Fury of Conviction by Coreene Callahan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What a fantastic addition to my paranormal romance shelf. I really enjoyed the way this author brought these characters to life. So much detail. I loved the world building and flew through the pages. Great book.
Reviewed by @heatherlovelace
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Boy Released by J.D. Spero
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
J.D. Spero brings the Trout family back with her newest novel in the series, “ Boy Released”, which takes place ten years after “Boy on Hold”.
Ten years after the tragedy that changed her life forever, Marcella and Bernie are now owners and proprietors of the Blue Palms Motel, a motel set in the Adirondack Mountains. Hen is now seventeen and preparing for his future, suffering through all the trials and tribulations that adolescence brings. Tyler, after serving his sentence in a psychiatric facility for the murder of his former neighbour Sally, has returned to live under his mother’s supervision. When Marcella is brutally attacked in the motel office one night, and Tyler admits responsibility, the Trout family is again under the legal spotlight, faced to confront Tyler’s psychiatric demons once more.
Spero’s recently published second novel in this series is just as gripping and emotionally unsettling as the first. In “Boy Released”, Tyler is now trying to cope with life outside of an institution, under the support and supervision of his family, who are trying to move on from the events of ten years ago. Spero is consistent in detailing Tyler’s struggles with schizophrenia, and the heartbreaking series of events that once again, change his young life.
Of course, Hen is back, although in this book he is a young man, making decisions about his future. Although he is a teenager, Hen is still as likable and charming as he was in the first novel, and his dedication to his family is honestly portrayed. Marcella and Bernie are now in a romantic relationship, after the events of the last book forced them to see each other in a new light, but their pairing only makes me like them more. When the final twist at the end is revealed, and a character from the past returns, it was unexpected and satisfying.
Most of the chapters in this novel, especially the ones being narrated from Tyler’s perspective, are told through broken and choppy sentences, which pulled at my inner “grammar nerd”, but I enjoyed how Spero told the story from the viewpoint of not only Tyler, but Marcella and Derek, too. These narrations by minor players helped to piece together the plot.
Spero brings a delightful end to her “Boy” series with “Boy Released”, while still highlighting the tragedy that mental illness (in this case, schizophrenia) can bring to a family. The Trout family are an adorably enjoyable group, and I loved watching them grow together throughout this series.
Stripped by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Stripped is the first book that I have read by this author and overall, I really enjoyed it. The story was really interesting and I enjoyed getting to know that characters. The synopsis sounded exciting when I first read it and there were parts of the story that definitely lived up to my expectations. There was a good amount of suspense running through the story and some romance thrown in as well. I think Dee is one of those characters you either love or hate and it did take me some time to warm up to her I have to admit but by the end I was enjoying reading about her.
I am definitely looking forward to reading the next book in the series and more from this author again in the future.
Repair by Trish Williford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Repair was again another wonderful read from this author. I was totally invested in the story of Charlie and Tank. There were some really nice moments between them and I could feel the connection that they had. I loved the banter between all of the characters, it made for some entertaining reading at times. I really like this author’s writing style; it is very relaxed and so easy to read. She seems to write in such a way that you feel like you’re part of the story at times. Whilst I loved all the characters in the story Tank just really stood out for me, with everything that he had been through in the past, he had a very emotional tale to tell!
I would definitely recommend this story to other readers.
Master Tuscano: Dark Vampire Romance by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What a way to countie this story. It gets you right from the start. Sylvia has done an amazing job of taking you into this fantasy, parnamol wicked world. Christian is caught between two worlds. He’s after revenge after what happen and he needs her help. Again other creatures are after them. This book had so much action and passion it’s one not to miss will it be thier last kiss.
Hold Me Forever by Lea Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this story so much. It was so beautifully written and just an absolute pleasure to read. The emotion just poured off the pages and I was so invested in Lark and Hunter’s story. I loved Lark’s character she was really intriguing and I just felt this connection with her, she was really genuine. I loved Hunter too and as soon as they reconnected, I could feel that what they had shared in the past was not over with and I was rooting for the whole way through.
Although this book is part of a series it can be read as a standalone but characters from the previous books do appear so I would definitely recommend reading them in order – they are also fantastic books and would highly recommend them!
The Girl and the Gargoyle by Pauline Gruber
I gave a 4.5 review on the last book and this one is right up there with it! Pauline has once again outdone herself with this storyline. Lucy, our MC, has really started coming into her powers and is allowing Jude to teach her and Dylan the ropes, so to speak. She is still juggling school, her nanny job, her new-to-her father, the major secrets, and now even more. Dylan is a completely different version of himself in this book than he was in the last and it’s far more interesting to see his internal debates with himself while the book progresses. Marcus has some new drama in his life and it will directly affect everyone involved in this story. There was so much I wasn’t expecting and many times I caught myself yelling at the characters out loud! I read this one a bit slower because there was so much to unpack, but I am still looking forward to the conclusion of this story. There is so much left open and I cannot wait to see how it all unfolds. If you haven’t read it yet, DO IT. Start with book one and let Pauline take you on an adventure!
Forbidden Mate by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the second book in The Shadows Chronicles. This story carries on with the first book and its a story which will keep you gripped from beginning to end. The characters are well written that you can’t help feel every emotion they go through and when they face dangers you feel like you are right there with them.
Levi and Tasha are a couple that in the eyes of the world shouldn’t work. Levi is a Lycan and Tasha is a Vampire. Both of their clans have been at work for years and their love could end up in their death. However neither of them are prepared to go down without a fight. After fighting in the war in the last book to bring the Lycans and Vampires together there is now another threat. And this one looks like it may destroy not only their love but the way of life.
There are loads of secrets and lie to unravel after decades of hate between the Lyans and Vampires, however they need to now work together more than ever to stop the hellspawn from destroying not only their lives but the humans that don’t even realise a war is happening.
Can the love between Levi and Tasha’s love be used as proof that the two clans can exist together in harmoney or will the hellspawn and the evil person after Tasha tear the couple apart for ever?
The Third Nanny by Michele Pariza Wacek
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The third nanny is my first book by this author but I cannot wait another second to dive into more! Janey is desperate to find out what might’ve happened to her sister who disappeared many years before. Julia and Max are in a bind and have quite the relationship with many layers, betrayal, and complications. While this story may seem clear-cut and you might think that you have it figured out I promise you will not be prepared for the end of this incredible story. If you are looking for a true psychological thriller that has twists and turns and will keep you on the edge of your seat this is the book that you want to pick up. The authors writing style is cryptic and unique. She pulls you in from so many directions that you can’t wait to see what’s on the next page. The author does an excellent job with the secondary characters and weaves a story that is truly beyond thrilling. I could easily see this book being made into a movie.
So Close by Renee Regent
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
It’s been a while since I read a book by this author so I was really excited to pick her newest release and I wasn’t disappointed. I love a friends to lovers story, I like to see how the relationship progresses and it always feel mor genuine and realistic as well. I liked that this book wasn’t just friends to lovers there was the enemies bit thrown in too. I love Ms Regents writing it’s a pleasure to read, the pace and flow are always good. Dahlia and Levi’s relationship has definitely had its ups and downs but I could feel this genuine connection between them. I really enjoyed reading their story. Although it’s the fourth book in this series it can easily be read as a standalone which is what I did – I definitely would like to read the others too.
I would certainly recommend So Close to other readers.
Journeys Through TimeSpace by James Talisman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I will say when I heard of this book I did a serious excited squeal. I was and am a huge fan of the first in the series. I am a person who will try any genre, but when I read fantasy or sci fi I am going to my inner roots, yes I am a nerd and geek and I am proud of it. Needless to say these books by this author always go deep in my inner interests of my heart and seriously love this series!
This novel was the second installment of the series the author has written. Needless to say there is no disappointment what so ever to be given to ourselves as the readers! The author wrote an amazing first book and this one only continued the same effects and feelings one can get from reading the prior.
For me what I loved a lot on this book is not just the action and quick pace the story brings you and the strong want to know what will happen to our beloved characters, but I loved the details the author gives us of the multi verse universe the story unfolds upon. As I rea through this one, for me the first one gave life lessons I found and made me think of certain things of the reality of which we live in. This one did the same, doing some things we can not just assume we will not pay a price will we?
The intriguing side of this story that it focused around two teams. One that was put together that had to find a treasure that was this special stone that could very well possibly destroy everything along with life as we know it. A note for me to add is that this team was not hunting on Earth.
Now on Earth, we have another team that was put together. This team on Earth was searching for a special crystal that was in shattered pieces and may be ones hope to save the world from total chaos and destruction. As well as very well being a chance for humanity and Earth to survive as we are now.
As the story progressed of course the teams interact and meet along the way. Honestly when the teams basically interact to me that was the biggest point in the story. I personally hooked in that sheer moment of disbelief and had to continue reading. I could not literally put this book down and once again this author has helped add a novel to my bookshelf of favorite books.
This book in itself was very quick and action packed. It was so easy to comprehend and understand know the characters in who which they were. And who was good and who was more of a bad character sort to say. The author has true kill how to hook his readers and keep them reading as well guessing till the last second of what decisions will bring forth. And what the general morale of the characters bring to impact upon the readers, I personally loved that aspect. The author is talented and writes a story I believe anyone who reads this can enjoy. I m a nerd yes, but I have already told friends of the first novel that are not into sci fi genre and a few got back to me they really enjoyed it. Needless to say I will be doing the same with this installment of the series!
Again loved this book. Loved the writing technique and the detail the author brings to characters. I loved the universe parallels as well. Needless to add, the action packed part of it really kept you on the edge of your couch or seat and to keep reading to see what actions would bring forth next! I am really enjoying reading the books by this author and I will most certainly continue to do so in the future!
The Girl and the Gargoyle by Pauline Gruber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Girl and the Gargoyle is the second book in The Girl and the Raven series by Pauline Gruber. If you have yet to read book one, I would definitely recommend starting there.
In some ways, this is a typical YA coming-of-age type of story. There is school, friends, love triangles, and other teenage problems to navigate. But then, throw in being half witch/half human, demons, and extracurricular combat lessons to help you stay alive…..that’s Lucy’s crazy world!
I thought this was a great second instalment, as with all good books in a series, it raises more questions than it answers and leaves you wanting more. The pages turned so fast throughout this story, it’s action-packed and you need to know what happens next!
Dire’s Club by Kimberly Packard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is not my first book by this author but it is one of my favorites by her yet. This is a well written story about dying, one last adventure and how much fun you can have. The characters are connectable and written with a lot of heart. I enjoyed being pulled into the story by them and what they brought to the story. This is an engaging story that I found to be easy to read and entertaining. Dire’s Club is a place where it gives terminally ill people one last adventure. This is a story full of emotion that will tug at your heart in spots. I really enjoyed being pulled in and how the author’s use of details made the story feel realistic. This is worth the pick up for sure. I highly recommend this book.
Review by @bjwagner
Forbidden Mate by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the second book in this series which is just as great as the first one. I highly suggest reading the first book as it is just as great. This is one of my favorites by this author which I really enjoyed. This is a well written story that has a ton of paranormal and supernatural suspense. The characters bring the fantasy to a new level as they bring the story to life. They are connectable and kept me turning pages to the end. The relationship between the vampires and Lycans are being tested throughout this story. Is Levi and Tasha’s relationship strong enough to survive what is coming? I really enjoyed them in the first book and certainly enjoyed them more in this one. They just made the story for me. They are strong characters that have great chemistry. This is a great story that I highly recommend along with this author.
Review by @bjwagner
So Close by Renee Regent
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the fourth book in this series which I enjoyed just as much as the first book I read. This is an author that I have enjoyed from the first book that I picked up. She writes with a lot of heart and her attention to details give the story a realistic feel. This book is no different. I enjoyed being pulled into the story from the beginning by the characters. They are connectable and made the story easy and fun to read. I had a hard time putting this book down. This is a story about a couple that were best friends then over one situation they become enemies but is it possible that they could become more to each other? Will they forgive, learn to trust to find a happily ever after? I enjoyed watching the growth and chemistry between Dahlia and Levi. They truly made the story for me. I really enjoyed what they brought to the story. This is worth the pick up and I highly recommend it.
Review by @bjwagner
Dark Bastard by India Kells
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I’ve read several of India Kells’ books and I love their romantic suspense, especially in this Dark Sparrow series. In this novel, Sam and Ellie are drawn to each other by a connection where sparks fly immediately, but they both have dark pasts that they have to overcome to be with each other. I felt like I wanted more depth, as this was quite a short read and the resolution seemed too easy. I also wanted to know more about the characters, rather than the plot. I would also mention trigger warnings for childhood sexual abuse and suicidal thoughts. Overall, a quick romance read.
So Close by Renee Regent
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
So Close by Renee Regent is book four of the Love Grows series. This is a best friends to enemies to lovers romance and I loved every minute of it!
Dahlia worked so hard to get promoted to general manager so she’s not going to do anything to risk that. So when her first big project requires she work closely with her ex-best friend, she has to work hard for patience. Working so close with Levi is a dangerous game, the more time they spend together but she’s determined to keep him at arms length. Levi knows he messed up but he just needs a chance to explain. Working with Dahlia every day is a special kind of torture. He wants to break through the wall she built to protect herself but it’s not as easy as it would seem. Will Dahlia let her guard down and trust Levi again or are the destined to be ex-best friends?
I really enjoyed this book. Levi is determined but Dahlia is strong and independent. These characters meshed very well together and I enjoyed their chemistry!
Boy Released by J.D. Spero
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Boy Released is the follow-up story to Boy On Hold by J.D. Spero. While I would say this book could be read as a standalone, I enjoyed it so much more having read the first book. There is so much history you need to know, so I would recommend starting there.
Boy Released reunites us with the characters from book one and takes place ten years later. Tyler is now back with his family, and after his mother is attacked is now the main suspect due to his troubled history.
This story is an emotional rollercoaster. It combines mystery, compassion, and heartbreak and keeps the reader on their toes and turning pages. The characters are wonderful, and you get to hear from several different points of view throughout the story. The author writes in a way that makes you completely understand what each character is going through, even when they have different thoughts and opinions, you can relate to them all. I loved this story and thought it was an excellent follow-up.
Sam Sarkhan is in a dark place wanting to end it all. He mistakenly puts in the wrong number while trying to reach his brother on New Year’s Eve and hears someone on the other end who is going through the motions just like him. Even though he doesn’t know her background or her name he feels like he has found a kindred spirit and wants to find out more about her. Ellie McLaren is a 9-1-1 operator and loves to help people, but one too many losses has her ready to end everything. If it hadn’t been for that stranger calling in the nick of time she may have gone through with her plan. Maybe Sam can help her out of her darkness? Or they can save each other? Things go sideways when his father comes after him and threatens Ellie’s life if he doesn’t submit to his demands. Sam and his brothers have been trying to stop their father for years with no luck. Will Sam lose the woman he has fallen in love with or will he and his brothers finally be able to best the monster they call father?
The Dark Sparrow series by India Kells is amazing. Every time I see a book with her name on it I don’t hesitate to pick it up without reading the blurb. Any one of these books could be read as a stand alone, but I feel that they are best read together and in order.
Dark Bastard by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Sam Sarkan’s past is darker than anyone knows. After treading in the deep end of life too long, Sam is ready to end it all. But fate has him rethinking his decision. Sam planned to make a quick call to his brother Lazarus but dials the wrong number. On the line is Ellie McLaren, a 9-1-1 operator, who sounds just like he feels.
Sam rents an apartment right next door to her. With targets on the backs of all the brothers, Sam finds himself in a gunfight after Ellie drops by the day after he moves in. Running for their lives, Sam and Ellie end up at Lazarus’ as new battle lines with their father are drawn. With his money running out and his public image ruined, Jamieson Finch becomes deadlier.
Finch’s next manipulation will put Sam back in the place that he least desires to be…side-by-side with his father. Can Ellie keep Sam from falling back into the darkness? Will her light and his strength be enough to save both of them?
True Bastard by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Liam Harker is a Chicago Police Detective. A short time ago, he was injured in a gang shootout. His leg hasn’t recovered yet from the injury so he’s on medical leave from the force. While he is out of work, Liam decides to start working on Jamieson Finch’s finances.
Gabrielle, a friend of the family, brings in Sister Catronia Walsh to help with the financial puzzle because she is a whiz with numbers. Catronia grew up an orphan in a convent and now has to decide if she wants to continue with her commitment to be a nun.
When Liam and Catronia meet, electricity sparks with each touch. But Catronia is thrown off by some of her research into Finch’s finances. Will the brothers and Catronia solve the money puzzle before it’s too late?
Wild Bastard by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Isabel Osborne is a blonde beauty that has faced some darks paths in her life. Now she is a successful consultant. Her company is sought after by companies and people who are looking to recreate an image.
Kai Jones was once a surfer and then a Delta Force operative. Now his life mission is to help his brothers bring down their menacing father, Jamieson Finch. Even with his military training, Kai is thrown off his carefree orbit when Izzy walks back into his life.
Finch hires Isabel’s firm to help him start a campaign for becoming the mayor of Chicago. Finch takes a quick liking to Isabel which has Kai on alert at all times.
Can Kai and his brothers keep her safe when Finch’s dark secrets surface?
Cold Bastard by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Archer Blackwell is a ruthless businessman. As he prepares to sell some of his vast empire, Archer moves his headquarters to Chicago temporarily. To do so he must hire a translator.
Zoe Somersby has a gift for learning languages. She learned as a child that these “powers” can be used against you. When Gabriella, head of the Dark Sparrows group, reaches out to her to help a friend in need. Zoe agrees to be a translator for Archer Blackwell.
Archer’s father, Jamieson Finch, is a cold, hard, ruthless man. He had six sons by various women. He left them all to the single mothers and the cruelty of life that became theirs. He’s involved somehow with Archer’s business sale.
Zoe is attracted to Archer, but she doesn’t realize that he’s been attracted to her. When her life is threatened, Archer becomes a strong protector. Can they both overcome past hurts to find a full life together?
Hold Me Forever by Lea Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Coming in on book 3 of the series I was nervous. But I was told it was a stand-alone romance book. I’m a hopeless romantic and a sucker for cute love stories. The book went as I expected with a ton of use twists and turns with a hint of mystery. Lark and Hunter are adorable together and I love the “old love finds its way to reignite”. The characters were so well described and no detail was spared, even the simple side characters you fell in love with. I loved the sister’s interactions, I myself have 5 sisters and could easily see their comments between each other being a real conversation with my sisters. This book was a light read, it’ll give you butterflies and make your soul warm.
Dark Bastard by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a great 5 star read. Once I started I couldn’t put it down.
Sam was ready to make a choice. While making one last phone call to his brother, he ends up calling a wrong number and talks to a woman who sounds like she needs to be saved. Sam’s plans change and he is determined to find this woman. With his brother’s help he is able to find where she works and lives.
These two both have heartbreaking pasts. And unfortunately Sam’s dark past comes back to haunt them. Can Sam keep Ellie safe and have a HEA with her?
Overall this was a great read. I will warn that there are triggers in the story. The author does a great job with her writing, you feel like you’re right there with the characters. My emotions were all over the place. This book can be read as a stand alone but I suggest starting with the first one. I look forward to reading more from this author. 1-click and get started today.
Reviewed by @mab54615
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Dark Bastard by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story………my heart……this is truly one heck of a book. This book really tore my heart strings and some. The story of Sam and Ellie is truly heartbreaking and so emotional. Sam gets to his breaking point and one fateful phone call changes everything. I do not want to give away more or spoil the book but it is truly an emotional roller coaster for sure. Beware of triggers. Overall a fantastic read that is one wild, emotional ride.
Cursed Touch by A.J. Renee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Cursed Touch was a great read! I’m not sure if this one was my favorite or not that I’ve read from this series so far, but it was really good! I occasionally felt lost from the story, like there wasn’t enough background or description going on. But I easily got lost in this novel and found it hard to put down. It was sweet (like most of this series) and VERY steamy. This can be read as a standalone novel but it definitely flows better and gives better background to the recurring characters if you read them in order. As usual I loved this novel and I can’t wait to read the next one!
So Close by Renee Regent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I related to the strong female lead in this story, tenfold. Dahlia is a young, single mother to her newly seven-year-old son, Beckett, who must deal with the stress of co-parenting with her uncooperative ex-husband, Trey. Co-parenting is never easy, and especially when you have different parenting styles. This story not only revolves around the love that develops between Dahlia and Trey, but also the issues and real-world problems that arise from being a parent.
This story revolves around Dahlia, her son Beckett, her ex-husband Trey, and her ex-best friend, Levi, with whom she’s been estranged from for the past 7 years. Rene Regent does a phenomenal job at keeping the reader interested, from the very first chapter. Not only are you captured and pulled in by the possibility of a friendship turned relationship, but also the fact that being a parent truly is a full-time job, no matter what parenting style you may choose. I personally, wasn’t setting this book down until my curiosity was satisfied.
I love the way the story follows the characters around and gives you snippets into each of their personalities and the way they are involved in the story. Beckett is a very strong headed, amazing little man that reminds me of my own daughter, which made it that much more relatable. Adventuresome, honest little children are my favorite! I will be reading more by Ms. Regent, and so very glad I picked up this novel. It was everything I hoped that it would be, from reading the synopsis, and her writing style is just addictive. I cannot wait to read more of her work. Thank you, Renee!
Boy Released by J.D. Spero
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
In this book, it takes 10 years after the first book. Just like the first book there are many twists and turns. You think it’s one thing and then it smacks you upside the face with something completely unexpected. I love the ho esthetic of this book. Having a loved one with schizophrenia, this book was relatable. I understood the guilt, and the need of understanding. I felt deeply for both boys, and their loved ones. Definitely a must read once you’ve read the first one. Excellent well done JD Spero! I’m excited to see what awaits us next from you!
Journeys Through TimeSpace by James Talisman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was so good! I was so excited to read this after having read the first one! It definitely did not disappoint! The creativity and world building were just as captivating as the first book! The growth of the characters was realistic without losing the complexity that endeared them to me in the first place. The artifacts and the journeys to find them were so original and I wanted to go with them to see everything!
