The Vardoger Boy by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the second book in the Forerunner series. The author did a great job keeping the characters true to themselves. I love the way the author brings the story to life. I’m enjoying the mix of history and fiction. I can’t wait to read the next book .
Reviewed by @mimimadge
Watcher by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Romeo and Juliet is one of my favorite plays and I am always into reading retellings. MM Romeo and Juliet? Count me in!
Jace is the last descendent of the first disgraced Watcher, fallen angels responsible for corrupting humanity. Hunting them down, are the Messengers, celestial beings from another realm.
Jace is still recovering from heartbreak when he meets Cyrus, a Messenger unlike he has met before. Cyrus wants peace instead of war, but that task won’t be easy. Neither is falling for the dark winged man.
Words cannot describe how much I loved this novel. I loved so many of the characters. I loved Cassian and Jace’s sister Hesper.
Unlike with Romeo and Juliet, where the origin of the feud remains unknown, in this novel, it becomes clear why there is war between the Messengers and the Watchers. The ending is also different from the original play which I also liked. This was a very well thought out retelling.
I read online that this is a series and I am so excited to read the next novel. I am not sure if the sequels will continue being from Jace and Cyrus points of view or if a new couple’s story will be told. I will impatiently wait until January of next year. Only a few months, but it feels like a lifetime away.
Ritual Obsession by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Max loves his job as a detective for his local precinct but he’s still mourning over the loss of his relationship with Carole. They were running for the altar when everything changed and he found himself alone.
Roberta (a.k.a. Bobbi) is a socialite turned cop. No one wants to take her seriously because of her amazingly great looks and money. She just wants to be accepted and make something of her life while staying out of the papers.
When Bobbi is hired on as the new partner for Rosie (another cop in the department), every man is vying for a chance at her. She only has eyes for one person but really don’t want to mix business with pleasure after the outcome on her last assignment for another precinct.
A series of murders start happening in the city and this murderer’s M.O. is pretty gruesome. He only desires brunettes with hazel eyes and most of them are call girls. It’s when his m.o. starts changing that things really start to heat up for the detectives on the case. How many more women have to die before they can catch this creep?
This is my first R.L. Dunn book but will not be my last!! From the get go, this one had my attention. Just when I thought I had it figured out, things would change and I’d change my mind. I’m still trying to untangle all the clues and details!! This is gripping, chilling, and will stick with you for awhile. I’m glad the next book in this series is released in a couple of weeks. I’ll have to reserve some time for it because it’s that good of a series so far!
Fairly Royal by Grace Grahme
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first book from this author I have read and I was hooked. I like how the author has a well balanced story line with just enough drama to balance out the steamy romance. I also like how the characters have a bit of complexity. The chemistry is just so explosive and I really could not put this book down. I like how the characters compliment one another and how there is fireworks in the making. I love how they come together and how the author draws out the story line. I will definitely be reading more from this author.
Reviewed by @caraleeloonat
View all my reviews
Shake Down by Armand Rosamilia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What a suspenseful book, one that keeps you reading till you hit the very end. Clayton is an ex-cop who is trying to redeem himself back into everyone’s good graces. The FBI is following his every move just watching and waiting for him to say yes. He’s working at the repo shop just waiting to redeem himself for the mistakes he made in his past, but will his past come back and get him in the long run? A great read!
Stitch by Stitch by Marie-Thérèse Hernon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Stitch by Stitch by Marie-Therese Hernon. This is such a fun cozy type mystery. Its the story of Elisabeth who is going thru a bad divorce and trying to keep her business going. When she gets a business proposition she risks it all and maxes out her credit cards against her better judgment. When a murder happens and that business deal is jeopardized she is desperate. The detective working the murder is also the guy who broke her heart in high school. Will they be able to solve the murder in order to save her business deal or will she lose everything? Read this fun mystery to find out!
Rivals by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another fantastic 5 star read from this author! This might be the seventh book in the series but it can be read a standalone however I would highly recommend reading the books in order. This was Mia and Nico’s story and what a story it was! The chemistry was there between these two characters almost instantly but as with all mafia romances things aren’t as simple and clear cut as they are meant to be! I loved that Mia wasn’t your usual naive heroine – she was feisty and happy to stand up for herself!
This was a riveting read and one that had me hooked from beginning to end. It was an amazing addition to this already amazing series and I wholeheartedly recommend it to other readers!
Bake Happy by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a wonderful end to this series! I have thoroughly enjoyed these books and really taken Cat and her family/friends into my heart. I really do love Cat, she has been such a great character to read about across all three books, she’s definitely made me laugh with her humour and her love of baking came across so well. She is truly wonderful at her job. I loved that the recipes continued in this book – such a quirky addition to the stories that I absolutely loved!
Ive really enjoyed this book and indeed this entire series and would wholeheartedly recommend it to other readers.
Ashes of Sin and Stardust by Lindsay Murray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a great story, and well written. A very steamy romance, that keeps you turning pages until you realize its 4 AM and you have to be up in the next hour.
Each character was very relatable in some sort of way, never feeling like someone was misplaced. The author was very detailed, building an amazing world, giving you the reader an outstanding amount of knowledge to know what is going on in the story. But that knowledge also helped you understand each character in the book and where they come from, and why they act the way that they do. The downside with such detail was, especially in the beginning, it was such a slow read. I just sat there hoping something would happen, hoping things would pick up. Or sometimes the details would become way too specific, and left me wondering, “why do I need to know this?” “why am I reading this?”. As the story progressed it did become so much better!
Each character had some sort of history and connection with each other, that definitely made everything more interesting.
This was a darker story, and when the author gives the warning that this book is real, that the book is raw, and the book is emotional and dark, she really means it. I am not trying to scare a single reader from reading this book, because trust me it was so very good. But it did have some triggers, that I thought I could handle, that made me shut down a bit and have to take a break.
This author makes you feel! All in all, it was a great book, but I had to lower down to 4 stars because you can’t give half star ratings, and I personally couldn’t give this 5 stars. It was a very lengthy book, but was eloquently written too.
Ashes of Sin and Stardust by Lindsay Murray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a really good read. It’s one of those books that you actually fall into straight away. The author does warn about the content in the book and whilst I’m happy to read most dark reads even some parts were a little more than I liked but the author did warn and I proceeded so I simply skimmed over these parts and they didn’t take away any of my enjoyment of what I was reading. I really liked the characters Reuben and Alice and I also enjoyed the uniqueness some of the characters too.
Overall this was a great read and one that I would recommend.
Ya know how some series have that book that just isn’t as good as the first or the rest? This is not that series. There has not been a bad book, an unsatisfying read or listen as the case may be. I absolutely love these books, these characters, this family.
Peg has been burned time and time again because people suck. Peg became an amputee as a result of his time in the military. Peg has made his peace with it. He understands that it is a problem for some folks, as he has felt the sting of rejection and seen the looks of disgust. Peg has a good life but as he is watching his brother’s fall in love, grow families, find happiness, he thinks his life is missing something. A disastrous first date left Peg restless, so he went for a ride. A ride that led him to her.
Darcy just had the worst night of her life. The guy she allowed to live in her house for a few days after his house burnt has turned to the house guest from hell. He won’t leave, he wants a relationship with Darcy, and he says she just needs to get used to the idea. How could she let this happen?? She is a strong, intelligent, independent woman. She is a firefighter. Was her judgment when it comes to men really that bad? Sitting by the roadside, out of gas, no cellphone, Darcy can’t believe her luck. As a Harley pulls up behind her, she can’t handle one more problem.
Only the biker isn’t a problem, he is the answer to all her dreams. Maybe that is the problem. Peg is everything she wants in a man and a partner. Peg feels the same way about Darcy. Peg is ready to put up with all the jokes and ribbing from his brothers to keep a woman like Darcy in his life. When wildfires threaten the Compound and put Darcy in danger, everything goes up in flames. Can they find their way through the smoke to come out the other side?
Did I mention that I LOVE this series? As I read/listen to each book, the characters continue to grow and become more loveable. I couldn’t wait for Peg’s story. I have loved him since he first appeared in Turning Wheels. Can’t wait for the next one!!
Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I LOVED this book and if I could give it all the stars in the sky as pet of my review, I would.
It feels like the main character, Ashley Adams could easily be one of my closest bff’s. Her amazing qualities made her all the more endearing, as you get to know her throughout this incredible story. Besides being smart and sometimes underestimated, she has the most impeccable timing with her witty remarks.
Also when Harry James was first introduced, I immediately thought of comparing his status to Harry Styles’ celebrity status. Had something like this occurred in the real world with so many HS fans, I’m sure most would close-mindedly assume he should not associate himself with someone like Ash.
I was sold on this book the moment I read the synopsis that mentioned it contained a plot with fairies and magic. Little did I know that it would open up into a magical world with phenomenal imagery and content.
Also I loved the cover art! It gave off dark Cinderella vibes and I adored it.
I think teens and adults will enjoy this book like I did. I give this title 5 out of 5 stars.
The Colors of Love by K.R. Raye
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
An enjoyable and engaging read, which kept me happily turning the pages. Having read book one, it was nice to be back with the three friends, Lance, Imani, and Melody. The storyline continues from the previous book, and the friends are all coming to terms with the traumatic events that occurred. Having nearly lost his two friends, Lance is determined to protect them, along with fulfilling his dream of becoming a professional footballer. Imani, is continuing with her chemical engineering degree and the hope of a promising career. Melody has been left shattered but is even more determined to find true love like her parents.
As the friends try to recover from the unimaginable, their friendship is tested. Lance’s promiscuity may not only affect his NFL dreams, but also endanger the girls again. Meanwhile, Melody is at risk of making the same mistakes that nearly got her killed, and Imani’s racist preconceptions may prevent her academic progress. This is an emotional rollercoaster of a read, full of drama and angst, but fundamentally the friendship element shines through. The characters are all likeable and relatable, making me feel engaged with them and their lives. I look forward to book three, and with ‘catching up’ with the trio of friends again.
Fairly Royal by Grace Grahme
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Anna has been crushing on Phillip for the last 15 years. Phillip was her brother’s best friend. They practically grew up together. Anna was technically off-limits, bro code and all. All of that changed when Anna kissed Phillip on Halloween, or Samhain as the Scottish call it. What made the situation more confusing was when Phillip kissed Anna the second time.
As Anna is fulfilling her duty to her family by attending more society social events, Phillip has offered to be a guide. When Anna and Phillip have their picture taken together, the media starts to talk about the couple. Phillip hatches a plan, fake date Anna to keep the press and his mother off his back about dating and relationships. Phillip finds that Anna brings out a side of him he thought was long gone due to him caving to the duties and requirements of his family. Anna finds the man behind the mask more intriguing and loveable than Phillip’s public face for which she had already fallen.
When the ghosts of the past threaten their new relationship, Phillip does what he always did, choose honor and family over his own feelings and desires. Does this mean the end for Anna and Phillip?
They tout this as a slow-burn romance, but there is heat and emotion and steam from the very beginning. The characters are smart, funny, witty and real. This was my first book in the series but it was a great one. Even with the Scottish slang thrown in, this was a fast and easy read!! Perfect for afternoons by the beach or pool or just an afternoon relaxing.
Ouroboros by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the third book of this romantic dystopian series, and it’s just as gripping as the first two. We are back with Cam Mackintosh, who was left heartbroken at the end of the previous book, and this story follows his adventures, as he decides to leave his home in search of answers. During his journey he faces new challenges and opportunities, and makes new friends. Cam is also reunited with his ex lover, Freyja Jorgensen, making Cam believe that their lives have come full circle. However, Just as Cam and Freyja are settling into their new life, they are forced to defend those they love when their sustainable community is threatened.
Friendships are tested when Cam and the others finally learn the horrifying truth as to why they were all chosen. Cam and Freyja’s relationship is put to the test when faced with a diabolical plot, that makes them question everything they value. Another exciting and entertaining read, which had me hooked from page one. I would suggest reading this series in order, as the storyline does continue in each book. The characters yet again made me feel engaged with them, and the descriptive narrative brought them and the setting vividly to life. An enjoyable and engaging read, and I am looking forward to book four.
Ashes by MK Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
It was impossible not to love this book and be swept away into all this wonderful book had to offer, I always love a good book that does a good job of a fairy tale retelling, but this one blew my mind with how well done the writing was as well as the concept of the story! It was a magical read from start to finish!
Personally the aspect of this being a Cinderella re telling was magical as it could get! I love the modern take on this story, but I loved really how the author brought it to life. The characters were all sensational on their own path in who they were and whom they represented. The story had strong character development as well, and the characters were very connectable and each held their own. I was quite intrigued with things I did not expect as I read, the different things I really added to the story I felt. The writing was amazing, and the whole story was amazing, this was a wonderful and magical read! I simply loved it truly!
Such a good and wonderful read. I truly enjoyed the read and all the moments and feelings that went along with it, I highly recommend this must read book! Not one to be missed for any reason!
Murder Most Pemberley by Jessica Berg
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Murder Most Pemberley is a wonderfully fun murder mystery. Eliza Darcy is an American-born descendant of the Darcy/Bennet family. She is in England for a family reunion and finds herself in a real-life murder mystery. Eliza decides to indulge her inner Agatha Christie but finds herself in harm’s way. I really enjoyed the interactions between Eliza and Heath. I absolutely loved quirky Aunt Iris. This book was so fun to read. I was quickly drawn in. I look forward to seeing what the author does with book 2.
The Colors of Love by K.R. Raye
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the 2nd book in the Colors Trilogy.
We are back with Lance, Imani and Melody as they try to navigate college life. Dealing with new stresses, Romance, demons of the past and their future the 3 friends are going through their life’s facing different situations and finding and losing love.
After the devastating events of the last book it has sent shock waves through the 3 friends. Now they are all trying to rebuild their lives and all the challenges that they will come against. As young adults there is a lot of angst. Love and romance are confusing concepts. One thing none of the friends want is a repeat of the last time one of them fell in love.
With Melody’s past relationship and the terrible end that came too she is reluctant to let another man close to her. Is she right to keep herself guarded and closed off?
Imani is always strong and sensible but when she gets into a long- distance relationship with DJ she finds herself feeling and confronting emotions she’s never felt before .
And finally Lance. Lance is definately a ladies man. However now he main focus is looking after his girls and becoming a professional athlete. So how will he react when there is another danger aimed at his girls or when his promiscuous history comes back to bite him.
This story is full of emotion as they all deal with their own problems but their love for each other and unwavering support shines though the pages.
Ritual Obsession by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ritual Obsession (Blood Obsession Book 1) by R.L. Dunn. I LOVED this book. Its become one of my favorite books I’ve read this year. Its the story of Roberta “Bobbie” Wallace who has just become a detective with the NYPD all based on a dare. Her new partner Max Buckley has been with the NYPD for years and has seen a lot. When he first sees Bobbie he’s smitten but knows he has to keep it all business even though he flirts with her. New York is also now under attack from a serial killer that likes dark haired ladies which Bobbie is. Bobbie and Max are both put on a task force to stop this killer before it gets worse. Fighting together to stop this serial killer and fighting the attraction to one another things are getting dangerous. Will they be able to stop the killer before more murders are committed? Read this fast paced, turn the pages late in the night crime thriller! You won’t be disappointed. I can’t wait to read the next one!
This story is amazing and so original. I loved the story line of the slayer falling for his dragon and the drama that ensues. That made for an adventure that had me hooked from the moment I started. The narrator, Oh my! that man does so much to this story. What an amazing voice. His accent just gave a whole new voice to the tale. All together, I highly recommend this to every paranormal romance lover out there.
Shake Down by Armand Rosamilia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
Shake Down (First Coast Thriller Book 1) by Armand Rosamilia
Shake Down is the first book in the First Coast Thriller Series and once you start reading there’s no stopping until you finish. This is a Thriller/Crime that pulls you in from the beginning and keeps on the edge of your seat trying to figure out what is going to happen next. This is a fairly new author to me but I’m a fan already. His style of writing and attention to detail and his characters are relatable and fully developed make for a wonderful story. This is a fast paced story that is packed with action and suspense. Clayton is a ex-cop who is now working repo and has repossessed a boat that turns out to belong to Cartel. He finds himself in a situation where now the cartel is after him they want their boat back. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
♡ 
BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ♡ ❥
Fairy magic has no place in the modern world – or does it?
Ashley Adams doesn’t have time for haters. Already too busy dealing with dead bodies after her stepmother purchased a mortuary, she is ready to put the lid on her judgmental peers and finally bury her high school experience. Falling in love was the last thing on her mind.
Too bad fate had other plans when the local celebrity lands in her life.
Pop sensation Harry James is ordered by the court to attend public school for his senior year or face jail time. He can’t afford any bad press if he wants his summer tour to go ahead. But when he ducks into the mortuary where Ashley works to escape a mob of fans, he wonders if he is chasing the wrong dream.
High school mean girls, a controlling publicist, and scheming stepsisters want to keep Ashley away from Harry. After all, everyone knows the popstar doesn’t belong with the social outcast.
If only they had some fairy magic to help them find their happy ending…
Ashes is a fun and snarky standalone YA romance. If you like captivating characters, emotional twists and turns, Fairies and Cinderella retellings, then you’ll adore MK Harkins’ fast-paced tale.
Contains mild swearing and off-page violence.
Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins
MK has always been a voracious reader. After hitting a dry spell of reading material, she decided to write the kind of book she’d like to read. This resulted in the creation of her debut novel, Intentional. (Award for Best Sweet Romance – eFestival of Words- August 2014) Unintentional, Breaking Braydon, Taking Tiffany, The Reader, Famous by Default, soon followed. The follow-up to The Reader, The Jack, released August 2018.
Ashes, the first book in a new series of modern-day fairy tale retellings released in May 2022. (Five more books in the series to follow)
When she’s not writing novels, she likes to spend her free time traveling the world, splashing in mud puddles (She lives in Seattle, what can she say?), watching movies and reading (!) She LOVES to hear from her readers!
The Colors of Love by K.R. Raye
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3 Stars
The Colors of Love is the second book in the Colors Trilogy by K.R. Raye. This is a New Adult contemporary story with emotion, challenges, friendship, college life, lessons, triggers, romance, and drama.
We re-join Lance, Imani, and Melody as they face some serious challenges and navigate their way through college and life. Their friendship is about to be tested in many ways. Are they up for some serious challenges? Only time will tell….
Bring on Book #3!
Happy Reading!
Thank you, K.R. Raye!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Ashes of Sin and Stardust by Lindsay Murray
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Reuben has been on the lookout for his Sub, 24 years to be exact. And when he finally finds her…she’s completely opposite of what he envisioned. Bratty wasn’t even a thought lol. But as time goes on, Reuben and Alice actually work for each other. They balance one another out. Book is a lot longer than it should be but that’s ok. Check trigger warnings! Topics are dark and heavy. Tears will happen!
Murder Most Pemberley by Jessica Berg
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3 Stars
Murder Most Pemberley is the first book in the Eliza Darcy Mysteries series by Jessica Berg. This is an original, contemporary cozy mystery that is a nod to ‘Pride and Prejudice’, a bit of a fanfiction story if you will, as our female lead, Eliza, is a descendant of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy.
I thought the premise of the story was brilliant, and quite clever on the part of the author. I really wanted to love this story as I am an Austin fan…. But unfortunately, I was left a little wanting as I couldn’t connect with the character/s the way I would have liked, which prevented me from fully immersing in the story.
I have had a very busy few weeks of late, reading a lot of darker thrillers, which may have coloured my opinion of this book…. So, I have decided to revisit this book again in a few weeks to see if I still feel the same way, or if perhaps I was just having an ‘off’ reading day.
If you love cozy mystery, or are an Austin fan, then you might want to grab a copy of this story to explore.
Happy Reading!
Thank you, Jessica Berg!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Love’s Mulligan by C.A. Miconi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Love’s Mulligan is the first book in the Stroke of Love Series by C.A Miconi. It is a wonderful contemporary romance with second chances, a surprise wedding element, interracial romance, sport/golf, past history, emotion, drama, chemistry, and angst- set amongst the bright lights of Las Vegas.
I wondered at the meaning behind the book’s title and have since learned that a mulligan is a golfing term that refers to ‘a second chance to perform an action, usually after the first went wrong’… so now the title makes perfect sense….
A gorgeous cover, a sweet story, and wonderful characters. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
Happy Reading!
Thank you, C.A Miconi!
Reviewed by @angelahayesyes
Stitch by Stitch by Marie-Thérèse Hernon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Stitch by Stitch is a creatively done mystery. Part of the story focuses on the main characters transition after a messy divorce. Between a bitter husband, money issues and a murder or main character finds that’s she’s stronger than she thinks. This work of fiction is filled with page turning twists, and action. I finished it in one sitting. Definitely a great read.
The Colors of Love by K.R. Raye
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love love love this author and this series! The Colors of Love was beautiful! I can’t wait to read book 3, I may even restart before I get my hands on book 3.
Dealing with the aftermath of book 1, Lance, Melody, and Imani end up on adventures over the next few years of school. The time crunch in this one is definitely quicker than book 1.
Race definitely becomes an issue in the book. Imani is a strong presence. Imani even struggles with it herself. Can’t see past it, on how she should only be dating her own race all others are off limits. It’s definitely a learning experience for her, and I am glad Melody had a meltdown and opened Imani’s eyes to reality.
Melody is still struggling, with her boyfriend blowing his brains out, she needs to let go. But that’s easier said than done. Jumping into a relationship that she didn’t realize had some serious race implications.
Then there’s Lance. Lance is still jumping from woman to woman, till junior year spring break changed his life for multiple reasons. He found out his real dad is alive and well, also not a criminal. Also accepted him with open arms into his family fold. Then there’s Imani, he loves her but doesn’t know how to tell her. He feels the night they spent together was a mistake.
Will he ever tell Imani, how he truly feels?
Will Melody ever be able to get past what happened to Kevin?
So many questions and tons of answers, I just refuse to post the spoilers. I want you to jump feet first into a book trilogy that’s worth every penny!
Love’s Mulligan by C.A. Miconi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A second chance, interracial story with a famous athlete and an event planner.
They grew up together and were best friends once upon a time, then he let his desire for money and fame separate them. Now that he has found her again and she is the event planner for his WEDDING. What now. where do they go from here?
Great characters, wonderful story line. I am truly looking forward to see what else comes in this series.
Murder Most Pemberley by Jessica Berg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love nothing more than a good Pride and Prejudice variation and this one was great. Eliza Darcy is the descendant of our favorite Elizabeth and Mr Darcy. She travels from America to meet her relatives at Pemberley and things seem fine until people start dying. Eliza, with her love of Agatha Christie, can’t help but try and solve the mystery. I just loved the characters.