Railway to Murder is the first book in the Buck Green Railroad Special Agent Mystery series by Danny J. Bradbury. It is an historical mystery that is set just after American Civil War. Buck Greene survived the ravages of the war only to be met by heartbreaking loss on his return home. Setting out for new horizons, Buck instead finds mystery and adventure…. And a few murders to solve along the way. With action, dramatic developments, danger, challenges, crime & investigation, and a race against time, made for an intriguing read. Looking forward to seeing what adventures await Buck in Book #2. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-16 07:16:032024-10-23 06:30:01Railway to Murder (A Buck Greene, Railroad Special Agent, Mystery-Book #1) by Danny J. Bradbury – Review by Angela Hayes
The Holey Land by Laura Koerber is, as I expected, another original story with plenty of thought-provoking content. Ms. Koerber weaves magical realism with deft fingers, bringing complete believability to her work. This could be just another mid-life crisis story- but Ms. Koerber and her FMC Molly take us on much more of a journey of self-discovery- finding far more than she (Molly) expected- resulting in another well-woven tale with plenty of mysteriousness, magical realism, discovery/self-discovery, spirit guardians, drama, quirky characters, and emotion. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-16 07:03:012024-10-23 06:29:53The Holey Land by Laura Koerber – Review by Angela Hayes
Forget the monsters hiding underneath your bed. You should fear the one cuffing your wrists to the headboard instead.
Shadows in the Dark is the first book in the Dark Lotus Trilogy by Anise Storm and Taylor L. Ray. It is a sizzling contemporary billionaire romance with BDSM and plenty of mystery, suspense, chemistry, red-hot sizzle, secrets, love/loss/grief, angst, Dom-sub dynamics, damaged MCs, and a complex storyline. Brynn is grieving the loss of her sister and begins to uncover some deep, dark secrets her sibling was keeping. Adrian has his own demons to contend with that haunt his every waking moment. Add in the kinky club ‘Lotus’, plenty of sizzle, mystery, and tension- and the story takes an engrossing turn. But this is just the beginning of Brynn and Adrian’s story- as it’s all set to continue in ‘Whispers in the Dark’ (Book #2). Happy Reading,
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-16 03:05:352024-10-23 06:28:44Shadows In The Dark (Dark Lotus Trilogy Book #3) by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by Angela Hayes
Beefy Goes From Bully to Buddy is the third book in the Courage Tales series by Dagmara Sitek who has lovingly crafted another wonderfully meaningful children’s story – with lovely, colourful illustrations that help to bring the story to life. Beefy has been causing strife with his bullying antics. The Super Buddies team have had enough of Beefy’s bullying and make a plan to take him home and talk to his parents about his behaviour. But what happens when they arrive at Beefy’s home and get trapped in a video game? Well, they are all going to have to work together if they have any chance of escaping. So, get set for a great little adventure… This is not only a cute tale but teaches valuable life lessons along the way, such as: how to deal with bullies/bullying, teamwork, friendship, staying connected + invested, empathy/compassion, technology/science, building self-confidence, self-awareness, emotional regulation/emotional intelligence, promotes a positive mindset, reminds us to focus on what’s important, and that change can be good. This was such a lovely, heartwarming story that left me with all the ‘feel-good’ vibes of a meaningful story. Looking forward to reading more of this series…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-16 02:27:052024-10-23 06:28:35Beefy Goes From Bully To Buddy (Courage Tales Series Book #3) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Angela Hayes
Sanctuary by Bree M. Lewandowski is a wonderfully woven fantasy that had me invested right from the get-go. This isn’t the first book that I have read by Ms. Lewandowski, but it is another favourite of hers. Ms. Lewandowski has a knack for telling engrossing stories, as this one proves, yet again. It definitely had all the ingredients I love to find in a captivating fantasy. From mystery, adventure, action, intrigue, magic, drama, danger, tension, suspense, politics, agendas, family, duty + responsibility, emotion, romance, destiny/fate, angst, push-pull, secrets, and much more. When Petra’s brother, Aldney, is killed, she is determined to discover what happened. But to do so means finding a way into the palace- which is no easy task. The indignity she suffers in order to acquire a position there really made me feel for her right from the get-go. But gaining entry is just the beginning. Add in an ancient incantation, fate, mystery, secrets, and chemistry – and the story takes an even more intriguing turn. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-15 00:13:202024-10-22 19:08:39Sanctuary by Bree M. Lewandowski – Review by Angela Hayes
Knight On Edge is the seventh book in the Jorja Knight Mystery series by Alice Bienia. This is a very engrossing mystery with plenty of tension, suspense, action, adventure, danger, crime + investigation, secrets, lies, deception, personal turmoil/crisis, whodunnit feel, twists, agendas, and a tangled web of mystery. Again, we join Jorja Knight, who we met in the previous books, as she takes on a simple infidelity case which takes a deadly turn. Untangling the shocking truth will test Jorja far more than she imagined when she signed up for the case, especially when she has her own personal struggles to contend with as well. What happens makes for another gripping read. Even though this is the seventh book in the series, you can read it as a standalone without feeling like you are missing anything. Having said that though, the other books in the series make for great reading too- and contain their own intriguing mysteries for Jorja to solve. They also provide more character information, background stories, and other interesting details which, all combined, will definitely enhance your appreciation of this book, as well as the series as a whole. Looking forward to seeing what Jorja gets up to next! Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-14 23:59:552024-10-22 19:08:31Knight On Edge (Jorja Knight Mystery Series Book #7) by Alice Bienia – Review by Angela Hayes
Mommy, Am I An Indian Today? is a sweet children’s storybook inspired by the author’s own son asking her that very question. The story is accompanied by cute, bright, colourful, and engaging illustrations that really made the story ‘pop’. We follow as our characters explore cultural/multi-cultural identity and heritage, embrace and celebrate cultural roots and traditions- and discusses the importance of honouring one’s ancestors. There is a bit of an educational component to the story too. I love reading stories that celebrate diverse backgrounds, while showing/teaching us about different cultures along the way. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-10 07:05:572024-10-22 14:40:08Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese – Review by Angela Hayes
Quarterback Keeper: A College Sports Romance is the first book in the Fall Lake Ballers series by Isla Vaughn. This is a sports romance (football) with some romantic suspense elements, secrets, lies, a fake relationship, chemistry, passion, steam, betrayal, obstacles, threats, action, emotion, humour, second chances, damsel in distress vibes- and plenty of sweet, romantic, and tender touches that helped to balance all the emotion, drama, and angst. Ms. Vaughn never disappoints, and even though I am not a huge sports romance enthusiast, she made me love the genre. Kylian might seem like he has a perfect life- with a powerful family, money, successful football career, and luxurious home- but you know what they say about appearances. Kylian is buckling under the pressures of responsibility and expectation- as well as dealing with the anticipatory grief that came with his mother’s terminal diagnosis. When Gia enters his life unexpectedly, he sees the opportunity to make his mother happy, and so he makes Gia an offer she can’t refuse. Let the fake dating begin. But with secrets, lies, combustible chemistry, developing feelings, family, and career all on a collision course- you know things are about to get more than a little interesting… A fantastic start to this new series! I can’t wait to dive into Book #2. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-10 06:48:032024-10-22 14:39:58Quarterback Keeper: A College Sports Romance (Fall Lake Ballers Book #1) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Angela Hayes
You Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations For those Who Have Not Yet Arrived by Michael Albanese is a motivational book made up of many short stories, poetry, musings, anecdotes, reflections, observations, and messages to encourage the reader. The human condition means that we are always striving to find where we belong, striving for more, and to ‘be’ more- and when we don’t achieve ‘more’ we look at it as some sort of failure. Here, Mr. Albanese help to give us a different perspective. To perhaps see things from a different angle, and to affirm that you/me/we are not alone in this. A very though-provoking read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-10 06:28:542024-10-22 14:39:33You Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet Arrived by Michael Albanese – Review by Angela Hayes
Spook Squad is the third book in the Ghost Girl series by Allan Evans. It is another wonderfully spooky YA paranormal story- perfect for ‘spooky season’. With drama, danger, ghosts, mystery, investigation, suspense, secrets, creepiness, tension, friendship, agendas, and high stakes, Mr. Evans ensured that his story held my attention and kept me flipping the pages to find out how it all plays out in the end. Abbey isn’t your average teenager- she has an ability to talk to ghosts. But it also comes with some major pitfalls, which we witness as this story begins. Abbey is approached by an FBI Agent who needs her ‘special talents’ to help in track down some powerful artefacts before they fall into the wrong hands. With the help of her friends, they set off in search of the relics only to discover that danger follows closely behind. It seems that Abey and co aren’t the only ones on the hunt…. Even though this is the third instalment of the Ghost Girl series, it could be read as a standalone if you wanted. But, having said that, I highly recommend reading the first two books to find out more about Abbey and what ‘adventures’ she has had. As I think knowing what has happened previously will help you better appreciate this story, and series as a whole. Get set for an exciting, spooky read. Happy Reading!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-10 06:06:122024-10-22 14:39:06Spook Squad (Ghost Girl Series Book #3) by Allan Evans – Review by Angela Hayes
Betrayal is the third book in the Choosing Family series by Jennifer Raines. It is an enemies to lovers contemporary romance with betrayal, family dynamics/drama, angst, secrets, chemistry, friendship, spice, and some emotion. Anna Turner (whom we met in Book #1 as she is Kate’s twin sister) has worked really hard on a project to provide much-needed daycare services for her company (employer), only to have it fall apart at the last minute by a hostile takeover. Hunter Thompson’s father is set to take over the building, but Hunter beats him to the punch. No love lost there. But circumstances arise where these two will need to work together to see the project though. What happens when their simmering chemistry begins to bubble over? And what happens when secrets are revealed? Will their blossoming relationship survive the fallout? No spoilers from me- so you really should read all the intriguing developments for yourself. The series consists of: -Masquerade (Book #1) -Quinn, By Design (Book #2) -Betrayal (Book #3) Looking forward to seeing what Ms. Raines does next. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-10 05:51:112024-10-22 14:38:54Betrayal (Choosing Family Series Book #3) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Angela Hayes
Masquerade is the first book in the Choosing Family series by Jennifer Raines. It is a fun contemporary romance/women’s fiction story with two sets of twins making for twice the trouble, secrets, chemistry, quirky characters, family, drama, angst, environmental messages, and finding love unexpectedly. Liam has a lot riding on the success of his next ‘project’, so it’s crucial that nothing goes wrong….. except that he has an identical twin brother who is making things difficult with his high-profile media presence. Add in past failures, and family drama, and Liam might just have bitten off more than he can chew. Kate has problems of her own to deal with. She takes a job as his research assistant as a ‘cover’ for her other ‘occupation’- as romance author. But her meddling twin may have coaxed her into an even more complicated situation. What happens when secrets are revealed? This is well worth the read to find out. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-10 05:36:032024-10-22 14:38:45Masquerade (Choosing Family Series Book #1) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Angela Hayes
Ink and Intrigue at Ivy Tree Inn is the first book in the new Ariadne Winter Murder Mystery series by Ellen Butler. I was so excited when I saw Ms. Butler had a new series coming out and couldn’t wait for this book to hit my Kindle. I have read all of Ms. Butler’s books (so far)- and her Karina Cardinal Mystery series is a definite favourite, so I was very intrigued to see what this new mystery series would bring. It is a little different from the Karina Cardinal series, as this is an historical cozy mystery series- set in 1958. It also gave me Agatha Christie vibes. Again, as with the KCM series, Ms. Butler has cleverly constructed her story, imbuing it with plenty of intrigue and tension, but also setting the scene in keeping with the times. Everything from the cultural/societal norms of the times, language, fashion, transportation, and ‘daily life’, as well as the clever mystery and intriguing developments, are all given Ms. Butler’s meticulous attention to detail- resulting in a rich and immersive reading experience. Ariadne Winter dreams of being a hard-nose investigative reporter, but being a young woman means that she isn’t taken seriously and is dismissed and overlooked for her male counterparts. So she ends up taking a job with a ladies magazine in the hopes that it will open the door to more ‘interesting’ positions. Opportunity presents itself when she is given a new assignment…. an exclusive interview with a Hollywood movie star who is about to marry a European prince (think Grace Kelly and Prince Ranier type situation). Ariadne recognizes that this is a huge opportunity and sets off to spend the week at the Ivy Tree Inn, to be on hand with the actress, to get all the facts to compile her story. But right from the beginning, Ariadne begins to notice that there is something strange going on at the inn, and things only get more puzzling the longer she’s there. Before the week has even ended, she has a murder to contend with. But getting to the bottom of things might just put her in the crosshairs of the murderer. What happens here makes for a wonderfully intriguing read… I can’t wait to see what Ariadne gets up to next. Bring on Book #2! Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-09 08:05:402024-10-22 14:20:13Ink and Intrigue at Ivy Tree Inn (Ariadne Winter Mystery Series Book #1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Angela Hayes
Whisper is the first book in The Entian Curse series by Kay Ross. I was drawn to this book by the fascinating cover, and then got hooked the moment I read the blurb. This is definitely a very original premise…. Ms. Ross had me at ‘sentient curse’…. but the story proved to be even more creative than I had even imagined, in a good way. This story is brimming with imagination and creativity- pulling me into an interesting fantasy full of adventure, drama, emotion, sorcerers, magic, and complex characters, who continued to develop and grow over the course of the story. Whisper is a sentient curse- who interacts with the world through inhabiting ‘hosts’…. But Whisper is so much more than a ‘simple’ curse- and as the story evolved, I couldn’t help but become fully invested in ‘it’ and all the developments. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-09 08:03:362024-10-22 14:20:06Whisper (The Entian Curse Book #1) by Kay Ross – Review by Angela Hayes
Unexpected Revival by E.L. Roux is sci-fi romance set in a post-apocalyptic future. We meet Shannon who has just awoken to unfamiliar surroundings after spending far too long in cryogenic stasis. With the destruction of Earth a millennium ago, and a new threat looming, there are questions that only she can answer, if only she could remember. Throw in an intimidating, yet intriguing alien male, corporate entities, politics, trust factors, high stakes, danger, chemistry, drama, mystery, and tension- and Shannon is about to embark on an epic adventure, as well as finding love against all odds. Happy Reading…
The South Seas Shenanigans is the fourth book in the Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery series by Rosalind Barden. I have been enjoying this cute historical cozy mystery series which is set in the 1930’s and follows Sparky, the spunky, street smart, precocious tween (11 year-old) FMC on her mystery solving adventures. Sparky has had some interesting adventures/cases over the course of the series, and this one sees her running away- well actually stowing-away on a cruise ship that sails her right into a troublesome mystery- with a case of mistaken identity, where a whole lot of trouble is about to rain down on Sparky if she can’t uncover the truth quick-smart. Again, as with the rest of the series, the story contains all the historical detailing, language, sights, and societal norms that you would expect from that era- it is richly detailed, and the descriptions are quite ‘visual’, adding an extra element of interest to the story/series. The characters are many and varied- but all are quirky and quite ‘colourful’ individuals. The author definitely did a great job of bringing her characters and story to life. Another great addition to this fun series. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-08 00:46:292024-10-22 14:16:05The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series Book #4) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Angela Hayes
The Waydowns is the third book in The Cool Thing Science Fiction Series by Robert Rife. This third instalment of this madcap romp of a series turned out to be my favourite (so far)… Mr. Rife has outdone himself here with his unique blend of paranormal, sci-fi, suspense, horror, and dark humour…. Then throw in some action, dramatic developments, creativity, imagination, originality, aliens, spaceships, ‘zombie’, and more- and this story really takes off. Again, Mr. Rife proves to be a fantastic storyteller- easily ensnaring his readers in his web of words, holding them in the palm of his hand all the way through till the end. Well worth the read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-08 00:32:552024-10-22 14:15:57The Waydowns (The Cool Thing Sci-Fi Series Book #3) by Robert Rife – Review by Angela Hayes
Tasha and the Biologist is the second book in A Better Man series by Amy Q. Barker. Having loved her previous books, I happily one-clicked a copy, and set off to explore the Granger Pond Wildlife Preserve with Tasha and Caleb. Tasha and Caleb are perfect together- not realising at the beginning that they were exactly what the other needed to be ‘whole and help them heal the pain of the past. I loved the small town setting, and the wetlands/nature preserve aspect of the story= as well as all the ‘birding’/nature facts (about Whooping Cranes etc), the real life issues (which gave the story a realistic and believable feel), family, friendship, emotion, the slow-burn romance, taking a chance on love/finding love unexpectedly, the healing power of love, hope, and new beginnings. It is another heart-warming women’s fiction story that had all the warmth and emotion I was expecting from one of Ms. Barker’s stories. I am definitely looking forward to Book #3. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-08 00:20:422024-10-22 14:15:49Tasha and the Biologist (A Better Man Series Book #2) by Amy Q. Barker – Review by Angela Hayes
The Fixer is the second instalment in the new Fall River series by G.K. Brady. It is a fun enemies-to-lover contemporary romance with a small-town setting, drama, angst, chemistry, banter, humour, friendship, family, finding love unexpectedly, tension, and a bit of a city girl meets small-town boy vibe. Joy Holiday and Charlie Hunnicutt are like oil and water- but you know what they say about opposites attracting. But with a building project to work through, these two are going to set off a whole lot of sparks rubbing each other the wrong way. What ensues makes for a fun read. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-08 00:18:182024-10-22 14:11:18The Fixer (Fall River Series Book #2) by G. K. Brady – Review by Angela Hayes
The Keeper is the first instalment in the new Fall River series by G.K. Brady. It is a slow burn contemporary romance with a small-town setting, boss and ex drama, angst, snow, chemistry, mystery, humour, fun, antics, friendship, family dynamics, sweet storyline, and finding love unexpectedly. Hailey Bailey and Noah Hunnicutt start off with a bit of a flurry. Add in a lost dog, a car crash, his new struggling business, responsibility, expectation, an arrangement, a bit of boss and ex drama, and a heavy dash of emotion- and this turned out to be a sweet, heartwarming read- with just enough drama and angst to keep me invested the whole way though. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-07 23:44:052024-10-22 14:11:09The Keeper (Fall River Series Book #1) by G. K. Brady – Review by Angela Hayes
Finally Friends by Debbie Sullivan is a cute little children’s story book that my grandson loved reading with me. It has a sweet story about Donut the dog and Peanut the squirrel (and Bobo the bird) as they go about becoming friends, learning social skills, and embracing their differences. Donut has been very lonely since his best friend moved away. He would love to be friends with Peanut the squirrel, only all his attempts to be friends only seem to scare Peanut away. What will Donut do to convince Peanut to be his friend? This sweet story comes with many messages along the way, such as: -preconceived notions and not to ‘judge a book by its cover’. -appearances can be deceiving -social and emotional learning -self-awareness/social-awareness -responsible decision making -overcoming/looking past fear -self-management -relationship skills -the importance of communicating This appears to be the first book in a new series- looking forward to seeing what adventures Donut, Peanut, and Bobo have in the next instalment/s. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-07 23:23:572024-10-22 14:10:58Finally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social Skills (Donut & Peanut Collection Book #1) by Debbie Sullivan – Review by Angela Hayes
The jaws of the fox snapped shut where Anastasia’s head had just been, the right canine tooth catching the tip of her long left ear. A lick of pain raced down her ear and her heart banged against her ribs. The fear burn rushed through her, and her powerful legs hurled her forward. The fox’s jaws closed again, so close to her neck that she could feel the hot breath. Heart hammering, the brown yearling rabbit flung herself through the small bushes and over the dead leaves and twigs. The fox came behind, paws casting up a welter of leaves and dirt. His eyes were bright, his teeth shone. Anastasia heard his excited whine rising over his harsh breathing. Why had she left the area near the warren, again? Why couldn’t she be obedient and follow Warren Mother’s commands?
War Bunny is the first book in the War Bunny Chronicles by Christopher St. John. This might have been the first book that I have read by Mr. St. John- but after finishing this book in one sitting, it definitely won’t be the last time I dive between one of his covers. This book is refreshingly original- but also gave me some ‘Watership Down’ vibes- which I love. Here, Mr. St. John depicts a postapocalyptic world where humans have been wiped out, and now the animals rule the planet. But the way their world is ‘governed’ makes Anastasia start to question things- such as why rabbits have been relegated to being prey- why not more? But rocking the boat leads her to being cast out of the community, where her battle for survival, and adventures begin. This is a fantastic tale- a YA fantasy with dystopian elements, action, family, friendship, honour, politics, agendas, societal structure/class, culture, community, staying true to yourself, journey of discovery, a coming of age, intriguing world building, wonderful characters, drama, danger, and more. There is also a detailed map at the beginning of the book, which really helps to put everything in perspective and helped me visualise where everything was, so much more clearly. I LOVE a good map! I can’t wait to continue the series with ‘Summerday’ (Book #2) and ‘City of Oom’ (Book #3), which are both available now. A fourth book will be released next year (2025). Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-06 23:31:402024-10-21 14:47:58War Bunny (War Bunny Chronicles Book #1) by Christopher St. John – Review by Angela Hayes
A Safe Place is the sixth intriguing instalment in the Philly Heat series by Becky Flade. It seems like this series just gets better and better with each new addition, and Ms. Flade has upped the ante here, yet again producing another fantastic romantic suspense. Well-woven with plenty of drama, tension, danger, mystery, tragedy, betrayal, suspenseful developments, emotion, chemistry, intensity, crime & investigation, family, friendship, a ruthless killer, and clever twists- Ms. Flade had me hooked right from the get-go. This book has all the ingredients needed to keep me engrossed from beginning to end, especially- -a teenage runaway who is witness to a gruesome murder ✅ -the caring and protective social worker who is assigned to the case ✅ – the teens older, strong, kind, and skilled older brother ✅ -a ruthless killer ✅ -a bit of a game of cat-and-mouse with the killer on the hunt to eliminate loose ends ✅ -suspenseful developments ✅ -chemistry/spice ✅ The Philly Heat series is made up of standalone stories, where each instalment focuses on a different main cast- but there are some interconnected characters/details/threads which tie the whole series together. So, I recommend reading the previous books- to get a firm foundation, and because they are all fantastic reads in their own rights. As I have said numerous times before, I have really enjoyed this series, and excitedly pounce on and devour each new instalment as they release- and as each new addition seems to slightly eclipse the previous ones, it definitely makes it harder and harder for me to choose a favourite, as they are all so good. Looking forward to more from Ms. Flade! Happy reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-06 00:06:132024-10-21 14:48:16A Safe Place (Philly Heat Series Book #6) by Becky Flade – Review by Angela Hayes
The Trouble with Possibilities, the debut novel by Nancie Abuhaidar, turned out to be a surprising little package that tugged at my heartstrings. It is a contemporary women’s fiction story (chick lit) with heartache, rediscovering yourself, finding where you belong, finding love unexpectedly, new beginnings, family, friendship, following your dreams, angst, emotion, drama, love, loss, regrets, hope, possibilities, complex/realistic characters, adventure, and is a journey of discovery. Sometimes it takes a tragedy to shove us in a new direction, and that’s exactly how Del finds herself winging her way to Africa, on a mission to start her life over. Landing on the vast continent is only the start of her new adventure… what ensues makes for a heartwarming read. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-05 00:14:482024-10-21 14:38:56The Trouble with Possibilities by Nancie Abuhaidar – Review by Angela Hayes
Gadrella by Tricia Gardella is a cute little story book that imparts some important messages too. Gadrella the witch has always done what was expected, what the other witches did. But she has always secretly yearned to do things differently. Why do they ALWAYS have to wear black? And ride broomsticks? And make the same yukky brews in their spell cauldrons? Why do their cats always have to be black? And why do witches only have cat companions? So, what happens when Gadrella decides to follow her heart? Get set for a very cute and engaging adventure. The story is accompanied by charming illustrations that are rich, colourful, eye catching, and fun- which really made this little adventure spring to life. The messages/lessons contained in the story make this a more meaningful read. We learn: -to be true to yourself/be yourself -follow your dreams -do what fulfils you -use your imagination -dance to the beat of your own drum/set your own path -it’s ok to be different -embrace our differences because they are what make us special -friendship -change can be good A meaningful, engaging, fun, imaginative, and enjoyable children’s picture book. Looking forward to whatever Tricia Gardella brings us next. Highly recommended. Happy Reading!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-04 00:23:202024-10-21 14:41:35Gadrella by Tricia Gardella – Review by Angela Hayes
The Man Who Dealt in Death is the first book in the Colton Fen series by Marlena Frank. This is the first book that I have read by Ms. Frank, so I really didn’t know what I should expect from one of her stories, but to be honest I was hooked the moment I read ‘werewolf detective’. I couldn’t one-click the book quick enough, diving in the moment it landed on my Kindle. This proved to be a cleverly woven paranormal mystery which is set in the ‘wild west’- melding several genres, flawlessly, into a captivating read. With supernatural elements, danger, dramatic developments, tension, intrigue, suspense, cowboys, gunslingers, vampires, werewolves, demons, action, adventure, investigation, politics, agendas, and more- made this a fantastic introduction to Ms. Frank’s work. Colton Fen is a werewolf detective who is assigned a complex case to unravel the mystery surrounding the disappearance of numerous humans in the small, western town of Peridot. He is used to working alone, but his new boss deems it necessary to assign him a partner, who turns out to be a vampire. Um, yeah- vampires and werewolves are natural enemies…. so you guessed it, things get off to a bit of an awkward start, and it’s not long before danger comes calling, as something evil has its own agenda. Looking forward to the rest of the series. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-04 00:11:392024-10-21 14:41:28The Man Who Dealt in Death (The Colton Fen Series Book #1) by Marlena Frank – Review by Angela Hayes
London Detective Agency: The Complete Series Boxset is the third instalment in the London Detective Agency series by Stephanie R. Caffrey. It contains the two books that comprise the series (so far), so it’s a fantastic way to binge this romantic suspense series. Ms. Caffrey has produced well written and intriguing tales, imbued with plenty of tension, mystery, danger, investigation, a private investigator element, chemistry, angst, emotion, secrets, and gripping dramatic developments. –Mistaken Identity (Book #1): What should have been the opportunity of a lifetime for graduate student Evelyn Stevenson turns sour quite quickly- propelling her into a situation she could never have imagined. With the help of a PI, Evelyn must navigate this new situation, hopefully before it’s too late. –Be My Little Baby (Book #2): When Tessa Lopez, who owns a bustling little bakery in London, is targeted by a stalker, the police fail to help her- so she turns to PI James Moore to help put a stop to her torment. I don’t want to spoil it for you, suffice to say that what happens makes for quite a gripping read. While I really enjoyed the first book, Mistaken Identity, this instalment is even better. It did start off a little slow, but the pace picked up pretty quickly and I was soon pulled into all the intriguing developments.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-03 01:14:082024-10-21 14:36:04London Detective Agency: The Complete Series Boxset (London Detective Agency Series #3) by Stephanie R. Caffrey – Review by
It’s Cool To Be Kind by Shermaine Perry-Knights is an illustrated story book aimed at children aged 7 to 9 years. It aims to encourage kindness, friendship, and making a difference one small act of kindness at a time. The author also provides games and activities at the end of the book to inspire discussion and reinforce the messages in the book. Max, Michael, and Martin worry that they don’t have any special skills or abilities- but as the story unfolds, they find they have some pretty serious superpowers which make them very special indeed. The dedication at the beginning of the story says it all: ‘To the amazing kids who make kindness their superpower, this book is for you! May you always remember the magic of spreading smiles and lifting hearts. Here’s to the kind superheroes of tomorrow- keep shining your light bright!’ The story is accompanied by some cute, bright, and colourful illustrations- which add plenty of interest to the whole book, helping to make it a very engaging read. An inspiring little story…. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-03 00:56:592024-10-21 14:35:57It’s Cool To Be Kind by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Angela Hayes
“Dylan snagged a marshmallow for himself and stuck it on the stick. They had been at Camp Leaf with their family for three days. Roasting marshmallows—even if it was lunchtime instead of nighttime—was the most fun he’d had. The trip had been filled with rain. And bugs. They hadn’t swum in the lake yet, and the camp games hadn’t started. Worst of all? There was no Wi-Fi. There hadn’t even been a mystery for Dylan to solve. Dylan had brought his detective kit. Just in case. He’d gotten it earlier in the summer. It was from his favorite show, The Youth Sleuths. Dylan pinned his Youth Sleuths detective badge to his shirt every morning. Just like a real detective. He carried his detective kit on an old tool belt around his waist on every hike. Just like a real detective. Emily had even been allowed to be his helper. So far, they’d only been able to ask questions like “When will the rain end?” and “What kind of bug was that?”
Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf is the third book in A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by M.J. Murray. This is a children’s chapter book story with a mystery to solve, crime and investigation elements, a whodunit feel, lessons/learning, family, friendship, and a few B & W illustrations sprinkled through the story to help keep young ones engaged. This fun tale also provides some valuable lessons along the way- such as: problem solving, reading and comprehension, expanding vocabulary, promoting fluency, math, and more. Detective Dylan, his little sister Emily, and trusty companion Theodore (their dog) are with their family, camping at Camp Leaf. We all know how much Dylan loves a good mystery to investigate- but there hasn’t been one for a while now, and Dylan is bored. It hasn’t helped that it has been raining pretty much non-stop since they arrived at camp, and the bugs- don’t mention the bugs. But ever prepared, Dylan has his trusty detective kit with him, in the hope that some exciting mystery might pop that needs solving. And that’s just what happens. Dylan, Emily, and Theodore are on the case, searching for clues, determined to hunt down the missing trophy, and uncover who stole it… This is aimed at children 5 – 9 who are perhaps just starting to read ‘chapter books’ on their own, or with help- so the story contains a few ‘harder’ words to challenge them along the way (Reading Tier 2). Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-03 00:44:112024-10-21 14:32:06Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series Book #3) by MJ Murray – Review by Angela Hayes
Love and Fate is the second book in the Braebeach Rockstar Romance series by Loriana Cappello. This is a angsty, slow-burn, second chance, rockstar romance with single parent’s element, challenges, family, friendship, chemistry, drama, tragedy, heartache, emotion, and more. Angie and Tommy have a complicated past, their teen/first love burned bright, but life tore them apart. Both move on with their – then tragedy strikes, and heartache leaves its mark. What does the future have in store for these two- will their past feelings bubble to the surface once more? Can they open themselves up to the possibility of love, risking their hearts for their second chance at love? Will the challenges they now face be too difficult to navigate? As I have noted before, Ms. Cappello has an easy and inviting writing style that made this an engaging read. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2024-10-02 00:04:492024-10-21 13:42:21Love and Fate (Braebeach Rockstar Romance Series Book #2) by Loriana Cappello – Review by Angela Hayes
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Railway to Murder by Danny J. Bradbury
