Posts

Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 6)Houses of Deception by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Houses of Deception (The Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series Book 6) by Cynthia Hamilton is totally a book you could read without having read the first five books in the series. The novel itself is fast-paced and draws you in from the first page. The characters are compelling, and it was very easy to fall right into their world and believe it. The chemistry of Madeline and Mike is intriguing and makes the story captivating. If you are into mysteries with tons of action, this is definitely a good one. I was held ransom by the suspense and found myself trying to solve each case. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and you can bet I’m going to go back and read the previous five. I give this book four stars!

View all my reviews

Lines by Leon: Poems, Prose, and Pictures by Leon Stevens – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Lines by Leon: Poems, Prose, and PicturesLines by Leon: Poems, Prose, and Pictures by Leon Stevens
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lines by Leon: Poems, Prose, and Pictures by Leon Stevens is a delightful compilation of images built with words. The author makes good use of all the senses, and I found myself stepping into these little “snapshots” of life and becoming fully immersed. It has been quite a while since I have found a collection that has rekindled my appreciation of good poetry. The poems are relatable and poignant, and yet there is an essence of light humor wound through. There are also sketches sprinkled purposefully throughout to add even more to this read. The structure the author uses makes the words flow seamlessly together; before I knew it, I was finished and left wanting much more. Lines by Leon is very easy to read, but stimulating to the mind, and I recommend picking this one up. 4 stars.

View all my reviews

Caim (Antipodes 4) by T.S. Simons – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Caim (Antipodes #4)Caim by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

T.S. Simons has done it again. Caim, the fourth installment of the Antipodes series, is a continuation of the rollercoaster that has been Cam’s life since book one.
In Lewis, Cam and Freyja are living their best lives together until some news surfaces, and they are forced to leave the comfort of their current lives behind. Why are they the chosen ones? Things come crashing down, and it is up to them to figure out why. Above all, not everything is as it seems. Whether you are looking for some action, drama, friendship, romance, or twists and turns, Caim has it all. I definitely recommend reading the first three books in this series to get the full effect, but also the story just gets better with every installment. 4 out of 5 stars. Bring on book 5!

View all my reviews

Journeys Through SpaceTime (Journeys Through Book 1) by James Talisman – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Journeys Through SpaceTimeJourneys Through SpaceTime by James Talisman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Journeys through SpaceTime (Book 1) by James Talisman is an intense page turner! This isn’t a typical genre of book for me to pick up, but I am sure glad I did! This book is so engrossing that it is hard to believe it’s a debut novel. It is quite obvious that the author planned and fleshed out his ideas and plot-line in order to make it not only good, but believable as well.
There are several different narratives weaved together, and each one is compelling and unique. I find the story itself to be so interesting, and I love how each character believes and experiences similar things, and yet they are so completely different. Like I said, this story is intense and there is a lot going on straight from the get go, but if you hang with it, it’s totally worth it. That being said, it is not hard at all to get swept up with each character because they are described so well. All in all, the entire novel is well-written, well-planned, and well-executed. I am stoked to get my hands on the next installment and give a 5 star recommendation to this book and author.

View all my reviews

Manifested Dreams by Dr. Yvonne Johnson – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Manifested DreamsManifested Dreams by Yvonne Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Manifested Dreams by Dr. Yvonne Johnson is a book I recommend to EVERYONE. It is a quick read; it is not even 50 pages in length and took me less than an hour to devour.
I am intrigued by American History and appreciate all the historical connections that each character’s letters entailed. I found myself taking notes to further educate myself on each and every event that was mentioned. If I was still teaching American Literature, I would definitely be seeking the author’s permission to use this book as a supplemental tool alongside works such as To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee.
Each letter is from a first person perspective that pulls the reader directly into the characters’ heads, making these stories an experience, rather than lecture. Having these specific personal accounts makes the past come alive and points out how racism and inequality is ABSOLUTELY still an issue in this country, even if it is swept under the rug and denied. Manifested Dreams follows an American family’s journey from the Civil War era to the present. As a fan of Alex Haley’s Roots, I practically inhaled this short book and was left wanting so much more. I have a profound appreciation and respect for this author and will be purchasing more copies for others. I highly recommend this book with 5 stars.

View all my reviews

Chatroom With A View by Glenn Maynard – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Chatroom With A ViewChatroom With A View by Glenn Maynard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Chatroom with a View is the first book I’ve picked up by author Glenn Maynard. It is a mile-a-minute read that will instantly intrigue any true crime fans. I grew up fascinated with the story of Lizzie Borden, and it hooked me from the start. I did not need much time to finish this book because I really could not bear to put it down. I’m really into psychology and the reasons behind why people do the things they do; reading about each character, their thoughts, and their actions was so interesting to me because they’re all unique and really complex. The author’s writing is so twisty and turny that it almost makes you dizzy (but in a GOOD way). No spoilers, but the ending fell just a little flat for me – I walked away feeling just a tad underwhelmed, but overall, I have to give this book 4 stars and my recommendation.

View all my reviews

Tangled Roots (Witches of Willow Creek: Tangled Magic Series Book 1) by Denise D. Young – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Tangled Roots (Tangled Magic, #1)Tangled Roots by Denise D. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Y’all, I found my new favorite author.

Tangled Roots (Witches of Willow Creek: Tangled Magic Series Book 1) by Denise D. Young has captured my fancy and is not letting go. Anyone who is a fan of time travel stories (like Outlander) and witchy fiction (such as Practical Magic) will fall in love with this story, which is set in the small town of Willow Creek, Virginia.
Cassie Gearhart is a fantastic female protagonist and an easy character to relate to, even if she is a witch who has been asleep for 45 years. And then there’s Nick; the grandson of Cassie’s former High Priestess, and the only witch left alive to represent the coven. The author is an artist the way she weaves 1974 and 2019 together via Cassie. The imagery and details are rich and poignant, and Tangled Fates, book number 2, is next on my to-be-read list. I highly recommend this book and author with 5 stars!

View all my reviews

The Rise Of Manifesto The Great (Planet Hy Man) by Kerrie Noor – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

The Rise Of Manifesto The Great: A Sci Fi Comedy Where Women Wear The Trousers (Planet Hy Man)The Rise Of Manifesto The Great: A Sci Fi Comedy Where Women Wear The Trousers by Kerrie Noor
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Rise Of Manifesto The Great (Planet Hy Man) by Kerrie Noor is very fast-paced and very funny! I appreciate a good satire and this held my attention to the very end. This book is the first of three prequels to the Planet Hy Man book, which I had never heard of before picking this up. Thus far, this planet has remained pure. The latest group to arrive on Planet Hy Man are ready for real experiences. When Manifesto the Great takes power, he has to find his stride and learn to control the women. The comedy and spoof that follows is a tickle to the funny bone. As I said, I love a good satire, especially when there are some kick-ass characters involved. Even if this isn’t the typical type of book for you to dive into, I recommend that you do, anyway. I recommend this book for some good chuckles, and I’ve been inspired to travel again to Planet Hy Man and to visit more works by Kerrie Noor.

View all my reviews

Motherland (The Tom Grant Series Book 3) by Samantha Adair – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Motherland (Tom Grant #3)Motherland by Samantha Adair
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Motherland (The Tom Grant Series Book 3) by Samantha Adair is the third installment in the Tom Grant series, and I have to say, it can’t get more action-packed than this! First of all, I love Isabella. She is the strong female protagonist I always look for. And Tom is the genuinely great supporting guy that balances her out. To fulfill her father’s wishes, Isabella returns his ashes to his home country and action and suspense ensue. This has all the components of a great action/romance thriller, and it was hard to put down and get back to reality. I have not read the first two books in this series, but they are absolutely on my list now. This can be read by itself, but I assume it will only be better if you read them in sequence. Seriously, don’t miss out on this series. 4 out of 5 stars!

View all my reviews

Turning Wheels (Satan’s Devils MC #1) by Manda Mellett – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Turning Wheels (Satan's Devils MC, #1)Turning Wheels by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Turning Wheels (Satan’s Devils MC #1) by Manda Mellett is the first book in this series. I was not familiar with this author, but took a leap, and I am glad I did. The main character, Sophie, is endearing and relatable as they come, and her story is definitely an original twist on the everyday romance. The author’s way of telling Sophie’s story is interesting and vivid and keeps the pages turning. You really don’t know what is going to happen next! The juxtaposition of Sophie and Wraith make this a very steamy, very intriguing romance story that kept me hooked until the very end. I love these two characters together. This is not a book you want to pick up at bed time to “wind down.” Unless you really just want to keep reading until you hear the birds sing, then go ahead!! This is really a great read. 5 stars.

View all my reviews

Carnival of Shadows (Black Water Magic Book 2) by Leslie Scott – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Carnival of Shadows (Black Water Magic #2)Carnival of Shadows by Leslie Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After Teagan’s grandma dies, she is left with a magical inheritance to work with. Then, the carnival comes to Firewater Springs, FL, and, with it, a whole host of awesome, paranormal characters. This is the second book in the Blackwater Magic Book series, and I admit to not having read the first one beforehand. That being said, it was still super easy to fall into the pages and get wrapped up in Teagan’s story and the stories of her friends, specifically Oliver. I had no problems keeping up with the story and enjoyed all aspects despite not having read book number one. This is a quick read, but it is not lacking in imagination and creativeness. I took in this book quickly and need to get my hands on the first book in the series. I give Carnival of Shadows by Leslie Scott 4 out 5 stars.

View all my reviews

In His Kiss (Unrequited Series Book 1) by Ava Alise – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

In His Kiss (The Unrequited Series Book 1)In His Kiss by Ava Alise
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Anyone who has ever fallen in love with a close friend can relate to In His Kiss by Ava Alise. This is the first installment in The Unrequited Series, and I found myself really adoring the two main characters. Xia and Jordan, after a night of fun and drinking, step beyond the friend boundary and sleep together. What Jordan tells Xia the next morning made my heart ache for her! I became so invested in this story that I literally threw my book! However, the good thing about these two is that they do remain supportive and considerate of each other, even though they no longer know quite how to navigate their friendship. This is the first book by this author that I’ve picked up, and I am glad I did. I will be looking forward to seeing where Jordan and Xia’s relationship goes from here. This is an easy and quick read for me – it is not hard to fall through the pages into their world. 4 stars.

View all my reviews

Tally and the Angel: Book One India by Eleanor Dixon – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Tally and the Angel : Book One IndiaTally and the Angel : Book One India by Eleanor Dixon

Tally and the Angel by Eleanor Dixon is a brilliant book for younger and older readers alike! When our protagonist, Tally, finds a piece of jewelry that once belonged to her mother, she realizes that it is actually a home for the angel Jophiel. With Jophiel’s help, Tally embarks upon adventures solving problems with her new best friend. Tally is a great character for young readers to love as she displays intelligence and tenacity along her missions. The author’s descriptions of India are magical. I very much recommend this book and will be adding it to my daughter’s collection for her to enjoy as she grows. This is the second book I have read from this author, and she hasn’t disappointed me yet. 4 out of 5 stars.

View all my reviews

MORNIN THE SUPER BIRD – FINDS A WAY TO FIGHT EXTINCTION by JULES HEARTLY – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Mornin The Super Bird : Mornin Finds a Way to Stop ExtinctionMornin The Super Bird : Mornin Finds a Way to Stop Extinction by Jules Heartly
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mornin the Super Bird: Mornin Finds a Way to Stop Extinction by Jules Heartly and illustrated by Diego A. Diaz is an adorable book for both children and adults to enjoy. This is the second installment in the Mornin series, and while the illustrations are beautiful and story endearing, it also touches on a very relevant subject: extinction and the environment. A little bird called Mornin comes up with a plan to stop plants and animals from disappearing forever and puts it into action. I loved following Mornin’s plan and sharing the story with my young daughter, and it is absolutely a fantastic addition to her growing bookshelf – a book I won’t mind reading over and over with her! I hope she not only grows to love little Mornin, but also shares his concern for the environment and all its inhabitants. We both give Mornin 5 out of 5 stars!

View all my reviews

Ouroboros (Antipodes III) by T.S. Simons – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Ouroboros (Antipodes #3)Ouroboros by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The third installment of the Antipodes series, Ouroboros by T.S. Simons, is a heart-wrencher. This one hits right where it hurts – in a good way!! I LOVE this story and its characters. The reader definitely needs to read these three books in order to get the full effect and understand all of the backstory and nuances. But, I can recommend the previous books just as much as this one, so it will not be a hard thing to do. This series is jam-packed with action and emotion, and you will grow to love Cam’s character and continue this journey along with him. Not only does this book contain characters that are relatable and endearing, but the post-apocalyptic theme is eerily relevant in today’s world of Covid. This book really is an entire world in the palm of your hand. 5 out of 5 stars!

View all my reviews

Blue Summer Part Two by Everly Taylor – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Blue Summer Part TwoBlue Summer Part Two by Everly Taylor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Blue Summer Part Two by Everly Taylor is a very fast-paced, engrossing sequel that I couldn’t put down. Lillie is kidnapped a second time by the sorcerer, and action ensues once more. She feels as though she finally fits in someplace and now her world is thrown up in the air again. More detail is added to Lillie and her friends, so the characters become more rounded, and I can’t help but love them. I would definitely recommend finishing the first book in order to read this one, as it holds a lot of information you need in order to fully enjoy part two. 4 out of 5 stars. I highly recommend this series by Everly Taylor, and I know you will love Lillie and her friends just as much as I do!

View all my reviews

Mariekkela: From Finland, with Love by Stuart Ledwith PhD – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Mariekkela: From Finland, with LoveMariekkela: From Finland, with Love by Stuart Ledwith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was immediately drawn to this book as if it called my name. I experience vivid and very real dreams from time-to-time, so the simple involvement of dreaming grabbed me. The pull this book had on me did not stop once it was opened. The author writes with such an intimate style, I feel as though we were in the same room. Being interested in spirituality, dreams, and past lives, I simply devoured this book. Mariekkela: From Finland, with Love by Stuart Ledwith, PhD is an original, historical story that takes the reader back to 1939, in which Mariekkela’s Kari is killed by Russian soldiers. The book follows her life after the incident, and is a testament to undying, true love. The author also has a book titled The History of the Universe: As My Soul and I Remember, and I am definitely going to get my hands on that one to fall deeper into this author’s world and ideas. I appreciate a read that inspires me to consider new perspectives, or deepens and broadens an existing perspective, and if you have never read anything from this author before, this book is a five star choice.

View all my reviews

The Cross of Ciaran (The Cross of Ciaran Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

The Cross of CiaranThe Cross of Ciaran by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Cross of Ciaran by Andrea Matthews is right up my alley. I am a lover of Historical Fiction and Archaeology, so this book was very intriguing to me. I ended up not being able to put it down, and I appreciate how the story switches from past to present throughout the book. The story follows Caitlin, an archaeologist, who finds the perfect body of a 1500 year old pagan priest buried in Ireland. His body is exhumed and taken to New York where excitement surrounding his body ensues and Caitlin is swept up in some excitement of her own. Lovers of tales like The DaVinci Code and The Mummy will love this book! The characters are well-rounded and multi-dimensional so their plights keep the story compelling. I recommend this story with 5 out of 5 stars.

View all my reviews

Blue Summer Part One by Everly Taylor – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Blue Summer Part OneBlue Summer Part One by Everly Taylor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Blue Summer Part One by Everly Taylor is a whimsical, fantasy tale that will entertain you from the get-go. This is a fast-paced tale that includes blue men named the Zayed, and a strong-willed protagonist named Lillie who finds herself kidnapped by an evil sorcerer. This is a fun read that will not take you very long, but will leave you wanting so much more. Lillie is an endearing character that I quickly grew to love, and I am eagerly awaiting the second book. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars because it builds a fantastic, exciting world and steamy romance. I definitely recommend this book and this author!

View all my reviews

The Eclipse Dancer by Laura Koerber – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

The Eclipse DancerThe Eclipse Dancer by Laura Koerber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Eclipse Dancer by Laura Koerber is my new favorite book. I admit this with the utmost sincerity. The author’s style of writing is so beautiful that it dances off the page like sunlight sparkling off ripples of water. This book hit me right in the heart. I have a fond childhood memory of sitting on my grandmother’s porch, blanketed by the summer heat, as I listened to the breeze tinkle the wind chimes and watched the sun sweep across the landscape. This book relaxes and comforts me much in the same way. I’ve been a lover of words and stories since birth, and I truly appreciate when an author can elicit a physical response with the shape of their words. This story blends real, raw emotion with magic as Andy, a middle-aged woman, cares for her ailing mother and revisits a fantasy world from her childhood. I was hooked from the first line and give The Eclipse Dancer 5 stars only because I cannot give it more.

View all my reviews

Antipodes by T.S. Simons – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

AntipodesAntipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love a good book that not only entertains you, but teaches you something, as well. Antipodes by T.S. Simons does just that. This is a Young Adult Dystopian novel, but it is set in the present day, not some far-off date in the future. Considering what is currently happening in the world, this is a rather timely, appropriate read, especially for young people. (And, the author wrote it BEFORE the pandemic began!) Antipodes touches on many social issues that are prevalent in today’s society and that we all deal with on a daily basis: environmentalism, gender, equality, disease, etc. The characters are interesting to follow, as well, and this is definitely an escape read. Luckily, it is the first book in a series (the following two are titled The Liminal Space and Ouroboros, as well as a prequel titled The Crossroads). It’s safe to say I will be checking those out next! 4 stars.

View all my reviews

Southland Academy for Supernatural Youth by Sandra Tentler and Brooke Tentler – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Southland Academy for Supernatural YouthSouthland Academy for Supernatural Youth by Sandra Tentler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Southland Academy for Supernatural Youth by Sandra Tentler and Brooke Tentler is a 4 out of 5 star worthy read. This paranormal comedy for young adults is charming, witty, and just plain fun! The characters are animated and hilarious (a vampire who is afraid of blood? Come on!), and this story is very reminiscent of Harry Potter, to me. Your young readers, and even you, will fall in love with this rag-tag, supernatural bunch. The authors are a mother/daughter duo, and they have created something magical, and I very much appreciate the humor and color they use. This is an easy book to get through because it is entertaining and attention-keeping, and the writing is just as, if not more colorful, than the awesome cover of the book. I really hope these two continue to work together and produce more stories for us to enjoy. Especially about these characters!

View all my reviews

Chameleon by Zoe Kalo – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

ChameleonChameleon by Zoe Kalo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Chameleon by Zoe Kalo is dripping with mystery that will thrill your socks off! 5 stars! I am a sucker for anything paranormal, and this story had me from the first line. This YA book follows Paloma, a teenager in Puerto Rico in the early 1970s, and her journey from a normal life to a convent for troubled girls. Paloma dabbles in the supernatural and holds a séance to contact her dead father. When she is caught, she is sent away. The characters are vibrant and the situations chilling and suspenseful. This book contains some heavy subject matter, but kept me intrigued the entire way through. I highly recommend picking up this book, as what happens to Paloma after holding a second séance in order to reach her father will give you the chills for sure! Author Zoe Kalo has outdone herself with this one, and I am eagerly looking for more from her.

View all my reviews

Try Right (Aloha Series Book 3) by Jill Brashear – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Try RightTry Right by Jill Brashear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Try Right (Aloha Series Book 3) by Jill Brashear is the third installment in the Aloha series but is a stand-alone read. If you are a reader who could get lost in a fun, beachy, retro setting, this book is for you. The Hawaiian descriptions pull you out of your chair and into paradise in 1968. Claudia is an actress who lands a small role on a Hawaiian based TV show, and jumps at the chance in order to save her career. Along with finding gainful employment, she is also looking for her long lost first love. When she meets Henry, a stuntman, their paths intertwine and throw them for a loop. These characters are very relatable and it is quite easy to be swept up in the tide along with them. If you happen to find yourself in a “reading rut”, not knowing which book to pick up next, I highly suggest this one. With the lush descriptions and lovable characters, it is a breath of fresh air. It’s a vacation in a book! 5 stars!

View all my reviews

The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight, #1)The Lightning Horse by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I think I’ve found my new favorite author! The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes is a fantastic historical fiction set in the ancient empire located in what is now Turkey. The story centers around a young Hittite charioteer whose father is killed and grandfather is injured in a chariot accident, and it is up to him to find the truth and settle the score. This book is full of twists and turns and rich with history, and I am here for it. If you are into historical fiction or love horses, you will love the realistic descriptions that the author brings to life within the pages. The best part about it all, for a history junkie like me, is that the author is an archaeologist and historian who has taught at the collegiate level, so you know everything has been thoroughly researched and the descriptions dependable. I am stoked that this is the first book in this series, and I will be looking for more. I recommend this book and author with 5 stars.

View all my reviews

Sexy Drug (Losing My Heart Book 1) by Melody Calder – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Sexy Drug (Losing My Heart #1)Sexy Drug by Melody Calder
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I give Sexy Drug (Losing My Heart Book 1) by Melody Calder 5 out of 5 stars. This book hits the ground running and is a page-turner for sure! When spoiled daughter Katie is under attack, her father puts Ramone in charge of keeping her safe with one very important rule – keep your hands off! Ramone and Katie butt heads, so he thinks this will be no problem…boy, is he wrong! It’s not hard to get wrapped up in the lives of Katie and Ramone and these two are characters you will love to root for. The pace of this story keeps your attention and is well-written. The best part? It’s book 1 of the Losing My Heart series, so there is definitely more romance and action to come! Highly recommend this author and this book.

View all my reviews

Bovine Tricks (Royals Gone Rogue Book 1) by Seelie Kay – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Bovine TricksBovine Tricks by Seelie Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bovine Tricks (Royals Gone Rogue Book 1) by Seelie Kay is a trip! It was so much fun to read. Author Seelie Kay has done an amazing job bringing this story to life and making it believable. Special Agent Mathilda’s job is to find the missing Lady Trask for the Queen. She’s already made a mess of things, so this operation will either redeem her or undo her career. Along the way, she and her partner, Abdul, reveal a terrorist plot and the adventure twists and turns its way to the end. If you like romance stories with a bit of a shock factor, this is a fun read. Bovine Tricks is definitely a unique escape, and I recommend it with four stars. Luckily, this is the first book in the Royals Gone Rogue Series, so there will be more adventure to come!

View all my reviews

Date Night by K.M. Lowe – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Date NightDate Night by K.M. Lowe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Date Night by K.M. Lowe is a quick and easy read that sweeps you off your feet from page one. This author has a fantastic way of using words to create scenes that are easily imagined. I became so swept up in the drama of characters Hannah and Kyle that, before I knew it, I had the book read. I really related to the bitter-with-love characters and their cynicism towards dating and falling in love. That was definitely me before finally meeting my husband! This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I was thoroughly delighted. I recommend this fun book 4 out of 5 stars!

View all my reviews

Myths and Legends: An Indie Love Anthology – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Myths & LegendsMyths & Legends by Laura Greenwood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I read Dragon’s Heart by Carrie Austin-Malone, featured in Myths and Legends: An Indie Love Anthology. This is the first work I’ve read by this author, and my interest has been piqued. Dragon’s Heart is a fast read, but it contains a lot of details that are both steamy and witty. Main character Mary’s dreams are vivid and intense which makes the imagery in this story really pop off the page, and definitely stimulates the senses. I really appreciated the author’s use of color in her description of the dragons. There is a LOT packed into this shorter story, and I feel like making it longer would do it more justice. All in all, I feel this is a great read when you need an escape, and will be looking into more by this author! 4 out of 5 stars.

View all my reviews

Jake the Growling Dog Goes to Doggy Daycare: A Children’s Book about New Experiences, Friendship, Stress Relief, and Kindness (Jake the Growling Dog) by Samantha Shannon – Review by Chrissy Spulak

/0 Comments/in /by

Jake the Growling Dog Goes to Doggy DaycareJake the Growling Dog Goes to Doggy Daycare by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jake the Growling Dog Goes to Doggy Daycare: A Children’s Book about New Experiences, Friendship, Stress Relief, and Kindness is the second book in the Jake the Growling Dog series by Samantha Shannon. The author has a background in educational counseling, and uses that to create this fun, bright, and engaging story for children (of all ages!). Jake does not want to leave the comforts of home and his snuggly bed in order to be around the other animals at Doggy Daycare. He is worried about new things and faces and what the others will think about him. With the help of his new friends and the Kindness Critters, Jake shows the reader that feeling this way sometimes is okay, and shows them how to work through it instead of running away. This story is interactive and the illustrations are vibrant and interesting. This will be a great tool for teaching our little ones how to work through certain emotions instead of being afraid of them. Whether at home or in school, Jake the Growling Dog would be an excellent resource to share with your children. I recommend this book with 5 out of 5 stars and will be checking out the other books by this author for future use with my daughter.

View all my reviews