Posts

Stars in the City (Stars in the City Series) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Stars in the CityStars in the City by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have enjoyed reading books by this author in the past. I specifically like that she writes YA books that are clean that I feel comfortable getting for my daughter. It is fun learning about Valeria Joseph, how she feels about her life in New York, what happened with her on set boyfriend Lance, how things didn’t quite work out like she expected with him. To read how Valeria truly feels as she realizes how lonely a big city like New York can be and missing many of the life long friends she used to confide in. It has to be tough for a young actress to keep going!

View all my reviews

Family Ties Family Lies by Jacqueline Boulden – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Family Ties Family LiesFamily Ties Family Lies by Jacqueline Boulden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A page turner that kept me wanting to find out more. A family’s secret that’s been hidden comes to light when Rose gets a call that her mother Carly isn’t doing well and needs Rose’s help. Rose has her own issues due to getting injured on the job as a photojournalist. When Rose gets to her childhood home in upstate New York, she soon finds out how sick her mother really is. Rose tries to get her big brother to come up to help with their mother but as a lawyer with current open cases, he can’t get away.
Being in her childhood town and home brings up some things that have been secret for years. The story brings drama, intrigue, danger, hurt feelings, and so much more. But family can still be strong even after some hidden lies are brought to the surface.
I did cry a bit as I read the book, I could totally connect with Rose as she tries to be there for her ailing mother.

View all my reviews

The Complete Echo Series: A Heartfelt Romance Collection (The Echo Series) by C.R. Alam – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

The Complete Echo Series (Echo #1-4)The Complete Echo Series by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great series that will keep you up reading to see what comes next. Love that it’s now a box set since you get all 4 books at once.

Echoing Hearts introduces us to Amy and Dean who at first seem to not get along but soon find themselves unable to let each other go.

His Forever Muse is about Brandon and Callie and a childhood crush they had for each other. Connecting again as adults brings some drama that shows how strong a character Callie is.

Unexpected Entanglement introduces us to Rowan and Chris. Rowan is a hard working woman trying to restore her family’s Inn. This was my favorite story of the series.

Dangerous Rhythm brings Curtis and Lina together. Curtis witnesses a crime and find himself in trouble. Lina is brought in to keep Curtis safe. They soon find that getting out of New York isn’t enough and flee around the world.

View all my reviews

A Girl, Stuck (Found Families Series) by Kelly Elizabeth Huston – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

A Girl, StuckA Girl, Stuck by Kelly Elizabeth Huston
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The author is new to me and I was very glad that even though the book is part of a series, each book can be read as a standalone. It was pretty easy to figure out the characters and I didn’t feel like I missed anything. Once you start reading this book, you will want to keep reading it. The characters are well written and you may change your mind about some of them as you are digesting the story.

Harriet Smith, nicknamed “Harry” is a private investigator. She is attempting to find the person who killed her father. Harry is strong and independent but also has a softer side like many women. There are many twists and turns in the book which adds to the world the author created. I enjoyed Harry’s character and look forward to reading the earlier books in the series.

View all my reviews

Nessie and the Celtic Maze (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Nessie and the Celtic Maze (Nessie, #3)Nessie and the Celtic Maze by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

We didn’t realize this book was the third in a series. We picked it because of the title and the cover picture. Plus we have read other books by Ms Wickstrom. The book is easy to read for my kids and the magic of Nessie’s story kept their minds wondering and asking questions. They really enjoyed reading about how Craig and Linda helped Princess Sheona who was stuck in the maze.
The story is beautifully written and the characters were relatable for my children. I kind of wish I could have read this book as a child too. So much imagination to keep children dreaming!

View all my reviews

Test of the Four: Book Two of The Serrulata Saga by A.E. Bennett – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Test of the Four (The Serrulata Saga, #2)Test of the Four by A.E. Bennett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The story starts where it left off with the first book in the series. I was happy to see the four of them were still together. There is a lot of things going on in the realm that seems scary. There’s a lot more action and crazy stuff happening. You might think it’s all too much but the author does a great job of pulling the story together you won’t want to stop reading. Overall a good dystopian novel that kept my attention. The four main characters might be hurting and conflicted but their relationships sure help them get through those tough times.

View all my reviews

Gathering of the Four (The Serrulata Saga Book 1) by A.E. Bennett – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Gathering of the Four (The Serrulata Saga, #1)Gathering of the Four by A.E. Bennett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Leona overhears her adopted family planning on selling her into slavery. She runs away before that happens. As Leona travels away from her village she meets others along the way who become her family! Those who care about each other and watch out for each other.
The author did a beautiful job of writing about the world and the characters in the book. I definitely felt connected to the four main characters and I could feel the camaraderie between them. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this futuristic realm.

View all my reviews

CUTTER (Devils’ Spawn Daddies Series) by Victoria Saccenti – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Cutter (Devils' Spawn Daddies)Cutter by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Emily is new to the force and can’t do anything to keep Cutter from being locked up when they first meet. Years later, Emily has worked hard to become a detective and needs a man like Cutter to help with a case. Can she convince Cutter to help bring down The Sons of Chaos? What will their attraction to each other bring to this situation. Cutter is strong and protective.
I picked this book because I like reading MC stories. This was a bit out of my comfort zone. Overall, I liked the main characters and learned some new things.

View all my reviews

Murder She Meowed (Bookshop Kitties Mysteries, Book 2) by Ruth J. Hartman – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Murder She Meowed (Bookshop Kitties Mysteries Book 2)Murder She Meowed by Ruth J. Hartman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A fun cozy murder mystery with great characters and added bonus cat characters who are the shop owners pets. This is the second book in the Bookshop Kitties Mysteries series. Christy and family are celebrating Aunt Betty’s small intimate wedding, when some of the guests spot a man who shouldn’t be there. The next day the same man, who happens to be Christy’s best friend Janie’s ex-husband, is found dead in Janie’s pastry shop. Christy will help Janie prove she is innocent.
The characters in the story are well written and relatable. I think any good friend would help someone prove their innocence just like Christy is doing. The cats are adorable and also join in to help! I hope you love the book as much as I did!

View all my reviews

Divinely Dramatic (Divine Vintage Series) by Sandra L. Young – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Divinely Dramatic (Divine Vintage Series, #2)Divinely Dramatic by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Romance, mystery, supernatural experiences and so much more. This book had my attention from the start and it didn’t disappoint! I loved the interaction between Marcy and Mike. It’s been a while since I read the first book but I had no problem catching up on things. It’s a rare book that makes me giggle or laugh as I’m reading which makes it great fun. The setting was awesome and the characters made it special.

View all my reviews

Master Botosoni (Masters of the Consulate Book 9) by Sylvia Black – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Master Botosoni (Masters of the Consulate #9)Master Botosoni by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Master Botosoni is the 9th book in the series. I’ve read several of the books but took a break for a bit. Reading this book reminded me of how much I enjoyed the series and how well the author writes about the vampire world and the characters. The story is full of action, some moments that make the reader wonder if Botosoni and Catina will survive each other. I definitely suggest you read the books in order.

View all my reviews

Relic Hunters: Betrayal of the Gods (Relic Hunters Series) by Martin Ferguson – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Betrayal of the Gods (Relic Hunters Book 5)Betrayal of the Gods by Martin Ferguson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the 5 th book in The Relic Hunters Series. Although each book can be read as a standalone, you have more knowledge and background of the storylines and characters if you read them in order. It’s been a while since I read the first book but it didn’t take long before I was sucked into Matt and Adam’s adventure. I especially like reading about the different locations the brothers travel to and search for the relic. The world the author created is action packed, keeps the story moving, and we get to know these characters and why they hunt for the relics.

View all my reviews

The Cannibal Caper (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

The Cannibal CaperThe Cannibal Caper by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This series is fun to read. The author paints a picture of the world of 1930’s era Los Angeles, where Sparky lives and finds ways to keep herself out of trouble. There are many things that could come up but Sparky doesn’t give up. It can’t be safe as an 11year old Orphan but Sparky makes due. She really has a personality that you can connect with. Sparks’s main goal in this book is to help her friends and benefactor keep away from the Cannibal who is attacking people. Like the first book, I felt like I transported to Los Angeles and learned a bit about the area and time. Thank you for keeping this story going, I really enjoy Sparks’s character.

View all my reviews

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The final book of the Painted Souls Series which happens to be an amazing story filled with action, adventure, danger and so much more. Julia and her friends must work together to save Nick from purgatory. As you read this book, you can’t help but feel like you’re on the edge of your seat ready to help. The connection between Julia and Nick and how much their friends love them and want to help them.
I highly recommend reading the series in order. The author does a wonderful job of world and character development throughout the story and you won’t want to stop reading!

View all my reviews

Lost Property (The Tom Grant Series Book 6) by Samantha Adair – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Lost Property: A Tom Grant Novel (The Tom Grant Series Book 6)Lost Property: A Tom Grant Novel by Samantha Adair
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book I’m reading by this author. I was worried about starting a series in book 6. However, it didn’t take long before I was following each of the characters sharing their side of what happened to understand the situation. Tom Grant had retired but gets sucked back into help a young woman held in a human trafficking situation. The story is fast paced, action, and so much more. I’m sad that I am reading the last book in the series. I’d love to be able to read the whole series from the beginning. Great world and character building by this talented author.

View all my reviews

Alien Redemption by Gloria Oliver – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Alien RedemptionAlien Redemption by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I wasn’t sure if I would like this book when I first started reading it. But soon enough I found a new Sci-fi book that I ended up really enjoying. The author does a wonderful job of world and character building. I was able to connect with Claudia, who is trying to find a way to get past a mistake, but finds herself in a difficult situation. Once she discovers that her Captain has plans for the new species that is found on a planet, Claudia tries her best to help the new species.

I am happy to have found this story by Gloria Oliver. I’m looking forward to reading more stories by this author.

View all my reviews

The Befallen (The Unsung and The Wolf Duology) by Cambria Williams – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

The BefallenThe Befallen by Cambria Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A well written fantasy book that took me to places I didn’t expect. Sloane , the main character we meet in the very beginning is strong and is finding her way. Her friend Alvie is exactly the one Sloane needs with her. The author writes beautifully and makes it easy to think we are along side the characters as they deal with their experiences. Thank you for reminding me how much I love fantasy books and bringing this beautiful work to us readers.

View all my reviews

Tropic Heat (Flamingo Island Series) by C.A. King – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Tropic HeatTropic Heat by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Daniel is left at the altar unexpectedly. His best friend Joey talks him into still going on his honeymoon since it’s a non refundable trip. Although Daniel isn’t too sure about this, he agrees to go. What can go wrong when you’ve already had the worst day of you life?
The author didn’t disappoint with the characters and the location of the different kind of “honeymoon” that Daniel and Joey are on. It’s full of fun, sun, and romance!

View all my reviews

The Magic Man (The Olympic Peninsula Book 3) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

The Magic Man (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 3)The Magic Man by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

David has been away in Africa for several years as a doctor treating those in need. The family is trying to figure out why David seems so different from the smart kid who wanted to help others. Maddie is a young actress who is contemplating life as she knows it now and how long she can continue on her path. As with the other books in this series, the author does a beautiful job of character and world building. The Olympic peninsula and the O’Connell family and friends make these book not only fun to read but suck you into the story so you will want to read all 3 books in a day if you could.

View all my reviews

The Guardsman (The Olympic Peninsula Series Book 2) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

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

The story of Liam and Teresa finding their way to each other through some ups and downs. The story continues from the first book in the series “The Silent Woodsman” however, this book can be read as a stand alone. I actually read the books in the wrong order and had no issues following all the characters. The author does a beautiful job of world and character building. The story takes a bit of time to read but it’s full of family moments and moments when characters step up and out of their comfort zones. I really enjoyed reading the book.

View all my reviews

The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1)The Silent Woodsman by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book I have read by this author. She writes so beautifully that I can imagine being in the beauty of Washington State and the Olympic Peninsula. I really enjoyed the fact that the author wrote this book taking place in a earlier era where no one has a cell phone.
In the first book of this series, Ali Ryan is attempting to connect with her twin brother Liam who has been in an accident. She travels into the woods to find a way to “hear” her brother who she knows is alive after the tragedy even though they are on opposite sides of the world. Instead she meets a man resting in a cabin who can’t use his voice. How will this man chance meeting change their lives?

View all my reviews

The Cold Kid Case (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

The Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Sparky of Bunker Hill series, that I’m reading written by this author. Although this is geared towards teen to YA readers, I enjoyed reading it. The author does a great job describing the world that Sparky is living in detail. Sparky is a very interesting character along with many of the other characters we meet as we read the book. Sparky is wrongfully accused of murder. How will she prove she wasn’t the murderer? Who will stand beside her and help Sparky clear her name? Sparky is relatable and seems to live a exciting life in 1930’s, a kid who’s had to grow up mostly on her own. I would have loved reading a story like this as a young teen.

View all my reviews

Triple Trouble at Amberwood (The Amberwood Hall Ballet School Series) by Eleanor Dixon – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Triple Trouble at Amberwood: Book Four in your favourite middle-grade haunted ballet school... (Amberwood Hall Ballet School 4)Triple Trouble at Amberwood: Book Four in your favourite middle-grade haunted ballet school… by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the fourth book in this school age children’s book. The series is about a boarding school for children not only studying the expected curriculum but also learning ballet. We continue to learn about Lauren and Grace (the resident ghost and Lauren’s best friend) in this paranormal adventure series. There’s mischief, drama, loyal friends, some misunderstandings between good friends and so much more. The author has created wonderful characters and world where young readers can learn about friendships. Each book in this series can be read as a standalone but I recommend reading them in order. The books are geared toward 8-13 year olds but can definitely be read by those young at heart. I know I would have loved this series as a kid.

View all my reviews

Carrie’s Flight (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Carrie's FlightCarrie’s Flight by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A fun and cute story of a girl and her grandmother. When grandma moves to the other side of town, Carrie misses all the fun she used to have with her grandma. Of course grandma left her some things to help Carrie imagine fly! What I really liked about this book is the imagination that Carrie has while watching the starlings fly all over the sky. I hope that someday I can share fun imagination moments with my future grandkids.

View all my reviews

Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series Book 4) by C.R. Alam – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series, #4)Dangerous Rhythm by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The newest installment by the talented C. R. Alam. I have enjoyed the previous books in the series. We find Curtis, of the group Canis Major, is in some trouble and is transported along with his parents to Paris for safety. In Paris is his sister Callie and his band mate Brandon.
What I enjoy about this series are the people and their continued friendships that help each other through tough times and good times. The characters are relatable and the world building is wonderful. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

View all my reviews

Orenda (The Latitude Series) by T.S. Simons – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Orenda (The Latitude Series Book 2)Orenda by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Latitude Series. I enjoyed reading this book which happens to continue stories from the Antipodes series which has really kept my interest. Gio and Caitlin are taking on a new role in Canada. This is where they chose to grow their family. But will some threat come their way? How will they continue?
I enjoyed reading many of the Antipodes series and this new series doesn’t disappoint. The characters and world building is on point and helps us readers connect more fully with the story.

View all my reviews

Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

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

Ben is considering entering his school’s baking contest. But he’s not sure he wants to since Sofia has won the last 3 years. Ben’s Dad asks him if there’s anything Ben can do to improve the recipe. Ben thinks this is a great idea. He tries different things and finds a way to make his biscuits the perfect chewiness!
A very fun book for kids to learn think of a different way to accomplish a goal. Love that the author included a biscuit recipe!

View all my reviews

In Plain Sight (Logan McKenna Mystery Series Book 8) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have enjoyed reading the Logan McKenna Series which I have been reading in order starting from the first book. Along the way I’ve come to really like Logan and all of her friends. In this book, we not only find Logan helping to solve a crime but we learn about raptor center where Logan is volunteering. The author does a great job of world and character building throughout the book.

View all my reviews

Sweet Vengeance (Mission Belles Book 3) by Pamela Gibson – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Sweet Vengeance (Mission Belles #3)Sweet Vengeance by Pamela Gibson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first time reading a book by this author. I decided to read the book because it takes place during the California gold rush. I would think it was a exciting but also very dangerous time. I thought it was interesting to see Elena was heading into possible danger to fulfill her mothers wish on her death bed. What kind of danger will Elena face as she hunts down the man who killed her brother?
The author does a beautiful job of world building and character building. I could connect with the characters and get a feel for what they were thinking and struggling with. Overall, I enjoyed the book and will likely be reading other books in this series very soon.

View all my reviews

Whisper Creek (Logan McKenna Mystery Book 7) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Whisper Creek (A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 7)Whisper Creek by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another great Logan McKenna Mystery! This time Logan is helping a friend who is one of four suspects in a murder. Of course Logan can’t help but look into who may have committed the crime. The author does a wonderful job of world building so we can really imagine how the characters are feeling and how they respond to Logan’s search for the suspect. Will the police figure out the right suspect or will Logan dig deeper to find the true suspect?

You won’t be disappointed reading any of this series. It does help a bit to start from the first book as some characters pop into a book at any time. The author sure keeps us readers hooked!

View all my reviews