Posts

Xenia Navarro and the Magic Ants by Lois Wickstrom and Milagros Darling – Review by Jenni Bishop

Xenia Navarro and the Magic AntsXenia Navarro and the Magic Ants by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lois writes children’s books with a wide range of topics and cleverly creates tales that are easily imagined with the beautiful pictures shown. In this story she has thrown in some science fiction elements that makes the story just a little bit more exciting.
Xenia and the Magic Ants is a bit of a sad story and is a controversial political story addressing deportation. It is confusing for adults let alone children and Lois does a good job of explaining this in terms that a child would understand.
Xenia Navarro has never been so scared when her Mexican mother gets arrested and is about to be deported but hopes they will all be together again soon.
Read along with Xenia to find out what happens to her family.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Jenni Bishop

Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire #2)Deadly Vengeance by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Deadly Vengeance is the second exciting book in the The Vaccaro Empire series. It is another deliciously erotica romance tale from Anise Storm and her magic fingers. Her writing is dark, raw, and gritty and captivates the reader.
Deadly Vengeance is a charming and seductive dark mafia thriller romantic story that has secrets and lies, intrigue and darkness, angst and fear and intrigue to keep the pages turning get the heart pumping.
Anise writes character that you will either love or hate. I enjoyed the push pull between the characters which starts right from the start. One thing is for sure and that is their honour to protect at all costs those that they love.
Vengeance turns rivals once pitted against one another into love or is it hate? Secrets will be exposed, mayhem reigns, ulterior motives, violence and death all come with the territory.
This steamy read is full of sexy, dangerous and possessive Mafia men who live in a dangerous and violent world. There is betrayal and suspense, tension and so much more it jumps out at you, and you are looking in the dark and on the edge of your seat.
This is Luca and Valenzia’s story, and you will have to grab a copy to find out what makes one turn to vengeance. You will not be disappointed.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Dead Keen (Things Unseen Book 2) by Anise Eden – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Dead Keen (Things Unseen #2)Dead Keen by Anise Eden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Things Unseen series and once again, the blurb was enough for me to know I’d love this book.

I love that we saw more of Con’s background, his family and homeland in this book. Though even in Ireland, the pair (Neve and Con) aren’t safe from peril, even while still trying to heal from their previous ordeal.

This book has made me fall more in love with Neve and Con than before, something I didn’t think was even possible. After everything they’ve both gone through, they’re so supportive and strong, bringing the best out in each other at their darkest moments.

The tension builds throughout as the danger rises, leaving you concerned for everyone’s safety. You’re left trying to unravel the secrets alongside the characters, rooting for everyone’s survival. I hope there’s another book coming soon as I cannot get enough of this series.

View all my reviews

Russian and Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Jenni Bishop

Russian and Royally ComplicatedRussian and Royally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Russian and Royally Complicated is book 2 in The Crowned Hearts series. It is a stand-alone enemy to lovers by the dynamic duo USA Today Bestselling Authors Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson.
These opposites attract story is sweet, sexy, full of passion and fun and add in a bit of vodka and spice, and you are drawn in and the pages fly by. Off the charts chemistry and flying sparks in more ways than one happens when there are secrets and hidden identities.
Gwyn and Christy turn up the heat and turmoil in this one night of hate sex but what happens after stuns them all.
Just as the first book Royally Complicated it is chock-a-block full of twists, complications, royalty, duty, a country possibly coming undone, lies and so much more. It is also filled with drama, action and humour and just enough need and romance. This steamy read will leave you with all the feels.
There are a few of the characters that evoke strong emotions in the reader.
I said it before with the first book, but I will say it again this writing duo make a good team.
I really enjoyed the story and look forward to reading the next book in the series/collection.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shannen Kern

I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien)I Am An Outer Space Alien by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This may be one of my absolute favorites from this author so far! Both my kiddos loved it, and I enjoyed it as well! Shirley (Shirl) is sure that Earth isn’t her home planet, but she really loves it when Eee-ahh comes to visit and play. I feel that this author ties in life lessons into her stories so well that you don’t fully realize it until after you’ve put the book down! This book started a conversation with my kids, and I loved every moment of it. I highly recommend this book for the little ones in your life!

View all my reviews

Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 1) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Christine Baranek

Royally ComplicatedRoyally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Royally Complicated
By: Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson

This is a fantastic story that features a prince and a heartbroken girl. Fyn is the prince and he is written as a very relatable royal character. He is at the beach to escape – from life, from all that is expected of him, etc. I could relate to that on a very visceral level – I mean who hasn’t had a moment where they want to run away just to breathe. Bridget is alone on her honeymoon. So she is drinking away her current situation and making the best of this beach vacation. I definitely didn’t blame her. I have to give the authors credit – Bridget’s situation could have come about very whiney and poor me but it didn’t she was a girl on the beach who happened to be heartbroken. But heartbroken was not a defining role for her. I loved how spicy this book got! This is definitely more of a modern fairy tale and I truly enjoyed it. It has a good balance of romance, fairy tale, and yet still went into the aspects of royalty. I definitely recommend reading this one. It has just enough spice to keep you satisfied!

View all my reviews

Sing For Me (The Balefire Series Book 2) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Christine Baranek

Sing For Me (Balefire, #2)Sing For Me by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sing For Me
By: Tam DeRudder Jackson

I have enjoyed each and everyone of the Balefire Series I have read. I love a good rockstar book and Tam DeRudder Jackson is one of the best I have read at writing them. Blu and Ashleigh were fantastic characters, who were dynamic together. They had wonderful banter and I enjoyed reading the two of them interact with one another. I also love how well she uses a dual perspective to tell this story. I always enjoy (when it is done well) seeing the characters alternate in telling the story, she also gives enough of an overlap that you feel that you are seeing things from both perspectives. I have read all of the series and enjoy each and every one, but if this is the first one you are drawn to, you can definitely read it as a standalone. This is a fantastic book and I am excited to see what happens next in the Balefire Series!

View all my reviews

A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Christine Baranek

A Forever Kind of ThingA Forever Kind of Thing by Melinda Harris
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Forever Kind of Thing
By: Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris

This is a fantastic look at the ups and downs of being in high school from the view point of two girls from two very different upbringings. The authors do a fantastic job of making you feel like you are in high school experiencing every piece of drama as you are reading. This is a great teenage romance and the authors are fantastic at creating believable teenage characters who have the kind of teenage love we all know. That tumultuous love where each truly has the others back at the end of the day. This book is amazingly well written and I definitely recommend it.

View all my reviews

Dead Sound (Things Unseen Series Book1) by Anise Eden – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Dead Sound (Things Unseen, #1)Dead Sound by Anise Eden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Things Unseen series, a psychological thriller which caught my attention from the first sentence of the blurb.

The links between a hospital and government fascinated me by how it all came together. At times you are left considering the possibility that the sources of information aren’t what they’re first made out to be. The what ifs leaving you trying to decipher the meanings behind the things everyone says and does. With all the conspiracy, you are left wondering who can be trusted and desperately hoping for the best outcome for Neve and Con.

I enjoyed the author’s writing style, it flowed well and built tension with the rising danger. The characters were well-constructed, and I honestly can’t decide who I love more, Neve or Con. Neve is just a beautiful human inside and out and you can’t help but love her while Con is both respectful and protective.

I was far more emotionally invested in this story than I was prepared for and I loved it! A brilliant start to the series, I can’t wait to see what happens next.

View all my reviews

The Guardsman (The Olympic Peninsula Series Book 2) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Christine Baranek

The Guardsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 2)The Guardsman by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Guardsman
By: Cat Treadgold

This is the second book in the Olympic Peninsula Series. I read the first book, The Silent Woodsman, and was anxiously awaiting the second book. I do think this book functions as a standalone, however, I will say that I definitely recommend reading the first book first. This is due to the same characters being featured in both books. I feel that you miss a large part of this story if you are unfamiliar with the background of the characters.
This time it’s Liam’s story. He was presumed dead in a terrorist attack. His sister, however, never lost hope that he was alive. She believed in their connection. Ali (his sister) and her husband, Joe, bring him back home. Liam and Ali are such amazing characters, they are dark and twisty and completely believable. They have had such a tight bond and have been through so much. It only makes sense that Liam is completely unsure of what he wants next in is life. However, if you read the first book, you know that not only did Liam and Ali have difficulty in growing up. Joe has an incredibly complicated family. And his sister needs his help. Joe and his sister have a good relationship. Teresa is also an excellent character. I loved how she and Liam interacted.
Cat Treadgold is a fantastic author who really has a strength in creating complex, believable and relatable characters. Each and everyone one of the characters introduced in this book is perfect. They are absolutely well written and why I know that I will be seeking out more of Cat’s book’s in the future!

View all my reviews

Dead Sound (Things Unseen Series Book1) by Anise Eden – Review by Christine Baranek

Dead Sound (Things Unseen, #1)Dead Sound by Anise Eden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dead Sound
By: Anise Eden

This book is a fantastically well written romantic suspense. The characters are amazing. Neve and Con are the perfect type of romance characters. They have a yearning for each other that runs deep but neither really speaks of it and keeps it to themselves. Neve is an incredible strong heroine and Con is incredibly protective of her. However, as in all my favorite books, every character in this book is incredibly complicated and dark and twisted. This is such a very well written book that I cannot recommend enough. It is filled with twists and turns and romance, truthfully it has everything a reader can ask for!

View all my reviews

I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Angela Plate, August 2023

I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien)I Am An Outer Space Alien by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another awesome children’s book from this author. It’s written for the younger tiny humans. I’d say age 4-7 ish. It’s well worded, inventive, and beautifully illustrated.

View all my reviews

Dead Keen (Things Unseen Book 2) by Anise Eden – Review by Christine Baranek

Dead Keen (Things Unseen #2)Dead Keen by Anise Eden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dead Keen (Things Unseen)
By: Anise Eden

This book is the sequel to Dead Sound. It is a fantastic thriller. It is well written and is filled with twists and turns that kept me reading way late into the night. Con and Neve are incredibly interesting characters. Every part of this plot seemed incredibly unique to me and every time I thought that I had it pretty much figured out, there would be another twist to keep me guessing. I truly enjoyed this book and recommend it for anyone who enjoys a great thriller.

View all my reviews

A Rainbow Like You by Andréa Fehsenfeld – Review by Christine Baranek

A Rainbow Like YouA Rainbow Like You by Andréa Fehsenfeld
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Rainbow Like You
By: Andrea Fehsenfelt

This is such a fantastic story! It is a great rock story that has a main character who undergoes so much growth and development throughout the book. Adrian is not your normal rock story – he doesn’t ooze sex, drugs and music. Instead he has a relationship with Hastings who has a condition called synesthesia. This dynamic between Adrian and Hastings is something that I can truly not describe. It is just best experienced. This book took me through every emotion possible and I loved every second of it. Only the best storytellers can write a book to make you feel things as much as I did in this book Andrea Fehsenfelt is a true storyteller and her work in this book makes it a must read. I hope to read more from her soon!

View all my reviews

Cruel King by K.M. Scott – Review by Christine Baranek

Cruel KingCruel King by K.M. Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cruel King
By: K.M. Scott

This is a fantastic billionaire romance featuring Ava and Matthias. I loved the dynamic between the two of them. I loved the dynamic that they have known each other for a really long time and that their families are super close. This added layers of complication to each of both Ava and Matthias. It is was a nice twist that she is also looking at a lifetime of happiness with Matthias’ brother. I feel that this was a key piece of the story that really added depth to the characters. I think that this book was very well written and it definitely kept me wanting more. I had a hard time putting it down! I definitely recommend this one!

View all my reviews

Sage Advice by Cori Cooper – Review by Christine Baranek

Sage AdviceSage Advice by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sage Advice
By: Cori Cooper

This was such a sweet story. I loved Pyper as a character. She seemed so self-confident and sure of herself. She also knew exactly what she wanted. However, she also knew what she didn’t want. At first, I wasn’t sure how I felt about Pyper and her efforts to cancel prom. However, I love the bigger story that that part of the plot lent itself to. I loved the lessons that were found in this story. This story gave me all the feels and transported me back to my own high school days, my insecurities and my feelings that I really knew everything. I definitely recommend this story!!

View all my reviews

The Secret Humankind (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Laura Jones

https://www.amazon.com/review/R1MUY14RIDVHTS/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5778326141

https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/1724764175

I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ashley Mertz

I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien)I Am An Outer Space Alien by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I Am An Outer Space Alien by Lois Wickstrom is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐ Book Review

I Am An Outer Space Alien is a quick, short story that encourages children to explore the world around them and venture outside of the box. Two people don’t have to like the same things or be exactly the same to be friends. I think this book is a perfect example of how children in today’s society may feel out of place if they are not 100% like their peers. The illustrations within this book are bright, cheery, and eye-catching. I definitely feel this book is appropriate for children ages 4-8.

View all my reviews
@ashleysbookobsession

The Reluctant Suitor (The Studs of Clear Creek County) by Stacy-Deanne – Review by Angela Shirley

The Reluctant Suitor: BWWM Historical Western (The Studs of Clear Creek County)The Reluctant Suitor: BWWM Historical Western by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Billie Jean is fighting for the rights of her people, family and friends but there is one thing standing in her way and that is the Locke Farm. Although when she meets the son Fisher there is something between them that both of the can’t resist but know that it is forbidden.

Fisher Locke has finally has a chance to prove himself to his parents but when he see her for the first time he is instantly drawn to her, but as they start to develop feelings for each other , can they survive the backlash or will they be destined to be apart forever.

I have read other books in this series and although there is some crossover with other stories you can easily read this book as a stand alone story. I loved the chemistry between these two characters and the emotional push and pull is great to read. With this historical storyline it is great to read about such strong females characters in an era where woman, especially black woman really had no say in the world but determined to make a difference these woman fight with there lives for justice and freedom.

This is a brilliant story which will have you engrossed and turning the pages until the end.

Vampires of Atlantis by Courtney Davis – Review by Kerry Baker

Vampires of AtlantisVampires of Atlantis by Courtney Davis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an intriguing book that has a unique take on the legend of Atlantis. It was great how the author took a topic well known and turn it into something different. I became invested in this story very quickly and couldn’t wait to see how things would turn out. The story was exciting and full of ‘monsters’ and fantasy.
This isn’t the first book that I have read by this author but I think it is my favourite so far. I loved the new perspective and I thought the story itself was well written and engaging. The characters all added even more to the story and I enjoyed how they each played their part. This is a great book and I am looking forward to more of this authors work.

View all my reviews

Sing For Me (The Balefire Series Book 2) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Angela Shirley

Sing For Me (Balefire, #2)Sing For Me by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Blu Connolly has the world at his finger tips, the lead singer of one of the most successful rock bands in America and the world. Girls have never been a problem and the variety is the spice of life but as the Asian tour comes to a end Blu decides to spend sometime with him mom.

Ashleigh is an army brat moving from base to base she is pleased that she has a home base and a lovely garden she can tend to and create a beautiful, tranquil space. Being friends with her next-door neighbour is a highlight on a Saturday when they indulge in lunch, she is enjoying her life. Then he comes riding into her life and will things be the same again.

Blu comes riding into his mom’s street on his Harley and revving his engine to upset his mom’s neighbour but when a blonde bombshell coming charging out and has a go at him, he then has a attraction to her that he can’t seem to shake. As they get to know each other can Ashleigh get past the cocky image of the lead singer to the Blu who helps in her garden and is normal and sweet, you will need to read to find out.

This is the second book in this series and it is just as good as the first, with the characters that are so well developed and suited for each other. The story flows brilliantly and I am so glad to ready about Blu and Ash. Although this book can be read as a standalone story the first book in this series is just as good.

Blu and Ash have a chemistry that just jumps off the page and you get to see a different side to him from the first book, you tend to have the same attitude as Ashleigh when first meeting Blu as the arrogant lead singer but his softer side it beautiful to read.

Can wait to read the next book in this series.

A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Kerry Baker

A Forever Kind of ThingA Forever Kind of Thing by Melinda Harris
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a well written and fun YA romance story. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book going into it. Both of these authors are new to me so I was unfamiliar with either writing style. But, I connected with the story quite easily and thought their individuals styles of writing clearly worked well together.
I enjoyed reading about the characters of this book. They really were the heart of the story and I found them interesting and engaging. Their journey was evident on each and every page and I really wanted to see where they would end up. I enjoyed the overall story too. I thought the authors did a great job at getting you, as the reader, interested in what was going on. The book was well paced and a generally good story. This is one I thoroughly enjoyed and I look forward to more from this duo.

View all my reviews

Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers Book 2) by Toya Richardson – Review by Megan Conley

Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers #2)Mesmerised by Toya Richardson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book and while it is the second in the series, you can definitely read it as a standalone. Antoine (Hybrid) and Donna (Human) are fated mates (swoon) and their meeting is D-R-A-M-A-T-I-C! I really like the intensity of Antoine and the relatability of Donna. Richardson does a good job with character development (especially the main characters) and I enjoyed the dual POV so we get insight from both of them. The concept of the plot was really interesting and for the most part it flowed really well; however, there were some parts where it felt rushed, but overall, I really enjoyed the book and I look forward to reading more of this author.

Reviewed by @meggs1717

View all my reviews

Vampires of Atlantis by Courtney Davis – Review by Cindy Rushin

Vampires of AtlantisVampires of Atlantis by Courtney Davis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this novel. It is always interesting to read stories with a different perspective on vampires and werewolves. This story definitely had a different take on the origins of these species. The story of Katherine and Ian had adventure with a touch of love. The story caught my attention and kept it to the end. I look forward to reading more about from this series and author.

View all my reviews

Conversations with the Tarot by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Caralee Loonat

Conversations with the Tarot: Bewitching Meditations on Reading the CardsConversations with the Tarot: Bewitching Meditations on Reading the Cards by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book and I have to say that it was helpful to me. I was excited to read this book. The author has a creative way to bring the subject to the reader. I think this will be a useful tool to help me not only better understand but also learn how to better read Tarot. I really found this book to be very unique and the author’s words colorful. I really enjoyed the opportunity to be able to see this subject through another’s eyes. I really would recommend this book to anyone interested in this subject. It provides an open look into the cards and a way to better interpret them.

Reviewed by @caraleeloonat
View all my reviews

Xenia Navarro and the Magic Ants by Lois Wickstrom and Milagros Darling – Review by Megan Conley

Xenia Navarro and the Magic AntsXenia Navarro and the Magic Ants by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An absolutely fascinating read for children and adults alike! This is a chapter book for those of you who are used to Wickstrom’s picture books, but don’t despair…her wit and storytelling is just as present here. I will say that Xenia Navarro and the Magic Ants does have political undertones and Wickstrom and Darling handle them wonderfully so that children can understand right from wrong. I really enjoyed this read and was emotionally invested in Xenia’s journey and the twists and turns it takes. There is magic, politics (wonderfully done), Mexican culture, and so much more weaved throughout this story.

Reviewed by @meggs1717

View all my reviews

Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Tausha Treadway

Ten Little Starfish: A Counting BookTen Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann. This was such a fun book for ages 1-5. Its a great book for learning to count but also just a fun book to read. Its about little starfish that glow all different colors along the ocean beach and you can have your kids pick out the different colors and count how many there are.There are numerous ways throughout the book that you can put your counting skills to use and soon your little one will be a counting champ. Such a great book with pretty, vivid pictures and such a good learning opportunity. I highly recommend this book fo the little one in your life. Also would make a great gift!

View all my reviews

Russian and Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Kerry Carr

Russian and Royally ComplicatedRussian and Royally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was such a great read. It is full of action, sexual tension, secrets and a great enemies to lovers romance. I loved the characters of Lev and Daphne really bring this story to life. I love their chemistry both the sexual chemistry but also their hatred for each other. The way they argue and irritated each other is funny to read but you just know that type of tension and chemistry is going to be explosive when they finally give into the attraction between them and boy did it explode.

It isn’t just a steamy story filled with sexual tension both Lev and Daphne are hiding things and keeping secrets and when these secrets start to reveal themselves we see them grow closer together.

This story was really well written and I was totally invested in these characters and their story. The author’s did an incredible job of bringing their personalities to life which in turn makes them seem more real and engaging.
I can’t wait to read more.

View all my reviews

Granting Katelyn (Sweet Valley Series) by S.E. Reichert – Review by Lyndsey Fairley

Granting KatelynGranting Katelyn by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved the first book in this series and couldn’t wait to get the rest of the sisters’ stories and this one is about Katelyn. This can be absolutely read as a standalone!

I so loved this story as it had me in my feelings from the start as you could just feel how broken Grant was.

Katelyn may be my favorite female lead in quite some time as she took no crap from anyone and stood for what she knew was right and didn’t back down.

These 2 were great even with the grumpy/sunshine trope going on, which is one of my favorites, as we see the ice thaw on Grant slowly.

Cannot wait for the next!

View all my reviews

Russian and Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Shelly Kittell

Russian and Royally ComplicatedRussian and Royally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Oh heavens, these two can heat up a room. This book is fantastic and hotter than Yuma in the middle of summer!! I enjoyed reading about their adventures after the Royal Wedding. The sparks flying. The chemistry brewing. This is one hot romance that you need gloves to read it with. The characters are entertaining and full of spunk and sass. It’s a quick read that will set you on fire. If you like hot and spicy romance, give this a shot.

View all my reviews