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Threads of Time (Toronto Time Agents Series) by C. N. Jackson – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Threads of TimeThreads of Time by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

History and mystery. This is the second book in the Toronto Time Agents series but is the first book I have read by this author. I had no trouble keeping track with the story as each book seems to be a standalone plot. It was a very interesting read for a rainy day before my boys got out of school for thanksgiving break.
Wilda Firestone has decades of experience being a Temporal Agent but her time on the force is done she is ready to retire and just enjoy her passion for making period appropriate clothing for travelers. Only Pembley, her boss, has decided that he will give her what she wants to meet an ancestor from the 1800s if she begins training new agents. While the agreement is suspicious, she agrees, Sir Algernon was once a policeman but now wants to be a Temporal Agent and is Wilda’s trainee, before they can go on their mission an explosion happens in the Agency for Time Tourism next door to her workshop/store. Her curiosity spikes when along with her anger over her life’s work being destroyed in the attack. With the only time machine in Canada reduced to ashes they must find another way to complete their mission. Only things change and the mission along with it. They are no longer on a strictly training mission they are on the hunt for terrorists that have taken everything away from her. What they find is not what they expected as they search for the answers to repair the time stream.
Why was the time machine targeted? Will Wilda make it in time to stop the terrorists? What has happened and how deep does it go? The world C.N. Jackson has melded together is one of intrigue, mystery, and suspense as you’re sucked back in time with Wilda on the hunt for the answers. I couldn’t help myself from getting wrapped up in the questions, rushing from page to page in search of the answers with her. This book shows history without blinders, no false illusions of how the times were and what was or wasn’t acceptable its truth which builds the world more with each turning page. Wilda is a force to be reckoned with and she will find her answers no matter when and where. I can’t wait for book three, Unraveling Brigid’s Veil October 24th, 2024, to see what Wilda faces next.

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Grave Digger Academy IV (Grave Digger Academy Series) by C.A. King Review by Ayla Phipps

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Grave Digger Academy IVGrave Digger Academy IV by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mystery grows as everything changes. This book picks up shortly after the previous book. Near the end of the summer break before the next year begins. But the rules that caused her so many issues over break were just the beginning or what was to come.
Makayla has another important dream to a town known as Athenia where people go to be forgotten. Seeing and hearing the name Peacock she feels it’s important but unsure of the reason at first. Mary Meet won’t be taking over Grave Digger Academy (GDA) yet, but the Crones aren’t closing it either, yet. While initially excited and happy when she received her letter to go back to GDA that quickly changes. A bus meant for criminals arrives to take her to the academy, a new Headmistress Ulva Everbleed. The building looked amazing, but half renovated and at a standstill as the Crones took over, putting a stop to everything Mary Meet was doing. More students were present than she had ever seen there before and seeing Leo and Thomas she thinks things will be good. Only they give her the cold shoulder, Cali, and Frankie nowhere to be seen when a bomb is dropped on her emotionally. Only those who received a letter were allowed to return this year, but not everyone received a letter. Most were likely only there as an obligation to protect their families from repercussions if they refused to attend. Everything different, a new set of rules that must be followed and each person assigned to classes and not allowed to change them. Griffin is there and offers a truce, as they seem to only have each other. A warmth fills her with his smile and again as they shake in agreement, he says he will explain things later but then vanishes without a word of explanation. Not one to beat around the bush goes to the new Headmistress, asks about Mary Meet and why helpers aren’t allowed. Told Mary is being interrogated and will return when finished and helpers banned because of control. A parting word of advice to Makayla, stick to classes, slow and steady and watch out for others trying to use her to accelerate their accomplishments.
Why is Mary Meet being interrogated? How can she be used to help others accelerate their accomplishments? Why is she always the villain in the Crones stories and rules? Once again, the author takes us deeper into Makayla’s world where nothing is what it seems, and everything is listening with an agenda of their own. She thought this year was finally going to be her year, she had her friends, her magic had come in and she had eight helpers. Day one, helpers gone, friends gone, and her only ally, she hopes, is a guy no one can remember. The mystery and suspense continue to evolve leading to more questions and some answers can’t wait for the next book. Grave Digger Academy V is coming October 1st, 2024. What will Makayla face next?

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Grave Digger Academy III (Grave Digger Academy Series) by C.A. King – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Grave Digger Academy IIIGrave Digger Academy III by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The shadows are darker this year and everything leads to more questions. This is the third book in the Grave Digger Academy (GDA) and yes, to get a full understanding of the story, plot, characters it is best to read them in order as each book is a continuation of the events in the previous book.
Makayla’s actions in the previous book led to extremes on both sides. Her family name is now well known and Grave Digger Academy is no longer seen as the end of the road but where heroes go. So much hype leads to her older brothers escorting her to school this year and discovering the terrifying journey just to reach the grounds. Only not hearing from her friends or her helpers all break is just the beginning. The gargoyles that are ever present watching the entrance of the school are missing, something Makayla notices immediately. Moreover, there are even fewer students this year than before, teachers and students disappearing, including Frankie. While Griffin has reappeared his words from previous books about them forgetting him Makayla is able to hold on to a feeling of him not quite a memory but its something. Some see her as a hero, but others think she is working for the other side, regardless of the fact she has handed over the stones each time. The Crones have plans for her and Headmistress Mary Meet, they seem determined to make both go down with GDA good or bad to the very end, not allowing them the same deal as others to transfer out. Visions attack her from the moment she steps on the school grounds, her brothers shocked and confused but with no choice forced to return to their own school.
Will Makayla succeed in finding everyone that disappeared? Where are her helpers? If she wins what will be the price? Once again, the incredible C.A. King pulls you back into the shadows to learn the secrets hidden in their depths. The characters, while the same, have evolved so much since year one and only continue to grow as they learn and fight for good. Unable to put it down from start to finish it always leaves me needing more answers when I finish feeling like it wasn’t long enough. Heart racing as I hurry to book four, Grave Digger Academy IV. The suspense continues.

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Sweet Vengeance (Mission Belles Book 3) by Pamela Gibson – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Sweet Vengeance (Mission Belles #3)Sweet Vengeance by Pamela Gibson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Vengeance has many degrees of outcomes. This is the first book I have read by Pamela Gibson and while I was intrigued by the synopsis, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. I don’t usually read period books, but I had to give it a try because it sounded too interesting to miss. While this is the third book in the Mission Belles series each can be read as a standalone and I found no hindrance in not reading the previous two books. Dual perspectives of Elena and Sean.
Elena has four older sisters, before her younger brother Antoine was born, she was raised as the “son” her father always wanted. She was taught to hunt and defend her home and family but at age twelve that changed, at least for a time. When her father got ill, he made her promise to look out for her brother to teach him the ways of manhood so when time he would protect his family and land as she had before him. Only when she returns from hunting, she finds Carmelo, her brother’s friend in her home, her mother devastated and told the story of how her brother was killed by an American spy. Two years later Carmelo returns after her mothers passing and informs her of the man who stole her brother’s life. Sean Mitchell, once friends with Antoine and a spy, is now a horse trainer. He has always had a special bond with animals, now free to follow his own dreams a letter changes everything. His sister Mary Catherine, now Lolita Montero hasn’t been seen in a week, her place of work wrote him telling him he should come. Without hesitation Sean leaves for San Fransico, along the way thinks of a plan to find her or better yet how to find her. Elena was enamored with Sean when younger but now she wrestles with her vow to her mother and the long thought past feelings for the man she once admired. Sean is caught off guard when the sister of his former enemy appears and offers to help find his missing sister, but things become less clear over time. Is Elena his friend or foe, or is she something more?
Elena sought revenge, a life for a life was the vow she made to her mother but what will she do when the man responsible is right in front of her? Can Sean find his sister? What secrets will be revealed as they each follow their “plans”? The historic world of years long past shows another side of the gold rush. I was also drawn to this book as I was born in southern California and once sought vengeance for my murdered brother. But I digress the characters pain and determination with every “hiccup” gives power to the saying “god gives us what we need not necessarily what we want”. Elena wanted revenge but found something more, something worth living for. At the age of twenty-eight she was still unmarried and felt this mission would seal she never would be. Her final plan was to return to her family home and live out her life alone in solitude atoning for her actions. I plan to go back and read the previous books to see more into the worlds that the author brings to life on the pages and the characters that show strength beyond vengeance but of forgiveness.

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Necromancy the Musical by Debbie Hibbert – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Necromancy the MusicalNecromancy the Musical by Debbie Hibbert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Life, Death, Learned. Magic can be dangerous. This is the first book I have read by Debbie Hibbert and there are not enough words to describe her talent. CeCe Leblanc is sixteen in New Orleans, she’s a necromancer and a week at drama camp has become so much more.
CeCe and her best friend Portia have been looking forward to Drama Camp for ages it seems, each for different reasons. CeCe loves to learn and participate in as many classes as possible. Portia is the eldest of six and needs a break from her chaotic home life before summer break starts. At the age of six CeCe learned in a traumatic way that she has necromancy magic when her dog Max died, and she raised him. Her mother told her that her magic was too much and instantly disappeared. Her father and his mother, Mawmaw raised her and helped her learn about her magic, not fearing it or her for it. Over the past decade CeCe has been her father’s secret weapon in countless murders, helping him catch the killers and bringing justice to the families, and peace to the spirits. One last visit to the morgue with her dad before camp changes everything. He said the case was weird, the wounds seeming to come from the inside. Unable to see the face to help she goes to camp and quickly is “spirit-kidnapped” in her nightmare, a Caster that has dirty magic leaves not only physical bruises on her but black magic tinging her. Zach, the cute guy at camp, has mixed reactions to her until she confronts him and after Ancestor Night at camp she truly understands why. He could sense the black magic on her and tells the reason he refuses to use magic or date someone with it. Zach warms her cold magic with his warm magic. The Caster needs her magic and haunts her in many ways trying to get it.
Who is The Caster? Why do they need her magic? Can CeCe help Zach see that magic isn’t all bad that it truly can be good and help others. Having been to New Orleans earlier this year for the first time I absolutely fell in love with the place, and reading this helped me imagine I was there again. The characters are a wonderful blend, each having their place of importance without taking anything from the other characters and helping the main characters evolve with the progression of the story. I honestly could not stop reading and at every turn found I couldn’t catch my breath as I rushed to the end. Can’t wait to dive into another work by this author. Instant new favorite book for the year so far.

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Shadow Bringer (Raven Academy Book 1) by Brandi Elledge – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Shadow Bringer: Raven AcademyShadow Bringer: Raven Academy by Brandi Elledge
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mystery that keeps you guessing and intrigue to keep you hooked. This is the first book I have read by the talented Brandi Elledge, and I was not disappointed. Riley is tired of her “cult” community and though the world outside the fence is full of dangers she longs to escape her “prison”.
The world of today is long gone, and the shadows carry secrets and the impure. Riley lives in New Haven, a puritan community in Alabama, but how safe is it really when the extremists start moving south. Everyone has a chance of having the “impure gene” inside them that when mutated could turn them into a vampire, werewolf, shifter or the forbidden shadowbringer. Sam, her best friend, and she have dreamed and planned for the day they graduate high school, and they can finally escape the community and see the world outside for themselves. Only on day one of their senior year something is different, while being preached to over and over about the dangers of leaving the community and being given only one warning before exiled if the try they now have fifteen new students at their school. Pure High, where Sam’s mom is the dean, has welcomed and allows the new students to come and go from the community at will. Angry and confused Riley starts to speculate why they are allowed to and what has changed. Adopted at age three, Riley has always felt like an outsider. As a child she dreamed of the shadows and for as long as she can remember she has had all-consuming headaches but now something is different. The pain was always there just changed in degree but now more ailments are hitting her, waves of heat and fevers while the headaches continue. Asher, one of the new boys from outside the fence is clearly the top dog and he seems to always have an eye on Riley. While a girl in the group that seems to be his girlfriend strongly disapproves of his interest in Riley. A kiss at an end of the year party makes things complicated with her best friend Easton that leads to more awkward moments than she likes, and Sam thinks the two of them would end up together and reproducing like they are “supposed” to do if they don’t mutate.
What is happening to Riley, is she mutating? Who will she become, and who were her parents? This world kept growing and evolving as more was revealed. The process, while feeling slow at times, helped build a complete image in the mind that made it easier to see. The characters were never truly what they seemed on the surface, proving don’t judge a book by its cover. I was kept on my toes as I lost sleep in need of knowing what would happen next and by the end, I was already looking for book two, Shadow Dweller, out now. I know I will certainly be diving into it soon to learn what happens next.
While I usually don’t comment about other reviews, I felt it was necessary in this case. When I first came across this book the first comment, I saw mentioned no cursing and no “naughty” romance was in this book and that it was appropriate for younger children to read. Now I understand that every person’s opinion is different just as the age we determine to be a younger child might be different. I consider a younger child the age of my older son, which is eleven, and just three chapters into this there were statements that I would not approve of knowing he was reading in a book. Yes, there is some cussing/cursing in this book not excessively, but it is there, but the “naughty” romance comment is more what I am concerned with for a “younger child”. As an adult I felt the comment fit in with the story and made me laugh but this is the quote, “Baby, you haven’t had me between your legs. You have no clue what I’m worth,” one of the guys said. Now once again as an adult there is nothing wrong but an eleven-year-old, I don’t feel it is appropriate to deem this book okay for younger children. Once again loved the book and can’t wait for number two, just my opinion on another review.

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Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Kneading a Winning IdeaKneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beautiful and fluffy. This book was beautiful and honestly not the best thing to read while hungry. Lol. I love how it has Ben sticking to what he loves to make as he learns a “new” way of making it the try and finally win first place over Sofia. It’s always the simple differences that make all the change and love how Miss Kitty is his inspiration to try something new. The recipe at the back yes please I will certainly be trying it soon.

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My Big Red Monster (Giants and Monsters) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ayla Phipps

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My Big Red Monster (Giants and Monsters)My Big Red Monster by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I honestly love Lois Wickstrom’s children’s books not just for my kids but for me. They are always so nicely illustrated and such wonderful stories that have a neat little twist. I know as a mom of two little boys I would love to have a monster under my bed that has to do whatever task I tell him to do, that does it in a whirl and it’s done. The ending made me hope that another book would be about the girl’s brother finding the “they don’t exist” monster under his bed. Lol

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My Murder Year by Kate Larkindale – Review by Ayla Phipps

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My Murder YearMy Murder Year by Kate Larkindale
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Devastation. Suspense. This is the first work I have read by the incredible Kate Larkindale, and honestly her skill left me devastated at so many points. Several chapters were read through nonstop tears as I devoured this mystery in hopes of a happy ending of some kind.
Anastasia Nonu goes by Stas, she is seventeen and lives with her mom, mama K (mom’s long-term partner) and Teddy, her little brother. She seemed to be finding acceptance in her life with things she couldn’t change while also finding moments for herself, such as going to her dads for a bimonthly visit but sneaking out to a party with her best friend. Irena Varushkin is her Russian ballerina mother, who teaches classes out of her studio behind their home. Tusi Nonu is her Samoan father that owns a theatre across town and is a contemporary dancer. While their love story started with sparks it ended in a fire that led to them splitting after five years when Stas was only four. With Mom and Mama K’s wedding days away, things were getting stressful. A great day asked out by the cute boy, Zane, at the party last weekend ends in devastation when Stas realizes her mother hadn’t come back inside yet from her “workout” in the studio. In search of her mother before K and Teddy returned home from scouts leads her to the scar of a lifetime and beyond. The only thing worse than finding her mother’s body, being told she would be taken from the only true family she had left by “blood” relatives she had never met or rarely seen. Her only light in all her darkness and grief is Zane but what’s his story?
Who is responsible for her mother’s murder? Her father sees her mom’s relationship is a sin, could he really be behind this? While the world is ours the diversity of the characters is beautiful to mentally picture. Stas is Russian mother and Samoan father, while she mostly takes after her father, she has her mother’s Russian bone structure with her father’s beautiful skin. Teddy is Mama K’s; she is Korean and used a Slavic sperm-donor, so he resembles her mom Irena also to be “their son”. While Teddy has his mother’s Korean features such as eyes and skin tone, he has the Slavic soft blonde hair and blue eyes. Their family truly sounds beautiful with such unique diversity within it. As mentioned above I did bawl like a baby in several parts and for several chapters as I have experienced the unrelenting grief of loss, not with my mother but my Irish twin brother. The author’s ability to capture so much pain and emotion leaves your heart rung out on the floor as you gasp for air and fight through each page hooked by the words and begging for answers to soothe the pain. I certainly will be keeping an eye out for more of Kate’s work, her talent is stunning and all-consuming.

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Porter and Midge (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Porter and Midge: Paws for Safety: A Kid's Guide to Safe Dog Interactions (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series)Porter and Midge: Paws for Safety: A Kid’s Guide to Safe Dog Interactions by Giselle Nevada
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a fun rhyming book with cute illustrations. My sons found the rhymes fun but were confused by some of the “rules” listed in the book and I too was concerned. While most of the book was filled with amazing advice, three things stuck out to me the most. 1-2. It says no head pats, to rub the dog’s chest and stomach. Every dog I have ever encountered loves head rubs and pats, and often gets defensive over chest and belly rubs, especially if someone else’s dog. 3. It states that when wanting to pet a stranger’s dog to ask, yes always. But then it illustrates the little girl just calmly walking up to the dog. When someone is approaching a stranger’s dog after being granted permission to pet them, they need to yes, no sudden movements and approach calmly but also, they need to hold out their hand palm side down and slowly approach to allow the dog a chance to smell them to greet them. Once again, I did enjoy the book but just felt that some very important things were either overlooked or misleading.

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Wicked Games (Hidden Valley Elite Book 7) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Wicked Games (Hidden Valley Elite #7)Wicked Games by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Nightmares, memories, truth revealed. Oh lordy, the past month has gone so fast yet so slow as I eagerly awaited book one of the final duology in this series. Since the very beginning, Savage Start, back in February. Something about Shane was always so mysterious, we got nuggets here and there throughout the past eight books (counting the two prequels) but finally it is Shane’s turn to take center stage.
Shane Bennett, at the end of Cruel Love, was arrested for involuntary manslaughter and from page one we discover the encounter that led to that scar in his psyche. Six months of being a bodyguard for fellow Thane student Erica led to the moment he saw all his dreams disappear, but security tapes prove his story, and he is clear only for things to get worse. Winter Patten, after eight years she has returned to where it all began or in a sense where it all ended. Her father died, her sister murdered by their mother and her mother arrested and sentenced to ten years in prison. The Childress family, mom Brooke, dad James, and son Jaxon, took her in showing her what a real family was and what love truly is. Just transferring to Thane, where Jaxon attends, she is ready to start facing some of her nightmares and digging more into her past. In the first moment they see each other as adults everything changes. Winter sees someone she wants to intimately get to know. Shane is slammed with the nightmares of fifth grade, and Winter pushing him to the edge to the point he wrote a “note” and was ready to end it all. Only Phoenix was able to bring him back from the edge but not without a side effect in the way of a stutter that he had as a child.
Nothing will stop Shane from making Winter pay for what she did to him. Will Winter’s mom be granted parole at her first board meeting? Once again Isla Vaughn keeps her hooks deep in your soul with this next book in the Hidden Valley Elite series. The world is well developed and yet still morphing as the characters’ stories progress and more details are given. This was the perfect read for a warm spooky day, and not just because I had been waiting for it to finally release. Now the long wait for how Shane and Winter maneuver their circumstances and ultimately overcome them for the happy ever after at the end of, Wicked Ends, November 30th, 2023.

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Master Sardinia (Masters of the Consulate Book 8) by Sylvia Black – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Master SardiniaMaster Sardinia by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hot flash in a pan of searing heat. Once more the amazing Sylvia Black has given us a connection that once it is ignited it doesn’t ease up or falter. From start to finish Master Sardinia and Madria’s story keeps you on edge. The secrets, the revelations, the unfettered desire that won’t stop. This book picks up where the previous entry in the series, Master Campania ended, the consulate is in Rome and have just finished the meeting on what is to happen next as the rogues have moved to the island of Sardinia, its Master will take lead in the hunt for the rogues.
Sardinia looks to his “brothers” and surprised by their once like-minded understanding of emotions and feelings for females now happily in love and mated. Without a moment to rest he is called to a local club, Club Benalli, has a pack of shifters trying to make it their new place and getting violent. No hesitation as Master Sardinia and the group transport to the club and handle the situation when something strange happens. Madria Benalli is the daughter of the club’s owner, recently twenty-one, she is determined to do more in her life than marry rich and wear a crown as her overbearing protective father would like. She is a psychic and determined to learn all that she can about the vampires that brutally murdered her mother’s family centuries ago. When Madria is attacked by the shifters Master Sardinia has no choice but to turn her to save her. Initially she thought the stone around her neck was only important to her and the history of her family was so much more than that. It is a stone known as labrodite, it can see the past, the present and the future. More importantly it holds secrets of the rogues that killed her ancestors that could help in the current hunt for the rogues and all their underworld members, of all races.
Will Madria find a way to forgive the dark-souled beast that turned her? How will Sardinia handle the magnetic pull to Madria? Once more the world of the masters of the consulate has grown, now the Island of Sardinia where billionaires and the elite play. Not knowing that in the shadows a war is growing and becoming more aggressive. Seeing the character arcs is so satisfying to see them grow and evolve not only to see the bigger picture but open to their own deepest desires and emotions that they refused until they couldn’t. How the author can so seamlessly merge each book into the next but keep them as technically being a stand-alone is next level talent and abilities. While I started this series on book six, Master Calabrea I fully intend to go back the beginning soon and see how it started until then I will be counting down the days until book nine, Master Botosoni, January 19th, 2024.

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Tracker (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Tracker (The Talisman Series)Tracker by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Perfect for a rainy day. I was first introduced to the sensational world of the talismans and warriors months ago when I read Rogue. Hooked I was excited to finally discover how Delaney’s best friend found her perfect husband. Dual perspectives of Riley Sheridan and Lynnette Montgomery this is a quick read with so much packed in that you’re left holding your breath from start to finish.
Riley, his twin brother Rio, and their friend Seamus have just completed their sign ritual. A brotherly rivalry that neither expected to end so soon. Lynnette has kept herself untouched in hopes of finding her warrior but two months surprises everyone. When a simple bonfire party changes everything Lynnette and Riley waste no time in escaping the prying eyes of civilians and go to a secluded hunting cabin. Not knowing what her skill is they are only moments into training when they must learn by being in the heat of battle. An unlikely ally emerges when Lynnette comes out of her hiding to complete silence. In a moment of panic her skill is revealed to her.
What is Lynnette’s skill? How does she see what others cannot? The world once again entrances the reader, teleporting them into the world of Celtic lore. I couldn’t help but look for more information on the dobhar-chu after completing the book. I look forward to going back and reading more of this series and can’t wait to see whose story will come next.

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Wondogfilled (Boys Unboxed) by Dr. Kimberlie Harris – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Wondogfilled: Look, a Dog! The story for children who love dogs between the ages of 0-8. A perfect addition to home and classroom libraries. (Boys Unboxed)Wondogfilled: Look, a Dog! The story for children who love dogs between the ages of 0-8. A perfect addition to home and classroom libraries. by Dr. Kimberlie Harris
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beautifully illustrated. Kingston and his mom go for walks and see all the dogs. Mom points out the new ones when they are out until one day, she starts to say new words, like cat. Thinking she is playing a game he looks and sees the similarities with the animal to dogs. His mommy does this several times with different animals, in books, his cousins’ pet, and others while on a walk but he always sees the similarities and thinks they are just a different type of dog. Dog, little feet, bushy tail, little nose, round belly. Cute book for younger kids my six-year-old liked the pictures and seeing his favorite animal, elephant.

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Zibs for Sale (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Zibs for Sale: a retelling of Beauty and the Beast (I am an Alien)Zibs for Sale: a retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another adventure with Eee-ahh and Shirl. This one started with them picking up a radio signal, a song for the Zib Spiral and their treats. While Eee-ahh tastes with her eyes, Shirl is human and tastes with her tongue. Will she think the Zibs are as delicious as Eee-ahh claims they are? They are very beautiful but that’s to the eyes. After a rocky encounter Shirl is given a big payment before they return to Earth.

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No Amends by Angela Lam – Review by Ayla Phipps

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No AmendsNo Amends by Angela Lam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love is like business. This is the first book I have read by the talented Angela Lam and honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect. That said it somehow was the perfect book for this Friday the thirteenth. Told from the dual perspectives of Tang and Dee we are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions, revelations, and mysteries in this quick read.
Tang is a writer, and real estate agent when not writing. Fourteen months earlier she was in San Franscisco for a writers’ conference when everything changed. Her original concept was denied time and time again but a chance encounter at a local restaurant changed everything. Dee a sales rep for a start-up tech company in New York is in San Franscico on business and visiting her twin brother Chris when she meets Tang. Making a comment about being the luckiest to Tang changed both of their lives. That simple moment gave Tang a new concept for her book and the next morning she lands a literary agent. Dee is full of secrets and lies. Starting with a slip of the memory by her brother on her name and a knee jerk answer about losing her son in childbirth there was no end to the lies Dee spun for herself with Tang. Everything was going too well but something was off, one intrusive thought to check Dee’s purse reveals her real name and begins the web of lies being untangled. Tang thought she had it all, the perfect girlfriend, Layla, but a chance encounter and a dark desire she couldn’t deny led to a journey of realization she never could have predicted.
Whose car went off Hangman’s Bluff? How could everything start with something as simple as a name? While the world the story is based on is reality the characters are relatable in every sense, even to the extreme in some cases to people in the world. Sometimes the world seems to give you everything, giving you chances to be honest and open, but what happens when you don’t take those moments? What happens when you continue to build on the shaky supports of lie upon lie? I didn’t know what to expect with this book, it seemed interesting and under two hundred pages was a quick suspense for a spooky day. The thoughts I was left with had me ready to go in search of my next Angela Lam book as soon as possible.

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Wolfbane (Wolfbane Series Book 1) by Celia Hart – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Wolfbane (Wolfbane #1)Wolfbane by Celia Hart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Rules are supposed to make life simpler, right? This is the first book I have read by this incredible author, and I could not get enough. It has been a long time since I was able to start and finish a book this size in less than 36 hours, would have been less but mom life caused a few delays. Told from multiple perspectives we are given background and depth to the characters not only through their own eyes but the eyes of those around them.
Jasmine is nearly twenty years old and has relished the life of rules until now. She has desires she “shouldn’t” and struggles not only to understand them but accept them in many ways. Blake is set to take over as the Midnight Maple Packs Alpha but he’s not the same man he was when he left for school, his priorities have changed him. Lucy is Jasmine’s best friend and hates the rules, feels they are old-fashioned and is willing to lose out on her fated mate to force the chosen mate not thinking of potential consequences for either of them. Luke is set to take over as the packs Beta now that Blake has returned from college. One night two years ago started the changes in Jasmine, she had a moment with Luke that changed something inside her. She felt in her soul that he belonged to her, but his mission took him away before her eighteenth birthday and now that he is finally returning home after two years, she is both excited and nervous about what that could mean. A fleeting moment with Luke is now rivaled by every encounter she has with Blake; she senses a darkness within him but can’t help feeling comfortable in his presence.
Will Jasmine be able to keep to her parents’ rules? What happens when Luke returns home? Blake or Luke? Everything about the world made me wish I lived in Vermont just to see the gorgeous mountains with my own eyes. The author’s complexity in the characters keeps you holding your breath in anticipation of what will happen next. So many times, I caught myself not breathing and then udder relief or in some cases devastation at what the next page held. I cannot wait to see what happens next because Celia Hart is added to my favorite authors of 2023. Book two Wolfblood here I come.

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Cruel Truths (Tessa and Jordan Book 3) by T. Christensen – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Cruel Truths (Tessa and Jordan #3)Cruel Truths by T. Christensen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Enemies to lovers, need I say more. This is the first book I have read by the amazing T. Christensen and yes this is the third book of the Tessa and Jordan Series, but it can be read as a standalone. I personally saw no missing information from not reading the previous two books. Enemies to lovers honestly must be my favorite trope and this book proves time and time again why I always come back to them.
Lindy Garcia has decided that she is tired of living month to month in New York and the only way she will stay and not return home to San Jose is if she finally takes the next steps in her career. When she sees the job listing to be Cade Kingsley’s personal assistant and Kingsley Marketing, she feels that it is a sign for her to stay. Instantly she is put off by how much Mr. Asshole as she refers to him is cold and controlling. Determined to get the job, she bites her tongue a few times but lets out just enough attitude and personality to garner his attention. Her biggest concern is what does “whatever he wants” really mean? Cade Kingsley has too much on his plate and needs someone that can take some of it but do it the way he wants it handled. Ms. Garcia is different, she has something more to her that gives her fight, passion. From the moment she first stepped up and helped he knew she would be his it was only a matter of time. Lindy has a moment in her official interview, for just a brief second, he looks at her lips and she has a physical reaction she doesn’t expect but after years of perfecting her emotions she hides it well. She is not so easily won over and she will not be controlled by a bully.
She wins over the boss to get the job but is she able to keep it? Is he victorious in winning her over and making her his? The world was so encompassing I could feel what the characters were feeling and yes when the moment called for it tears were shed. The characters pain and growth being natural and genuine. Lindy is not some sweet, docile woman that will blindly follow a man or be controlled even if he is her boss. Cade while used to being the alpha of alpha males shows he can soften even if just a little bit. I couldn’t put this book down once I started, chapter one honestly was hook line and sinker within the first couple of pages. Not many strong women shine in enemy to lover stories they tend to be more docile to the alpha males, but this book was the perfect blend of strength and weakness on both sides.

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Killer Smile by Allan Evans – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Killer SmileKiller Smile by Allan Evans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Darker and gritter. This is book two in the killer series and while I enjoyed the first book Killer Blonde this book kicked everything up a few notches. Once again, told from both sides, the detective and the killer or killers.
Picking up some time after the events of book one, Cade is back to the daily grind. Getting back to a normal day to day when he is notified of something not even, he could have predicted. A dark web page for serial killers. Not only that but they give out challenges and the newest challenge is to come to the twin city and take on Detective Cade Dawkins. When not one but two killers accept the challenge Cade’s worlds is set spinning as not only his life but the lives of those, he cares about the most are pulled into the twisted world of kill or be killed. As if that wasn’t bad enough Cade is also having to fight to keep his job when everything seems to keep going from bad to worse.
Did Cade get lucky with the killer blonde killer? Can he stop these new threats before it’s too late? How far will the killers go to “win”? Once again, the author shows their knowledge and attention to detail when it comes to the investigations and heinous crimes themselves, I feel like I am watching an episode of Criminal Minds play out on the pages and I’m searching for the clues to bring down the killer. Cade continues to evolve as the story gets more intense and he fights for all that matters to him. After racing through book one I tried to pace myself better with this one but failed epically as I was too engrossed to slow down. I had to know how it ends. I can’t wait to see what will come next and I hope to see book three in the series soon, to see what mystery Cade will overcome next.

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Killer Blonde by Allan Evans – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Killer BlondeKiller Blonde by Allan Evans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Killer suspense with an intriguing story that keeps you searching for the answers. This is the first book I have read by the interesting Allan Evans. Spooky month always needs a good mystery or two and this book put the spooks into my daily routine for the next several weeks. Dual perspectives of Cade Dawkins and the killer keep you entranced in the mystery of Killer Blonde from start to finish.
Cade Dawkins is a seasoned detective with several big wins under his belt, but nothing could have prepared him for his biggest case so far. Several beautiful blondes are seemingly killed in “car accidents” across an area but the more he investigates the victims the more questions he has. These are not accidents but staged moments to throw him off the scent of a serial killer in the area. With each new discovery he feels the hope of finally stopping the killer but then something new is discovered that keeps him looking for the connection to stop him. The killer meticulously plans every detail, making sure that nothing is given away and the nothing is what it seems. The depth and reasoning behind their actions keep you on edge as you see the game of cat and mouse play out.
Will Cade find the killer in time? How many women will fall victim before the killer is stopped? Can Cade keep his friends safe? The plot and depth of the characters kept me hooked from start to finish. Making me really think about how aware I am of my surroundings as a single female when traveling at night. The author’s ability to have such developed and well-defined polar opposites keep the reader interested in seeing how each with evolve over the course of the story and trying to figure out how it will come to an end. Truly one of my favorite authors of the month and I can’t wait to start book two in the series, Killer Smile, and see what the detective will face next.

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ALTERATIONS TRILOGY: Alterations, Game Changer, Primal Will by Jane Suen – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Alterations / Game Changer / Primal Will (Alterations #1-3)Alterations / Game Changer / Primal Will by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

There’s a microchip for that? This is the first work by the creative Jane Suen that I have read, and wow was it a rollercoaster of a place to start. Honestly this book from chapter one had me pondering and completely intrigued. Told from multiple perspectives from start to finish we see the story unravel and the characters evolve.
Gigi, Ellen, and Lilly are all everyday women that have one great desire, be it to stay young, lose weight, find love, or forget the pain of lost love this technothriller takes you on journeys you never knew you needed a peek at. While originally, I was put off by Dr Kite’s introduction, his multi-level price points to make his invention accessible for as many people as possible was a high point. Fake taxicab trolling the city looking for “low risk” people that won’t be missed if gone for a few hours, microchips implanted without their knowledge, and covering up when he finds a defect. Dr Kite is not really a doctor but is a doctor I never knew I needed a look inside his mind. Book one Alterations begins with Gigi on the edge, after her recent upgrade to her chip something is wrong, but what? Book two Game Changer picks up a little over a year after the events of book one, Dr Kite has lost his warehouse, and Ellen soon discovers an alteration to her body, how is it possible? Book three Primal Will picks up in the same moment that book two ends with Tiffany having to make an impossible choice or risk refusing and seeing what happens.
From start to finish the author keeps you engaged, guessing, and intrigued by the plot and how it could possibly come to an end. Is there a happy ending for any of them? Does Dr Kite succeed? How does it all end? While originally confused but intrigued each new chapter, each insight and ultimately each book answered more questions while also adding a few new ones. Seeing how Gigi, Ellen, and Lilly make it to the other side made this a very satisfying Saturday read. I look forward to looking into some of the author’s other works and seeing what mysteries and suspense await me.

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite #6)Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The accident took every moment they had but gave them everything they needed and more. What an incredible finale to Phoenix and Aspen’s duet. As always, the talented Isla Vaughn takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions, happy, sad, angry, devastated and keeps going without warning. This book picks up one month after the events of the first half of the duet, Cruel Hate.
Phoenix has been in a medically induced coma to help his mind and body heal as much as possible before he woke up. Aspen other than minor bumps and bruises is okay and so is the baby, much to her father’s dismay. Just when things seem to be the darkest Phoenix wakes up, and for a moment everyone is happy until reality sets in. Phoenix thinks he is fourteen years old and a freshman in high school, but still every fiber of his being is drawn to Aspen. With his defenses out of the way the door is opened wide for them to get to know each other without attitudes or fears getting in the way. Information starts to seep through when Jillian, yes, the punt bunny returns, with some vengeance and spills the beans about Aspen being pregnant. Shane’s mysteries in the first book get some insight when he lets out that Grandad has been running him to death with errands for the family business. Reckless ideas of reconciliation with their father come to light and so much more.
How will Phoenix get his memories back? Without their defenses can Aspen and Phoenix finally find the balance they need? While the world of the Hidden Valley Elite is the same, essentially, the characters go on so many journeys throughout this book. Phoenix loses his defenses and Aspen drops hers to let him in. Knowing that we are always promised a happy ending at the end of each duet keeps me counting down the days to each new entry to find out what will happen next and how it will all end. There are no perfectly wrapped little packages here, the author makes sure the characters fight for what they want, nothing is handed over easily. More so, the mystery, suspense, and growth never end. My lord the way she set up the final duet, Shane’s story will finally be revealed part one, Wicked Games, October 26th, 2023.

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Vixen: (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter) by D.M. Earl – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Vixen: (Devil's Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter)Vixen: by D.M. Earl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Strength. Power. Family. The incredible D.M. Earl of course does it again as always. This time Vixen a road captain/tail gunner of the Devil’s Handmaidens painful history is brought to light. Told through multiple perspectives as this series is known for, we are taken on Vixen and Ironside’s journey.
Mira (Vixen) had a terrible upbringing in the foster system of Las Vegas, and eighteen the new adult was homeless and without a family when Juice found her. In her own words she was a naïve eighteen-year-old looking for a job and a home and Juice used that to his advantage. Taking her in telling her everything she wanted to hear before getting what he wanted and taking so much more. Lucas (Ironside) three years deep undercover into Juice’s human trafficking operation and working to take it down when he meets Mira. When the time came, he did what he thought was the right thing, he ghosted her giving her the chance to have a clean slate and start a new life with no reminders of the pain of her past. Only it’s now roughly four years later and they are somewhat forced to confront their own feelings for each other. Vixen receives a call from Poodles, a girl from her days with Juice, she is pregnant again and wants to keep the baby, she needs help getting out. While afraid Vixen knowns she is not alone so after taking it to Tink, Glory and Shadow a plan is made. Even if it’s a trap Vixen must help, they all do.
Will Mira and Lucas get out of their heads and let their hearts have all they have desired? Can they get Poodles out in time, safely? Unlike the previous books in this serious I loved the different twist that Vixen faced in this book. The previous books the female leads past came hunting them down, forcing them to open the door to the painful past they escaped. Mira chooses to open that door, risking it being a trap, risking the painful memories to control her emotions. Both Mira and Lucas are incredibly relatable and complex. They approach their feelings, fears, and truths the way anyone would. The growth the characters take throughout the story leaves you speechless as you lay victim to the pain, love, and understanding that they endure and overcome. As always, it’s also so amazing getting glimpses of the previous books’ characters’ growth over time with each new obstacle that they face. I especially loved seeing the Devil’s Handmaidens women through new eyes, Lucas knows them only by their MC names, learning Tink’s name and seeing Shadow and Panther being “soft” was truly a treat to read. I can’t wait for book 5, Glory, November 16, 2023. Finally, we get to learn more about the fierce VP.

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Heart’s Rescue (Fallen Hearts) by Meredith Hart – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Heart's Rescue (Hearts Below, #1)Heart’s Rescue by Meredith Hart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oooo, the goosebumps. This is the first book I have read by the incredible Meredith Hart, and I cannot wait to read more of her work. With a guaranteed Happily Ever After it makes the book so much more rewarding seeing how much they overcome and how they reach that happy ending. Dual perspectives of Rowan and Arryn.
Rowan is a sentry in the Lands Below, the screams of his neighbors draw him out into the night to find his fatally wounded older brother Phaedron. Using his “freak” magic Rowan saves his brother by doing something Charay has never seen done before with magic. Arryn is a high-born lady of the Kingdom of Summer in the Worlds Above. Her unofficially betrothed Prince Folwynn went missing while trying to travel to the Lands Below and back to rescue his sister’s heart. After a talk with her older brother Petya, she decides she is going to take out some of the chance and go find the prince herself in hopes of getting a proper betrothal to him. Rowan finds the monster that killed three of his neighbors and cut off his brother’s arm, delivering him to the Royal Guard of the Crystal City, only after giving him a good beating and taking the solid crown he wore. Arryn succeeds in escaping her mother’s watchful eye to go find her prince, when darkness begins to fall, she uses her magic, for a simple moment she relishes in the feel of the warmth before the voice of shame crashes into her mind by way of her mother’s voice. Rowan takes over the day patrols of the Outer Ring, while the Void Beasts patrol at night. Until she falls into the void…. changing everything. No longer a pawn to her mother’s “plan” she begins to see the pain it caused and the lies she saw as love and affection. Rowan sees light and finds a warmth he never expected to find in the void.
Will Arryn succeed in finding “her” Prince? How do they find the happy ending they deserve? The world the author creates is so in depth, each place has pieces throughout the book that build more on the world as it expands during their travels. While this may be a fantasy book the characters are complex and relatable. They surprise you repeatedly in their actions and keep you on the edge of your seat as you search for the happily ever after. I can’t wait to start book two, Hearts Lost, to learn more about Aloserin.

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The Calamities of Camden Callahan (A Revenant Novel) by Brittany Tucker – Review by Ayla Phipps

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The Calamities of Camden Callahan (A Revenant Novel)The Calamities of Camden Callahan by Brittany Tucker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Life. Death. Revenge. This is the first book I have read by Brittany Tucker and lord how mercy at the talent she has. I haven’t read many pirate books, but they have a lot to live up to when I come across one again. Told from the dual perspectives of Camden and Annie, this book takes you on a journey of rescuing, surviving, and thriving.
Camden was just nine years old when his mother was assassinated in front of him. When a random man saves Cam from the same fate his mother begs the man to take her son, raise him and keep him far from his father. Annie is from the North but after being sold by slavers to a Lord of the South she is raised as their daughter and “safe” if she doesn’t ask too many questions. Lockdown of a Port leaves Cam desperate to escape the “prison” he is trapped in leading to him making a risky move by accepting a red card job from a Stripe or Revenant. His reasoning is that he wants to buy his own ship, have Nathan, current ships navigator, as his quartermaster and allow Captain Resh to retire comfortably. Captain Resh was the man who saved him when he was younger. Annie isn’t like the others in New Havana, since the moment she arrived she has seen the ghosts of the island, they follow her and sometimes visit her in the night for help. Camden dies defending his job of transporting six barrels, only after he is spit back out and reborn as a Revenant himself does he learn the truth of the “job” he was on. It was a trap, a mission to prove the guilt of an once friend of the men who gave him the job. Now he has only one mission, to save his friends, and get revenge for his death on the man that caused it.
Will Camden succeed in his mission to save those he cares for? What does his newfound powers truly mean by living his true life? How will the truth of his identity affect himself and those around him? This world was beyond captivating. I often found myself lost in the visual and having to reread a sentence or two to remember what was happening. The characters are complex and never skin deep though they seem that way at times. Kept on the edge of my seat and sometimes holding my breath this was an amazing read to start the week kept me engaged and guessing what would happen next. I hope the author makes more books in the Revenant world.

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Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend (Oscar and Emmy Series) by Terri Sabol – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend: A story about pet loss and saying goodbye to a furry friend. Ages 5-11 and kindergarten through grade 5.Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend: A story about pet loss and saying goodbye to a furry friend. Ages 5-11 and kindergarten through grade 5. by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh wow. So, this is the first book I have read by Terri Sabol, and it was a lot heavier than I expected, especially for a book aimed at 5–11-year-olds. Having lived through this exact scenario I found myself choked up and shedding some tears as I finished the book. While this book uses a stray animal that a family took care of the emotions were very strong and while I think this book is beautifully illustrated while shining light on a very difficult topic it was hard to read because of the intense emotions of having experienced the loss of a pet to euthanasia. Charlie and Abby felt the pain of this cat that they took care of it keeps it slightly lighter than the full intensity of what it would or can be like if it was their own.

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Rocketship Made of Stars (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Rocketship Made of Stars: Naming Constellations (I am an Alien)Rocketship Made of Stars: Naming Constellations by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Once again, beautifully illustrated. This book picks up after the first one. Eee-ahh is on Earth with their new friend Shirl and asks about school, when they find out Shirl goes to school to hear stories Eee-ahh decides that they want to go to school with Shirl. At school Eee-ahh shares the names they have for the stars and learns about Earth’s names and stories for them. This is a quick read that helps get kids more interested in looking up at the stars and not at a screen. Very cute and informative book that leads to hours of learning with your little ones looking at the wonder of the stars.

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Lucky Break (Trentbridge Tales Book 2) by Lee Wood – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Lucky Break (Trentbridge Tales #2)Lucky Break by Lee Wood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mystery. Art. Murder. Once again, the talented Lee Wood has a way to pull you into the mystery and keep you until the end. Lucky Break is the second book in the incredible Trentbridge Tales Series, while it can be read as a standalone, I personally feel the best way to fully get immersed in the world of Trentbridge you must read the first book to fully understand the growth of the characters and what they have overcome to reach their current position, as well as to better understand the subplots. The journey is well worth the read. As with the previous book we are given the story through several perspectives that help give background, understanding and depth to the story.
Peter gives insight to a different world, one of art and beauty but also one of suspense, murder, and mystery. All Peter ever wanted was to find his “lucky break” so that he could live a better life, and in his eyes a fuller life. After months of grieving after the loss of his mother things start to get slightly better when he finds Norman. Norman says whatever happens Peter will always have him. Then everything changes, with the discovery of a lost Picasso. The murder of an art dealer and a growing suspect list where the secrets get darker the longer, they dig.
The world of Trentbridge is based around real towns, giving more of a foothold in the mind, making it easier to envision the places and people that live there. Like in the first book the characters are everyday people even if they have moments more in the extreme than the average person. What the characters experience with their hope, loss, fears and wants are very real for most people in the world. Being able to relate to the characters gives the reader a deeper understanding and hope that they can overcome all that they face. After all we are all just looking for a lucky break. I cannot wait to start book three, Dead Lucky, to see what happens next in the world of Trentbridge.

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Amaleigha Makes a New Friend by Janice Pratt – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Amaleigha Makes a New FriendAmaleigha Makes a New Friend by Janice Pratt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Thought provoking. Informative. Inspirational. This is the first book I have read by the talented Janice Pratt and honestly, I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect which led to a huge surprise.
Amaleigha is an American third grade student. Her teacher Mr. Bowels has exciting news about the class having pen pals across the world in the Ukraine. Throughout the book her class learns about the Ukraine, their customs and history between waiting for their next letters. Suddenly, Vova, her pen pal and several others are saying the same things that the news is. Russia has declared war on Ukraine, and they don’t know when they can write again. Determined to try and help Amaleigha and her class work together to help their new friends.
This book covers several levels of curiosity. About other countries outside your own, the customs and traditions of others, empathy for others, and finding ways to help when you feel too small to do anything. I read this book to my two sons, eleven and six, and they both started asking more questions, asking if it was real, if it was still happening and if we could do anything to help. This book helps children understand that just because we live in different places and do things differently it doesn’t mean we are different. Amaleigha instantly saw the similarities in her and Vova. The book doesn’t necessarily have an end, but it ends with a prayer. For the children, families, and people of Ukraine.

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Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Ayla Phipps

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

Perfect title, perfectly intriguing book. This is the first book I have read by the incredible Anise Storm, yes this is the second book in the series, but it can be read as a standalone. That said, I will certainly be going back to learn more about Viviana and Nazario. Deadly Vengeance is dual perspectives of Luca and Valenzia.
Luca has grown up in New Orleans, but after the recent passing of his mother all her secrets come unraveled in the form of her journals. He had grown up thinking he had no father, no family outside of his mother as his maternal great grandparents died shortly before and after his birth. Valenzia has grown up sheltered to the extreme. Her parents have shielded her and her siblings from the harsh realities of not only their lives but the world, and those in it. While she had heard rumors of what her parents had done, she never believed them until she accidentally took her mother’s diaries from home. Instantly she learned that her mother was nothing but omissions and lies, her entire life built on them. Suddenly, she needs to know more, after confronting her mother she goes to Palermo in sure of her mother’s enemies. Luca is out for vengeance on the woman that caused his mother to flee all those years ago from her home. Keeping him from knowing his father, his family and learning his truth heritage. His vengeance for Viviana leads him to Valenzia who is the spitting image of her mother, his plan is set, but when she shows up in his town asking about his father, he takes the chance to take her early. The only thing he didn’t expect was the chemistry, the electricity that ignites not only himself but Valenzia.
Who will succeed in their vengeance? Can Valenzia’s father rescue her, or will she be forced to carry out what her mother failed to do? The author’s ability to bring not just the beautiful scenery to life but the characters. You feel their fear in the most visceral moments, and your heart breaks when their hopes crumple. Will the sins of their parents finally have justice or will history repeat? I couldn’t help but devour each page faster than the one before it as a raced through the pages to see what would happen next. Can they truly get a happy ending born of vengeance and pain? I cannot wait to read the next installment and see what will happen next in this Italian Empire.

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