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Notebook Mysteries ~ A Party to Remember (Notebook Mysteries Series) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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Notebook Mysteries ~ A Party to RememberNotebook Mysteries ~ A Party to Remember by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another great tale from one of my favorite authors! I seriously never want this series to end. In this Christmas tale, Emma is thrust into another thrilling mystery that is full of intrigue (not to mention festive)! As per usual, the storytelling is superb and descriptions and characters are vibrant and spot-on. Each time I pick up a new installment of the Notebook Mysteries is like revisiting an old friend, and I dread the time that there are no more mysteries to solve with Emma. This book can be read as a standalone, but I of course highly recommend getting your hands on each part of the series for full enjoyment. With the holiday season fast-approaching this cozy read will put you right in the spirit!

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The Calamities of Camden Callahan (A Revenant Novel) by Brittany Tucker – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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

For some reason, I have been on a real “piratey” kick lately (so much so that the little one has decided, on her own, to be a pirate for Halloween). Suffice it to say that this young adult, swashbuckling tale hit the spot! Having read this author before, I knew that I was destined to love the vibrant characters and immersing details and definitely was not disappointed! Camden and Annie take turns telling their story, and it did not take long for me to sink right into both of their worlds. There is so much action, adventure, twists, and turns that anyone can appreciate this book. You don’t have to be a young adult or even much into pirates to enjoy yourself with this. After you inhale this book, you are definitely going to want to go check out the author’s other work – I guarantee it.

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As Though You Were Mine by J. Marie Rundquist – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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As Though You Were MineAs Though You Were Mine by J. Marie Rundquist
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I recommend that you pick up this book and also a box of tissues. This book is so emotionally-wrenching (in a good way) that you will feel like you are experiencing life right along with Julie and the twins. I became so wrapped-up in this story that I did not want it to end. If you are looking for a book that will take you along for the ride and make you feel ALL the feels, then this is for you. A unique story of becoming a parent that you don’t have to actually be a parent to appreciate and love. A book has not made me feel so deeply such a range of emotions in a long time. I guarantee that you will fall in love with Julie, and the people who come in and out of her life, and will be recommending this book to everyone in yours.

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Conversations with the Tarot by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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

This book has me so excited! I immediately felt drawn to read it as I have read several of this author’s works and am obsessed, but became giddy at the title! I am a burgeoning Tarot reader and love to read anything and everything I can about it. This is a short read with a mix of poetry, tidbits, and descriptions that will captivate anyone wishing to delve more into the mystery of the Tarot – or even if you aren’t, it is still an interesting perspective to learn more about it. If you are interested in magic, the Tarot, or anything witchy, I highly recommend this author and her work. She is a knowledgeable and skilled writer, and I give this five sparkling stars!

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Oathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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

This is the first book I have picked up by this author, and I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I was hesitant to start a fantasy/science-fiction as I have really been in a historical fiction phase and didn’t know how it was going to set with me – usually I hyperfocus on a certain genre and have a hard time getting back out of it. It was totally worth it. The way this author writes and uses humor in small details was such a breath of fresh air for me, and I devoured this book. I followed Marluck and his fellow paladins on their quest to redeem themselves and was never disappointed. This book is well-written and the characters are vivid. I had no problems finding relevance in Marluck’s story, and I can’t wait to get my hands on another book by this author!

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

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The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1)The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller by Gloria Oliver

I am excited to recommend this new series by a new (to me) author! This was such a fun read and has pretty much everything to hook the reader and leave them wanting more. Julia Xero is an original and interesting lead character that intrigued me from the start. The details of Julia’s normal life are spot-on and just get more spicy when they take a turn for the unusual. This is definitely one of those books you will pick up and won’t put down until it’s done. I cannot wait for the next installment!

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

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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

I have always had an obsession with history, particularly Ancient Egypt. I find knowledge of ancient times fascinating, and I jumped when I saw the description of what this book entails – not to mention, the author. I have read this author’s work before and have fallen deep, deep down into the story without much trying. I read a lot of historical fiction – it’s my thing – and I can wholeheartedly admit that this author is one of the best at it. It is evident that this author is not only a talented storyteller, but quite knowledgeable about the subjects of her stories. She is a professional archaeologist who has done excavations and taught ancient history, just to name a few things, so this book is dripping with vibrant details and nuances that pull you right in. I also gravitate towards strong female leads, and Neferet and Bener-ib are fantastic. Holmes’ experience as an educator is also evident in the Historical Notes and lists of terms, characters, and gods offered at the beginning of the book, which sets the reader right into the place and time. I can’t recommend this book, and author, enough!

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Parisian Intrigue (Notebook Mysteries Book 6) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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Notebook Mysteries Parisian IntrigueNotebook Mysteries Parisian Intrigue by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Emma is back with another edge-of-your-seat, intelligent mystery. This time, she is offered a trip to Paris, no charge; however, something seems suspicious to her. Set during the Paris Exposition of 1889, the French landscape comes alive, as well as marvelous inventions of the time. As with all the Notebook Mysteries installments, I am pleased with where this story took me. It is a well-researched, intricate series that will whisk you away to Emma’s world, as if you are trying to solve the mysteries right along with her. Emma remains one of my favorite heroines and this author has become one of my favorite authors of historical fiction. This sixth book in the series can be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend checking out the entire series. I will be eagerly anticipating more installments!

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A Teacher’s Heart by Melissa Lavi – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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A Teacher's HeartA Teacher’s Heart by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is so delightful and heart-warming! As a former teacher, I can confirm that it takes a big heart to teach kids and help them grow. The illustrations are colorful and interesting and definitely attention-grabbing. It is fun to read aloud and obviously fun to hear read aloud because my little asked for it several times again. I would recommend this book to any little, big, or current or former teacher, especially with school starting again soon (and even afterwards). I think anyone who reads this will be able to identify the teachers that they remember within these pages. 5 stars!

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Talks Like Thunder (Red With Native Blood Book 1) by Randal Nerhus & Marjorie Carter – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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Talks Like Thunder (Red With Native Blood: Novella One)Talks Like Thunder by Randal Nerhus
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This novella is a fictional story but steeped in history. Historical fiction is my go-to when I need to be immersed into a world not my own. It is rich in Indigenous culture and fantastic storytelling. This is the first installment in a series, and it is a quick read. My only complaint is that it was not longer; however, that is an element of a novella. This story follows a strong female character, Desert Fox, who loses both parents to sickness and is then forced to leave home with her grandfather as he takes her to his village. We get to see Desert Fox’s transformation from young girl to grown warrior, now known as Talks Like Thunder, as well as her home’s transformation into U.S. territory. I highly recommend this beautiful, and also heart-wrenching, story.

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Obedience (Ties That Bind Book 1) by Liza Snow – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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ObedienceObedience by Liza Snow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am so thankful this is the first book in a series because whoa… I love how Cassandra and Chandler’s chemistry simmers as the story unfolds. The setting is unique as they are circus performers, and it made their characters compelling and endearing, and I love them together. This story twists and turns like a good mystery should and kept me in suspense and at the edge of my seat the entire time! It was hard to put this book down and not read it in one, long sitting. It’s steamy romance, vibrant storytelling, and characters I couldn’t get enough of. I tend to shy away from a lot of steamy romances, but this one has my full recommendation. I can’t wait to get my hands on book two!

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Brave Kids: Short Stories to Inspire Future World Changers by Janice Pratt – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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Brave Kids: Short Stories to Inspire Our Future World-ChangersBrave Kids: Short Stories to Inspire Our Future World-Changers by K.J. Kaschula
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book of short stories is a winner for me. This is a book for children but absolutely can be enjoyed by adults just as much! Each little story is a vibrant lesson about what it means to be brave. This would be a wonderful tool for parents or guardians to read along with their little and create a dialogue around each story and its message. This book includes great storytelling, and at the same time, keeps the stories short enough to keep hold of little attention spans. I definitely recommend this book of stories for any child or even any adult. The messages are universal and span the ages. Five enthusiastic stars.

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A Curse of Ash and Iron by Christine Norris – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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A Curse of Ash and IronA Curse of Ash and Iron by Christine Norris
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is not only an intriguing fairy tale, but the historical aspects make it that much better. A Cinderella-esque tale set in 1876 Philadelphia, we see Benjamin’s and Ellie’s worlds collide, and he helps her to unveil the truth that has plagued her and her father for seven years. This action-packed story will have you hooked until the very end and wanting more. On their adventures, Ben and Ellie encounter 19th century United States, and the reader is along for quite a ride. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I appreciate the thoroughly-researched setting and landmarks. I will absolutely be looking for more from this author, and I recommend this book to anyone who wants a cozy, action-packed, can’t-put-down read!

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Return to Hoodoo (Boudin, Bourbon, and Barbecue, Book 1) by Reggi Dupree – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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Return to Hoodoo: A Paranormal Women's Fiction Novel (Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo Book 1)Return to Hoodoo: A Paranormal Women’s Fiction Novel by Reggi Dupree
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am so glad I picked up this book! This is the first book in this paranormal series, and I am here for it. I can’t wait to get to the next! I love a well-written, independent woman main character, and Gwendolyn Carter does not disappoint. This book is a quick read but well-paced as it kept me hooked and satisfied all the way through. This is a vibrant, entertaining story, and I will be running to get book number two. Five stars and highly recommend this author.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Suspicions (Notebook Mysteries Book 5) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Suspicions (Notebook Mysteries book #5)Notebook Mysteries ~ Suspicions by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the fifth book in the Notebook Mysteries series and is set in early 1889. Emma, along with the Pinkertons, is back with an action-packed journey ahead of her and will face her toughest mystery yet. This book could be read as a standalone, but I highly suggest reading the first four, simply for enjoyment. Since book one, Emma has been one of my favorite protagonists, and I have loved solving mysteries with her. She is smart, brave, independent, and stops at nothing to find the truth – even when it involves her own family and well-being. This book will have you white-knuckling the book covers and flipping pages. It was a fast read and is definitely one of the better historical fictions I have come across.

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Mission 3047: One Soul’s Fantasy by Stuart Ledwith – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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Mission 3047: One Soul's FantasyMission 3047: One Soul’s Fantasy by Stuart Ledwith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The older I get, the more of a fan of Science Fiction I become. I especially appreciate Science Fiction stories with great characters and relatable themes. June/Chloe is a fantastically-written lead character and her interactions with her children, Cora and Livy, plus her husband Joe and friend Sarge. This is a very original story based on the author’s experiences, and has action to keep you in suspense and everything else to keep you hooked and wanting to find out more. This story is like nothing else I’ve read. Also, I’m fascinated by aliens, so I couldn’t stop reading once I started. It is obvious that the author is knowledgeable about what he writes and even if Science Fiction isn’t your favorite genre to read, the storytelling will draw you in and keep you interested. There is definitely something for everyone in this book.

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How To Write A Historical Novel And Love It by TL Clark – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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How To Write A Historical Novel And Love ItHow To Write A Historical Novel And Love It by T.L. Clark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love historical fiction. It’s my favorite genre to read, and I have always wanted to write my own. This fast, informative, non-fiction guide to writing a historical novel is fabulous for anyone who has ever wanted to take on this endeavor. It is easy to read and follow and breaks down each important step for you. This author’s style of writing is very easy going and personable and would be a quick, interesting read even if you aren’t an aspiring writer. This book has given me the motivation to get back to work on the writing projects I have let fall to the wayside because of lack of “know-how” regarding what to do after the piece is written. I am so glad this book fell across my path. 5 stars.

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The Exchange by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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The Exchange: A NovelThe Exchange: A Novel by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This novel is a gripping story of an aspiring actor, Sam Crawford, and the unthinkable decision that she has to make. No matter what decision she makes, her life will be altered. This is a psychological thriller that does not disappoint. This story is realistic enough to frighten you into turning page after page. It is a decently paced story, with characters that make you care about the outcome. It is suspenseful and unpredictable and leaves you breathless with anticipation. The only thing I had trouble with was putting it down when reality beckoned. If you are looking for a suspenseful read that keeps you so engrossed that your eyes just zoom over the pages and your mouth hangs open, this is it. I highly recommend this book.

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The 45th Parallel (Antipodes Series Book 6) by T.S. Simons – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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The 45th Parallel (Antipodes, #6)The 45th Parallel by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love this series! This is the 6th book in the Antipodes series. I highly recommend reading the others, first. This would be a fine read by itself, but the entire experience is the recommended experience. Caitlin and Seraphine are sick and tired of doing whatever it is that they are told, and long to branch out and see different places, and do different things. They long to make their own decisions about their lives, so they set out on a journey that will challenge them. There is action, emotion, and great characters and development. This dystopian sci-fi adventure is not unimaginable in this day-and-age. It kept me glued to my seat and turning those pages! If you haven’t read any of this series, be prepared to dive in and spend some time. 5 stars.

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The White Knight Cowboy (The Studs of Clear Creek County) by Stacy-Deanne – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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The White Knight Cowboy Stacy-DeanneThe White Knight Cowboy Stacy-Deanne by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This romance was a very quick read and didn’t take me any time at all to devour it. The characters are well-written and interesting. I love historical fiction, especially when the characters make me care about the story and how they develop. The dynamic between Jo and Dusty is intriguing and makes for a very sexy time! The action will keep you hooked and hoping for a happy ending. My only complaint is that it is too short. I could definitely go for some more Jo and Dusty together!

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The Man in Black by L.R. Liverpool – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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The Man In BlackThe Man In Black by L.R. Liverpool
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is an LGBT thriller that will intrigue you from the very start! Fenimore James dreams of becoming an outlaw and moves west. There, he joins the gang of Red Evans, and he begins to question his recent life choices. He find himself having feelings for another member of the gang and is haunted by a strange figure in his dreams – the man in black. This book will have you on the edge of your seat and begging for more. It is a well-written story, and the characters are vivid. If you love a story with a little bit of everything – and don’t mind a some violence and colorful language, I highly recommend this one! This is the author’s debut novel, and I am excited to see where she goes from here!

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Shore Lodge by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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Shore Lodge: A high-stakes psychological thriller (The Millersville series)Shore Lodge: A high-stakes psychological thriller by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jacklyn Stone is such a relatable character in this psychological thriller. She is trying to live with grief after the death of her husband while keeping her head above water and trying to move on with her life. Her children suggest a vacation to rest and refocus, but where she ends up is anything but a restful, refocusing vacation. While fighting for her sanity, as well as her mental health after tragedy, the roller coaster the reader rides along with Jacklyn will keep you turn the pages and makes this read very quick and easy. This is my first book by this author, and I am hooked. The characters are well-written and the plot, riveting. You will hit the ground running with this book – I highly recommend it!

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A Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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A Dowry of Snails and MudA Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book I’ve picked up by this author, and I loved it. Historical Fictions are one of my reading weaknesses, and this truly is a good story. It is obvious that this author is skilled in their trade. I greatly appreciate the characters, Rhia and Emerys, and how they developed throughout the story. It was so easy to jump right in and speed-read to the end. It was a quick and enjoyable read for me. I will admit I was not too keen on an arranged-marriage romance, but I’m glad I gave this book a chance because it was well-written and very easy to fall into. I will be pursuing other works by this author. 5 out of 5 stars!

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Whispers in the Waters (Blood of the Fae) by Sarah Chilson – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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Whispers in the WatersWhispers in the Waters by Sarah Chislon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This novella is a prequel to the Blood Fae series. It is the first work I have picked up from this author, and I am not disappointed. This is a quick, but compelling, read. The main character, Jessa, is relatable, and I had no problem falling into the world of the fae along with her. As Jessa struggles with coming to terms of who she really is and what she really wants, there is no shortage of mystery and intrigue, as well as vibrant storytelling. I absolutely will be looking into more work from this author. I highly recommend this short book! You will wish it were longer!

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What Actually Happened to Isaac Moore by Samantha J. Rose – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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What Actually Happened to Isaac MooreWhat Actually Happened to Isaac Moore by Samantha J. Rose
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book I’ve picked up by this author. I went in partially blind, only reading a little blurb about the story beforehand. It has been a very long time since I have found a story with the same kind of energy and magic as I found in books when I was a kid. I was hooked from the get-go. I love how real and relatable Isaac is. He literally falls into an epic tale of fantasy, but remains rooted in reality, all the while still learning from the experience and becoming fully immersed in the adventure. Even if this isn’t your typical cup of tea, I guarantee you will enjoy following Isaac on his magical journey! It took me back to my childhood as I hungrily flipped each page, wanting to consume more and more of the colorful world the author has created. It is well-written story and can stand on it’s own next to all the great adventures of my childhood reading.

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Knight In The Museum (Jorja Knight Private Investigator Mystery Series Book 5) by Alice Bienia – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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Knight In The Museum ( Jorja Knight Mystery -Book 5)Knight In The Museum by Alice Bienia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really appreciate when an author is not only skillful at weaving words into worlds and characters, but also knowledgeable in what they are writing about. This author writes intelligently and vividly to bring to life an awesome, kick-ass heroine – Jorja Knight, Private Investigator. You will fall in love with this multi-faceted character as she risks relationships and her life in order to prove that there is more to a certain mystery than meets the eye. This is the fifth book in the Jorja Knight series, but can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone. I have not read the previous books, but after picking up this one, I can’t wait to get my hands on them! The suspense will keep you hooked. This is definitely a mystery you do not want to overlook. I highly recommend this book and author.

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Murder on Oak Street ( A South Shore Mystery Book 1) by I.M. Foster – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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Murder on oak streetMurder on oak street by I. M. Foster
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is a ride and is definitely not long enough. Even though it is set in 1904 New York, Daniel O’Halleran, a coroner’s physician, proves to be a relatable character, nonetheless. It is not hard to slip right into the mind of Daniel and experience the plot right along with him. You will be just as surprised as he is with the twists and turns this story takes. It definitely has all the elements that a good mystery should include. I had never read any work by this author before I picked up this book, but it will not be the last. Even if you don’t usually pick up a mystery, I would suggest giving this book a try. I will be eagerly awaiting the second book!

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The Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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The Final BiteThe Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you are even the slightest bit into stories of the paranormal and steamy romance, I would take a shot on this book! (And even if you aren’t because you will be.) This author is excellent at telling stories that are intriguing and making paranormal characters not only relatable but compelling. I picked up this book and could not put it down. I love paranormal stories – not so much romance, but I loved this one. Quinnlan Trinity is a vampire who must choose a mate in three days or be sent back to and remain in the afterlife. This creative story will keep your eyes glued to the pages as they flip. It is easy to read and get lost in. 5 stars.

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The Veil by Wanda Luthman – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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The VeilThe Veil by Wanda Luthman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Having grown up reading the Bible and being familiar with all the stories, I very much appreciated reading this book. It is a touching fiction story about the veil being ripped upon the death of Jesus. It is a fast read and could have been longer. It is well-written and immersive. I would love it if this author would do an entire series like this and tell a story of each event in the Bible. I recommend this book to anyone who appreciates a good story from a different perspective.

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Borrowed Time by Lane Cohen – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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Borrowed TimeBorrowed Time by Lane Cohen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first piece I’ve read by this author, and it will not be the last. I chose to read this book because I love history and the prospect of time travel has always fascinated me. I remember watching 60’s The Time Machine with my parents, so I was intrigued right away. It is evident that the author is talented and knowledgeable of the times and places included in this book. I am also a lover of wonderfully-written characters and how they interact and grow throughout the story, and I found myself fully engrossed and not wanting to put the book down. This story would make a great series because I know everyone who reads it will be left wanting more and more! Can’t wait to see what this author does next!

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