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
In this captivating third book, Elizabeth is faced with a similar case that has happened in her town, the only problem is that case that happened 25 years ago has now happened again. With her deputies in tow, they work hard to solve this case and hopefully the case that happened 25 years ago to her best friend. This book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time and definitely had me guessing the entire time as to what was happening. I was OBSESSED with getting this book read and finished, and the ending absolutely had me shook the core. Well done and chillingly well written I couldn’t help but give this book 5 out of 5 stars!
Master Calabrea: Dark Vampire Romance by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a great 5 star read. I continue to enjoy this series but I have to say I think Calabrea is my favorite so far. The author does a great job of pulling you in with her writing. When Calabrea is sent on a mission he has to work with Tansia. I really liked Tansia, she was a strong character. She also had some special gifts that she discovers that causes some questions to come up for her. There is a twist that puts her in danger, will Tansia be able to save her? Can these two have a HEA? We get so much in one story. Vampires, paranormal, and so much more. If you haven’t read the series yet I recommend starting with book one. I look forward to reading more from the series and author. 1-click and get started today.
Reviewed by @mab54615
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The 45th Parallel by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I have enjoyed this series from the start. Each book holds its own dynamic and own unique feel. This story is of the daughters and their specific journey. Every step you feel like you are with them. Angst, drama, and a touch of love attached. Book 6 is just as amazing as the first 5.
Three Made in Heaven by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
And interesting read that was short and sweet/spicy. I enjoyed the concept and think this story line would make an killer full length novel. I really thought the author had a great thing going with the three characters. The different element with the dream soulmates was something I didn’t see coming and it was an enjoyable read! Pleasantly surprised and can’t wait to read the next book!
Shadow by D.M. Earl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Shadow is the second book in the Devil’s Handmaidens MC series. This book refers back to things that happened in the first book, but to me read as someone would still enjoy it and not feel lost even if they had not read Tink. The author focuses on Tink’s best friend and club enforcer Shadow in this book. We learn more about Shadow’s past and exactly why she is the way she is. I recommend this series to anyone who enjoys MCs but I do recommend reading the author’s trigger warnings. Can’t wait for more of this MCs story.
The Exchange: A Novel by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Great suspenseful book, full of emotions and fantastic twists. I would think I had things figured out, then bam another twist. Be prepared to stay up all night. I didn’t want to put this one down. I would absolutely recommend this book.
Loretta’s Caterpillar by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a really cute book! This author usually doesn’t disappoint and this was no exception. This was a very informative children’s book, with very colorful and pretty illustrations. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story and I can’t wait to read it to my daughter when she gets a little bit older!
Tink by D.M. Earl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
My first book by this author and she left a great impression. This is the first female MC book I have read. Tink was raised in the MC world but has created her own whose main focus is rescuing victims of human trafficking. I loved the character development and how the author gave us action and romance. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Shadow Wolf by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This book was not in my typical genre, however, I went into it with an open mind. All in all, I found the storyline not to my liking. It was really hard for me to stay engaged and I had to really push to finish it. The beginning of the book was interesting in the way it was set up, but it started losing me around the 10% mark. If you are into paranormal romance, then this will definitely be the book for The author’s writing style was pretty decent, though.
Shore Lodge: A high-stakes psychological thriller by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Shore Lodge was a gripping thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat. Recently widowed, Jacklyn finds herself in a completely new world as she is abandoned and betrayed by those whom she never would have expected to commit such atrocities. This thrilling novel details her fight to reclaim what is right as she tries everything possible to right the wrongs that have been committed against her.
Honestly, this book was just WOW! I can’t even imagine having to go through the situations that were described. I rooted for Jaclyn from the moment I realized what was going to happen.
CW: descriptions of medical/psychiatric situations and isolation.
Master Calabrea: Dark Vampire Romance by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Master Calabrea is in charge of finding the traitor, Isala, and bringing her in alive for interrogation. He is prepared to do just that, until he is paired with a red-headed, vixen named Tansia. He doesn’t know what to make of her at first. She’s feisty, tough, and seems to be able to hold her own. As Tansia begins to have psychic abilities emerge, she finds that she is useful to their cause and that deep down she WANTS to be a part of the world she is helping to defend. When she’s attacked and left for dead though, can she be saved in time? Or is it too late for her to find a future with Master Calabrea?
This book was fast paced, much like the other books in this series. I appreciated how the author has Tansia work though her baggage from a past relationship and how it hinders her moving on -being honest not only with herself but with Calabrea, as well. The story ends in a HUGE cliffhanger that will have me looking for book 7! I felt like the series was ALMOST wrapped up but then I find out there are MORE bad guys?!? Definitely, looking forward to what will happen next!
Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Straight For The Kill
Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 3
By: Winter Austin
4 Stars
I really loved this book! Although it was very easy to follow and enjoy as a stand alone novel I would suggest starting from book one. I myself can’t wait to go back and read Winter Austin’s first book in this series, The Killer In Me. I am so excited to experience all of Elizabeth’s story from the beginning. Straight For The Kill is fast paced and exciting with wonderfully thought out secondary characters and a well crafted plot! There is also a cold case involved giving this book a whole other layer! I have always loved my crime shows so I am a big fan of this unpredictable high stakes mystery! I truly felt like this book was over too soon. Highly recommended, from one mystery lover to another!
Arrrgh! Me HATE To Wait! by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I think this little book was so cute. It was extremely colorful and had amazing illustrations. The main character Half-Pint Porky, like the rest of us, really hates to wait. I think that kids would really enjoy this book, as will adults. When I was little we always played pirates, so I’m sure after reading this, a kid will play along with being a pirate too.
Echoing Hearts, The Echo Series, C.R. Alam, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Contemporary Romance, Romance
My Inner Critic by Christine Bernard
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book made me feel all kinds of emotions because it was simply so very relatable. I personally am an introvert and extrovert, and I really did feel like this book pointed out some of the things I thought and felt all through my life. The ability the author had to make me truly see her in this “made-up story” is making me realize in certain aspects, we are all working through the motions to figure out who we are. Amazing read. Thank you for creating a work that so many can genuinely feel for as it hits close to home.
Shadow Wolf by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a great start to this paranormal romance series! Tamaska is a no nonsense girl that just wants to succeed and have everything go well at her event. Kodiak was definitely not what she was expecting when she hired security for the event. She is unaware of the world around her that has vampires and shifters. So when she is thrust into that world she is not sure who she can trust. Or why Kodiak feels he has to protect her when the leader of the vampires sets his sites on her. As the secrets build, so does the momentum of the story. This one will leave you on a cliffhanger needing to know what happens next in the series!
I love a good strong female roll and this definitely hits all the points of this sweet boThis is my first book I’ve read in this series and it’s a fantastic standalone-
If you love that boss/employee trope this is definitely for you.
This dark brooding single guy finds he’s the guardian of a very young baby after his friend expectantly passes away and has NO clue what he is to do with a screaming infant.
Queue sister in laws bestie who knows a thing or two about babies!
She becomes his nanny–
Little did he know that she would fall for him and help him grow into this dad she knows he can be!
Cry Baby, Pierce Brothers Series, Belinda Williams, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Romantic Comedy,
Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin is available now in Paperback and eBook
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐ Book Review
Twenty-five years ago Sheriff Benoit’s best friend was murdered. While recovering from surgery members of the community begin to disappear. When Benoit’s sister goes missing the race against the clock begins.
Straight for the Kill is the third installment in the Benoit & Dayne Mystery series. Although Straight for the Kill is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone with no confusion. Winter Austin writes deadly romantic thrillers that will not disappoint. Full of suspenseful twists and turns Austin has you sitting on the edge of your seat the entire book. Just when you thought you had the mystery figured out she throws another wrench in the plot. I am a “judge a book by the cover” kind of gal and the cover drew me in on this one but I was sold after the first few chapters. The plot was seamless, moving from scene to scene, keeping the reader engaged. I won’t hesitate in the near future to pick up another mystery written by Winter Austin.
The White Knight Cowboy Stacy-Deanne by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This story follows Lovely Jo, a fugitive on the run for a murder everyone is accusing her of and Dusty Bowles, a man who might be her only salvation in a town that wants to see her tried for something she swears she didn’t commit. The two seem unlikely seeing as how she’s nothing but a servant and he’s a poor widow who has a few issues. But things change when the person you’ve been pining for is finally within reach. Dusty can’t help but want her to be his and Lovely Jo wants nothing more than him but its hard to start a love story when there’s a warrant out for the woman Dusty is enamored with. Can they figure out who actually did it before he has to take her away from Clear Creek County and watch her leave him or worse someone finds her and claims the bounty on her head?
The 45th Parallel by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book in the Antipodes series is different from the others as the min focus is not Cam and Freja like the previous books, however this by no means affected to quality of the author’s work. The story focuses on other characters who inhabit the same world – Caitlin and Seraphine. They are given a purpose however they are unhappy with the life that has been laid out for them so leave on their own adventure. The way this was written, much like the author’s previous books, is great. The writing flows so well and makes the world they have created more accessible and easier to navigate.
I was a little apprehensive that given my love for the characters in the previous books, I may find it difficult to relate and connect with the new characters in the same way, but I needn’t have worried. As usual the author delivered complex and compelling characters that you can’t help but get emotionally invested in.
Caitlin and Seraphine have a great dynamic and unfortunately experience their share of turmoil when they are forced to make difficult decisions which affect not only them, but the people they love. This doesn’t stop their personalities from shining through, making you fall in love with them.
I am so glad I gave this series a chance and will certainly keep my eye on this talented author for more!
The Man In Black by L.R. Liverpool
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Man in Black by L.R. Liverpool – Review by Dessalynn Acosta
4 out of 5 stars
In a coming of age novel, Fenimore James leaves his family behind to become the outlaw, Simon Shaw. After joining a gang mysterious murders start taking place within the gang, Simon begins having nightmares of The Man in Black. Great story, thrilling and eye opening.
Sessrumnir by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the fifth book in the Antipodes series, and it’s been a joy witnessing the character development and world building expand throughout the series.
Cam and Freja must once again come together, but this time it’s a little different. Their children are in danger, and they must work together to protect them despite their issues with each other. Given the previous books, I didn’t see this storyline coming, but it was so good!
As usual, this is an emotional journey for the characters as well as the reader as we are drawn into their lives, but well worth the emotional torment to see how it ends. I was again able to step into the story and picture myself there alongside the characters with the descriptive language used and the easy-to-follow writing style the author has makes the experience even more enjoyable.
The character’s emotions in this book felt that much more vivid and the turmoil they feel is heart-breaking. The progression in Cam and Freja’s relationship though left me hopeful and loving the two of them all the more!
The author is very talented in both their style of writing and their ability to create an ongoing narrative which constantly leaves you guessing. I will certainly be looking out for more books by this author moving forward.
Real Movie Hero by Debra Parmley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Real Movie Hero
By: Debra Parmley
I have read every single one of the Green Brotherhood so far and each one is amazing in their own way. I do want to mention that this book most definitely would work as a standalone if you have not read the others. However, I will say that this book exceeded my expectations and is by far and away my favorite thus far. Reed and Christie are amazing characters and their love story is almost fated. I loved their chemistry and how Reed is take charge and took care of Christie from the beginning, even before he knew her. I also loved how he wanted to take Christies fears and nurture her so that she would become less afraid. This was evidenced in their first date – and I have to say I absolutely loved that date. Debra left nothing to the imagination, it was so easy to imagine how both of them reacted as their date went on and how Reed worked to ease Christie’s fears. I really was rooting for them from the start. I also loved how Christie was a flawed character who was nervous to date again. I read this book in less than a day and I definitely recommend it for a feel good love story.
Caim by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another great book in the series, I’m not sure I’ll ever get bored of this author’s ability to surprise me and it keeps me hooked start to finish every time!
We once again join Cam and Freja in an impressively descriptive world which you can step into as you join the pair on their adventures. Things appear to be going well when a shocking development leads to yet another adventure in search of answers. There’s little I can say that I haven’t said after reading the previous books but wow. The world building as always is amazing and the characters are lovable and relatable, despite the hardships they face. I’ve been emotionally invested in Cam’s story since the first page of book one, and this has only increased as the books progress.
Their new journey leads to shocking answers and plot twists which leave you wanting to reach out and comfort the characters and yet you find yourself needing more which is why I am so happy there’s another book for me to dive into!
I need to know what is next for Cam and Freja and their relationship!
What I Wish I’d Known: For Writers: 100 Authors Reveal What They Wish They’d Told Their Younger Selves by H. D. Thomson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book features 100 different authors who are giving advice to anyone wishing to write a book. It’s a fairly simple read but full of ideas, advice, as well as struggles and challenges one might face during the process of writing and/or publishing a work of art. It’s a showcase of the good, bad, and ugly for lack of a better explanation!
If you write at all, you are a writer. These tips could potentially benefit someone who is writing a dissertation for class, someone looking to improve their writing skills, or someone looking to write a book. The snippets from the authors are generally short, but full of motivation.
The authors cover all aspects of writing from getting started, to marketing, editing, and so many other areas. One of my personal favorite lines was “write one sentence a day” and your work will grow from there. Just get started!!
Master Calabrea: Dark Vampire Romance by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Master Calabrea is Book 6 in the Masters of the Consulate series. Master Calabrea is a vampire with the Consulate who has been given the task of hunting down Isala, an enemy of the vampire community. Embry’s cousin, Tansia, has come for a visit and to help her out. Tansia’s arrival has an unexpected effect on Calabrea, who acts indifferent to her but feels the opposite. He has no time nor need for a mate, let alone a human one so he chooses to ignore his feelings. Tansia has no luck at all with relationships and has a terrible track record, so she has no desire to try again, especially with a vampire who clearly hates her.
Time is running out to capture Isala, so Tansia and Calabrea are teamed up and told to remain together at all times. Tansia feels this is an impossible task because Calabrea cannot stand her. She could not be more wrong. Tansia has an unexplained effect on Calabrea, and this sets a chain of events into motion between Tansia and Calabrea that neither expected.
This book could possibly be read as a standalone, but it is probably better to read the series from the beginning. Sadly, I have not read the first books in the series so I feel as though I may have missed something. This book was fast paced from the beginning with wonderful characters and a great storyline. The attraction between Calabrea and Tansia is sizzling and undeniable. The hunt for Isala is fraught with tension and danger as they try to capture her before time runs out. I enjoyed this book and know that I will be reading this series from the beginning.
Echoing Hearts by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I highly enjoyed this book. The world building was amazing! The descriptions of the places had me feeling like a was there. The characters were wonderful and relatable. This was my first book by this author and I look forward to reading more!
Reviewed by @mimimadge
Cry Baby: A Grump Sunshine Slow Burn Romantic Comedy by Belinda Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the 4th book in this series. I read it as stand-alone book. The characters were relatable and perfectly written. The world-building was well done. I look forward to reading more books by this author.
Reviewed by @mimimadge
