Posts

The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Wendy Wary

The MesmeristThe Mesmerist by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Immersed into a world where everything is not as it seems, Adrijana discovers her father’s dislike for visiting the capital is more than just a jaded view of an old man who’s lived through times of war. Among assassinations, plots and mysteries surrounding most everyone Adrijana meets in the city, she has to find her way and figure out whom she can trust, all while discovering a huge secret about her own hidden abilities and the newfound discrimination she faces because of the truth. This is a truly captivating story with twists and turns and an exciting tale to witness as it unfolds. Can’t wait to read what happens next!

View all my reviews

The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Donna Dawkin

The MesmeristThe Mesmerist by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

From page one, I slipped into the telling of this story and never left. Such a well written tale of coming of age, court intrigue.. murder, young romance, mysticism and manipulation. Somehow the author packs every chapter full and still keeps us right on track, connected to the story. Thanks to well developed characters and a unique magical ability this is a book that will appeal almost everyone. My first read by this author, and I’m hoping there’s a Book 2 on its way!

View all my reviews

Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders Book 1) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by La Toya Lewis

Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders #1)Tomb for an Eagle by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tomb for an Eagle is a wonderful and interesting historical mystery. I have read quite a few historical fiction but no historical mysteries. This book did not disappoint. This is a well-written, well-developed book with interesting characters. I enjoyed going along for the ride with Ketil and Sigrid. I got hooked on these characters from the start and could not put the book down. It is absolutely a page-turner. This was a different kind of mystery experience that I definitely enjoyed. I recommend this for anyone looking for unconventional historical fiction.

View all my reviews

The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders Book 4) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by La Toya Lewis

The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders #4)The Bear at Midnight by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Bear at Midnight is the fourth book in the Orkneinga Murder Books. I was so excited to read this book after reading book 1, Tomb of an Eagle. I was so excited to see Thorafinn, who I read about in book 1. Also like book 1, it is set in Scotland in the Viking era. This is not a time period that I would have thought I enjoyed reading about but just like book 1 the magnificent storytelling and details draw you in. Once again Lexie Conyngham keeps you guessing while enjoying this tale. I highly recommend this book and this series for an intriguing story that keeps you on your toes.

View all my reviews

The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Amanda Kimble

The MesmeristThe Mesmerist by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5/5 Stars

The Mesmerist: A Young Adult Fantasy Mystery by Claire Luana

This is not the first book I’ve read by the author. The author keeps me coming back and so far each book I’ve read is amazing. The Mesmerist is a great book.

Adrijana can see people’s feelings and she isn’t sure why. When her childhood friend invites her to the Palace she must go. Her father doesn’t want her there, but he can’t stop her. The quote I chose for Adrijana is: “It doesn’t sit well that you questioned Spirodon without me. I wanted to be there. I needed to be there. To put my own questions to rest.”

Dragan is the Para-Mesmerist and he can sense Jana the second she steps into the ballroom. He gets close to her and finds himself falling for her. The quote I chose for Dragan is: “I don’t see how it’s possible. But if it makes you feel better, when I get a chance, I’ll consult the Mesmer library and see what I can find.”

Highly recommended for Fantasy Crime lovers.

View all my reviews

The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders Book 4) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Amanda Glaspie

The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders #4)The Bear at Midnight by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Two deaths, one of old age, one of death, brings Ketil and Sigrid back together to solve who the killer is. Has long lost relatives compete to take over their deceased relatives home and power, things go awry and nobody is without suspicion. Although this is the fourth book in the series, it can easily be read as a stand alone. I’ve read the first and this book and didn’t feel like I was lost. The original characters continue to grow while meeting new ones in the series. It still amazes me how even after a few short paragraphs,I find myself disliking or loving a character. Just as you think you know the killer, bam, what a great ending.

View all my reviews

Tomb of an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders Book 1) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders #1)Tomb for an Eagle by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was a nice mix of historical fiction and murder mystery. This is the first book in the series and is the introduction to the village of Orkney and all the people within the village. Book starts with Sigrid finding an unknown body and the hunt for the murderer is on. At this time Ketil rides in so speak to the Earl of Orkney, Thorfinn and some distressing news. This is when the who done it really starts. I’m not usually a fan of historical fiction but I really enjoyed this book. It had a good mix of character development, mystery, and twists and turns. Sigrid and Ketil make a good team and I hope they continue in reigniting their friendship.

View all my reviews

The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders Book 4) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Melissa Saxton

The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders #4)The Bear at Midnight by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jump right into political intrigue and well done historical mystery crime solving.

The leader of the hall of Buckquoy dies. There needs to be a replacement but there is no male heir. There is an illegitimate son, a nephew and a local all who could assume the role and an Earl has to decide.

The leaders wife, now a widow has a daughter who seems to have her favorite to take over, but when the daughter turns up murdered so many questions ensue. Who killed her, and why? is it to influence the selection of the leader? is the mother involved, is it completely unrelated?

this story is a great historical crime novel which will both let you learn of culture, political intrigue and hierarchy but also have you lost in this story desperate to find out what actually happened.

You won’t regret this read!

View all my reviews

The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders Book 4) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Jennifer Gordon

The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders #4)The Bear at Midnight by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this historical crime novel and quickly got into the story despite not having read the previous books in the series. The storyline is set on the Orkney Islands during the Viking era and the author does a great job at bringing this period to life and making the reader feel immersed in the setting. Thorfinn has to appoint a new leader at Buckquoy but bitter rivalries emerge and a woman dies. Ketil and Sigrid must then work together to discover who the killer is, and defend themselves. Luckily this is not the first time they have found themselves in the middle of a murder mystery. I liked the main characters and found them likeable and relatable and could definitely tell they had chemistry between them, even if they didn’t. The book is written from both of their points of view which helped make me feel engaged with them and the story. The storyline flowed well and the plot had me hooked till the last page. I am keen to read the previous books in the series now.

View all my reviews

Tomb For An Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders Book 1) by Lexie Conyngham – review by Roxsanne Lesieur.

Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders #1)Tomb for an Eagle by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

On Orkney’s, a resident of the local village is going about their day to day business when they are informed of an animal being somewhere it shouldn’t be and that they will need to go retrieve it before dark. When they get there, however, instead of finding the animal, they find a body, a body which has been buried using the old ways.

When the village leader is notified, a party go down to the burial site and retrieve the body, however, nobody knows who they are or who may have killed them, so the villagers try to figure it out.

Meanwhile, Thorfinn Sigudarson is returning to his Earldom in Orkney and Caithness from his latest trip, only to find that there has been a killing on the island and that it has brought with it ghosts from his past. This is neither welcome or expected for Thorfinn and so he has both a mystery to since and a past to revisit in order to secure his future, but will he be able to do it all, or with his past catch up with him first?

This is a historical fiction centred around a crime which nobody has claimed and a mystery he is reluctant to solve in case his own skeletons are revealed.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

View all my reviews

The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Allison Davis

The MesmeristThe Mesmerist by Claire Luana
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Mesmerist was a great fantasy mystery read. The world building was fantastic, from the magic all the way to the country the story is set in. Jana was a well written protagonist, she gets thrown right into the thick of it quick into the book after the Queen was killed. She doesn’t have much time to think before she go into solving mode. Throughout the story, clues were introduced perfectly, just enough to keep you on the “who dun it” trail. I was continuously shocked and left wanting more at the end of each page. Jana is tested with truth, confidence, love, lust, lies and friendship throughout the book. The books leaves you satisfied with he resolution but leaves just enough open to allow for other books if decided. I would LOVE to have more books from this world and these characters.

View all my reviews

The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Jasmin Marie

The MesmeristThe Mesmerist by Claire Luana
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Great book! If you are looking for fantasy, adventure, heartbreak, as well as twists and turns along the way, this book is for you! I have always loved fantasy novels and in the past few years have found a new interest in mystery both of which were so wonderfully written in this book. The characters are mainly young adults, but the plotline is so intriguing, readers of any age would enjoy this! The characters are realistic and likable, but just like people, they all have their issues and learn how to cope with them throughout the book.

View all my reviews

Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Karina Kantas – Review by Laura-Jane Minnie

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It’s been a while since I read a good biker book and this was a brilliant read I enjoyed it so much I read it in one hit. I haven’t read the rest of the series but you don’t need to it can be read as standalone but I will definitely be going back to read the other 3. Gem is a great female lead she is strong and confident although had a bad past with a biker gang when she meets Shep who she is immediately drawn too but theres a problem he is also in a biker gang can she get over this when she vowed to never be associated with an MC again.

View all my reviews

The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders Book 4) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders #4)The Bear at Midnight by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Bear at Midnight is Book 4 in the Orkneyinga Murders series. Ketil and Sigrid work together once again to solve a mystery and find a killer in Orkney. When Einar passes away there are many in line to take over as leader. Ketil and Sigrid only want the best for everyone and to have peace in the land.

Sigrid and Ketil work beautifully together and really seemed destined to be a couple although neither one of them seems to realize that. The story is told from both sides and although neither seems to lead the story you can’t help but bond with Sigrid. She possesses many admirable qualities including her strength and determination.

The author weaves together a beautiful story of the lives and characters of the Vikings and beautiful Scotland. Often you feel like you were right there with the characters because the author so vividly describes the scenes of day-to-day life with the characters.

View all my reviews @Tara Johnson Barnes

Tomb For an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders Book 1) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders #1)Tomb for an Eagle by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tomb for an Eagle is book one in the Orkneyinga Murders series. When a body is discovered in an underground tomb still clutching the knife that possibly killed him it sets into motion a chain of events that involves all the citizens of Orkney. Sigrid, who accidentally discovered the body on her property, is determined to solve the mystery of this unknown man. With the help of Ketil, she sets out to unravel the mystery of why this man was killed. Nobody from their small village has been reported missing which makes it even a bigger mystery. Where did this man come from? Who is he and how did he die there?

I loved the character of Sigrid because she was full of feistiness and determination. She doesn’t back down from a challenge. Although it was a bit challenging to keep track of all the names, I loved the historical detail that the author wrote into her book and thought it was very well written.

View all my reviews @Tara Johnson Barnes

The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders Book 4) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Alexandria Richard

The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders #4)The Bear at Midnight by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 rounded up.

Book 4 in the series. Though the series does seem to go in a chronological order I was able to jump from book 1 to book 4 with little difficulty. There were some questions about what May have occurred in between but they were mostly addressed, or could be ignored without distracting from the overall story.

Here there is a death in the first part but that’s not the murder mystery aspect, that comes later in the book. The first part is sort of a catch up of all the characters from books past as well as an introduction to new ones on the scene.

I enjoyed this book off the bat more than I did book 1. Maybe it was the familiarity with the characters and setting. I’m not quite sure what exactly held my interest more here but it kept me reading the book through rather than in fits and starts.

I enjoyed the continual tension between the characters, both new and old, as well as within the village. There’s a need for everyone to secure their place in uncertain times that feels more realistic. Then of course the true murder of the story happens and throws everyone and everything into upheaval.

Cw: murder, death, time period sword fighting, domestic violence and violence against women, cheating, parental death.

View all my reviews

Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders Book 1) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Alexandria Richard

Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders #1)Tomb for an Eagle by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 star Christian-Viking era murder mystery. Wonderful new take on the genre

First in a series. Here we’re introduced to Ketil, Sigrid, and everyone else in the village of Buckquoy.

Ketil comes to town with secrets to tell and to hide. Is he friend or foe? What does he have to do with the body Sigrid, a widowed villager, found hidden on her land? Is this the past come back to haunt them?

A very interesting take on timepiece murder mystery. I was only able to “sort of” enjoy this murder mystery. I found it difficult to immerse myself in a time period novel with a culture I’m mostly unfamiliar with. I found myself skipping over names and items, or having to step away from the story to look them up, because I didn’t know what they were. This caused the first quarter-to-third of the book to be a very slow read. Once I was able to get an understanding of the time, community, and culture, I found the novel to be very interesting.

This book also touches upon the idea of when old meets new in terms of the religious aspect of the time, but it is easy to correlate that to todays time and what’s going on around us, should you wish to go that deep.

Thoroughly enjoyed the murder mystery aspect and the “detective” work that Ketil does while rediscovering himself and his relationship with Sigrid along the way.

Cw: graphic descriptions of a murdered and mutilated body, domestic violence, violence against women.

View all my reviews

Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Katrina Kantas – Review by Katie Kearney

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I had so many mixed emotions with this story. I actually had started it and found myself just feeling overwhelmed and stopped. Ok now this isn’t a bashing review just hang with me real quick. This story had so much going on and in the beginning it seemed just super rushed and a jumble of stuff going on. You may feel the same but please listen to this next part! Keep reading because this author is about to blow you away with a story you can’t miss. Gem is a character that absolutely stole my whole heart with her kick butt attitude and her loyalty to those important to her. This book definitely has some difficult subjects but the author puts a lot of feeling into them. Connecting with the characters was so easy. Again please if you feel it’s rushed and a lot going on push on it’s so very worth it! If I could give more than five stars I would! Highly recommended!

View all my reviews

Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Katrina Kantas – Review by Amanda Williams

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I had no trouble reading this book without reading the rest in the series. However, some things like the pacing felt slightly off. We jumped into the action slowed down then jumped back into action again. It didn’t feel like there was a curve more like a start and stop.

However, I still really loved the storyline and the strong female character in this story was really well written. Honestly, I would like to try more books from this author to get really get a feel for her work as it feels like she has more to give than what we could grasp in this book.

View all my reviews

Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Katrina Kantas – Review by Ashley Johnson

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book was a very quick read and very action packed. A LOT happens with the main character. Gemma is definitely a strong woman to endure everything that has happened to her. I love a good MC Club book so gave this one a chance. The timeline jumps around a bit so it is kind of confusing as to where/when something happened. If you are looking for a quick read this book is for you.

View all my reviews

..••°°°°••.. PREORDER ..••°°°°••.. Depending on You by Jessica Aiken-Hall

..••°°°°••.. PREORDER ..••°°°°••..
Depending on You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
PREORDER NOW – https://amzn.to/3I7whi0
Genre – Women’s Fiction, Mystery, Coming of Age
Page Count – 275
Cover Designer – Shower of Schmidt’s Lanie Whitby
Cate Silver killed a man. For the last twenty years, she thought she had gotten away with it. Now, with the case reopened, she stands to lose everything. She has only one option left: trade her freedom for the truth. It’s the only way out of the mess, but it comes at a heavy price.
Twenty years ago, Patti Thomas left, and didn’t look back. She left her best friend to fend for herself. Trying to keep her secrets hidden, she had no choice but to start over. Now over four hundred miles away, with a family of her own, she knows she must go back to Vermont and help Cate.
Together again, Cate and Patti must decide if it’s time to reopen the wounds of that night or keep running from them. As evidence surfaces, the potential to destroy a once in a lifetime friendship looms. Twists, turns and murder. There’s only one way out-but how much can one friendship withstand?

Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Katrina Kantas – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Star
Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Katrina Kantas

Road Rage is the fourth book in the Outlaw Series and can be read as a standalone. This is a MC that once you start reading you will find yourself lost in the pages and won’t be able to put it down until you’ve finished. I’m a huge fan of this author and I’ve read other books by this one is my favorite by far. It’s everything you expect from an MC and more. This is about Gem and Shep (from Rage). She’s ’s got experience with MC’s as she used to be in one. Now she’s trying to move forward from the past but now finds herself in a situation. Shep is a rider and is part of Rage a local MC. These two meet at a local grocery store where Gem currently works. There is definitely chemistry between and both have secrets. Can she survive another MC? There’s plenty of action going on and the twists and turns had me on the edge of my seat. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. It’s definitely worth the time. I look forward to reading more from this Author.

View all my reviews

Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Karina Kantas-Review by Elena Tobar

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Gem is such a strong, amazing woman. She doesn’t take crap from anyone, she’s tenacious and she isn’t afraid to go after what she wants. She’s been through so much in life, but she doesn’t let that steal away thoughts of a happily ever after for her. Shep introduces her to Rage but she knows from the beginning that he isn’t forever, he’s just for right now. There is betrayal and violence in this story that I didn’t see coming but Gem is a strong woman and she doesn’t let life keep her down for long. She keeps getting knocked down but always drags herself back up and she manages to truly find herself and her destiny along the way. This is a book with a lot of violence, but it also has some beautiful heart melting moments as well. You definitely won’t want to miss this one if you enjoy MC romances.

View all my reviews

Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Katrina Kantas – Review by Crystal Jimenez

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first book by this author/series, and I wasn’t disappointed. I love MC books and would recommend this book. I will definitely be going back to read the rest of this series.
I was sucked into the story from the beginning and was hooked all the way through. This book had action, great character chemistry, romance, mixed in with a few twists and turns. If you like MC books, then this is the book for you.

View all my reviews

Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Katrina Kantas – Review by Brittany Porter

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author is the QUEEN of dark, gritty, and intense MC romance. If violence or drug use are triggers for you, you might want to steer clear. Otherwise, don’t overlook this book! I love the strong female character and how she doesn’t let life keep her down. It reminds me of the quote, “Use your pain as fuel to make you stronger”. This is one tough chick that withstands more than anyone should have to in life, but still comes out the other side stronger. Great read!

View all my reviews

Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Katrina Kantas – Review by Kayla Octaviano

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ve never read a book like this. The love story is unexpected, the plot twists are unpredictable, and the characters are undeniable. If you are planning on reading this book, be prepared for intense scenes, turns you aren’t ready for, and truths you can’t help but cry about. The main characters are very relatable, yet intangible at the same time. The book has a happy ending, so know you are working towards positivity.

View all my reviews

Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Katrina Kantas – Review by Stephanie nicole

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is full of so much romance and suspense that it will feel like your riding a roller coaster. This novel really had an adventurous side to it and it really showed the real side of certain morals. I found myself really liking and connecting with our lead character Gemma. Gemma has had a rough life and she been trying to get away from it but when her secrets start coming out she became even more relatable. Bring in Shep and can he show her a better life? You’ll have to read this novel for yourself to find out. While I have no read the previous books in the series, I definitely plan on reading them now.

View all my reviews

The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Tina Vega

The MesmeristThe Mesmerist by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I enjoyed walking through this world with Adrijana. I feel like we were on an adventure with her since she was learning everything along with us. I enjoyed this new world, but most of all I was caught up with the characters. The mystery and intrigue surrounding the characters definitely ramps up the plot because you don’t know who you can trust. I’m not sure if who appears to be a friend is actually a friend which is so realistic. I could not put this book down because I had to know what was going to happen. This is not a predictable story. Beautiful world, great characters, and unpredictable plot.

View all my reviews

The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Stephanie Seeber

The MesmeristThe Mesmerist by Claire Luana
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Adrijana a girl from a local village is dragged into the royal court after discovering a secret her father kept from her. She begins training with one of the royal Mesmers while she is at court and has to determine who she can trust while she is accused of many things while there.

This story will keep you on your toes and the author does a fantastic job bringing you into this world. You are drawn to the suspense of who is targeting the royal family and can Adrijana figure out what is happening.

I would definitely recommend this to Young Adult Fantasy readers! It was a great read and I hope to see more books in this world in the future.

View all my reviews

The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Jamie Truex

The MesmeristThe Mesmerist by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Adrijana wants adventure. She has grown up helping her father on his farm. After an invitation from her best friend to come to the castle, she travels with her father when he takes his crops. She quickly finds more than she bargained for. She is accused of murdering the queen and finds out her past has been a lie. She finds new friends and new enemies, all while trying to learn her place and protecting the princess.

I highly recommend this to not only YA readers, but older readers as well. I throughly enjoyed being taken to this new world. The characters are very relatable and complex. You will find yourself trying to unravel the mysteries alongside Adrijana. I hope there will be a sequel in the future to find out more about her life.

View all my reviews