Complicated Choices by Risa Nyman was a good read, yet at times a hard read as seeing what happens when our younger generation must grow up too fast. Claire, really makes her mark on you in your heart and in you mind. From beginning to end, I wish I could get into the book and help her. This character truly became a part of my world as I read this book. Claire is a senior in high school, who should be worried about love, grades, college, and prom but instead is helping her single mother care for her new baby brother. Her mother is showing signs more and more of postpartum depression and using Claires college fund for baby Harry’s daycare costs. The pressure is on them all when Uncle Pat says he will give the money back for college and help them but the baby has to be put up for adoption. Claire will stop at nothing to keep her, her mother, and the baby together.
The author of this book, is simply brilliant. The book pulls at your heart strings, makes you cry, gets you mad. This book is also filled with strong characters, love, drama, secrets, and everything that makes this an amazing read! HIGHLY recommend this amazing read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heidi Eich Woodringhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeidi Eich Woodring2023-08-08 08:35:142023-08-16 13:45:57Complicated Choices by Risa Nyman Review by Heidi Woodring
Love On The Line by Laurie Lewis is book two in the Great Expectations Love Story : The Graykens. This book is a continuation of Mikaela and Matt’s love story. I really enjoyed book one so I was excited to get to read book two. I really enjoy Laurie’s writing style and I really enjoy the characters she creates. This was a sweet book of love. Although it wasn’t all butterflies it was beautifuly written. I definitely recommend if you have read book one. I look forward to maybe a book with Kate’s story? And more of Matt and Michaela. Overall great story and 5 star rating.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amber R Langehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmber R Lange2019-03-31 20:12:482019-04-01 06:15:56LOVE on the LINE, A Great Expectations Love Story: The Graykens, Book 2 by Laurie Lewis – Review by Amber Lange
Reading the Ash Park novels throughout 2018 was the favorite times of my dark twisted little thriller heart. Each and every one was a dirty little secret desire that I devoured and enjoyed way too much. In fact, all of Megan O’ Flynn’s novels do that to me actually. I can always count on her when I need a good twisty dark read.
Now with every book Of her Ash Park series I have left a glowing review saying how flabbergasted I was this woman could top the crazy and the great that was the book before it, but she delivered time and time again, and I was heartbroken when I thought it may have come to an end for the Ash Park stories. So to say I was excited when I saw Salvation pop up on my feed would simply be an understatement. I devoured this packed full 161 page novella in just a few short hours and was left dying for a reread of the the series again! LOL! If you haven’t gone and read them yet, do so, you won’t be disappointed!!
Salvation gives us the up close and personal, the nitty gritty, on Detective Edward Petrosky. He was always a favorite of mine throughout the series but seemed to leave a lot of unanswered questions about why he was the way he was… Well no more questions yall. O’Flynn gives and gives and twists the knife ever so perfectly. Of course I am not going to give to juicy gory details, for those you will have to one-click and devour this gem for yourself. You will fall in love I am sure and find yourself hooked! Thank you for this fantastic series Ms. O’Flynn! I can’t wait to see what will come next from you!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2019-02-01 04:09:232019-02-01 07:08:25Salvation: An Ash Park Prequel Novella by Meghan O’Flynn ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
Wow… this was a melodious and poetic tale. I truly loved every moment of it from start to finish. Emmalyn Danvers was a completely new author to me when I first picked up A Tendency Dark and Dangerous, but I can tell you this will not be my last foray into her writing mind. I absolutely can’t say enough how much I enjoyed the out of the box writing style that she used. Now I will preface it with I am a huge fan of poetry, and this book read to me like a sonnet, a poem of love and life. I was grasped by the emotion I felt just with the way this story was portrayed in the writing itself. Then to have such a wonderful story to be told by it as well? Well lets just say this was an easy five star read and review for me.
Evangeline would appear to have it all. The perfect job, great friends that she can count on and loves, and the perfect boyfriend that she adores. Life is finally perfect, and she damn well deserves it after the past she has endured. Then one day Landon Kelly walks into her life and everything is about to be turned on its head. Everything Evangeline thought she knew will be thoroughly evaluated and tested… and this makes for some juicy reading. I won’t divulge much more, for that you will have to scoop up this gem for yourself and clear a few hours of your evening. I know I needed it, I finished this in one sitting and could have easily gone back for more! Thank you for such a wonderful story and I can’t wait to see what will come next from you Ms. Danvers!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2019-01-21 16:51:342019-01-21 18:42:13A Tendency Dark and Dangerous by Emmalyn Danvers ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
“I have learned that grief is another name for love.” ~ Unknown
It is hard for me, yet again, to come up with the words to properly describe how wonderful of a novel Gwyn McNamee has penned with Building Storm. Truly and utterly stunning… I was left lost in my thoughts for a few days before I could come to this review. I have been anticipating this book for some time now as it is the fourth novel in McNamee’s Hawke Family Series. I highly suggest you read the other books in the series and in order before you read this book. This is not a standalone novel! I knew to expect a book that would give me some feels and some steamy sass that we just can’t find anywhere else but with Gwyn McNamee but wow, I had no idea this was coming. It was absolutely beyond expectations! As for plot details and info… you won’t find that here… you will have to scoop this up for yourself. Thank you so much for this wonderful series, and this wonderful book Ms. McNamee!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2019-01-15 22:45:302019-01-16 00:27:32Building Storm (A Hawke Family Novel) (The Hawke Family Book 4) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Liz Vrchota
I couldn’t wait to get my hands on ‘The Way You Are.’ It kind of snuck up on me and my newsfeed as a new release just three days before it was to go live and thus hit my kindle and I have to say it was a long three days. But, I was grateful that I didn’t have a longer anticipation time lol. I absolutely adored the first four Carolina Connections Novels. Noting that this is the fifth book in the series, these are all written in a way that they could be read as standalone’s. However, the characters from the previous books also make guest appearances here and there, so that is a bonus!
‘The Way You Are’ was such a funny read. It balanced the perfect amount of romance and comedy just like we are used to seeing from Sylvie Stewart. This is partly why I absolutely can’t help but one-click everything from her. Of course the romance had the zing that made you want that tall glass of wine and a fan. Sylvie has a knack for that slow burn build up too! I could honestly gush about the writing for days but…. onto the goods.
OH, Olivia, Liv… I loved her. Sometimes I wanted to yell at her and others I wanted to cheer for her. A lot like she hackle all those players. Liv loves her baseball. She loves her boyfriend. At least she thinks she does. He is perfect. The ballplayer of her dreams. But, there is her best friend that is starting to look really good. Like, not just friend zone good.
Brett gives up. He really likes Liv. But there is that friend zone. He is infamous for it and really it’s just made it to the point where he is just focusing on his career and enjoying what and who he does have in his life at the moment. What will happen when his chance finally comes and the prince charming messes up big-time?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-12-15 20:44:132018-12-16 07:53:53The Way You Are (Carolina Connections Book 5) by Sylvie Stewart ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
I have to say right off the bat that I am a bit of a skeptic about most military romances. I am a NAVY brat, and I was raised in a family with generations of family members that served our country or are currently serving. I have firsthand experienced what it feels like to have family in the thick of danger and not knowing if they will come home in one piece, or in a pine box. It’s terrifying and honestly the people we love never come back the same even if they are physically unharmed. A lot of novels can be a bit exaggerated and have that happy ending that is just, in my opinion, not realistic at all therefore I can’t enjoy the novel. This was the complete opposite situation with Embattled Heart! I adored this novel. It was real, honest, and raw. I connected with these characters so much so that I found it so hard to pull myself away from them even after I had finished the book.
I wish that I had read the prequel to this book, The Embattled Road. It didn’t kill me that I hadn’t but I will for sure go back and do so now. It would appear that this is where we get to meet the men that will be present in the forthcoming books in the Lost and Found series. Embattled Heart is the story of John and Shannon though, and it looks like going forward we should get the stories of Duncan and Chad. (I can’t wait!!)
I’m not spoiling a thing for you so a quick ditty is all you get! John Palmer, the swoony man he is, was injured in the war in Iraq. Now he is left in a wheelchair and damaged on the inside just as much. Shannon just might be the one to fix all the broken pieces if he can learn to accept her love. There is an underlying piece of suspense to the story, not as prevalent or important to me as the deeper emotional story, however it was a nice way to balance the emotional parts of the book. As for the rest of the details you will have to grab a copy of the book for yourself and devour it. I am going to buy a few extra and gift a few! Thanks so much for the great read JM Madden! I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book Embattled Minds!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-11-28 13:03:432018-11-28 13:21:32Embattled Hearts (Military Romantic Suspense) (Lost and Found Book 1) by J.M. Madden – Review by Liz Vrchota
Holy cow! This was just what the doctor ordered! (Literally I needed a good evening read to get out of my head.) I have only read a small novella in an anthology by Melissa Kier before, which I enjoyed, but I am more and more falling in love with her writing. She really knows how to weave a story with grace and heart in one well written compact package. This novella is under 120 pages, and I felt like I got a 300 page story. I truly enjoyed my time with Tuesday in Copper Mills.
Tuesday has set up her new food truck, Tuesday’s Tacos, and a new life in Copper Mills. She recently lost her mother, her business, and had a brutal breakup. Everything was going so well with business that she needed to hire another set of hands. Little did she know how much crud that was going to cause when she hired the boy she hired… Will it destroy everything she just rebuilt?
Blake Rodgers, the mayor of Copper Mills is another of our MC’s He does all he can for the people of Copper Mills. One trip to the grocery store finds him in the path of Tuesday and in an insta-kinda love. But of course there is always a catch somewhere in the happiness… His crazy ex has other plans in mind, and things start to get really ugly.
I adored this story for so many reasons. I could go on and on, but I feel like I would give too much away. For more you will just have to pick up this gem and read for yourself what happens for these two. I must now go and find some more goodies from Melissa Keir!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-11-18 20:30:492018-11-18 20:35:26Only This Tuesday: A Copper Mills Novella by Melissa Keir ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
I really enjoy my visits to Cedarville. Now, don’t worry too much if you haven’t read all of the previous Cedarville novels from Bree Kraemer before this one. I would really only be concerned that you read “After All These Years” which is book #7. That is where we first get to meet the main characters of “Say When”. All of Kraemer’s Cedarville’s novels are fantastic though. I truly love the cast of characters. They all vary and are like old friends that we get to visit from time to time. I would have to say this one happens to be one of my favorites though and comes as a nice and sweet heartwarming read that I just couldn’t put down until I had devoured all of it in one sitting.
Like I said we have met Dani before in the seventh book, “After All These Years.” There we found out all about her shyness. It really inhibits her ability to live out in the open or find love. But it doesn’t affect her gift of baking. She makes some delicious treats and finds herself making the deserts that are served at the restaurant that Wes runs and opens in the book.
Patrick was hired as the chef of Wes’s restaurant. He himself is a quiet guy. His passion for cooking is sort of similar to Dani’s love of baking. Patrick has also fallen in love with the cupcakes that he has been consuming at the restaurant. He just wishes he knew who made them. One day fate gives him the opportunity to find out just who that it. He is blown away by how sexy and stunning she is. He is even more shocked to learn she is the same shy and introverted girl that he used to know as his sister’s best friend, just all grown up.
What will happen when they both discover that the attractions are mutual? Can Dani overcome her shyness just enough to let herself feel love? Will these two mix up more than just a good dish or treat? I loved this installment, and I personally can’t wait to find out what will come next for the little town of Cedarville. Thanks for another great read Bree Kraemer!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-11-12 11:37:432018-11-12 14:04:06Say When (A Cedarville Novel Book 9) by Bree Kraemer ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
Wow! I have not read anything from Megan Mitcham before, and I am kind of kicking myself for it now. Big time! I loved this novel, and for so many different reasons. This happens to be very good, because I will mostly be rambling about them, for the better part of this review. I would hate to spoil any of this fantastic multi-layer mystery and suspense novel that what I could say about its storyline is quite limited.
I think I must start with the gorgeous cover. I was drawn in right away with its striking appearance. I honestly didn’t even read the blurb, and jumped right into the novel, no questions asked. I was ready for an adventure.
This story promises to keep you enthralled every single second. I was constantly wondering WHO. Which really not only made the title very fitting, but was a really great reading experience. I love a great suspenseful story that will keep me engaged and going, “I didn’t see that coming.” out loud to myself several times throughout. I very much so caught myself doing this.
I absolutely adored that a woman, Larkin Ashford, was a main character and the billionaire. More power to strong women represented. She is one kicka** character and I loved her. She knew what she wanted and she took it. No games. Sometimes it is nice to just get a no mess story. This had the hint of romance but it was a focus and I liked that. It was a balance to the suspense rather than a focus. Mostly we see that Larkin is a strong person and I really loved that.
I would have to say finally, that I am most excited that this is just book one is a series. That means there is more to come! Bonus to being late to the game of discovering Megan Mitcham is while I am waiting I can go check out her other works! Thanks for a great read Ms. Mitcham!
521. That, is how many reviews that I currently have on Goodreads right now. So, to say that I have experience writing one is pretty valid. Well, ‘Neverland’ has completely thrown me for a loop. I finished this novel in one sitting a few evenings ago and it has consumed my thoughts since. I still can’t figure out how to do this novel justice with my review. Honestly, I will sincerely do my best, but all I can say for sure is you have to read this one for yourself. Especially, if you are a dark and twisty novel fan like myself. Do not let the warnings get to you. Yes it is a dark book. It is not all flowers and sunshine. Guess what? Life is not flowers and sunshine people! These books that touch us so much are often the ones that are so realistic, because they are relatable. We can see more of ourselves in the characters.
These characters will do just that too. They will suck you in. Every single piece of you. Heart and soul. I was so invested. Every time something happened, good or bad, to the characters I felt it too. My heart broke to a million tiny pieces. Honestly, it still hurts. Especially after that ending. It all makes so much sense now, but I have a feeling this book will stay with me for a long time. Now that I have read ‘Neverland” I have to read another Melissa Jane novel. I have been scouring her works and adding them to by TBR list for days. I do believe that I will start with ‘Little Doll’ next. That one is a part of a series. Thank you so much for this wonderful and mind-blowing novel Melissa Jane. It truly blew me away and left me speechless. This goes on my top ten reads of 2018 list!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-11-05 11:09:162018-11-05 11:39:57Neverland by Melissa Jane ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
I have read a couple of books from this author but she keeps on surprising me with her writing. You can read this as a stand-alone but this story has prior characters that you will also love. I love a good love at first sight story but this author exceeded all my expectations. I could not put this book down. The characters drew me in right from the first page. It only took me a full day to devour this incredible book.
Quinn has always wanted a love like she reads in her books. She has always loved love. Quinn is photographer with her dad which she absolutely a dream come true. She is doing her first shoot and she runs into the most beautiful man she has ever seen. Quinn can feel an instant attraction to him. She is shocked when Noah asks her out. There relationship develops pretty fast but when you know you know. Quinn feels like this is the perfect love story for her but then they start to see the downs. Will Noah and Quinn’s love survive the devastation or will they become broken?
I absolutely loved this book. The storyline has it all romance, heartbreak, and healing. You will fall in love with these characters right from the beginning. Quinn is a beautiful woman with a heart of gold. She wants her happy ever after. Noah is the perfect guy. He treats Quinn like a princess and all he wants to do is make her happy. These characters have some steamy scenes that will make your temperature rise. This talented author will keep you on the edge of your seat until the end. I can’t wait to see what this author will write next.
I loved this new short from C.A. King. I had no idea what to expect going in other than it would be a great read from a author I have grown to love. This was probably my absolute favorite book from C.A. King yet. I was hooked from the very beginning in with Aunt Petunia’s story in the prologue.
“Fairies are born from emotions and wishes,” Petunia explained. “When you blow a bubble, you fill it up with all you are feeling. That’s why there are different kinds of fairies. Have you ever noticed if you are in a bad mood and blow a few bubbles, you start to feel better? That’s because all of that turmoil is released inside the bubbles.” She poked her niece in the tummy.
Caitlin giggled, Wiggling away.
“Those fairies aren’t the nicest, but on the flip side, if you are celebrating a birthday and are happy, all that joy goes into the making of a different fairy,” Petunia continued.
“What if they pop?” Caitlin asked.
“Oh,” Petunia replied, shaking her head. A serious expression crossed her face. “Many of them do. That is why fairies are so rare. Only a select few float off into the clouds. It’s there that life begins, but that isn’t the end of the struggle for a new fairy. Any bubble that reaches the greatest heights and floats back down has within it the beginnings of a new fairy- magic dust. You’ve heard of fairy dust, haven’t you?”
From the prologue we fast forward to when Caitlin is eighteen years old. Aunt Petunia is no longer the favorite aunt with the magical stories. She is now a recluse bestselling author only socializing when work requires her to. She lives on the outskirts of town in a creepy house with two cats. One day Aunt Petunia stops by and announces that she has to leave for a funeral and needs her to watch her house. The only problem with that is the guy she has been hoping to land some time with before graduation chose this weekend to finally ask her to hang out. When her friends convince her to have a secret get together at the house surely it wont go well for many reasons.
Here is where I really loved the way this book played out so well. This was a wonderfully crafted story, and one that I enjoyed at thirty-three but, I will be adding it to my list of books to share with my eleven year old. This has a great underlying message of anti-bullying. The situations are realistic and yet are done in a way that is appropriate for multiple audience levels. It is fun, engaging, and magical. I felt very much like I was reading a Harry Potter novel. That good magical feeling that you have when you open one of those novels. I don’t want to give away too many more details. For those you will have to buy this for yourself. I wouldn’t wait for the Halloween season either, enjoy it year-round! This one will need to be on my bookshelf! Thanks C.A. King for a wonderfully, magical read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-11-01 22:26:282018-11-02 04:41:59Do Not Open Until Halloween by C.A. King ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
I finished up ‘The Plot’ a few days ago and I have been struggling with the right words to describe my experience with it for some time now. “It was great”, just doesn’t’ seem like enough. “I loved it”, is pretty simplistic too. I think one thing that did stand out to me pretty much consistent throughout while I was reading it though would have to be that I was feeling as if I was getting a full-fledged story, instead of just a one hour glimpse, of one of my all-time favorite television shows. Law and Order: Special Victims Unit.
I had no idea what to expect when I decided to read ‘The Plot’. I had never read anything from Melinda De Ross before, but I can assure you that will be changing here very soon! I was drawn in by the bold cover and the intriguing blurb. I wanted some suspense for the season that is among us with the fall and all. This was perfect. There was never a dull moment. Just when I felt as if I could breathe again something would happen to make me second guess myself all over again. Melinda had a way of weaving the story just right so there was never a lag time.
Yoko lived in a literal hell for four years thanks to Mr. Chen and countless other men like him. They would use her and her body for whatever they pleased and she would see a pittance for it. She is just barely starting over and hardly trusting anyone so when Mark Chandler, her boss, starts to make her feel things she long thought were dead inside her she wonders if she should trust him, could trust him. Would he accept her if he knew her secrets? Then again Mark just might have a few of his own secrets he is hiding too… That you will just have to read and find out for yourself… Happy reading! Thanks for a wonderful read Melinda De Ross! Can’t wait to see what else is in store from you!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-10-29 15:38:462018-10-29 16:22:57The Plot by Melinda De Ross ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
“Hope- a simple four-letter word that means having a feeling of expectation or desire for a certain thing to happen. Hope is a word I have used often in my life.”
Well Michelle Sullivan has certainly brought the all the feels to the surface again with this new adult contemporary romance novel. I adored it! Now I have previously read “Our Next Chapter” which isn’t necessarily a requirement to read this one, but it does help to set up the scene of sorts and does add the dimension to the story that isn’t there if you haven’t read it. Both are wonderful novels though so, why not?
With Unexpected Hope though we get the story of Quinn, who is the daughter of Karalyn and Dez, who are the characters from “Our Next Chapter”, and Noah. I loved these two. They were honestly a great couple to follow. Things were realistic with them, never really being flawless, but not too awful in the sense that it wasn’t believable either. I just loved it and I loved how they overcame things or either worked through them. I completely broke when they did, and found myself laughing when they did as well. This was one of those stories you just find yourself drifting off into and not even realizing you are so far removed from things until it is the very last words and you are sad because you want more! This one is definitely a re-read lister! Thanks for a great read Ms. Sullivan.
“Hope. A four-letter word I never thought would be the most important four-letter word in my life. I always had hope in my life.”
“YOU MUST BE READY TO BURN YOURSEF IN YOUR OWN FLAME; HOW COULD YOU RISE ANEW IF YOU HAVE NOT FIRST BECOME ASHES?” ~Friedrich Nietzsche, Thus Spoke Zarathustra
Phantasmagorical! Yup! I pulled out the big guns and used my thesaurus for this review! I was legit running out of words for Meghan O’Flynn’s Ash Park novels! I hate sounding like a broken record and I want to be as correct as I can. These books are amazing! Buy them all at once! You will want to knock out a day or two, depending on how fast you read, or devour them. I know my family wasn’t very pleased that I ignored them each time I picked one up ha-ha, but I was one that devoured them mostly past my bedtime, and wasn’t so fun the next day though! I will warn you though, if you read these after dark, they can induce nightmares. (Perfect for that Halloween season that is upon us.)
“Redemption” is the fifth installment of the Ash Park series from Meghan O’Flynn. Here is about where I would really recommend that you go back and read the previous books before you start this one, especially the first one, “Famished”. For this one we go back to the beginning and revisit ‘Looking Glass Killer’ who kidnapped Hannah Montgomery. I have been dying to know what happened to her since the end of Famished. That was a cliffhanger that has been nagging me for four novels now and I was so excited to finally find out how this would all come together. Let me tell you though… In true Meghan O’Flynn fashion there was nothing predictable about it! Nothing! I love this about O’Flynn’s writing! She makes it so much fun to read. I am always some of those that seems to have the movie or book figured out halfway through. It’s an extra treat when I can’t, like an extra bang for my buck! My detective, Petrosky is back and set on figuring out all the pieces of the puzzle, regardless of the danger factor. No spoilers here though. For the juicy bits you will have to pick up a copy for yourself. I will now be waiting with baited breath for the next installment in the series, “The Jilted.” In the meantime, gratefully I there is one more novel by Meghan O’Flynn I can scoop up that I haven’t read yet. Thanks for another great thriller O’Flynn!
“FROM LITTLE SPARK MAY BURST A MIGHT FLAME.” ~DANTE ALIGHIERI, THE DIVINE COMEDY
“Sometimes you find yourself In the middle of nowhere. And sometimes- in the middle of Nowhere- you find yourself.” ~Unknown
I really do not know how to review this book without giving some kind of spoiler to a few of the previous installments to the series. So, I will start with this. DO NOT keep reading after this paragraph if you haven’t previously devoured the other four novels, in order, in the Beckoned series from Aviva Vaughn. I promise it will not be, for naught. Curl up with a blanket and your favorite beverage and let Aviva take you on a whirlwind of a vacation…
Thank you for some of the most beautiful memories of my entire life. I’ll never forget you. Always, Angela
Literally, I was bawling here! I mean, I know this was for the best. I knew that it had a point and was going to make sense at some point, but… WHY?
Well, because all great things have a twist, especially novels. Aviva Vaughn writes a lot like the classics, Jane Austen especially. She loves her slow burn and realistic writing. I personally do as well. It is believable and gripping. I often feel as if I am sitting right there in the same room as the characters, or on the beaches of Costa Rica. I can taste the foods, and smell the saltwater on the air. Her story lines are just as realistic and this is ever present in the story of Soren. Which is the most focused on character in this installment of Beckoned.
Soren is figuring out how to recover from losing Angela. A haste decision finds him in Costa Rica. He learns to surf. It is through surfing that he meets the beautiful Elena. The two hit it off, and although Soren proceeds with caution he is willing to proceed at least. But… don’t get too excited, there is a twist around every bend. There is more to Elena than she is telling. Will the past get in the way again?
IF you need any bonuses to this gem, there is a great playlist, featured at the back of the book. AND… A delicious recipe (yup I tried it!) For Elena’ Sol’s Tres Leches Cake is included in the back as well. I was blown away once more by this installment of Beckoned. The overall experience was inclusive and I truly felt like it was a getaway for a day, like I stepped into the world of Soren and Elena. I was so excited when I found out that there would be another one coming soon. “Beckoned, Part 6: Adrift in New Zealand”. Thank you for another fantastic book ‘getaway’ Ms. Vaughn!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-10-21 20:18:422018-10-22 07:23:23Beckoned, Part 5: Adrift in Costa Rica by Aviva Vaughn ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
This novella sets the stage for the adult Gray Ghost series.
This was a lot of book for just under seventy pages! I have personally read the rest of the Gray Ghost Novels from Amy McKinley and I am still pondering if this is one of those prequel novellas that must be read before you read the books that come first or not? I for one feel like this opened my eyes to a lot of things that may have just not quite had clicked for me before after reading the previous two. I do wonder if that was intentional though of the author all along. Especially after reading this latest book. Regardless, I would highly recommend that at some point all the books in the series.
This one really does exactly what it says it will. It shows us how these teenage boys came into the adults they are today. These boys have suffered in their own individual ways. It has led them to live a paramilitary lifestyle and form a group to protect the abused and weak. In a way they could be described as a modern day group of ‘Robin Hoods’. These are the reasons why they are the way they are. I loved this one, and I can’t wait to find out what will come next in book three, Beneath the Surface!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-10-20 15:48:532018-10-20 16:06:37Moments that Define Us (A Gray Ghost Prequel Book 0) by Amy McKinley ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
“Six Brothers Construction was built to reunite a family and heal a painful past. So far it’s opened to rave reviews. But the youngest sibling is about to discover that the right woman can shake eve a rock-solid foundations…”
This was my first time reading anything from Lee Kilraine. Now this is the second book in a series, The Thorne Brothers to be exact, but it didn’t hinder my enjoyment of this one that I had not read the first. I will be going back to do so now that I know about it and have enjoyed this one so much. There was a wonderful flow to the writing banter that went back and forth between our two main characters that I just couldn’t get enough of. I hope to find more of that in future couples to come as well.
In this novel we get the story of Wyatt Thorne. He hasn’t had things so easy. In fact he had an extremely traumatic childhood. This led him to live a speechless few years until he was about six. From that age he found the peace he needed in creativity. In creating things with his hands. The solitude it provided him allowed him to come out of his shell just enough to blend into the world, and start a successful business.
“Fun? Thank you, Wyatt? No. I didn’t sign up for this. It was bad enough we had to use my office for meetings, but this- this sharing an office with a talking rainbow… no.”
Wyatt’s complex but in place life is blown upside down when Rhia Hollis sweeps into it. Fate and his older brother Beckett has decided to put her in his path and he has to figure out exactly what he is going to do now. She is the complete opposite of him; loud and boisterous, and worst of all she never stops talking! The one thing they do have in common is their creativity. Rhia is a party planner and starting up her party planning business.
“Seize the day.”
So if these two are such opposites and forced to work in such close spaces for so much of their time what will happen? You do know what they say about opposites attract? For all those juicy details and more you will have to pick up this little gem for yourself and read for yourself…
“Then since you know more about me than I apparently know about myself… tell me, Rhia, what does feed my soul if not architecture?”
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-10-17 17:11:042018-10-17 18:24:57Give and Take (The Thorne Brothers) by Lee Kilraine ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
I was so excited when I found out that there was going to be a second book to after M.K. Harkins’s, The Reader. I had enjoyed that one but, felt it was a tad rushed and needed more or at least had more to give. I would recommend reading the first book before you jump into this one. It would set up the world and explain things a bit for you.
That all said this is the story of Archer and Sadie. I really enjoyed these two. Archer is stuck between a rock and a hard place really. He has had been both the good guy and still yet he had betrayed those he helped and become their enemies now. Things get even more interesting when he meets Sadie. She just happens to be on the lookout for guys like Archer. But when they touch there is a magic there that they have never felt before. To make matters worse, fate has thrust them into working together. As you can imagine this makes for some pretty interesting reads… but for that you will have to pick up the book for yourself to see. I personally can’t wait to find out what comes next in The Immortal Series. Happy Reading!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-10-14 00:01:032018-10-14 07:24:46The Jack (The Immortal Series #2) by M.K. Harkins ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
“Can a man whore whose motto is “One and Done” keep it in his pants long enough to win back the trust of his childhood sweetheart?”
… And just like that it was an instant must read for me! Something about that bad boy meets the one who can finally tame him always hooks me in. One thing I had no idea to expect however, was how much I was going to be in trouble when I picked this up. It would appear that I am invested for a long time in Necie Navone and her Brothers of Camelot. It is looking like we may have at least twelve brothers we will get stories about! I was completely new to Necie Navone as an author all together when I picked up “The Only One” too so I can’t wait to see what else she has available!
In “The Only One” we get up close and personal (Very! Like have a tall glass of water nearby!) With Drake. He is quite the playboy. His childhood sweetheart and first love, Isabella, always on the back of his mind, but his heart closed for anyone but her, he has built a life without her. She hasn’t had an easy life and has suffered heartache after heartache. Both of them are about to cross paths again. Will they be able to give love a second chance? I adored these two. They were so connectable and realistic characters. I also enjoyed the side characters as well, which excited me because I am now more so looking forward to getting more of those novels about the other brothers and ‘family’. Thanks for a fab start to a series and a great read Necie Navone!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-10-13 21:32:252018-10-14 06:49:12The Only One (Brothers of Camelot #1) by Necie Navone ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
This was a gripping and sweet second chance romance novel from Michelle Sullivan. I have read some of her other novels before but this one stands out as my favorite so far. I recommend grabbing your favorite cup of coffee or tea, eh maybe a glass of wine, and curling up with this little gem. If you are anything like me you will want to read this in one fell swoop.
Karalyn and Dez, I adored these two, these two were not hard to fall in love with. I wasn’t so sure at first, things seemed a bit too perfect. Then the perfect balance of realism hit them and they were forced to face it. Spending seventeen years a part may very well make the idea of seeking any kind relationship, friend or more, terrifying all together. When they are thrust back into each other’s lives though they are forced to face it. What will happen when all of the past comes rushing back? Will it destroy any shot at a second chance for them? Or can they find the will to push through all the feelings and hurt to have that future together they always dreamed of?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-10-11 16:06:422018-10-12 16:08:10Our Next Chapter by Michelle Sullivan – Review by Liz Vrchota
This is going to be one of those series that will get me in trouble. Firstly, I must say I was blown away that this is Blake Blessing’s debut novel. Girl has some writing skills! I am an avid fan of reading alternate lifestyle romances because usually they are intricate stories with layers that you just don’t find in a one on one relationship storyline. That said, this is also a difficult thing to write and can make or break an entire story or series. This was absolutely not the case here! This was flawless, emotional, and gripping. There was just the right amount of slow burn romance between the parties involved with the bonus additions of paranormal twists to keep you extra intrigued.
Isolde Bardot is not your average naiveté lead female. She can hold her own, and really she needs to because when she gets into the wrong Uber she will have to handle a whole new world and all its complexities. There is never a dull moment for her between her ‘Lusty Legion’, confusing and realistic magic, and different realms? I was so bummed when the book ended, not a killer cliffhanger, but enough I will be anxiously on the edge of my seat awaiting the next in the series now! Thanks for such an amazing adventure Blake Blessing!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-10-10 15:40:092018-10-12 15:41:57Marks of the Mazza (Book #1 in The Mazza Series) by Blake Blessing – Review by Liz Vrchota
Blind Magic is the second book in The Sanctuary Chronicles from India Kells. I have not had the pleasure of reading the first book, Broken Magic, although now I will be running to do so. It didn’t really affect my ability to enjoy this one though. Kells was a doll and gave us a pretty detailed prologue to catch us up for this one thankfully. This was just that amazing that I have to get my hands on the first as well. I normally don’t pick up books that fall into this ‘category’ but let’s be honest, look at that cover! Yummy, and eye catching. I had to know what was behind it. I am so glad I dived in blind.
In Blind Magic we get quite the story. I must say there was not a single moment that I was bored, and actually several hours that I was the do not approach the reading mom/wife or you may die type. Can you really describe a dark and twisty suspenseful book as beautiful and magical? I think this book qualifies for that, and really can’t come up with a better way to sum it up.
Sera Dover is one heck of a woman. Strong, independent and resourceful, oh and she is one heck of a witch. She will stop at nothing to protect those that she loves and cares about. She will face whatever danger comes her way too. Then there is Ian Macon, the damaged and gorgeous werewolf. He is instantly drawn to Sera. Her light and peace is something his shattered soul seeks out. These two have a connection that will set your kindle screens on fire, and give you a need for a tall glass of water, maybe even a fan or two, if you get my drift.
Of course, there is always danger lurking around the corner in all the great suspenseful novels. What is to come for them now and in the future? For that you must dive into this amazing five-star read for yourself, for I cannot bear to give away any more than I already have! Happy reading!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-10-06 16:12:112018-10-12 16:13:27Blind Magic (The Sanctuary Chronicles #2) by India Kells – Review by Liz Vrchota
Holy fracking wow! Repressed is another impressive chilling thriller from Meghan O’ Flynn. I must confess, after each of the Ash Park novels that I read by the ever talented O’ Flynn, I am more enamored than I was with the previous one I just praised as the best of the series. O’ Flynn really has the knack for drawing in the reader and holding you and your thoughts hostage long after you finish the last page. Each of the books could be read as standalones, but I would read them all and in order. For one, as mentioned, they are all great, but they do build in plot and stories, as well as have characters that we do get glimpses of in each of the books, and two, why not?? It is the perfect season and they are all available to scoop up and enjoy!
Repressed gives us the story of Curt Morrison. I always knew that there was more to Curt but I had no idea what was to come from him that is for sure! (No spoilers here though!) Though, as we follow him in his new life with his wife and adorable new daughter we begin to learn about some deep and dark demons that lay ‘repressed’ in his past. The case that Morrison and Petrosky are working on also becomes an overlying factor and everything Morrison has ever cherished will come into jeopardy. Will he be able to conquer his past demons and do whatever it takes to protect the ones that he loves now? Or will the past finally come to catch up to him?
This book touches on some difficult subjects, like the others have, but it is done in a way that makes the story flow. Every piece is necessary to the novel, and tells the story that the reader needs to fully understand all that is going on. Nothing is done without care to details. You can tell these are topics close to Meghan O’ Flynn’s heart. I personally cannot wait to get my hands on the next novel, which will be right after I finish this review. I think a storm is brewing outside too, perfect weather for an Ash Park novel!! Thank you so much for another amazing novel, Meghan O’ Flynn!
This was a great way to finish off my summer reading list. Those dog days of summer had just really started to finish up and a day in the sun soaking up the sexy saga of Emma and Royce was perfect!
Everyone has one of those great romances gone terribly wrong that ruins it for the ones to come, and Emma is no different. Being hurt in the past has made her a bit jaded and she is not going to let it happen again. So when the summer season is about to hit full swing in her idyllic town of Sweeny she reaffirms her pact with herself to avoid the new catches rolling into town.
Royce is a bit different though. He has come with the intentions of settling down roots. When he meets Emma he instantly feels a connection for with her beyond a friendly level. A drunken one night stand gives him hope. For Emma though, her walls are just as high as they were the day they met. Royce is just as stubborn though…
These two were so much fun to read about. I loved the supporting characters just as much, and can see where we could even get plenty of spin off novellas in the future. Another great escape and sexy read from Tarrah Anders, and one that is gorgeous at that. This must grace my bookshelves at home as soon as possible. Happy reading!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-10-05 07:01:512018-10-14 07:02:40Summer Fling by Tarrah Anders ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
Via Mari was a completely new author to me when I first picked up Degrees of Innocence. I was drawn in by the gorgeous captivating cover and didn’t even need to read the blurb to know I had to find out what was written on the pages within. I was not disappointed one bit that I had scooped this up! Bonus, is that more of the series is already available to pick up so I will be bingeing on the series right after I finish this.
Degrees of Innocence is the kick off to the steamy Prestian Series. When I say steamy, I mean steamy, so make sure that is your thing, and that you are all good with some kinky stuff too. Think Fifty-Shades of Grey. Wait though, don’t jump too much to comparisons because this has its twists too. That will lie in the suspense layers of the story. None of which was predictable and kept me on the edge of my seat.
Katarina, or Kate but really I love Katarina, is such a girl next door. She has it all together internally and smarts wise. When it comes to love and social I think she has some major growing to do. Hence the Degrees of Innocence. She has the naiveté that needs to be broken and the sexy billionaire Chase Prestian is just the man to do it. There is just a few small hitches…
I can’t wait to find out what will happen next in book two, Degrees of Acceptance! Happy Reading!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-09-28 07:07:052018-10-14 07:07:47Degrees of Innocence (Prestian Series #1) by Via Mari ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
Just Exes is not my first time reading Charity Ferrell’s work. She never fails to draw me into her novels and make me think about them long after I finish them. This one was no different, but I would have to say it made me a bit more frustrated than her others. I think I just had a more difficult time relating to the characters. It did not affect the book though, it was still fantastic and I would still recommend it along with her others.
In this one we get the story of Lauren and Gage. These two have a bit of a second chance romance thing going on. It is NOT an easy road to this second chance though, and I promise you that you will not see the type of heartbreak that will come for these two. I was shouting so many times at my kindle. These two just couldn’t communicate to save their souls. But anyways, it made for a great novel in the end ultimately and I was fascinated that they ended up where they did. I look forward to seeing where Charity takes us next.
That Voodoo That You Do is the first three books in one collection for you to enjoy in one sitting of Jolie St. Amant’s Chateau Rouge novellas. I personally have loved every single one of them. Each are short but jammed packed stories promising to satisfy your hunger for that bedtime story or afternoon escape, much like it did for myself.
Dream A Little Dream of Me is the first novella in the set. It features Josey Jacobson who owns the Chateau Rouge, and this is how we are introduced to the gorgeous background for most of the upcoming stories to come, as well as the vibrant streets of New Orleans. We also get to know the handsome Archer, and well it’s a short story so you will just have to see what happens for yourself…
The second to come is, Hard Hearted Hannah. Another vibrant and detailed short gives us the story of Hannah and Julien. Both come alive off the screen of your kindle and promise to intrigue you with their story. I personally found theirs to be my favorite story of the three in the collection. They just seemed to keep me on the edge of my seat the most.
Last, but most certainly not least, is A Kiss to Build a Dream On. It is an explosive way to complete the set. At only 83 pages, again it is short but wow is it one heck of a story. In this one we meet Chloe. There is more of the mystery and intrigue throughout to keep you well engaged, and enough paranormal to have you questioning the bumps in the night after you finish the last pages. I personally can’t wait to see what will come next for Chateau Rouge and from Jolie St. Amant!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-09-27 07:08:022018-10-14 07:18:46That Voodoo That You do (Chateau Rouge Book 1) by Jolie St. Amant ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
Let me just start with the gorgeous cover of this book! I adore it, and it lured me in before I even read the synopsis. I have read Tricia Copeland’s work before but I think this has by far become my favorite novel of hers yet. I think the paranormal genera is her strong suit, and I am dying to get my hands on the remainder of this series as it is released. This is the introduction or prelude so to speak of the Kingdom Journals and really sets everything up for the reader. I love when an author does this because it entices the reader to come back for more. It has us hooked on the story and invested in the characters. I know I need to find out what will come for Anne in the future.
Who is Anne you ask, well I will give you a brief hint, but for the majority you will have to one-click this beauty to find out for yourself, and you won’t be disappointed. Anne is a vampire. Her and her family are living among pagans and trying their best to blend in and hide to stay alive. Anne has one goal, to bring peace to the world. This is no small feat, in fact it seems nearly impossible. However, this woman has no plans of giving up, and one bad** chick. Where will her endeavors to restore peace take her? Oh and watch out for that killer ending!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Liz Vrchotahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLiz Vrchota2018-09-22 07:19:592018-10-14 07:20:47Kingdom of the Damned by Tricia Copeland ~ Review by Liz Vrchota
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