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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance (Hidden Valley Elite #5)Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fear. Betrayal. Once more, the beyond talented Isla Vaughn pulls you deeper and deeper into the world of the Hidden Valley Elite. Must read the prequel Cruel Start first as it starts the story that continues in this book, starting a few months after the events of that book. Dual perspectives of Phoenix and Aspen.
Phoenix has had a long summer of healing after his hand was shredded by the glass, but the time has come he can finally start practicing again and playing soon. Aspen has lived in terror all summer; one perfect spur of the moment has changed her world and delayed her dreams. Worse is that she must inform her parents, but her parents’ history tells her she needs Phoenix at her side. Thanks to a delusional punt bunny Phoenix is on board with her proposition to “fake” date, but he goes a step further not just for her parents but the entire school to keep the punt bunnies off him so he can focus on school and football. Perfect plan in theory, as they both react badly to obstacles placed before them and both show a flare of jealousy. Both wanting more but because of their painful upbringings fear what could happen if they gave in to that level of emotions. On top of everything the Bennett twins are at odds and not talking. Shane is still angry about what Phoenix said to Tracey in Cruel Start and while they aren’t together anymore Shane struggles to let go of that degree of lies that lost him “the most important thing in his life”. Due to their rift Shane refuses to be around Phoenix much less help him with his schoolwork, flunking he has no choice but to ask for help. Grandad has built a legacy in his company that he plans to leave for Phoenix and Shane one day, but tells Phoenix wait for the NFL finish college first its always good to have a backup plan. He’s also proud of both boys for not using the family name to get things handed to them from the school reputation Grandad held while at Thane. Just when things started to seem less doom Shane pulled a punch no one could have predicted causing things to spiral faster than the perfect spiral.
Can Phoenix and Aspen find common ground, for them and their baby? What does Shane do that tailspin everything? How will mom and Grandad react to the news about Aspen and the baby? The elite might have run the high school, but they are just more students at Thane and while they are recognized they have some normal from the chaos that followed them in high school. Now life is chaos, too many jabs at once to catch his breath Phoenix often feels like he’s got a lose/lose situation before him. Never able to say the right thing to Aspen and never able to figure out what’s going on with Shane. The author once again leaves you holding your breath as you try and read faster and faster to see what will happen next until you’re left breathless and lost when you reach “The End”. I am counting the days until the finale of Phoenix and Aspen’s story comes out, Cruel Love, September 28th, 2023.

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Rogue Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 3) by Lilliana Rose – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Rogue Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 3)Rogue Wolf by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Changes. This series has found its way deep into my soul as I truly cannot get enough of this amazing series. Please note that this is the third installment in the Protector Wolf Shifter series, and it is not a standalone book. Told through Tamaska and Kodiak’s perspectives once more as their story continues to evolve.
Tamaska has accepted the darkness in the world. Once thought only to be fairy tales in books and movies to scare children, are anything but fairy tales. Darkness fills her city and the darkest of them want her. Kodiak won the battle and finally taken his place as the Alpha of the Shadow pack. His first task is to change the rule that made him and Tamaska’s relationship viewed as a crime, making it so that he can officially make her his mate. So many questions, mystery and hurtles lie before them to continue the hunt for the Blood Opal and why the vampires want Tamaska. While Kodiak wants Tamaska to become a shifter not only so she can truly be his mate but to protect her from the vampires he questions if she could survive the transformation itself. So much loss has happened and Tamaska feels the guilt weighing on her that she can’t protect herself much less anyone else that risk their lives to keep her safe. A simple task, running to her apartment to get some of her personal belongings, changes everything. Kodiak has been taken by the vampires in hopes of luring Tamaska out.
Will Tamaska find someone to change her in time? How can she save Kodiak without giving herself up? Once again, the author’s incredible talent shines as the story continues to evolve and which new levels of suspense. I can never stay off the edge of my seat as I devour each page in hopes of finding out the mysteries that surround the Blood Opal and why the vampires want Tamaska so much. Needless to say, I will eagerly await the next installment Cursed Wolf. In the meantime, I may dive into the authors other series Witch Moon.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Ayla Phipps

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Adventure. While this isn’t the first book, I have read by the talented K.L. Small this one was very different. Its life, a ten-year-old boy named Russell is in fifth grade, he’s bullied by his old best friend Tyler and thinks he is nothing but a failure in everything he does.
Russ dreams of being a firefighter like his Uncle Ethan, but his fears of everything get in the way. In the past year everything has fallen around Russ, his grandma passed away leading to his grandpa moving in with his family. He lost his room to his grandpa, now his room is the unfinished damp basement that smells like dirty socks. All his grades have dropped this year, his father only ever thinks he has done something wrong and tells him he fails. Grandpa always tells amazing stories not fantasy stories but true stories of horses throughout history, he talks about them like they are people and not just an animal that people ride. Every day after school he must take grandpa to the park to ride the carousel, something he tries to hide from while there because of Tyler and Matt. In a moment of panic after a run in with the bullies he tells his grandpa today is the last time. Grandpa’s only request it to have one more ride. Roscoe, river, bear. Grandpa tells him they were there in 1827 and that it was magic, but then he has a stroke giving Russell his brass ring as he is taken away in the ambulance. Little Bit, mine, explosion.
How is it possible? Did grandpa ever take mom for an adventure when she was little? No explanations on how just told magic, then the magic seems to be tugging him back to the carousel everyday making him yearn for another adventure. The world is ours; reality is both the good and the bad. The author’s ability to mix in some magic while not losing the overall story of life is interesting and easy for the age group to understand and hold on to the magic in the world. Heroes are everyday people or in this case animals that accomplished amazing feats throughout time. I truly cannot wait for the next instalment of this new series.

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Cruel King by K.M. Scott – Review by Ayla Phipps

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

Intensity that could set you ablaze. So, this is the first book I have read by the talented K.M. Scott and oh was it a great first read. Twists and turns to keep you guessing as well as reality based making the moments that are already heavily emotional make you feel what they feel. Early on Matthias’ cruel words to Ava had me crying along with her. Dual perspective of Ava and Matthias.
Ava is the daughter of the King family’s estate manager. Matthias is the eldest son and heir apparent of the King fortune. Early into the story the similarities while different are prevalent in the different household dynamics. Both have lost their mothers, both are treated differently than their siblings, and both have been harboring feelings they didn’t release went soul deep. One fateful blizzard brings everything to the forefront, no more hiding behind warnings from their fathers. Matthias dreamed of Ava for years, but when finally given a moment alone with her his cruelty that he used as armor cracks, and he gives into the dreams if only for a short time. Ava is accepted by all the King family except the eldest son, Matthias, who has always been cruel to her for no reason she can think of. After he makes her cry repeatedly in the span of just a few short hours she snaps and confronts him demanding he explain why he hates her so much. In a moment of desire, he drops the façade, ignores the warnings, and finally kisses her and more. Everything feels right, like they were made for each other. No sooner is the truth finally revealed and she is forced to move away to her aunts. Five years and neither of them can forget that blizzard and what happened but now things are different.
Can they find their way back to each other? Will Theo take a stand that forces Ava to make a choice? I love how the author tells the reader up front that the story is based but that she doesn’t deal with the “protection” aspect of the characters physical moments, I agree sometimes it takes away from a heated moment by breaking it down too much with reality. The scenery is described perfectly especially when it comes to the reality of snow and how its beauty disappears when it’s in dirty piles cluttering the roads as it slowly melts. Now, the characters, my oh my they were fascinating, the complexing of each character helps build the reality of the moments and the intensity of the twists and turns the characters had to overcome to reach the end. After this I truly hope the author decides to turn this into a series, it would be interesting to see into the lives of the other four King brothers and what secrets they hold within.

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Marked Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 2) by Lilliana Rose – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Marked Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 2)Marked Wolf by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Continuation. This is the second book in the Protector Wolf Shifter series, and picks up in the same moment that book one, Shadow Wolf, ended in. Thus, it is very important to read book one first, to understand the story and not be lost or confused about what has happened and is happening. Once again, told from the dual perspectives of Tamaska and Kodiak as their epic love story continues.
Kodiak with no choice had finally told Tamaska what he is. Due to her childhood trauma of being attacked and scared by a dog attack her fears overwhelm her as she rejects Kodiak and all that he is even when she knows her words were a lie the moment, she said them. Her fear makes her believe that it’s not possible but her heart breaks for him and the distance she keeps from him. Tamaska has one goal, find the Blood Opal, and get her life back to normal. Kodiak, though broken hearted, is determined to keep Tamasha safe while also completing his mission of finding the Opal and figuring out why everyone wants it. Is it just for the money or something else? Since the night of what she thought was a normal event she has been caught in the middle of the darkness that lurks in the shadows, humans oblivious to the constant threat to their lives as they know it. The missing blood opal was just the beginning.
Who will find the blood opal first? Why is the blood opal so important to the vampires, and to the Alpha? While the world was built in book one the shadows continue to come into the light as Tamaska and Kodiak both dig deeper into the theft that uprooted both of their lives. The characters grow and learn to overcome their fears as well as sticking to their beliefs in what the right thing to do is. Giving you some answers from the first book the author makes sure you have plenty of more questions in your mind keeping you guessing and in complete anticipation of book three, Rogue Wolf. I am so glad I impatiently waited for book three to come out before finally digging into book two, so that I don’t have to wait to see what happens next.

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Reticent Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Reticent Hawke: A Billionaire Reverse Age Gap Best Friend's Older Sister Forbidden Romance (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 2)Reticent Hawke: A Billionaire Reverse Age Gap Best Friend’s Older Sister Forbidden Romance by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Good morning. What a way to start a book, Hehe. I am in love with this series having read the prequel and book one I had been counting down the days until this book finally came out and I had a chance to read it. Jude and Angelina were mentioned in the previous books but not in depth. Finally, we get to see inside Jude’s world and discover why he is so recluse and the heartbreak of his first ten years of life before the Hawkes rescued him.
Jude had been a Hawke for twelve years, and from the very beginning Angelina had stolen his heart. After a life of nothing but pain and fear he had finally found someone that made him feel safe, accepted, and cared for. Angelina is the eldest Hawke second generation, her coffee shop is thriving, but the problems start stacking up quickly in her world. Allie, Jude’s best friend and Angelina’s younger sister, is suddenly more unreliable than ever. Always late, missing and not showing up where she should be when she should be. Fear and worry force Jude to text Angelina and be in the same room with her for the first time in two years. She is the literal dream girl that chases away his nightmares and yet that is all she can ever be, in his dreams. Everything about him captured Angelina’s attention and like Jude it has only grown with the years. Cassius of course once again rears his handsome evil face when Falco Enterprises purchases the space the Hawkes have wanted for years. To make matters worse, they plan to open a coffee shop, just down the street from Angelina’s, Hawkes Daily Grind. Taking place roughly four months after book one, the previous idea of an art gallery/studio comes up by Isaac. What if they have a grand opening the same day or shortly before to steal the attention away from the Falco coffee shop. Only problem, the space is across from Angelina’s and is Jude’s space for his dream of owning a bookshop only it has been three years since the lot was purchased and still nothing has been opened or even shows signs of something to come.
Will Jude ever get the courage to finally tell Angelina how he feels about her? Why has Allie been disappearing? Can Jude overcome his fears and finally live the life he wants to have? Once again, the talented Gwyn McNamee has captured my heart from page one leaving me on the edge of my seat as I rush to the end to find out how it all ends. The ever-evolving world she has created, how it continues to grow revealing more information and secrets along the way. The depth of the characters and how deep their pain and trauma go. Her ability to show the vulnerability of each character and them overcoming their trauma to find the life they crave and deserve leaves you with the feel good when you reach the last page. Can’t wait for book three to see what the Hawkes will face and overcome next in Relentless Hawke, October 26th, 2023. Who captured Cassius Whitakers cold black heart?

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Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers Book 2) by Toya Richardson – Review by Ayla Phipps

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

Breathtaking originality. This is the first book I have read by the incredibly talented Toya Richardson and oh so excited. While the synopsis pulled me in, fitting into my comfort genre I never could have imagined the originality within the pages of Mesmerised. Told through the dual perspective of Antoine and Donna, this gives a new look of a story told thousands of times.
Antoine is a Hybrid, but not the typical vampire/werewolf no, he is a vampire/angel reading this on page one I was instantly invested so much more than I thought I was already. He had been searching for his mate for six hundred years and finally in her final moments he found her. Donna is a human woman who has truly lost everything in the past year. Her parents in a house fire, her best friends in a train crash, laid off from her job and her bank accounts hacked, her house being taken away. Gustav, the head demon in Antoine’s territory had been playing a long game trying to eliminate Donna before Antoine could find her, leading to both of their deaths. Fated mates if one dies, they both die, regardless of if they ever found each other. The only way to truly end a demon is with your mate. Gustav refuses to lose and sets off to work on Donna the moment he finds her. A year of peace for Antoine in his territory with no attacks and now he has discovered why.
Can Antoine save Donna from Gustav before he loses her for good? Will Donna accept her fate or blame Antoine for all her pain? The author creates a world where you can see yourself living, a beautiful house and more beautiful coastline, the sea like gems sparkling and yet the characters so tormented and lonely that your heart aches for them. Antoine may be over six hundred years old, but his emotions are so relatable that you can’t help but route for him. Donna is just a human; she didn’t agree to be the mate of a hybrid or to be involved in the war between the demons and the hybrids that protect the world and yet she has lost more than any one person can overcome. Their connection is instantly intoxicating even if she doesn’t understand why her soul reaches out for this man she’s never met. I devoured this book in one sitting unable to stop going as I yearned to see a happy ending for Antonie and Donna.

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Oathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Oathbreakers AnonymousOathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Misplaced Faith. My biggest goal for this year was to discover new authors Scott Warren is a new one for me. The cover, while interesting it was the synopsis that made me say “why not”, as in give this book a try. Also, seeing the genre humorous fantasy gave me intrigue as I had never read or seen a book in that genre before. Being a gamer as well as a big bibliophile, I found that the game Neverwinter kept coming to mind while reading this book.
Paladins, no matter the race, are great warriors, fighting for their gods and continuously earning their grace and power. A great deal is known about paladins’ great deeds and victories over evil or darkness, but what happens to those that lose their grace, their power. Disappearing from history the author finds a way to fill in the blanks of history in this world. Marluck is a half-orc, who was a great paladin until the day he lost his powers. Lost and searching for purpose the newest oathbreaker finds a group of his fellow ex-holy warriors. An unfair punishment Marluck would do anything to get the “divinity” back that was taken from him, to return to the good sides of the goddesses. Hearing of possibilities to get back what he had lost Marluck will stop at nothing to reach his goals.
Will Marluck and his little group find a location in time? Is it truly possible to get his “divinity” back, to return to what he was before his fall? From page one I was glad I took a chance on this author and his world. The way the author not only writes but how he builds up the images in your mind of the world they live in. The good, the bad and the hilarious, I found myself smirking at the details. While the characters are not everyday men and women it was interesting to see how relatable the different races are to everyday real-life humans. I was even able to Invision people in my life as the characters bringing a little extra humor to the story personally. This book kept me engaged from start to finish, entrapped in the story and the mystery of how things would work out and come to an end. I hope to see more books set in this world and I will certainly be going back and looking through the authors’ other works just to read more of this talented author’s work.

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Sleeping with the Enemy (Astoria Royals Book 3) by Deborah Garland – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Sleeping with the Enemy (Astoria Royals, #3)Sleeping with the Enemy by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Toe curling heat. Wow. So, this is the third book in this mind-blowing series, and I just found it not fair. While I am relatively new to the mafia book world Deborah Garland knows how to pull the intrigue and the heat from start to finish. I will be going back to read the previous books very soon. Dual perspectives Riordan and Priscilla both have secrets, but they have history that will burn the world.
Riordan O’Rourke is the underboss for his brother, meaning when two Russians are killed, he is sent to Grigori as a peacekeeper. Informing him that the Irish are not responsible, but that the Italians are. Priscilla, the submissive at Grigori’s side when Riordan is there, something about her alabaster face gives him a sense of familiarity. All too quickly he is imagining what he wants to do with her when his task is complete and he leaves, visions of her still filling his mind when. A warning that changes everything, her Russian accent is gone, and she warns him of Maksim planning to kill him, going a step further she takes a bullet for him. He can’t leave her, he needs her, he wants her.
Who is Priscilla and why does she look familiar? Will Riordan be able to keep her when all the secrets are revealed? The world is complex and realistic for the most part while the characters are more. With relatable complex lives and backstories in varying degrees the author ropes you in and locks you in as she takes you on the journey of Riordan and Priscilla. Who they were and who they are now as they fall for each other against all resistance. What pulled me in to give this book a try was the no cheating, no cliffhangers, and a happily ever after guaranteed. This was the perfect Saturday quick read to leave you with a feeling of happiness and love. So much pain and fight go into the characters’ everyday lives, and yet they overcome it all and come out stronger than before, with each other at their sides. Cannot wait for the next book, Deal with the Devil, October 6th, 2023. In the meantime, book one and two here I come.

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Master Campania (Masters of the Consulate Book 7) by Sylvia Black – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Master Campania: Dark Vampire Romance (Masters of the Consulate Book 7)Master Campania: Dark Vampire Romance by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Skin warming intensity. Once again, Sylvia Black temps you into the dark world of Italy’s under dwellers of the night. This time with pureblood Master Campania and the little enchantress that is Willow. Following their story and how they get to their happy ending while hunting the rogues from both sides.
Campania is the master of the southwest part of Italy, where in most of the clubs all mingle together in peace, each respecting the lifestyles of the other. Willow and her friends were tired of always being under the watchful eyes of head witches and coven leader Devora, so they left the academy to finally find some freedom of their own. The story picks up essentially where it left off at the end of book six Master Calabrea. Overmaster Descallia has revealed several names of traitors and they have been dealt with but now the rogue witches responsible for helping the rogue vampires are on the run and hiding in Master Campania’s region. He will not quit until he finds them and gets the information he needs to hunt down and find the rogue vampires determined to reset the clock and force them back into the dark ages. Willow out on a night of fun with her friends comes face to face with Campania, a pureblood, the very thing she has been raised to hate. Refusing to give up her witch sisters because of rumors she feels are made up by the vampires she tells him a lie that quickly backfires when she’s not quick enough in disappearing again. While intrigued with Willow and her psychic abilities that could match his own, his look alone sets her blood racing and her skin tingling. With backup Campania goes to get Willow and her friends for her lie, but the fear in her eyes leaves him with an unfamiliar emotion that causes him to try something new to get the information he is after.
Will Campania get the information he needs, in time? Can Willow truly trust a vampire? The author continues to fill in the details of each region of her world with each book. Not only the beauty of the day but the mystery that lurks in the shadows of the night. Glimpses of Campania in previous books make you hungry to learn more about him, to get into his space and find the secrets and the author does not disappoint. Knowing a book will have a happy ending honestly pulls me in more than anything, knowing I will have that satisfaction at the end. I eagerly await the next instalment of the Masters of the Consulate series with book eight, Master Sardinia, October 19th, 2023.

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Flowers of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Flowers of Evil (Hani's Daughter Mysteries Book 1)Flowers of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ancient Egypt. Hook line and sinker. This is the first book I have read by N.L. Holmes and my oh my, I look forward to the next one. The cover pulled me in, I have been obsessed with ancient Egypt since I was about eight years old so coming across this historical mystery was a dream come true. Two of my favorite things Egypt and mystery, yes please. Immediately I loved the map of ancient Egypt, the character list and the glossary at the beginning as a refresher and to prepare me for what was to come.
Neferet and Bener-ib are sunets (doctors), while only twenty-four their credentials are great, having trained under the physician of the Royal Ornaments, and were royal physicians themselves before Neferet’s dream was given a chance. She had always wanted to offer all proper medical care. Unfortunately, they have a local rival sunu, Djed-har. Quickly after officially meeting him Neferet can piece together that he is a fraud that feels women should not be physicians and that their credentials are only in their dreams. Not being one to back down the women are determined to gain the favor of the people to come to them in times of need. Finally, a patient, while initially happy they have a patient, things turn somber and mysterious too fast. The man dies, his last words “Sekhat. Rabbit.”, confused the women are determined to find out who murdered the Bearer of the Devine Offerings. A man that made such beautiful things targeted and murdered, for a reason. But why?
Two mysteries. How to sway the people to trust them? Who killed an innocent man who made beautiful bouquets for Amen? The chills that crawled my spine at the level of details the author includes made me so excited to keep going. Not only is the mystery well thought out, but the lives of the characters are beyond relatable even if there is a stark time difference. They are everyday people in their time trying to do their best, make a living and set keep the world balanced. I must go back and read the original Hani mysteries while waiting for book two of the Hani’s Daughters Mysteries. I cannot get enough of this author’s blend of historical ancient Egypt and mystery.

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Shadowed Obsession (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1) by Mavery Ellscott – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1)Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Intense. Oh wow. So, Mavery Ellscott is officially one of my top favorite new authors of the year. Before this book I hadn’t heard of this talented author but wow. Told from dual perspectives of Keira and Cade this book may be a slow-burn romance, but action, mystery and suspense start on page one.
Keira is a thirty-two-year-old PR rep that has had a rough couple of months mixed with a dream finally coming true. She has been invited by her bosses to become a partner with them, a dream fulfilled right. Wrong, she has worked too hard and won’t give up the chance easily even if that means keeping the lid closed on her past and now, she has a stalker. Cade is an ex-Navy SEAL that owns Shadow Defense Security, a private military contractor, with four of his fellow service brothers. From the first time they officially meet both are attracted to the other but have their own reservations. Cade notices instantly the stress when meeting Keira only made more concerning that evening when after a brief incident, she spills the truth to him. Saying the words out loud fills her with terror as she tries to keep up her appearance so that it doesn’t bother her. Her stalker is no longer content hiding behind their phone, all in one day he not only breaks into her car but her house. Cade’s seen and heard enough he’s not taking no for an answer he is going to help Keira.
Will Cade’s company be able to help Keira before it’s too late? Keira locked the door to her past but is it what’s haunting her now or is it someone else? Can Keira and Cade find a safe place in each other where the doors open up and the truth let out? The world the author creates is real, it happens every day to countless people, but unlike Keira they don’t all have an ex-Navy SEAL living next door whose next mission is to keep her safe. How the characters interact, and their internal monologues is very relatable not only in the funny or reminiscent moments but in the fearful ones where you forget how to think, and you just do. Keira and Cade could be your neighbors, friends, colleagues, seeing them not only figure out who and why she is being stalked but the comfort they bring each other keeps you rushing to finish the page just to see what will happen on the next one. I will be keeping an eye out for the next instalment in this new suspense series.

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Murder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Murder in a Gated CommunityMurder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Drama. My oh my where to begin. I love mystery and suspense books and this book seemed to fit into that, but it was so much more. This is the first book I have read by Laura Koerber, and I will certainly be looking into more of her work after this little treat.
While this book wasn’t exactly what I thought it would be it was a fun little read for a rainy Sunday. Told from several perspectives of the Oaken Acres community we get a well-rounded look at life in the quiet little gated retirement community in Washington state. Instantly I was drawn not only to Jane and Leslie but in some ways truly felt an understanding towards Hazel. Yes, I know things are tense where Hazel is concerned especially when it comes to the garden that she found. That said also have an understanding to how Theresa feels, though I initially strongly disliked her when first starting the book. So many interesting characters and so many different stories and substories that make it easy to envision and feel like you’re there with a bag of popcorn watching the chaos play out.
Will Hazel be able to keep her garden plot and the secrets it hides? Can Jane succeed in helping Andrea’s dog not be so lonely? While the world the author places her story is fiction it is reality all over the world. The “gated communities” look appealing, but they are no different than any other neighborhood. With drama, arguing, vengeful dreams played out in our heads, and broken hearts over lonely pets locked alone in garages for days. Not only could I picture this community existing in my own small mountain town, but I could see the characters’ traits in my neighbors. If you like a little mystery, some suspense, a lot of drama and some humor sprinkled in while watching friendships form to get through the pains of being alone this is the book for you. Now I’m off to take a stroll through the rest of this talented author’s work.

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I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ayla Phipps

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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

We are all different. Shirl doesn’t “fit in” with the humans of Earth, she doesn’t like creamy spinach or sports so she thinks she must be an alien. Talented with electronics, she creates a radio that allows her to talk to aliens. Eee-ahh hears the call and comes to visit hoping they have found their home planet. After some trial and error while they look different, they find a common activity they both enjoy. Beautiful illustrations to go with a cute little story about friendship in all shapes and colors.

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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Ayla Phipps

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

Beautifully designed. This book is honestly so beautiful and informative in a fun way. The author shows the starfish is several different locations or habitats that they are commonly found in. While also giving some starfish facts at the end of the book. Beautiful rhymes to go with the beautiful pictures.

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Fortune’s Favorite (Soulbound Journeys Book 2) by C. L. Schneider – Review Ayla Phipps

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Fortune's Favorite (Soulbound Journeys #2)Fortune’s Favorite by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mysterious dark intrigue. Once more, the talented C.L. Schneider’s ever-expanding world knows no bounds. Ian Troy and Jarryd Kane escaped the Wandering Isles only weeks ago and have arrived at the pirate haven, Maldarehm.
Ian is perfectly happy on the open sea, especially after the nightmare-inducing world that was the Wandering Isles. Unfortunately, they need to resupply their stores and must port. Jarryd is excited to finally see Maldarehm, the pirate haven that he has heard about. After hearing the story of the twins Ian prefers the longer road to also allow Kya some fresh air and exercise, while Jarryd wants to take the ferry not worried about being judged by the twins. The land is otherworldly, the snow-white sandy beach, the lush dense jungle, and the steep cliffs towering overhead. Since the wandering isles, things have been different, Jarryd prefers to keep his side of the link closed more often. Ian enjoying the memories now, prefers to keep it open now. The land may seem ideal and picturesque but there is darkness, and strange vibrations that come off the land making Ian tense and hesitant. The port full of comradery but the unabashed looks of some of the locals, they are not afraid of him but are afraid for him. Mystery unsettles him at the meaning of the looks but Jarryd’s enthusiasm and desire to see the city make him set aside the feelings but not for long.
Will Ian and Jarryd find a way back to the friendship they had before? How can Jarryd fix “everything”? What is responsible for the deep feelings Ian has felt since arriving? The author’s detail is in the next universe. While the world is well established not only in book one of this series but the previous original trilogy, she continues to build upon it. Not just with simple details but each place becoming its own world within the realm. More so the characters never stop evolving, morphing as their experiences become deep reminders of what they overcome. A brief pause to awe once more at the stunning cover, as it has become my favorite cover so far this year. While I continue to let my heartrate slow down, I will impatiently be waiting for book three in this soulbound journey that never eases up on the mystery and intrigue as you race through the pages to see what happens next.

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Vampires of Atlantis by Courtney Davis – Review by Ayla Phipps

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

Above the waterline. While this is the second book I have read by the incredible Courtney Davis, this book is a completely different universe as the other. Told from Ian and Katherine’s perspectives it isn’t a designated chapter but chapter thing, but it is easy to tell when the switch happens.
Ian is a vampire, once treated as royalty by humans and blood offerings made to them for their protection they are now long forgotten by the modern world. Katherine has worked at the local museum in Miami for the past decade, her heart and soul consumed so much that her ex claimed she loved her job more than him. A thousand years have passed since Ian was above the waterline on land, for the past five hundred years he has been the leader of his people guarding the prisons of Atlantis in the Bermuda Triangle. Norgis has escaped, something that has never happened in the 900 thousand years since Atlantis was sunk. Being the first time, it has ever happened he feels it is his job to hunt and return it to its cell. Only in the blink of an eye his mission changes he no longer seeks for the monster but for the woman who makes his blood run hot and calls to his soul. Katherine can feel his stare when she is near but struggles to see into the shadows to find him.
Did Norgis escape or was he released? Can Ian win the heart of Katherine? Will they get a chance to be happy or will Norgis succeed in his plan? The world while based in our time is otherworldly, the mystery of history playing out in the shadows and the depths of the ocean. The characters are relatable and when an epic level romance is thrown in all you can do is hold on tight as you sink into the ocean to reveal the secrets long forgotten. I so hope that a second book to the Atlantis series comes soon I cannot wait to see what mysteries await next.

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ayla Phipps

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Retelling but with a twist. Once again, Lois Wickstrom allows your imagination to flourish with this retelling of a classic. We all know Jack and the Beanstalk, but did Jack really steal the goose and golden harp? From the eyes of the giant Earth boys are just lazy and easy to pick. Until Jack shows he’s not as easy to trick as the giant thought.
My six-year-old once again loved this retelling of a classic and even my eleven-year-old giggled a time or two when there was a twist. Each of the author’s books give me a newfound love for the classic stories I grew up on and I love getting to share them with my boys in a new way.

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Taz (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter Book 3) by D.M. Earl – Review by Ayla Phipps

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

Not just survivors but warriors. Once again, the incredible D.M. Earl sinks her hooks into me with the third installment of the Devil’s Handmaidens MC Timber-Ghost Montana Chapter. This time with the story of Taz and Enforcer. Like the previous books we get a mix of perspectives that keep the story moving forward and always revealing more of the person each time.
Taz (Raquel/Que) is the bookkeeper for the Devil’s Handmaidens and Tink’s private accounts. The book wastes no time jumping right into the story over 750k missing from one of Tink’s accounts and a devil from Taz’s past that she thought she outran long ago. Long ago Raquel was happy had her dream man, and their baby boy but the military stole him away from her leaving her a single mother to little Teddy. Love wasn’t so great the second time when the new love blinders fell away and standing in its place was the devil made flesh and bone in Slick. Slick did terrible, unforgiveable things and when she saw the danger her and her son were in, she ran. Now years later he’s finally found her, and the biggest question is why, why now? Enforcer (Travis) is the enforcer of Tink’s father’s MC the Intruders and while complicated one thing is for certain. He does not see his situation with Taz as a mistake but the best thing that ever happened to him. In his own words “…I can tell him a story about a badass lonely man, who found a rainbow to believe in and bring purpose to his life.” (swoon). Hearing this Taz’s heart melts feeling like she has found her dream man at last only she gave up dreaming years ago. While Slick had an impactful entrance one thing is for certain Taz isn’t the woman, she was all those years ago and she is no longer alone but has a family to back her up and protect her and Teddy at any and all costs.
Slick has returned but why, what does he want? Can Taz and Enforcer figure out what they are and finally get a happy ending? Will Taz and her family finally be able to remove the stain on the Earth that is Slick? While the world has been established since book one, Tink, it continues to evolve as each member fills in their part of the puzzle. Taz and Travis’s relationship rivals every great love story as they fight for the chance to be happy and free of the past. Teddy will absolutely have you crying your eyes out as you feel his pain and as a mom with a six-year-old son with autism, I hugged my little boy tighter tonight after reading this heart pounding story. I cannot wait for book four, Vixen, September 21st, 2023. To learn more about the amazing warriors in the Devil’s Handmaidens MC.

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Forbidden Blood (The Shadow Chronicles Book 4) by CR Robertson – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Forbidden Blood (The Shadow Chronicles Book 4)Forbidden Blood by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Intrigue. While this is the fourth book in the series I had originally planned to begin with this book in the series, thankfully I followed the advice of the reviews and went back to book one first. Yes, this book I feel could be read as a standalone, but it could get confusing in some places with other characters if you don’t have the full background to this point to fully understand the weight of the situation. Following the perspectives of Fabian and Kimber this book is the beginning of their story, but it also fills in some questions of the previous three books.
Spanning immense time compared to the first three books we first met Fabian, 200 years ago. While a part of a search unit he began to have doubts and questions about what he had been told and the first was about a hellhound, Ginger. He follows his gut and is proven to be right that a soul born in hell does not mean that it is evil, it can live once more on Earth, peacefully. After his unit is ended, he is allocated to Guyana as his area to protect and keep safe. Time jump, five years ago, Kimber is now in her conscription and hates it but more, so she feels she is defective. She doesn’t look like a vampire or have the same appetite, though she forces herself to grab a bag she doesn’t let the blood touch her tongue. Unfortunately, the ick that is Castus is present and like her older sister Tasha he takes an unwelcomed interest in Kimber. The problem being her gift that protects her from unwanted “affection”. Now she is a part of Castus’ collection of rare and beautiful things. Flashes of his experiments flood her mind at first touch, and she prays to the Great Goddess to save her from her prison.
Will Kimber be free before she is permanently destroyed? Can Fabian discover the plan of the mad scientist before it gets too late? Is Ginger safe from the masters Fabian saved her from? Once again, the author adds so much to the world that she has created. While the previous three books built the world it never stopped revealing more of its secrets. The same holds true for this book as magic has returned and their world is now being revealed as Kimber finds her place in the chaos of war and life. Also, while Tasha and Levi will forever hold a special part of my heart Kimber and Fabian now have their place as CR Robertson has truly become one of my new favorite authors. Her characters leave you begging for more even when you reach the last page. Fingers tightly crossed for a fifth book soon.

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Forbidden Moon (The Shadow Chronicles Book 3) by CR Robertson – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Forbidden MoonForbidden Moon by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Completion. I flew through the previous two books and this one was no different. The need to learn more about Tasha and Levi and know what happens next left me little room to breathe as I devoured this final book of their epic story.
Unlike the previous two books this one started with a prologue on how the different species came to exist. As well as how the fear of the Olympians forced them into chaos and war. Quickly it is apparent as to how Tasha and Levi were able to love each other so completely without understanding why but not fighting against it and embracing it. Picking up where the previous book left off the hellspawn have learned when the Lycans are at their weakest and they are in turn at the strongest, during the new moon. Only now the miracle that is Persephone has unseen power that allows her to keep those she loves safe despite her age and size. As the truth of how all species came into existence is brought to light the alliance that was destroyed centuries ago reforms. Tasha and Levi played the central part in proving that their species coexistence is possible and that the lies they were told were to keep them apart. To keep them from becoming more powerful than their creators. Magic is back and reclaiming their place in the war against the hellspawn that wants to burn all whilst claiming the Earth for themselves. Once again, more secrets erode as the truth is revealed.
Can Tasha and Levi find their way back to each other in the darkest nights ahead? More secrets revealed but what does the mean for those affected? What will happen to the alliance when their story is complete? Once more the author finds ways to make the world more complete and more complex as we learn more about how the species were created, and how the war truly began. Seeing the characters morph into so much more than the youth of book one has been one of my favorite parts, as they became not only confident in themselves but in each other. Bittersweet, as much as I love reading Tasha and Levi’s story, I am excited to see how the world expands and changes with Kimber’s story in book four, Forbidden Blood, and how it will continue in the war against the hellspawns.

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Forbidden Mate (The Shadow Chronicles Book 2) by CR Robertson – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Forbidden Mate (The Shadow Chronicles)Forbidden Mate by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Revelations. Okay book two takes everything and bumps it up several notches. This book begins a few months after the events at the end of the first book. Once again CR Robertson pulls you in and after a slightly slow start you can hardly get a breath.
In the few months since the confrontation with the hellspawns Tasha and Levi have found a sense of normalcy in their crazy world. Levi holding true to finding a way for them to be together publicly and not having to be apart for another ten years while finishing their conscriptions. While at the end of book one Tasha could still feel the dull hum of the creatures killing the vampires and Lycans she could hear them at times. Knowing they must be regrouping the vampires and Lycans made agreements of sorts that ends the war between them to combine to beat the common enemy before them. In the first book it is also revealed that due to the moon goddess making Tasha and Levi fated mates, she was changed to a deeper level allowing her to walk in the sun. Only she and Levi know this and go to great lengths at times to keep it that way. The chaos of war tomorrow is promised to know one. Grasping every moment with Levi, Tasha fears a world without him. Learning more about the secrets of her coven Tasha begins to learn how much of her life was based on lies and half-truths of those that held power.
How far will Castus go to claim what was never his? Can the Vampires and Lycans succeed at defeating the hellspawns? Once again, the world the author creates is one of total intrigue that pulls you into the world beside the characters. The characters continue to develop and grow as they experience more than what seems possible to overcome but they survive by sticking together through it all. While reading the first book the love story seemed to be at the center and to a degree it is, but the fact is that it is the war that is the focus that has encompassed both species for so long that the purpose of the war is long forgotten. Tasha and Levi’s story is the light in the war that makes everything worth overcoming the evil lurking in the muck. I cannot wait to begin book three, Forbidden Moon, to see how Tasha and Levi’s story continues and what they will overcome.

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Forbidden Wolf (The Shadow Chronicles Book 1) by CR Robertson – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Forbidden WolfForbidden Wolf by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Intricate complexity. This is the first book I have read by the talented C.R. Robertson, and I feel it was the perfect series for me personally to be introduced to her work. Forbidden Wolf is the first book in the Shadow Chronicles series. It is a supernatural retelling of Romeo and Juliet to a degree. Told primarily from Tasha’s perspective we are given glimpses of Levi’s letting the reader know he feels the same as her.
Vampire Tasha is about to turn twenty-one, the age for conscription into the army, to fight in a war she doesn’t believe in. Lycan Levi is also twenty-one and about to join his species army for the war when during their last summer everything changes. Tasha was never like the other girls her age; boys never really caught her attention, but she was prepared for the next twenty years to carry out her duty to her coven and species. Twenty years being mandatory service time in the army and breeding programs before being allowed to follow your own specialties or to be free. Levi is different from the others in his pack. He has black fur and mentions that the color of your wolf is tied to your abilities, he is often left alone. One fateful night changes everything either of them had been raised to believe. Thinking the bite of the other would kill them Tasha and Levi indulge in conversation with the enemy, but after talking and he protects her from the sun she is conflicted and questioning everything she had ever been told. Levi was stunned by the creature that is Tasha, he had been raised believing vampires were savage monsters and yet she was the gentlest, most caring thing he had ever seen. A plan for twenty years when their mandatory conscription is over, they will meet in Paris under the Eiffel Tower and once again just be lovers having a reunion. Time jumps accord five years and then ten. Ten years later Tasha and Levi are reunited on the battlefield. Both species are being savagely slaughtered by something new.
Ten years have passed, do they still feel the same for each other? Can Levi and Tasha succeed in finding out what is killing everyone they know? Will they rekindle what they had that summer in the forest? The world the author describes not only conjures the images in your mind but sometimes the smells. The characters leave nothing and everything on the table, their complexity not only personally but how they interact and react to the same situations is relatable and understandable. Once I started this book, I couldn’t put it down and now I cannot wait to begin book two, Forbidden Mate, to see what happens next for Tasha and Levi and how they confront what’s coming next.

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The Sisterhood of Secrets (The Gods’ Scion Book 4) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Ayla Phipps

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The Sisterhood of SecretsThe Sisterhood of Secrets by Winnifred Tataw
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Diversity. Balance. Though this is the fourth book in the series it is the first book I have read by the talented Winnifred Tataw. While I was initially concerned about being confused about the story or not being able to understand what was going on I found I had no issues with understanding. This book was very informative about building the world and characters in the first several chapters. So, I am confident in saying that from experience this book could be read as a standalone, though I plan to go back and read the previous three soon. Told through several characters’ perspectives, it gives a well-rounded story.
Alistine was once a part of the castle staff now with the crowned prince Rayden. Arcelia is the girlfriend of Prince Rodrick, Rayden’s brother. Rodrick, prince of Diar but also the Acolyte of Time. Nikolai the Acolyte of Life. While all the characters have their side story or own situations, they are all tied together to varying degrees. Arcelia is determined to prove that she is not like her family that she is not with Rodrick for power but for love, primarily to his mother Queen Riva. Nikolai has many duties as the acolyte of life, one being as an unbiased tiebreaker for the beings of balance. In past situations when he was needed, he was given details on who or why a person was so important to upcoming events but this time he has told very vague details. Leading him to wonder if he knows the person that could be the single sacrifice. When all things begin to change where will they fall in the balance of the world.
What is better sacrifice one or many, did Nikolai make the right choice? Will Alistine and Rayden finally complete the process of her becoming his princess? How will Arcelia’s visit with her estranged family go? Was Alistine’s feeling that something wasn’t right worth worrying about? The world that the author creates is beyond fascinating in not only the mix of cultural diversity but with the blurred lines between the past and present. Honestly at first, I thought this was a story placed more in medieval times, or closer to that era, until the mention of “scrolling through my phone” and the realization that it was a more current story in terms of technology. The story reminded me in many ways of Game of Thrones in terms of one overlaying story but each character or set of characters having their own side story simultaneously to the main plot. I can’t wait to read the previous books and will be keeping my eyes out for what comes next.

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Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Goldilocks and the Six Simple MachinesGoldilocks and the Six Simple Machines by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Updated retelling of a classic. This is the first book I have ever read by the imaginative Lois Wickstrom and the title is what pulled my curiosity. While Goldilocks is a classic fairy tale, it always left something to be desired. More than just sneaking into someone’s house, eating their food, and sleeping in their beds. The author takes that classic story but makes it so much more while also teaching kids about simple machines that, in some cases with help, they can do themselves. I honestly truly loved this updated twist of a classic. Responsibility, helping others, and fixing what you broke are all great lessons for growing children and all are told in a creative retelling of a classic for the modern child. I can’t wait to read more of these books to my two little boys. My six-year-old has already discovered that he can make a catapult using the lever.

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Twisted Eros (Modern Mythica Book 1) by Aria Skylar – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Twisted Eros (Modern Mythica Book 1)Twisted Eros by Aria Skylar
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fantasy. My oh my. This is the first book I have read by Aria Skylar, and I could not be more entranced by the characters she has created. Primarily told through the perspectives of Kay and Eros (Erik) with a few chapters from Aphrodite, Erik’s mother.
Kay is the chairwoman that brought her mothers company back to glory after her death. Being a workaholic, her two older sisters Clio and Grace get her to agree to a month-long vacation. Not just any vacation, her addiction to work is so great she must be forced to leave so an abduction fantasy vacation was a win-win scenario. Eros, the mystery man, is her abductor and, in many ways, her true vacation. Quickly she finds that she enjoys the mystery around him but in time she hungers for more, more than fantasy things that make him a person. When asked to extend her vacation, to extend her time with Eros she says yes, only for her sister’s words to poison her mind into shattering the fantasy and the illusion of Eros.
A month later all is revealed, can Kay save the pieces that were her life? What will become of Kay and Erik? Why did she hate him Erik before the mask was removed? While the author has the story based in reality, the characters are very relatable it’s the degree to which she makes them multisided. Kay is a strong ambitious woman that longs for love and to feel wanted for nothing more than who she is not what she is in her career. Erik, while having been around more than most, has never had a connection beyond the physical. Both fill the deepest desires of the other without lessening them as a person but empowering them to embrace the darker sides of themselves. I look forward to reading more of her work and seeing what comes next in this new series.

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Rise of the Hunter (Blood Prophecy Series) by Barb Jones – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Rise of the HunterRise of the Hunter by Barb Jones
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Details. While this isn’t the first book I have read by the incredible Barb Jones, it is the first Blood Prophecy book I have read. With that being said, I didn’t feel lost while reading the story despite it being the fourth book in the series, it is the first book in a new trilogy, the Tall Dark Man. Told from several perspectives throughout the book jumps around between varies times in ancient history, and in some cases creation itself and the present day.
The Tall Dark Man was long thought dead, but he is alive and is planning his revenge on the queen. Determined to keep the peace Queen Amber sets out on a new quest, to complete the task Michael was working on before his death. The Romani book chose her to continue the quest of finding all the missing pages, to succeed at stopping evil. Raven is given the task of finding the book while Arioch is given the task of finding Malakai and bringing him to their master. After being cursed by Raven, Malakai seeks help in hopes of being able to undo the curse without putting Amber in danger and returning to her side.
Will the Tall Dark Man succeed in getting his vengeance? Can Amber find all of the pages and keep the evil from getting the fifth stone? The author’s ability to put so much history into her work while keeping you guessing how it’s all going to play out is incredible. While at first, I found the multiple perspective jumps not only between characters but time frames difficult to keep up with. It was truly fascinating to see how the relevance was seamless as it all built upon the prophecies and what was to come. I was in a constant state of anticipation with each page as I was eager to discover how it would turn out. I can’t wait for the next book in the series to see what will happen next.

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The Master of Demise by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Ayla Phipps

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The Master of DemiseThe Master of Demise by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Twists and turns that keep you guessing. This is the second book I have read by the incredible Nadija Mujagic. Once again, I am kept on the edge of my seat trying to guess what direction the story will take but left guessing until the end.
Mitch Wegner is a well-respected college professor and researcher at a small Vermont campus. Married for many years, his wife seems to finally be ready for the next step, kids, only the twists leave him angry and confused where the woman he married went. The first chapter has you feeling like you know what the big finale of the book will be. Twists and turns keep you engaged as you watch Mitch’s marriage and career fall apart. The passing of a second student in less than a year causes ramifications for all moving forward. Only this time it is linked to a poor grade leading to a grading inflation that Mitch strongly disagrees with. Being blamed for the student taking his own life, Mitch feels something more sinister is at play. Not everything is adding up, a diary implicating that the student wanted the “professor in a ditch” seems the opposite of taking his own life. His students begin lashing out at him, with negative hurtful statements. Determined to keep the rumors and campus situation from his wife, more distance forms between them and more questions form as to what happened with them. Constantly feels as if he is being watched when seemingly alone. Without realization Mitch seems to be a living embodiment of his own research, “the effects of childhood post traumatic disorder and how it affects decision making in dire situations. Multiple flashbacks give insight into the trauma Mitch endured at age fourteen that caused him to lose memory of his middle school years. Only now everything is coming back like a shadow haunting his every action.
Can Mitch save his career and his marriage? Is he being framed for giving a student a bad grade? The sheer depth of the author’s ability to give you question after question and never slipping until she is ready for the grand review builds up the thrill. When the reveal finally happens, you’re left in shock remembering the little queues sprinkled throughout that gave hints but never enough to know for certainty how it would end. Nadija Mujagic has become my go-to for an in-depth psychological thriller that gives nothing away until the perfect moment. Can’t wait to read more of her amazing work.

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House of Arsceneaux (Servants of Morrigan: Immortal Creatures) by Caterina Novelliere – Review by Ayla Phipps

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House of ArsceneauxHouse of Arsceneaux by Caterina Novelliere
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mystery. Oh, where to begin. This is the first book I have read but the incredible Caterina Novelliere, and I can’t wait to read more. The cover was honestly what pulled me in, but the mystery filled synopsis made me want to know more. Primarily told from Caitlin, and Evariste’s perspectives multiple other characters sides are used in a seamless flow that fully immerses the reader into the building mystery.
Caitlin DeDanann lives in Williamsburg Virginia and works for a top firm. Her boss Sean Watchous took her in and raised her after her parents died for her grandmother, who is still in England. Evariste Arsceneaux is the CEO of Lagniappe Shipping and Ag based in New Orleans Louisiana. According to his sister Allister he once was a much different man than he is now, once taking life in strides now only throws himself into fishing and working nothing else. After a bad run in with some high-profile clients (Dante and Rayne) at her local coffee shop Caitlin is not impressed with the men hiring her firm to buy Arsceneaux’s Company. With her upcoming vacation to New Orleans her boss was able to bribe her into doing the onsite investigation for Dante and Rayne. Early on you discover the level of the mystery when Sean is surprised Caitlin doesn’t recognize Dante and Rayne, from her memories not the morning coffee shop incident. Dante even mentions he shifted the cup to save her white blouse. Allister and Alcee were shocked when seeing Caitlin, and Alcee says seeing her picture is the only reason he offered a tour of the company to get her there. Allister takes the next step, forcing a meeting between Evariste and Caitlin. Familiarity fills Caitlin when meeting him, a sense of comfort when near him. Evariste, he knows she is long gone how is it possible after three hundred years she has returned.
Will Caitlin ever figure out the cause of her familiarity and comfort towards Evariste? Can Evariste escape the ghosts of his past determined to bury him? The characters the author creates, and the mystery that fills every chapter keeps you on your toes guessing what will happen next. While the world around them is primarily reality based the author brings a level of otherworldliness to the details. I admit I am very excited for the next installment in this new series to learn more about this world and the characters bringing it to life.

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Determination. With each book in this series, I fall more and more in love with Isla Vaughn and her incredible work. This is book 4.5 in the series and serves as the prequel to Phoenix and Aspen’s story.
It’s their last summer before they start college in just a few short weeks and one-night changes both of their lives. Phoenix is a football star excited to get to Thane with his cousins Cole and Damon and twin brother Shane, one party, one surfer girl alters his plans in an unexpected way. Aspen is excited and sad about going to Thane for college and leaving her younger sister home with their parents who are in the middle of a nasty divorce. One chance encounter at the cove has both haunted by the other in their dreams, then the party when karma decided to repeat history. Both have a similar story as far as their parents. Both having a young pregnancy on the verge of life changing career moments. The only difference is the decisions the fathers made. For Phoenix his father walked away at the first chance, for Aspen her parents married “doing the right thing” but unhappy and unhealthy relationship over the years. Never a fan of love, Aspen tells Phoenix that she feels he deserves to know but tells him he’s off the hook it’s her responsibility now. Not having positive female influences in his life, mother is great but works too much, aunt was manipulative, needy, and damaged and Tracey, brother’s girlfriend one track mind gold digger. He refuses to do the “relationship” thing and trapped like his cousins and brother with the distraction of a girl. Wants in the NFL and has plans on how to get there.
How will Phoenix handle the news of being a father and “off the hook”? How does being pregnant as a freshman in college affect Aspen’s life? Can they reach an agreement moving forward? While the previous books had slightly more niche complications or story arcs this one has one that I feel many people can relate to. Being the product of a teen pregnancy where my father chose not to stick around, I have always related to Phoenix and Shane in that aspect of their lives. Though history is serving up a seismic level dose of karma for both Aspen and Phoenix, can they find a better way to make it through than their parents did? Now the long wait for the first book in the duet Cruel Hate, August 31st, 2023, to discover what the journey holds next for Phoenix and Aspen.

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