The Better Man by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the second book of the series. It can be read as a stand alone. I absolutely loved this book. I did not want to put it down. Jamie and Laramee are so cute together! There is a little bit of a rough start to their relationship, but we are fairly quickly rewarded with a friendship that slowly builds.
Perfect by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Perfect by Tricia Copeland is the first novel I have read by this author and it did not disappoint! This was a quick, yet wonderful read about a young woman trying to navigate school, her dream career, friends and her love life. She is a sweet girl, full of love to give, but she’s not going to have anyone plan her life for her, or sacrifice being who she is and aspires to be. Lots of twists and turns lead her down several different paths to finding the true happiness she deserves, and I was rooting for her from beginning to end.
I’ll definitely be looking out for future books by this author. I thought this story was wonderfully written, and it didn’t feel over-the-top like many romance stories do. If you’re into the romance genre, I would definitely recommend!
Amese of Animalis by M.J. Murray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Amese has some big shoes to fill and she’s not sure that she really wants to take on the responsibility. The orchid bees have given her a series of assignments or trainings that she needs to complete in order to become the next potentate. Amese has to make some critical decisions as she goes through these trainings.
This was a very enjoyable book and I look forward to more in this series. Check out the beautiful cover of this book as well! I love the vibrant images and colors!!
Queen of the Fairies by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really loved Queen of the Fairies! My girls (5 and 4) did as well. We love all things Lois Wickstrom, but I think this was our favorite so far. Such a cute story but simple and easy to read. Very good for a night time story before bed!
Perfect by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have read a few books by this author before, and although this one is a bit different, I still thoroughly enjoyed it! This is a pretty fast paced story which led me to read it all in one day. It took me a little bit to find my reading groove, but once I did, I was completely absorbed. Our main character is Chloe, and she feels quite relatable. I think everyone has been in relationships where they give their all just to find that it doesn’t work for a multitude of reasons. Chloe has dated some good guys and some that made me want to scream. Each emotion that she went through hit my heart and made me feel like I was experiencing it right along with her. If you’re looking for a story that isn’t the typical cookie-cutter romance, this is the right book for you!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Unicorn, Don’t Do That!: It’s okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstep by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another cute story by this author. Nice illustrations that follow the story line. This book is easy to read and very entertaining for the littles.
Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Touched: Elemental Passions Book One by Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon. This is the first book 8in the Elemental Passions Series. Its the story of Aeris a fae who is very intrigued by everything but especially humans outside of Laric. Her brother Cyrus has warned her against this but she still sneaks out and watches them without them knowing or so she thinks. There is one human who can actually see her and asks her if she is ok. Callum Is a police detective and he is concerned for Aeris and asks her if he can help her. Aeris does this only think she knows, she flees! While Callum is on a case he accidentally hits Aeris with his vehicle. No one can see her except for Callum. Aeris heals herself and Callum convinces her to go for a ride with him because he is drawn to her. In the middle of them seeing each other a storm comes up and Aeris is ripped from Callum and she knows she’s in trouble because her father is the one bringing her back home. Callum is part Sylph and didn’t really know what that meant until he met Aeris. Will they be able to makes their very different worlds co exist? With so many authors I was a little concerned this story wouldn’t flow well but it was sooo good!
Stop That Lion: A Tale of Friendship Love and Peace by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Stop That Lion by Lois Wickstrom is a fun children’s book highlighting problem-solving. The Kingdom of Mir keeps having its sheep eaten by a lion from the Kingdom of Sher. The king tasks the kingdom to devise solutions to stop the lion. As everyone keeps failing, a cold named Wynnie comes to the rescue. The writing in this book has a lovely flow. It does a great job of showing children how to go about problem-solving and critical thinking. The illustrations were also fun and unique.
Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
It was definitely odd to me that 10 authors wrote one book. I have never heard anything like it before. I wasn’t sure how it would work. I was pleasantly surprised that it not only worked, but was a great read. It was cohesive as if only one person wrote it. I don’t want that to scare anyone away.
As far as the story, I really enjoyed it. I am a huge fan off all things mythical and paranormal. This book was right up my alley. There was so much in this book – suspense, action, adventure, etc. It was never too much and flowed really nicely. It did have a little bit of a slow start for me, but the rest of the book more than made up for it. There are the supernatural creatures I’ve heard about plenty of times ( and LOVE) and then new ones I have never heard of. I loved learning about them. This is the first book in the series and I am glad. I can’t wait to read more.
Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Marika Ray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
If you want to get away from the busyness of the world, this book is the way to go. There is a lot going on, from hockey to business life to her personal life. The story does flow seamlessly, and it’s very easy to follow. There is humor and romance which is a good combination. Overall, the author did a very awesome job.
Oscar and Emmy Foster Kittens by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oscar and Emmy love reading to the kittens at the local shelter. When they hear they can foster kittens, they become excited. Their mother finds out exactly what will be needed to foster pets. The author really brings fostering to light. Her story leaves nothing out. Opening the eyes of all interested in helping to foster any pets. The story is clearly written and easy for children to follow. I loved that the children fell in love with the kittens. Even more that the mother talked about not being able to keep the kittens, and helping others, including their own grown cats. Great story and a must have for all libraries.
Review@cinful
Texas Winds by Dana Wayne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A beautifully written insta-love story. The chemistry between Jake and Lexie is instant and so sweet. Lexie was left at the altar and is headed on a 2week vacation to rediscover herself. Jake is a widowed, single dad to four-year-old Katie.
After finding Lexie in her wreck car, Jake insists she stay at his home to recover.
This book will pull you in and hold you tight, page after page.
Perfect by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a enjoyable read. I have read books by this author before so I knew I was going to enjoy it. This author has an amazing way of captivating a reader with the story and you can’t help feeling invested in the characters story and journey.
In this story we meet Chloe..she is a determined young woman who wants to make a success of her life. Find love and romance is also on that list but it has to be the right person.
When we first meet Chloe she is dating her long term boyfriend, but distance is making things hard and when he proposes and tells her life he has planned for them( which don’t include her dreams or passion) she knows she has to end it.
Now she’s alone and putting herself into the world of dating. And we are along for the ride as she meets more suitors but which one will she end up with? Will any of them be her perfect match?
I really loved Chloe’s character and how she was determined to not just settle but to keep searching for what she wants out of life. It is a thought provoking read which at times made me laugh out loud.
Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a really great beginning of a series. Callum and Aeris’ story was very interesting and I found myself enjoying reading about their relationship. The story had a lot of depth and I found drawn into the characters and their interactions and relationships. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Perfect by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this heartwarming, sweet, clean, contemporary romance which kept me happily turning the pages. As a Asian American with a single-parent upbringing Chloe is not going to compromise with romance and success. Having had a long distance relationship with her high-school sweetheart all through college, now she’s completed her business classes she’s ready for a new start. Unfortunately just as Chloe is moving on with a hunky basketball player her high-school sweetheart proposes to her, but she worries that following her heart could be the end of her bright future. Chloe then successfully becomes a rising star in the fashion industry and among the many new choices she faces, who she dates and falls in love with is a major one. Having five different men as potential husbands means Chloe must get her decision right. The question of who she should be standing at the alter with, saying ‘I do’, and having her HEA with is the basis of this novels intriguing storyline. This is an engaging romance with likeable and relatable characters and I felt invested in the outcome of who Chloe would marry. The story had plenty of lighthearted moments, witty banter, PDA, and of course plenty of romance.
Oh Chloe, I don’t know that I’ve ever been so invested in someone finding love. The options and situations that Chloe was in, and why they should or shouldn’t work out had me so invested. I feel like every person has been in the situation at one point or another when there is a love interest that you want it to work out, but the universe seems likes that’s just not what is in the cards.
This book often times gave me the choose your own ending vibes where you got to see how it would work out, and what other options there would be if Chloe made a different choice.
I appreciated the other characters as well. The pressure that Chloe felt from her Mom, but also where her Mom was coming from within that pressure. Kim, her wanting to live in the moment and reminder that you only get one life so you should live it to the fullest.
Of all the boyfriends, I’d say Adam was a little intense, and Chase was probably my favorite.
I really enjoyed reading this book and would definitely recommend it. Especially if you aree looking for a nice lighthearted read.
What Eyes Can’t See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging by Paulette Stout
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a pretty good read. I found Barbara to be a very strong and determined woman despite the events that life was throwing at her. She was determined to get justice and not let it bring her and the others down. She had met the man of her “dreams.” It was a shame that he was a problem of the system. I did like the way it became a slow burn through the story. This had to go that way in order to fit the story. I am a fan of this series and the author because of her writing and the way she tells her stories. They are done in a way that leaves you feeling the emotion in many ways. Another well done story that I recommend.
Murder on West Main: A South Shore Mystery by I.M. Foster
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Oh, so much fun to be back with Daniel and a mystery. This was a doozy. Right from the start it was set up with several paths to take. I found the writing quite entertaining. Being in the early 1900’s, it’s kind of funny to read the occasional cuss word in their. Somehow, I just can’t picture them saying it. Anyway, I loved the independence of Colin’s sister. Daniel has his hands trying to keep her out of trouble. Their chemistry is full of sparks for that time period. Trying to figure out the culprit is actually an enjoyable mystery. Much like the first book in the series, I quite enjoyed this story. I’m very much looking forward to the next one. This is fast becoming my favoirte historical fiction cozy series.
Breaking Apart by Wanda J. Venters
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 Stars
Breaking Apart is the second instalment in the Finnerty and Liccione Mystery series by Wanda J. Venters & Mary Rae. It is another engaging medical mystery, woven with crime and investigation, whodunnit tension, PTSD, danger, agendas, sinister forces, complexity, twists, intensity, suspense, secrets, lies, multi-layered plot, emotion, a deadly drug, a prescription drug diversion scheme/drug ring, threats, time factor, and a tense search for answers.
The violent death of a young veteran has Dr. Marne Liccione & Dr. Louise Finnerty on a dangerous quest for answers. There seems to quite a bit more to the case than first meets the eye, and they will be shocked to discover where their investigation leads. With sinister forces at work, will these two be up to the challenge? What happens make for a gripping read.
Looking forward to seeing what Book #3 has in store for Finnerty and Liccione (and us, the readers).
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Wanda J. Venters & Mary Rae!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Break Bone Fever by Mary Rae
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3 – 3.5 Stars
Break Bone Fever is the first book in the Finnerty and Liccione Mystery series by Wanda J. Venters & Mary Rae. It is a medical mystery with crime and investigation, whodunnit tension, a deadly contagion (Dengue Fever), an LGBTQ+ element, a web of intrigue, secrets, lies, agendas, multi-layered plot, science, social/political commentary, and a quest for justice.
When a friend dies under suspicious circumstances Dr. Marne Liccione & Dr. Louise Finnerty find themselves on a dangerous quest for the truth. Their investigation leads to places they never imagined, and they are faced with untangling the clues to uncover the answers they seek.
Having lived in the tropics of Australia and Papua New Guinea, I have had Dengue Fever a few times over the decades- which made this story more intriguing for me.
An interesting start to this series. The two main characters are well developed individuals with their own unique quirks and flaws- with a great dynamic. I look forward to seeing them ‘develop and grow’ individual, as well as a team, over the course of the series.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Wanda J. Venters & Mary Rae!
Reviewed By @angelahayes
Perfect by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I feel like its hard to truly describe this book without giving too much away so I will stay away from the plot and let you discover it’s wonders yourself. With relatable characters and a wonderful lead in Chole you will be quickly drawn into her life and all the possibilities that lay before her.
Murder on West Main: A South Shore Mystery by I.M. Foster
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 Stars
Murder On West Main is the second book in the South Shore Mystery series by I.M. Foster. It is a cozy historical murder mystery with a small town/village setting, crime & investigation, suspense, drama, tension, and a whodunnit element that adds extra intrigue to the story.
With the addition of the map at the beginning and the historical notes at the end- the author provided all the right ingredients for an engaging read.
Colin’s boss is murdered, and he becomes the prime suspect. With Daniel, the village’s assistant coroner, and colin’s sister, Kathleen- we follow along as they investigate the case to try to get to the bottom of it all, to clear Colin’s name.
Looking forward to continuing this series.
Happy reading…
Thank you, I.M. Foster!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
War in Sorcery’s Shadow by Elise Carlson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3 Stars
War in Sorcery’s Shadow is the third and final instalment in the Raurnon Trilogy by Elise Carlson. As this is the third and final book of the series, I highly recommend reading the previous books before starting on this one as the first two books contain important information, character introductions, backstory, and other relevant details that you really should know in order to fully appreciate this book, and the series as a whole.
This is a YA LGBTQIA+ action-adventure fantasy with magic, sorcery, myths, prophecy, Guardians, good vs evil, challenges, drama, secrets, quests, and high stakes.
Elise Carlson left the best till last with this epic conclusion to trilogy. The characters face some major challenges as the author amps up the intensity. Woven with plenty of mystery/mysteriousness, intrigue, and action- these characters will need to bring their A-game in order to face what lies ahead. So let the final leg of their adventure begin…
I am really looking forward to seeing what Elise Carlson has planned/will deliver, especially with her new Sythe Trilogy- just the name has me intrigued, and sounds like it could be pretty epic…
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Elise Carlson!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Rhapsody in Black: An Elena del Carral Mystery by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Rhapsody in Black: An Elena del Carral Mystery is the first book in the Rhapsody In… Elena del Carral Mystery series by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra. It is an engrossing cozy mystery with a whodunnit element, crime & investigation, suspense, danger, tension, emotion, jealousy, secrets, sabotage, accidents, agendas, twists, & dramatic developments- all set on the ‘ballet-world’ stage.
This is another well-developed, multi-layered story- with a tightly woven plot that snagged my attention right from the beginning, and had me trying to piece everything together as the plot unfolded.
Elena del Carral is excited to be offered the opportunity to dance for the premier ballet troupe in New York City- but when secrets and agendas are added to the mix, a sinister shadow is cast- making for some suspenseful reading.
Engrossing. Intriguing. Interesting characters. Well worth the read!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Marika Ray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 – 4.5 Stars
Mood Swings and Hockey Flings is the second book in the Hot Flash Hookups series by Marika Ray and Sylvie Stewart. This is another fun contemporary romantic comedy/sports romance, with an enemies to lovers trope, forbidden romance element, grumpy-sunshine, hockey, mood swings (perimenopausal fmc), fun, angst, drama, banter, engaging storyline, some forced proximity, chemistry, banter, antics, drama, emotion, angst, and quirky characters.
Pro hockey player Banks and sports agent Kaitlin get swept into a spicy game of love where spark fly and there might be more than meets the eye. What happens makes for a fun read.
Bring on ‘Night Sweats and Hockey Nets’ (Book #3)…..
Happy Reading!
Thank you, Sylvie Stewart & Marika Ray!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Texas Winds by Dana Wayne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Texas Winds by Dana Wayne is a contemporary western romance with all the ingredients that kept me turning the pages, reading well past my bedtime, just so I could find out how it all played out in the end.
The story is an angsty and emotional read- with family drama/dynamics, some suspense, tension, action, pain, grief, touches of humour & heartwarming moments which help to balance out the more complex elements, new beginnings, and endearing characters.
I really felt for these characters and what they had/were going through. Ms. Wayne certainly knows how to tug on heartstrings, as well as craft some more gritty moments that added an extra element of intrigue to the storyline.
I can’t wait to explore more Dana Wayne’s work…
Happy Reading!
Thank you, Dana Wayne!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Stop That Lion: A Tale of Friendship Love and Peace by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Stop That Lion by Lois Wickstrom is a children’s fantasy story with a bit of a fable/parable feel. Along the way it imparts some great lessons about problem solving, thinking outside the box, asking questions, finding answers, friendship, family, overcoming challenges, fairness/equality, and consequences.
With interesting and colourful illustrations, plenty of fun, some high stakes, thought-provoking situations, creativity, and adventure – which made for a great read.
The illustrations are cute and in a naïve style that suits the parable/fable-like story.
Looking forward to more from Ms. Wickstrom.
Happy reading…
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Unicorn, Don’t Do That!: It’s okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstep by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Unicorn Don’t Do That by Lois Wickstrom is a cute children’s fantasy story with a unicorn, friendship, a little ‘toilet’ humour which kids seem to love, interesting & colourful illustrations, plenty of fun, and adventure.
The illustrations are really cute- big, bright, bold, and colourful – bringing the story to life and really grabbed my grandchildren’s attention.
With a Unicorn dad and a Stegosaur mother, Stegga is very unique. We follow along when she is invited to her friend’s party- but what will she give him as a gift.
Looking forward to more from Ms. Wickstrom.
Happy reading…
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Will You Pretend Marry Me by Christi Barth
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Will You (Pretend) Marry Me by Christi Barth is a sweet and enjoyable contemporary romance- a bit of a romcom, with an enemies to lovers vibe, pretend relationship vs real feelings, hidden identity/alter ego, chemistry, secrets, banter, angst, and just enough ‘drama’ to keep things ‘interesting’.
Kaia is a pop superstar with a student teacher alter-ego, Abigail Dilworth. What will happen when she sets out to finish her teaching degree, doing her teaching training by going incognito at a high school where she will need to deal with the vice-principal who has secrets of his own. What ensues makes for a fun read.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Christi Barth!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
What Eyes Can’t See: Spicy contemporary fiction by Paulette Stout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a great 5 star read. I was pulled right in and didn’t want to put it down. I really liked the characters and their story. The author does a great job with her writing. Barbara was supposed to be married but fate had other plans for her. She ends up gifting her friend with the wedding instead. And she meets a hot guy and has some steamy moments with him. When they return to New York they want to see where things can go. Fate adds another twist and she doesn’t get her promotion, someone else does and when she sees who it is, things change for her. Overall this was a good read. If you’re looking for a good read that addresses some tough topics and has some great strong characters this is the book for you. I look forward to reading more from this author. 1-click and get started today.
Reviewed by @mab54615
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