Posts

Basil (Silver Springs Pets Series) by K. Rose – Review by Helen Dawkins

Basil (Silver Springs Pets, #7)Basil by K. Rose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book I have read by the author, K. Rose, and it was a pleasant, quick and fun read. While this is book 9 in the Silver Springs Pets Series, it is a standalone and the series can be read in any order.

The book has an unusual take on vampires that is quirky with a side of romance (reverse harem). Have you ever heard of a VEGAN vampire? No, I didn’t think so. On a horrible date, the FMC, Basil, is turned into a vampire and ends up in a supernatural sanctuary called Silver Springs. The FMC is a brilliant biomedical engineer and puts her skills to use to create a synthetic serum, so she does not need to drink blood – hence being vegan. I loved how creative this book was in every aspect, the plot, the world building, and the characters. At times it did remind me a tad bit of Twilight, specifically that the vampires are sparkly. I do wish that the FMC had more character development, but it was enough to still enjoy her character thoroughly.

This book will take your emotions on a rollercoaster – laughing out loud to crying. If you are looking for a quick quirky read that is drenched in spice, fated supernatural mates, glittery vampires, and full of adventure then I recommend you definitely pick this book up and read it! You will not be disappointed.

View all my reviews

Song of Earth and Claws (Faelands Series) by Lena Abram – Review by Helen Dawkins

Song of Earth and ClawsSong of Earth and Claws by Lena Abram
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Let me start off by saying this is a wonderful book. With that being said, I wanted to like it so much more than I actually did. This book is a stand-alone romantic fantasy novel, but it does have two other books in the same universe.

Song of Earth and Claws has a good amount of the “regular” fantasy elements, such as drama, danger, magic and mystical characters (in this case Fae – as well as shapeshifters). But there are also a few elements that the author adds that I find are quite unique and interesting, the main one being the way the fae differ from one another. They all have the deeper connection as far a morals go, but they couldn’t be any more different regarding powers, personalities, and physical attributes.

There is A LOT, and I do mean A LOT of information to take in that is honestly pretty necessary to keep the story line straight. This is a chacteristic most dystopian books have, especially in the very first book introducing the world, so I don’t have a problem with the amount of info but, my issue is more so with how much of the information if very alike. There are only very small differences, but those small differences are crucial at understanding and comprehending. Another issue I have is the names are very similar as well. Which would have been fine if they were characters on the same side, or for smaller characters, if a small description (without necessarily being redundant) was included when mentioning them. I completely understand this is easier said than actually done when it comes to writing characters lol.

There are several characters that I would consider “main” characters, but as far as the romantic story line of the book, it is focused on Lannahi and Ashared. I do deeply love their connection both physical and mental. The romantic part doesn’t really have momentum though until over half way, and I feel there was a lot of missed opportunity there because the book is focused on explaining in depth the rules of the fae universe as well as Lannahi as a person. I feel like the author was torn in two directions – the romantic portion of the story vs. the universe the romance took place in. I think the book generally would have been better if there was just one direction the author focused on. Because of this, the flow of the story was a little choppy.

The beginning of the story focuses on Lannahi only and the “games”. But the “games” are not really well explained and left me a little confused on why exactly they existed besides the fact to keep the fae from just murdering each other at random. Another large aspect of this book that heavily confused me was what the ACTUAL plot was, out of the plethora of things that could be considered, none of them really made enough sense to be the MAIN one. Yes, Lannahi wanted protection from Nihhal and she couldn’t speak of what he aspired to do, as well as she did not wish to become a slave. But wouldn’t becoming a Queen solve these issues? Isn’t that the whole point of why she became Queen? Not to mention, after she becomes Queen, it barely mentions him again until almost 3/4 ways through.

The element of danger is never missing, there is always a slight worry that someone might lose their life at any given moment. Has Lannahi bit of more than she could chew? Who knew being Queen would be just as dangerous as her future looked with Nihhal. Loyalties are tested, secrets are kept.. and broken, family members cannot always be trusted, and greed is not always the motivation behind a person’s intentions.

The universe itself is easily imagined; the author does a wonderful job of explaining the world. It is a BEAUTIFUL world, and I think this is one of the best things about this book. It is just enough similar to other fae worlds that makes it easy to imagine fae living there, but so different that you might just take a step back and imagine fae, as a whole, differently than before.
 
The underlying story had SO much potential, and I feel like it did not really meet its mark for me. But regardless, it is a good story and I encourage you to pick it up and read if you love fantasy romance!

View all my reviews

Nessie and the Living Stone (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Tori Mitton

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24855602-nessie-and-the-living-stone” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Nessie and the Living Stone (Nessie’s Grotto)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1423266798l/24855602._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24855602-nessie-and-the-living-stone”>Nessie and the Living Stone</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2948111.Lois_June_Wickstrom”>Lois June Wickstrom</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6099633270″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Craig and his sister Linda are at the loch on vacation with their parents. Craig and Linda are at the shore watching the water when they see Nessie. Roy the coast gaurd wants them to stay out of the water, he wants to capture Nessie and send her to a museum. Craig found Nessie’s stone and come to find out it’ll keep Nessie and her family and the grotto safe. But will Craig make the right decision? Can he keep Linda safe?<br />This was an absolute delight little read
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/6813301-tori”>View all my reviews</a>

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Tori Mitton

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/200960033-master-of-the-abyss” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1698556835l/200960033._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/200960033-master-of-the-abyss”>Master of the Abyss</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21829341.Rob_Samborn”>Rob Samborn</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6099622065″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Carlo has been having vivid dreams and flashes of Tintoretto. The Order expected Carlo to be part of the group but he was not. Carlo thought he was made to be this master painter, where in fact he was not.<br />Carlo wants to release the souls trapped in the paintings in Venice, and also abolish the order but that means he has to show his face where is banned from and they will hunt him down if he were to step foot in Venice. Julia’s husband is trapped in a purgatory in Venice. Can she team with Carlo to save her beloved husband. This story was absolutely amazing. Twists and turns from every corner. A must read series.
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/6813301-tori”>View all my reviews</a>

A King So Savage (The Savage Duet) by April Moran – Review by Tori Mitton

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75463470-a-king-so-savage” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”A King So Savage (The Savage Duet #1)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1672562632l/75463470._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75463470-a-king-so-savage”>A King So Savage</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16909848.April_Moran”>April Moran</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6099608010″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Ava, a sweet shy girl. Just going about her daily life. Her father worked for Kingston and so did her brother Carson. When all of a sudden Carson owes Kingston a lot of money. Instead of paying Kingston, Ava is kidnapped and held for ransom. Kingston wants his money but he becomes obsessed with Ava. He must protect her from everyone including himself. Ava tells herself that she hates Kingston, but the more she’s with him the more she falls in love with the savage king.<br />This is a dark romance so if this is your thing I highly recommend!! Cannot wait for book two!!
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/6813301-tori”>View all my reviews</a>

Knight In Peril (A Jorja Knight Private Investigator Mystery) by Alice Bienia – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

   This is book # 6 of the Jorja Knight Series. I have only read one other book from this series and while both are good. I do feel a little lost in this last one. I definitely recommend reading all of them in order. That being said, Jorja entered into another country to spend time with her friend Gabriella. Unfortunately Gabby and another friend of Gabby’s has gone missing. Will Jorja be able to find Gabby and the other woman? I really like Jorja but I feel like she trusts too easily in this book and it seems to back fire a lot. While I am still reading this book, I do plan on going back and reading the other books of this series because I found out something’s in this story that I didn’t know before. Which is probably why I feel lost. So do not skip any of the books, read them in order.

Knight In Peril (A Jorja Knight Private Investigator Mystery #6)Knight In Peril by Alice Bienia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is book # 6 of the Jorja Knight Series. I have only read one other book from this series and while both are good. I do feel a little lost in this last one. I definitely recommend reading all of them in order. That being said, Jorja entered into another country to spend time with her friend Gabriella. Unfortunately Gabby and another friend of Gabby’s has gone missing. Will Jorja be able to find Gabby and the other woman? I really like Jorja but I feel like she trusts too easily in this book and it seems to back fire a lot. While I am still reading this book, I do plan on going back and reading the other books of this series because I found out something’s in this story that I didn’t know before. Which is probably why I feel lost. So do not skip any of the books, read them in order.

View all my reviews

The Cold Kid Case (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Cold Kid Case is Book One in the Sparky of Bunker Hill Series. It is a historical cozy mystery with drama, suspense, intrigue, murder, mayhem, and paranormal elements. The storyline is set in the 1930’s and centers around an eleven-year-old street-smart girl who stumbles onto the body of a deceased young girl. Afterwards she is accused of being responsible for the girl’s death and finds herself on the lam as suspect number one. Sparky soon discovers who her true friends are as even those closest to her seem to want to turn their backs on her and turn her into the police. This was an entertaining read with a great storyline and vivid scene descriptions. The author takes the reader into the 1930’s through her attention to historical details, language, and norms of that era. Sparky was an instantly lovable character with her precocious attitude, wit, sense of humor, and street smarts. I look forward to reading book number two in this series!

View all my reviews@tarab

Triple Trouble at Amberwood (The Amberwood Hall Ballet School Series) by Eleanor Dixon – Review by Tori Mitton

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199511126-triple-trouble-at-amberwood” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Triple Trouble at Amberwood: Book Four in your favourite middle-grade haunted ballet school… (Amberwood Hall Ballet School 4)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1697109303l/199511126._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199511126-triple-trouble-at-amberwood”>Triple Trouble at Amberwood: Book Four in your favourite middle-grade haunted ballet school…</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20930193.Eleanor_Dixon”>Eleanor Dixon</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6085273623″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
This is the 4th book in the series, so if you haven’t read, you absolutely should! Lauren and her best friend Grace(also the resident ghost) are in a private school to learn ballet. Lauren and her friends are trying to learn but also investigate the weird things going on at Amberwood. This one focuses on the triplet ghosts that are making things very difficult and weird at Amberwood. Can Lauren and her friends help these spirits and get them to leave the school.
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/6813301-tori”>View all my reviews</a>

Dreamscape (J.J. Morris Mysteries) by J.N. Sheats – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

DreamscapeDreamscape by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dreamscape is Book Two in the JJ Morris Mystery Series. If you have not yet read the first book in the series, I recommend that you do because it will provide details on Joey’s backstory. This is a YA story with mystery, danger, action, suspense, paranormal, and intrigue. Joey is now in college and attempting to be a normal college student. However, that proves to be exceedingly difficult after being introduced to the paranormal world and a horde of black dogs. Joey finds sleep to be difficult due to the vivid dreams that she has, especially as the dreams become more intense and violent under the control of the Dream Conductor. Then there is the black cat that keeps appearing in her room and Joey cannot figure out how the cat keeps getting in or why it insists on keeping her sleep deprived. When weird little fires start popping up all over campus, people start to disappear, and weird things start to happen things become sinister. Joey is already struggling to be the perfect student and maintain perfect grades, but the strange and sinister happenings cause even more of a distraction. Around every corner, behind every door, and inside every person she meets could be something paranormal. A fantastic read with great world building, vivid scene descriptions, and fantastic characters that fully immerse you into the story from the start. Looking forward to the next book in this fantastic series!

View all my reviews@tarab

The Alien & the Crime Boss by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Alien & the Crime BossThe Alien & the Crime Boss by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Alien and the Crime Boss is a sci fi MM romance with action, danger, intrigue, suspense, and aliens. The story centers around the characters of Kasper and Leilphun. Kasper is an aspiring crime boss who is planning on a takeover by weakening the two major crime families. Leilphun is an alien who has transformed himself into human form and fled to Earth. When he wakes up and finds himself held captive by Kasper, he senses that Kasper will not harm him. As enemies approach and put Kasper’s life in danger Leilphun risks his own life to save him. The chemistry and attraction between the two is undeniable but Leilphun is uncertain if Kasper is only using him to rise to the top of the crime world or if he really cares for him. A great read by this talented author who never fails to deliver a well-crafted story with vivid scene descriptions and wonderful characters.

View all my reviews@tarab

Jade: Hidden Scars: A Forbidden Age-Gap Romance (Book 1) by A. Akinosho – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

I didn’t want to put this book down. It is the first in the series and the first book I have read by this author. I have a question for you: Have you ever fallen in love with someone that you know you aren’t destined to be with? Jade is a senior in high school when she meets Naseer (who is tens years older). Can their love be real? There is a lot of fighting with her family and his family because they are from different worlds. No one really knows how their love is there but as you read, you will feel it. I despise Naseer’s father and the so-called Princess Nadra who are insisting on Naseer to give up Jade. Despite all of the fighting and hiding can Jade and Naseer really make it or are they destined to end up unhappy with others. I still don’t know and I need to read the next book to find out just like you do. I promise this book is not one to put down. Now I am going to get book 2.

Hidden Scars (Jade #1)Hidden Scars by A. Akinosho
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I didn’t want to put this book down. It is the first in the series and the first book I have read by this author. I have a question for you: Have you ever fallen in love with someone that you know you aren’t destined to be with? Jade is a senior in high school when she meets Naseer (who is tens years older). Can their love be real? There is a lot of fighting with her family and his family because they are from different worlds. No one really knows how their love is there but as you read, you will feel it. I despise Naseer’s father and the so-called Princess Nadra who are insisting on Naseer to give up Jade. Despite all of the fighting and hiding can Jade and Naseer really make it or are they destined to end up unhappy with others. I still don’t know and I need to read the next book to find out just like you do. I promise this book is not one to put down. Now I am going to get book 2.

View all my reviews

A King So Savage (The Savage Duet) by April Moran – Review by Brittany Angel

A King So Savage (The Savage Duet #1)A King So Savage by April Moran
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I really wanted to like this one. It’s your typical trope of kidnapping the sister of a man who owes you money while driving her mad with lust and the ending on a cliff hanger. I think for me, there just needed to be a bit more editing. For those who are fans of this trope and genre, you will enjoy it. It just wasn’t for me.

View all my reviews

Nessie and the Living Stone (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Tanya Wall, December 2023

Nessie and the Living Stone (Nessie's Grotto)Nessie and the Living Stone by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dive into the whimsical world of “Nessie and the Living Stone” by Lois Wickstrom, a chapter book that’s not just for the kiddos—it’s a fantastic read for everyone. Whether you’re reading it aloud to little ones or enjoying it on your own, this underwater adventure has it all: magic stones, the Loch Ness monster, and life lessons cleverly woven into the tale.

While there might not be a ton of illustrations, the ones you do find are absolutely fabulous. The cover itself is a work of art, and the beautiful illustrations scattered throughout add an extra layer of charm to the story.

Lois Wickstrom brings a fresh twist to her storytelling in this book, maintaining her trademark messages while adding a sprinkle of magic and wonder. It’s a different flavor from her other works, but one that’s equally delightful.

With monsters, magic stones, and valuable lessons, “Nessie and the Living Stone” offers a relaxed and enjoyable read for kids of any age. Take a trip down memory lane as you follow the children on their unexpected journey, and let the charm of Loch Ness seep into your reading experience. It’s a delightful, fun-filled adventure that’s sure to leave you with a smile.

View all my reviews

Devil’s Claw (Logan McKenna Series Book 3) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

Devil's Claw: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Book 3 (Logan McKenna Series)Devil’s Claw: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Book 3 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Logan is at it once again in book 3! She just can’t seem to stay away from the murder mysteries! In this book her and her daughter are moving to California. But what happens when there is a fight for the property Lot 429? A gorgeous stretch of coastal property with a Sea Otter rescue center. The center needs help, but will Logan be able to not only save her daughter but bring yet another murderer to justice all while trying to help said center?! A dangerous coastal storm is on it’s way and it’s growing more and more violent as she races to find her daughter and a baby sea otter they were caring for. Finding a student murdered and another victim barely alive, Logan’s worst fears are coming to life. Can she enlist the help of friends and figure out this mystery before more lives are lost? She’s stopped killers before, but now her daughter’s life is on the line! Man oh man! What a great book! One of my favorites so far! I love the little otter twist to the story. You learn so much with these books and they are so fun and of course mysterious!! I can’t wait to read the rest to the set!!

View all my reviews

@jaimie0459

Lost and Found (Logan McKenna Mystery Book 9) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

Lost and Found: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 9 (Logan McKenna Series)Lost and Found: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 9 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lost and Found is the latest book in the Logan McKenna Mystery Series and I can’t get enough! I hope it’s not the last!! This WHOLE series has been amazing! Each book grips you into its pages and has you glued to them and your seat until you finish them all!! You COULD read them as standalones, but just don’t! Just read them all and in order! I read the 8th one first and I couldn’t wait to get into the others. So trust me! Read them ALL!! You will not regret it! Now to this wonderful book!! Logan is once again caught in the middle of an investigation of not one, but two murders. Sam’s friend is accused of the second murder, but he swears that he is innocent. Evidence that incriminates him says otherwise though and he’s arrested. Sam asks Logan for help. Logan once again puts herself in danger to help protect and prove innocent, the people she cares about. Things get a bit more complicated with a missing person and no one is at all as they seem!!! The more she learns ,the more confused she becomes. With a target on her back once again, she must find the real killer! Many twists and turns in this book just like the others in the series. I loved learning about the crab fishing in this book! Each book has something that is so cool to learn about. I don’t’ know which one is my favorite!!

View all my reviews

@jaimie0459

Whisper Creek (Logan McKenna Mystery Book 7) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

Whisper Creek (A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 7)Whisper Creek by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Boy oh boy, does this series just hook you right away and keep you reeling in more and more with each new book!! This is book 7 in the Logan McKenna series and let me tell you that you can’t go wrong with any of them! They are so great. You could read them all as standalones, but I really really suggest that you just read them all. You will not regret it and I personally think that it adds to the world that the author has cast for us all. Poor Logan is defiantly a magnet for all kinds of trouble. With each new book she faces more and more mystery and danger. In this one, she gets away to Oregon for a little while and starts a private school consulting job, but of course she trips over a dead body and it thrown into yet another murder mystery! And yet again she finds herself investigating to prove who the killer is and who it isn’t! Trying to save her friends, once again she puts herself at risk to catch who the real killer is. Just like the other books, this one has some twists. I love reading a book where I don’t know who the killer is right away. I can normally spot it right away with every movie I see. With these books I love that I can’t!! I can’t wait to read finish to this set! It’s coming to soon, but I still can’t wait!

View all my reviews

@jaimie0459

Lies That Bind (Logan McKenna Series Book 6) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

Lies That Bind (A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 6)Lies That Bind by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the sixth book to the Logan McKenna series and let me tell you that these books just get better and better. You follow Logan throughout many ups and downs in her life. You get a glimpse of quite a few things along the way too! Logan just seems to be followed by murder mysteries! In this book Logan and Ben have bought a fixer upper (just like her last place) on the Oregon Coast. It’s so neat because this home was owned by a family since the prohibition days!! So many hidden treasures and secrets to be found! Things being in surface after someone is found dead in the Collins Hotel pool. Of course, poor Logan finds herself immersed into yet another mystery. Was this accident or murder?!?! She again finds herself in danger, but things are strange. Maybe she’s cursed! Never a dull moment as she investigates the death, meets her new half-sister, and deals with the house with Ben!! And all at once! Whew! Craziness! You CAN read all the books to this set (so far) as standalones, BUT I really suggest that you just read them all in order! I read the 8th one first and it didn’t hurt, but you will miss the natural flow of the books and all the growth throughout for each of the the wonderful characters. I can’t wait to see what Logan will be up to in the next few books. I’m a little sad that I’m getting close to the end of the series 🙁

View all my reviews

@jaimie0459

Safe Harbor (Logan McKenna Series Book 5) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

SAFE HARBOR: Logan Book 5(The Logan McKenna Series)SAFE HARBOR: Logan Book 5 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Safe Harbor is book 5 to the Logan McKenna series. You could read it as a standalone, but I would personally suggest that you just read them all! They are so good and you won’t want to put them down!! The series gets better and better with every book and I am not at all ashamed to say that I have lost quite a bit of sleep over this series and I would do it all over again!! Grab these books!!!! Once again Logan is dragged into a homicide mystery. This woman just can’t stay away from trouble! Finally on a vacation with her family and Ben, she looks forward to seeing Oregon. So much fun to be had during their summer trip. Maybe?? Visiting an aquarium, ocean walks, a boat fishing charter, and even tickets for a classical concert for her and Ben!! But now she’s a suspect! So of course she is trust back into the life of investigator. Digging into another murder she has to find the killer before she goes down for the crime herself!! This author has hooked me from book one, but man let me tell you that so far they are all so great!!!! You have to read this series!!

View all my reviews

@jaimie0459

Vanishing Day (Logan McKenna Series Book 4) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

Vanishing Day: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Logan Book 4 (Logan McKenna Series)Vanishing Day: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Logan Book 4 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When I say that this series is just getting better and better with each book, you just need to take my word for it. But also read this set!!!!! You CAN read them all as standalone, but please just read them all! You will not regret it! Logan has a bad habit of getting stuck in the middle of murders, but she also has a pretty good track record with unearthing the killers. This time she’s so close to the killer that it’s crazy scary. Determined to find the truth Logan yet again dives into the mystery. The police investigation stalls, but that never stopped Logan before and it won’t now. Not knowing she holds the clue to it all, she is sucked into the killers world once again. Can she make it out alive again or will this be the one killer that makes her life vanish! The author has spun yet another wonderful suspense thriller murder mystery! I was on the edge of my seat even more and I can’t wait to dive into the nest book to the series!! Grab this whole set!! You will love them!! Danger, suspense, abuse, family and friends, intrigue, and of course murder!!

View all my reviews

@jaimie0459

Forest Park (Logan McKenna Mystery Book 2) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

Forest Park: Logan Book 2 (The Logan McKenna Series)Forest Park: Logan Book 2 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Valerie has done it again!! Another gripping mystery thriller. Now you don’t HAVE to read the others in the series, in fact I read the 8th book before an of the others. The author is wonderful at sneaking in previous information to keep you caught up. BUT let me tell you that if you don’t read the other books in the series you are MISSING OUT!!!! I have loved them all so far and you will too. In this book Logan is visiting Portland, a small vacation with her new boyfriend and to do a little recon on a school and it’s program that lines up with her own new career. She’s loving the city, the sights, and of course all the wonderful food! But then a horrible explosion destroys a food truck near her hotel and she knows the owner who was killed in the blaze. Of course Logan’s new friend and a Vietnam vet are the top suspects, but she knows better. Not knowing if it was an accident or done on purpose, Logan starts digging into the mystery. Without knowing who to trust she dives in to intestate all while trying to deal with her own personal life, which is also having some issues of it’s own. Secrets and lies unravel and while bringing everything to the surface her own life is once again in the cross fire of the real killer. I’m not going to give anything away, but boy oh boy does this story get good!! I love a great mystery!!

View all my reviews

@jaimie0459

Shattered (Logan McKenna Series Book 1) by Valerie Davisson- Reviewed by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a gripping mystery crime thriller with lots of action and adventure!! This set of books had me not wanting to sleep so I could finish them! I, of course had to sleep, so it took me longer than I even wanted, but I was not disappointed at all!! The author weaves these stories so well. I could easily see these as movies! With this first book the author paints you a picture of a local arts festival that is based around glass blowing demonstrations. You are placed into their world of art and music. But then a young glassblower is brutally murdered at the festival before hours. Logan has lost so much. Her husband, the company they built together, her music, and probably her job that she really came to enjoy. Having the summer “off” because she’s a teacher, a couple friends invite her to the festival to help with their booth. She of course is excited to help and to make a little income while waiting to see her fait with the schoolboard. Her friend Thomas is accused of the murder and Logan isn’t convinced. He refuses to defend himself and Logan doesn’t understand why. She starts to look into the glassblowers and everyone connected to them. There is more to this murder and with a slam-dunk suspect the detective isn’t looking elsewhere. Logan digs into secrets while diving into the world of glassblowing. The real killer becomes more dangerous and Logan must find out who it is before it’s to late for her friend, but also herself! With killer now after her, can she find the proof needed to free her friend before she herself is killed? Such a great book!! I didn’t see a few things coming and it was so wonderful! I love it when I can’t guess who the killer is right away. I can’t wait to finish the whole set!!

View all my reviews

@jaimie0459

The Alien & the Crime Boss by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Barbara Bohls

The Alien & the Crime BossThe Alien & the Crime Boss by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is really, really good. I am not a sci-fi can at all but this has romance which is my go to genre, so I figured I would give it a go. This is also an author that I have read before and loved their writing style. Lets start by saying this is a more of a sci-fi book with MM romance than a romance with sci-fi. The way the author writes and describes the scenes is amazing. It helped me really be able to visualize what was happening and I got lost in. this unique world that was created. I will be the first to admit that I was really thinking I wasn’t going to like this book because of the sci-fi elements. That was not the cause, I feel the sci-fi really took the story in a creative direction that I would have never thought of and really made the story come to life. The imagery that you are able to create based upon the writing allows for this book to be a quick read. I found myself flying through the pages and when the books ends, it feels like it was supposed to end the way that it did. I didn’t feel like it was lacking anything and it felt whole. There are areas that this could continue if the author wants to but it also is summed up nicely to where you as a reader feel content with how things worked out. This was a great escape. that I didn’t see coming but thoroughly enjoyed.
Reviewed by: @bbohls
View all my reviews

Porter and Midge (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Tori Mitton

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/198192753-porter-and-midge” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Porter and Midge: Paws for Safety: A Kid’s Guide to Safe Dog Interactions (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1695051094l/198192753._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/198192753-porter-and-midge”>Porter and Midge: Paws for Safety: A Kid’s Guide to Safe Dog Interactions</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/29768385.Giselle_Nevada”>Giselle Nevada</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6071349572″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Cute book. Teaches kids to let their dogs enjoy play time. Ways to help stimulate them by playing hide and seek with foods and treats. Shows you how to let your dog guide you way when out and about. We really enjoyed this book.<br />
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/6813301-tori”>View all my reviews</a>

Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series Book 4) by C.R. Alam – Review by Tori Mitton

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199026590-dangerous-rhythm” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series, #4)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1696362219l/199026590._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199026590-dangerous-rhythm”>Dangerous Rhythm</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18542723.C_R_Alam”>C.R. Alam</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6071333137″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Lina is retired military, but does private security. She ends up being a body guard for Canis Major. When Curtis the lead of the band runs into trouble with the mafia, he needs help from Lina.<br />Lina and Curtis have known each other for sometime since she has worked with the band before. Lina and Curtis end up having to go on the run from the mafia, but they can’t keep their crush from each other anymore. This was another great read!! It was super fast paced and enjoyable from the start!
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/6813301-tori”>View all my reviews</a>

Orenda (The Latitude Series) by T.S. Simons – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Orenda (The Latitude)Orenda by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Orenda is Book Two in The Latitude Series. It is a dystopian romance with action, suspense, drama, intrigue, tension, family, friendship, loyalty, and betrayal. The book centers around the characters of Gio and Caitlin who have become ambassadors for the ACC in Canada. Their efforts to promote peace and harmony are short lived as an old enemy resurfaces and puts all their work into danger. I loved the writing style and the focus on the First Nations Iroquois belief that all people and natural objects possess a mystical energy. The concept is fascinating and thought provoking. The characters take us on an emotional rollercoaster as we learn about their hopes and dreams, their struggles, and their challenges along the way. The scenes were vividly written and fully immerse you into the story along with the characters.

View all my reviews@tarab

Lost and Found (Logan McKenna Mystery Book 9) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Lost and Found: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 9 (Logan McKenna Series)Lost and Found: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 9 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lost and Found is Book Nine in the Logan McKenna Mystery Series. It is a crime thriller with action, suspense, mystery, intrigue, murder, danger, lies, and drama. Logan is on another adventure that takes her into the world of commercial crabbing. When a dead body turns up Logan sets out to find out what happened. As she delves into the murder she discovers a tangled web of secrets, lies and deceit that slowly turns deadly. I love the character of Logan because she is smart, feisty, determined, and courageous. When the stakes get high, she delves in deeper and does not give up. The book takes some twists and turns that make it impossible to put down. Another great book in this series that kept me reading until the end to find out what happened next.

View all my reviews@tarab

Triple Trouble at Amberwood (The Amberwood Hall Ballet School Series) by Eleanor Dixon – Review by Barbara Bohls

Triple Trouble at Amberwood: Book Four in your favourite middle-grade haunted ballet school... (Amberwood Hall Ballet School 4)Triple Trouble at Amberwood: Book Four in your favourite middle-grade haunted ballet school… by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the 4th book of the series and can be read as a stand alone book. However, if you want more details on what is going on; I highly suggest reading them in order. It will help fill in the gaps of background that you will be wanting in the beginning of this book. This book is a spirited tale that is geared for 8-13 year olds but I feel like if the reader likes a hauntingly tale that isn’t super scary this would work for them as well. I enjoyed the book and felt it was an easy read. So, if your child isn’t to terribly into reading but you are trying to encourage them to do so, this book/series might be a good start for you. It has an easy to follow plot. It has relatable characters or characteristics. The characters sure do know how to get into some mischievous situations. This is what makes the book fun. Does the show go on, will they figure out what needs to be done, or will the ghosts do what they set out to do. These thoughts are what will keep any reader turning the pages. I highly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who has a dancer in their life that loves a little mystery.
Reviewed by: @bbohls

View all my reviews

Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series Book 4) by C.R. Alam – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series, #4)Dangerous Rhythm by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dangerous Rhythm is Book Four in The Echo Series. It is an intriguing read with a great storyline that puts a spin on the roles we would typically see in society. The story centers around the characters of Curtis and Lina and the smoldering flame they have carried for each other for years. Curtis is a rockstar that plays in the band Canis Major. He seemingly has everything you could possibly want with wealth, fame, and good-looking women swooning over him. Lina is a bodyguard that has been hired to protect the members of the band. When she has the chance to be around Curtis again after two years away from him, she cannot help but be anxious and excited. He has a charm and presence about him that she has not forgotten and cannot seem to resist. When Curtis witnesses a horrendous crime, it is up to Lina to protect him at all costs. As the two spend more time together the chemistry between them intensifies and becomes undeniable. Lina feels conflicted between keeping Curtis safe and giving into her feelings for him. Curtis has not stopped thinking about Lina since they first met two years ago, and he is determined to show her that he is the man for her. Things heat up in more ways than one with danger lurking around every corner and the passion burning between Curtis and Lina. A fantastic read with drama, danger, angst, passion, chemistry, romance, rockstars, a mob boss, and suspense. I loved the reverse protector roles and how Lina was Curtis’ bodyguard. I especially loved the character of Lina and that she was the protector in this storyline. She was smart, strong, courageous, fierce, and unafraid to look danger in the eye. I highly recommend not only this book, but this series!

View all my reviews@tarab

Auctioned Surrender (Sinful Duets Book 2) by Via Mari – Review by Barbara Bohls

Auctioned Surrender (Sinful Duets #2)Auctioned Surrender by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an amazing book. I couldn’t sleep until I finished it. It was a quick read because I became so involved in what was going on. There is so much in this book that I am having a difficult time trying to say why y’all should read it without giving anything away. You will get so emotionally involved in this duet that you will find yourself talking out loud to the characters and wanting to smack them at the same time. I always think that if you can get emotionally attached to the characters, that is how you know the book is written really well. The suspense in the stories if this duet is amazing. You will be on the edge of your seat waiting with bated breath to see what happens. You will also be blushing at the steam and romance of this story. The only exclaimer I can suggest is to be aware of your surroundings while reading this duet. I say that because I. did walkout loud and groan while reading this and my kids looked at me funny. I found myself having to walk around or to just stand up because of what was happening in this duet. This is an incredible duet that had me physically reacting to what was going on. You will not be disappointed when reading this.
Reviewed by: @bbohls

View all my reviews

Unexpected by Laylah Abrams – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

UnexpectedUnexpected by Laylah Abrams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Unexpected is a contemporary romance about two people who meet unexpectedly and make an unexpected connection. For all outward appearances Claire and Nick are complete opposites. She is a beautiful heiress who is used to being in the spotlight. Claire has both beauty and brains, but she keeps the educated part of her persona private and instead lets the tabloids report on who her newest love interest is. Nick is an aspiring artist currently working as a waiter in the hopes of not losing his scholarship. When Claire and her friends go out for dinner at the restaurant where Nick works him, and Claire find that they have an instant connection with one another. The two strike up a secret friendship which quickly turns into more. A heartfelt read about finding love in the most unexpected circumstances. The characters were relatable, and I loved that Claire was not just another ditzy heiress that was only concerned about her looks and how popular she was. Nick was down-to-earth, smart, funny, and the perfect match for Claire. This book had friendship, romance, love, angst, drama and a splatter of wit and humor.


View all my reviews@tarab