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The Rom Com Movie Club (The Rom Com Movie Club Book 1) by Bernadette Marie – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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The Rom Com Movie Club - Book OneThe Rom Com Movie Club – Book One by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lisa, Mindy, Ruby, and Tina have been friends since college. Although Lisa didn’t actually attend college, she met the other girls while working at the coffee shop the others were at to study. The girls adopted Lisa into their lives, and they became an instant chosen family. Every month they gather together for a Rom Com movie night of food, face masks, and toe nail polish. On Lisa’s night, Lisa meets Tina’s soon to be brother-in-law, Ryan, and is instantly attracted to him. Tina, in the throes of wedding madness, tells Lisa that under no circumstance is she ok with her dating Ryan. While the other girls all try to help even out Tina’s wedding mania, Ryan pursues a relationship with Lisa. Can Lisa find a way to balance her love for Ryan and not get caught up with comparing their love to a Rom Com? Can Tina see that her friend’s happiness is worth more than her feelings?

Wow. What a great first book to a series! Each character was well written and all relatable. The author did a fantastic job of describing anxiety and how it affects those who suffer from it. The girls’ relationships with each other are something that everyone should have. Love that is deep and willing to tell the truth even when it hurts. People in their corner, cheering them on but pulling them back from the crazy ledge. I am really looking forward to reading about the other girls finding love!

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Bycatch by Alexander Blevens – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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BycatchBycatch by Alexander Blevens
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rex Thompson is a man that just can’t seem to make good choices and stick with them. He is a soldier that can’t seem to get behind the war he is fighting in, and so takes an opportunity that is presented to steal money. He’s caught by a Vietnamese officer that is conflicted in how he should handle the situation. When it isn’t reported, Rex thinks he gets away with it. Fast forward years later and he’s now a fisherman hoping to do right by his two sons. However, as his bad choices catch up with him, he can’t seem to find his way out of the bottom of a bottle long enough to teach his sons how to live life the right way. When he loses his boat, he disappears for 8 months. His sons try to make sense of their purpose of life without the boat they’ve basically grown-up working. When Rex shows back up in town a changed, sober man, he finds out that his old boat was scuttled, and a man was killed on it because of it. That man is none other than the Vietnamese Officer that didn’t report him all those years ago. As the murder investigation progresses, his family comes forward with past information that could show motive for the murder. Can Rex come to terms with his past offense and how it affected the officer? Can his family forgive Rex for his past? Will his sons be able to make better choices than their father?

This was such an enthralling book to read. I have read about the Vietnam war in history, but this gave a whole other insight as to how it was over there. What caught my attention was their struggle in getting here and starting over. The story was well written, and the characters were down to earth and believable.

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Master Catteneo (Masters of the Consulate Book 5) by Sylvia Black – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Master CatteneoMaster Catteneo by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Master Catteneo is not used to being contradicted or challenged when he tells someone to do something. However, from his first meeting with Alessia, he finds himself constantly in that position. Alessia is the granddaughter of a psychic that sided with the vampires in their war with rogue vampires and witches. Having inherited her grandmother’s power, she finds that she will also do anything to protect the vampires. Catteneo and Alessia are forced to work together to find the Overmaster’s mate that has been kidnapped. The closer they work together, the more they find themselves drawn to each other, and eventually, entangled together. Can they complete their task before it’s too late? Will they be able to overcome the humanity of Alessia and find a way to be together?

This is a continuation of the series Masters of the Consulate. This was a quick read. It drew me in from the beginning and was fast paced through to the end. Alessia is a girl who knows her mind and doesn’t have a problem fighting for what she sees as right. She lets her heart lead her, and she fits right in with the rest of the characters in their loyalties to each other. I would have liked to have read more interactions between her and the other ladies, as well as so more in-depth backstory for Catteneo. The story continues to become more involved, and I look forward to reading more!

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Shadow and Crystal Thorns (Fae and Crystal Thorns Book 2) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Shadow and Crystal Thorns (Fae and Crystal Thorns, #2)Shadow and Crystal Thorns by Kay L. Moody
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Chloe is still in Faerie working on how to defeat the mortals and heal the land of Faerie. She and Quintus find common ground with Mishti to help rescue Ludo. After they become an unlikely team, they hurry to find a way to stop the mortals’ advance on the courts of Faerie. Unfortunately, they end up finding themselves in a race to find elements to reverse the destruction the iron is causing on Faerie and, in turn, the mortal realm. Chloe struggles with telling her sister about her loss and confronting her on how she makes Chloe feel useless. Can she accept the truth of her loss and how it will forever change her life? Can she put together the antidote for Faerie and save it and also her sisters? Will her sister and others ever see her as more than someone to be protected?

I liked the continuation of this storyline. It was good to see the characters struggle with their decisions and how they had to reconcile them with themselves. I liked how Mishti points out to Chloe that maybe the battle they are facing isn’t her sister’s story but Chloe’s. It gives hope to people with disabilities to see that they are not worthless. Just because they cannot swing the proverbial sword, does not mean they can’t help in other ways like strategy. It was also good to see the characters that can swing that same sword come to terms with the fact that they do not always have the answers either. I enjoyed this book and look forward to the next in this series!

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Chevalier (War Horses Book 1) by Scott Warren – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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War Horses Book 1: ChevalierWar Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rande ‘Vandal’ VanDelle of the Chevaliers Private Calvary has helped maintain Main Battle Upright Tanks, or MBUs, long enough to become known as one of the fleets best maintainers. One night he decides to take one of the oldest MBUs out on a maintenance run. Halfway back he notes an enemy on the horizon. Completely taken back by the sudden attack, he scrambles just to stay alive to get back to base. He’s never used the weapons systems, just maintained them. Thankfully, as a result of his quick thinking, he is able to put his knowledge to use and in doing so, ends up surviving and saving many others’ lives as well. Unfortunately, the other MBU jockeys did not fare well after the attack. As the base finds themselves short jockeys, Vandal is recruited to fast track to become a jockey. The attacks don’t slow down though, and the stakes become even higher. As it all escalates, can he find the balance between cranking wrenches and running an MBU? Can he survive until the next contract?

This is my first time reading this author. I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of detail in the writing of the MBUs, the battles that took place, and the world building. I felt like I could see everything playing out in my mind. The characters were well written, and I loved how their relationships were portrayed as more of a family than just friends. The book was quick paced, and I didn’t want to put it down! Definitely, looking forward to reading the next installment.

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The Gauntlet (The Soppranaturale Series Book 1) by Ashley Pagano – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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The Gauntlet: The Soppranaturale SeriesThe Gauntlet: The Soppranaturale Series by Ashley Pagano
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Link thinks he is the last faerie in the world. He’s been looking for years for his other half and has given up ever finding her. Then one day, in walks Ommily. She is the missing half of their faerie pair, the epitome of protection for others like them. There’s just one hiccup… she has a fiancée. As Link helps her figure out exactly what she is and how she fits in at the Soppranaturale Hotel – where all otherworldly beings gather and thrive together- they are faced with some challenges. First and foremost, they have to survive together in The Gauntlet against the reigning champions, one of whom is Link’s jealous ex-girlfriend. Can they work together in a short amount of time? Will they be able to figure out how their powers complement each other’s in time to win The Gauntlet?

This is my first time reading this author. I found it to be a quick read that drew me in immediately. The characters were fleshed out pretty quickly and backstories were seamless with present time in the book. I didn’t want to put it down until I figured out what was going to happen. I feel like it was a good first book to a series and I am looking forward to reading more about Link and Ommily.

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Mafia Elite Series Box Set Volume 2 by Amy McKinley – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Mafia Elite Box Set: Volume TwoMafia Elite Box Set: Volume Two by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Savage Secrets:
There’s always been a pull between Elena and Marco. However, she has to go into hiding from the Russian mafia; leaving everyone behind thinking that she is dead. Marco finds out she’s alive and goes to retrieve her before the Russians can find her. To give her added protection, he marries her. As the heat on Elena ramps up, will they be able to find out why the Russians want her so bad? Can Marco protect her from them, if he finds out?

Ruthless Heir:
Luc doesn’t know that he is in line to be the next Brambilla BOSS. He also didn’t realize that his one-night stand, Summer, is his new executive assistant. When his accounts are drained and Summer looks guilty, he THINKS he knows what’s happening. Little does he know that he has inherited loads of money and found the one for whom he was made. But there is something else going on entirely with Summer. Can he crack her defenses and learn how he can best protect her in time? Can he convince her that he is worth her trust in time?

Collateral Damage:
Trey is the doctor in the Mafia Elite house. He works himself hard because of the guilt he carries over the untimely death of his late girlfriend. He knows it happened because of her association with him and his family and he can’t seem to forgive himself. At a hospital function, Hailey catches his eye. She is someone he could see himself with but balks at pushing it farther because of his last girlfriend. When Hailey is kidnapped out in front of the hospital and a ransom is asked for her return, Trey is asked to find her because of his Mafia ties. He has every intention of finding her and returning her. However, things go awry when not all is as it seems! Can he save the girl and protect his heart? Or will he lose his heart and possibly the girl?

Rivals:
Mia Tucci is the daughter of a NY Mafia boss that is straight up EVIL. She needs a champion to save her from her father’s evil plans for her. Nico La Rosa fills that need and more, he just doesn’t realize it… yet. When Mia offers him information to take down her father’s illegal schemes hinging on them marrying, he’s not sure he can pass it up. Will he take the plunge and make her his, in order to take down an evil mafia boss? Or instead, will he find that she is the perfect match for him?

This series is AMAZIING!! I have loved each book. The way the author writes about these people, it seems like they are very real, and their lives could be playing out right before my eyes. The relationships, the love, and their commitment they all have with each other, and their families are how I feel life should be. Pick this series up… you will not regret it!

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River Witch by Cheryl Burman – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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River WitchRiver Witch by Cheryl Burman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hester’s story begins when she is a young girl. She is the daughter of a farmer and granddaughter to healer. When she hears the river and its nymphs talking to her, inviting her to come play, a man named Aaron stops her from going into the river. He too, can hear the river and her nymphs. Hester’s father often compares her to his grandmother with such fondness of tone, that she pursues Aaron and asks him to teach her how to use flowers and herbs to help heal people and animals. Unbeknownst to her family, she learns and excels in her pursuit of knowledge over many years. After a tragedy strikes the family, they are forced to move to town, away from the river and its callings. Hester feels her soul withering because she is so far from the river and Aaron. Her mother and brothers set a scheme to marry her off to a fisherman to avoid any gossip surrounding Hester and her strange behaviours. All Hallow’s Eve changes everything for Hester, though. She determines to take control of her life. When she has to deal with the consequence of her actions, however, she finds that Aaron has left town, her wedding is looming, and she feels lost. She hears the river telling her to “Be strong. Do what you have to do.”So she does. She leaves the relative safety of her home and sets out on her own path. The challenges that she faces alone and overcomes is heartening and heartbreaking all at the same time. Can she make it alone? Will the river help her? Protect her? Or will it abandon her like she feels Aaron and her family has?

This is my first time reading this author. I truly enjoyed the story. I was drawn into the story almost instantly. The struggles of the time period were well written, as were the family dynamics and strife. I couldn’t help but love Hester and root for her. Once she knew what she wanted, she went for it and unapologetically pursued it. I was glad that everything came back around for her in the end and she felt the support of her community after feeling abandoned for so long. The fact that it is loosely based on a true story, only makes it that much sweeter of a read.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Notebook Mysteries Haunted ChristmasNotebook Mysteries Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Emma is asked by a fellow coworker to prove his father’s death was murder. His family has an obsession with Dicken’s “A Christmas Carol” which becomes apparent as soon as they visit the house. It also adds some extra spooky happenings that seem very similar to the tale. As they prepare for Christmas, Emma brings in her crew to help get to the bottom of this mystery. Can they solve it before the next victim is claimed?

This book series is such an enjoyable read! Each book has its own twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. I always think I know what is coming but it’s never as black and white. I enjoy reading about Emma and her family and how they help others. They have such compassionate hearts for others and the author does an excellent job conveying that to their readers. Looking forward to the next installment!

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Master Romano (Masters of the Consulate Book 4) by Sylvia Black – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Master RomanoMaster Romano by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Romano finds himself on the “questionable loyalty” list with the Consulate of vampires. Tasked with finding where the traitor has escaped to and dealing with the local witches in his territory, he finds himself intrigued with Raven- the niece of their biggest witch rival. When Raven’s sister and aunt are taken from the local bar and Romano sees Raven being drugged and dragged off too, he steps in and saves her. Once she recovers, they work together to find the last of her family. However, the distrust runs deep with her aunt and instead of being grateful, she becomes even more hostile. As things heat up, the traitor’s location becomes known, and in capturing the traitor, Raven is painted as the instigator. Romano has to scramble to clear her name before his boss calls for her death. Will they be able to clear her name? Can they find a way to bridge the gap between the witch and vampire community before all is lost? Or are they always destined to be enemies?

I like that the author veered away from the female being cut down and having to be changed to save her life. Raven is a young witch that just wants to have fun and is thrust into her power rather quickly. I liked that she is equal to Romano in power and surprises him with some of her tricks, too. This book ended in a big cliffhanger, and I am anxiously awaiting the last installment to tie all the things together!

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Master Trentino (Masters of the Consulate Book 3) by Sylvia Black – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Master TrentinoMaster Trentino by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Trentino is instantly intrigued by Angel from their very first encounter; despite meeting her by
breaking and entering into her house… When he returns to find out more about her, he stumbles upon her family being slaughtered. As she lies dying in his arms, her brother- who happens to be one of his mortal enemies- gives Trentino permission to do anything that could save her life; even though they have been raised to hate and fear vampires. When Angel wakes up “changed”, she struggles to make sense of what exactly happened, and how to reconcile all that she’s been taught about vampires. She’s pleasantly surprised that her previous ability to communicate with the dead has greatly increased. With the vampires in the middle of ferreting out a traitor in their midst, she finds her new abilities tested and pushed to the extreme. Can she come to terms with her new life in time to help Trentino find the traitor? Can she protect her heart from someone she was raised to fear?

I found this to be a different twist on how the previous books transitioned their ladies. I liked that Angel had to struggle a bit before she could come to terms with her family’s position on vampires and her brother knowingly giving permission for her to be changed. The depth of love for another was well written. The overall plot of the series is moving forward quickly. I was definitely surprised by who the traitor ends up being. I did NOT see it coming.

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Sessrúmnir (Antipodes Series Book 5) by T.S. Simons – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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

The book begins with Freya and Cam being at odds with each other. About the time that Freya decides to move on, tragedy strikes Freya’s children in their community and two others. Their friends take matters into their own hands and help a reconciliation happen because they need both of them to figure out how to protect what is theirs. As the team gathers up Freya’s scattered children, they meet up with unexpected friends, revisit the past, and find out how far they will go to protect each other.

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this series. I am sad to see it end, but I loved how everything was tied up in the end! Freya, Cam, Sorcha, and Illy are wonderful examples of friend/family relationships. They aren’t easy, they are messy, but in the end, they have each other’s backs. It was interesting to read about Freya- a normally strong character- show some cracks and have PTSD and anxiety issues that she had to learn how to cope with during their travels. T.S. Simons has done a phenomenal job with this series!

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Azreya, Aztec Priestess: An Illustrated Mythology Legend by Tricia Copeland, Illustrated by Matt Maes – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Azreya, Aztec PriestessAzreya, Aztec Priestess by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Azreya is a young girl born with a mark on her hand and a demon inside her. Her parents are convinced that she needs to be turned over to their priest, Nukpana, by age of three to protect them from her. They turn her over and expect to see her again, however, that is not what happens. Once they turn her over, Nukpana takes over her training and her life. As she grows, she begins to realize that he is just using her to increase his standing in the community. When Nukpana decides to only share part of Azreya’s vision concerning the Spanish and the Aztecs, she realizes that she must take matters into her own hands and runs away. But at the young age of 13, how will she convince others to take her seriously? Who can she trust? Will she be able to bring the Aztecs together in order to stand against the Spanish in time?

First of all, I really like this author! The characters are well written, and the story was like a movie playing in my head. I enjoyed learning about the Aztec culture and gods while reading about a girl that just wants to be loved. She’s thrown into a life she didn’t choose and is doing her best to keep the balance between an angry beast inside of her and the real-world struggles that surround her. She does find that balance and it was fascinating to read how she does.

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Kara, Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner Series Book 4) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner book 4)Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The saga of the Agneson family continues!! Cub, Kara, Sorven, Thorfinn, and Uncle Karl are all scattered far from each other and facing their own battles to survive. Cub finds himself becoming known as a strategist. Kara finds herself as a hired sword and her first love. Sorven finds out that his cousin doesn’t make the best decisions and that he’d be better off alone. Thorfinn finds himself trying to protect his sister and ends up paying the price of a revenge plot. Karl find himself with an unexpected bride, and an impending sea battle. The magic, battles and heartbreak abound in this story. The kids are quickly growing up and changing while Uncle Karl does his best to survive. Can they all survive their personal battles? Will they ever come back together as a family?

I enjoy this author’s work! Each book I find myself immediately pulled into the story and I don’t want to put them down until the end! The characters are all well written. Their struggles and how they work through them feel very real -as much as fantasy can. There are a few unexpected twists at the end that had me heartbroken for one sibling and worried for another. I am looking forward to the next installment so I can find out what happens next!

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The Crown of Stones: Magic-Scars (The Crown of Stones Book 2) by C.L. Schneider – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Magic-Scars (The Crown of Stones #2)Magic-Scars by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ian Troy has been captured, tortured, and drugged. The king and his father are at the center of him forgetting who he is and what all he has done. After he’s rescued and presumed dead by the latter, he slowly comes back to himself and what he finds isn’t to his liking. He has to come to terms with the things that he has done and also what has been done to him in order to find the power within himself to thwart the king and his father’s evil plans. Can he find his friends and keep them safe before they can be used against him? Can he find out how to harness the power of the crown of stones before his father?

This is a pretty intense book. Ian does some really awful things. Granted, some of them are not completely his fault, but he still has to pay the price of them. I feel like the author did a good job of walking him through coming to terms with who he is and what he’s done. He had to make some hard choices and pay for them. In a world where everyone seems to be out for themselves, Ian Troy seems to always be thinking of others more than himself. Thankfully, he has loyal friends that stick with him through the horror and violence.

Just so other readers know, there are several scenes that are explicit.

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Caim (Antipodes Series Book 4) by T.S. Simons – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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

I really enjoyed this book! It continues following the life that Cam and Freyja have built from her POV. There are plot twists that you don’t expect, and it keeps you reading to find out how it all ends. Just when you think The Collective can’t get any worse… they do, and you want them all to burn.

This series makes you think about your life and evaluate what is really important. Truly. Love this series! You FEEL the heartache and the triumphs of the characters to your core.

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Fairly Royal (The Fair Series Book 4) by Grace Grahme – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Fairly Royal (Fair, #4)Fairly Royal by Grace Grahme
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Philip is married to his station… He’s grown up with expectations heaped on his shoulders by his family and society. Every move he makes is scrutinized by the media. To be seen with him, is to be cast into the rumor mill of the papers. Anna, the sister of his best friend, is seen with him at an event and the pictures and rumors abound! However, she doesn’t shy away from the press or the rumors. Philip comes up with the idea to “pretend” to be together to shift the press’ focus off of him once they are consistently seen together. What he doesn’t know is that Anna has had a serious crush on him for YEARS! Can his scheme work without involving any broken hearts?

This was a fun read. I enjoyed reading about Anna and Philip and their lives. I am a sucker for anything Scottish, though! The dialogue in this contemporary love story was delightful. The author did a great job of writing these characters as if they were real people. I was drawn into the story immediately and didn’t want to put it down! I would read this author again!

Definitely an 18+ book.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Unexpected Outcomes (Notebook Mysteries Book 4) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Unexpected Outcomes (Notebook Mysteries book #4)Notebook Mysteries ~ Unexpected Outcomes by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book begins with a bang! Emma and Jeremy wake up after a train crash and have to ferret out the robbers they were seeking. Once found, they realize that there is more going on than just a simple robbery. The treachery runs deeper. They return home to some normalcy, only to find their fathers past has come back into town! With one father speculative on the newcomer and one welcoming, how will it all pan out? Can the new person be trusted? What will the fall out of their return cause? As the mysteries continue to roll in and be solved, the family finds themselves working together more and more to find the truth in all of their cases.

I enjoy reading these books! Emma and her family are all relatable characters. They are presented in a very down to earth manner and very believable. I like how they all have meetings and dinners together to discuss how to solve cases. And even when they can’t share the details, they still support each other the best that they can. As an added bonus, the author also puts the recipes they discuss in the book at the back!

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Ouroboros (Antipodes Book 3) by T.S. Simons – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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

So enjoyed this!! I did not see the twists coming AT ALL! But I enjoyed them nonetheless! I was happy to read from Freya’s viewpoint in this book! She saw things and experienced things that Cam didn’t and it was refreshing to see her old character come back out. She is pretty amazing!

The thought process to write this book must have been immense! Wonderful writing that I haven’t read in awhile! Thank you, T.S. Simons for putting this out into the world!

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Shake Down (First Coast Thriller Book 1) by Armand Rosamilia – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Shake DownShake Down by Armand Rosamilia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Clayton is a man that has made some really bad life decisions but is doing his best to correct his past mistakes. Growing up with a father that was well known for his criminal connections and prolific lifestyle wasn’t easy. He became a cop and was doing well, until his gambling problem cost him his job and his family. Now, three years later, he’s working for a repo company, keeping his head down, trying to win his family back, and get his job back in law enforcement. When his boss involves him in a boat repo of a drug cartel, he finds himself being approached by the FBI. And as if that wasn’t crazy enough, suddenly, his sister- that spells out trouble every time she’s around- is back in town. Between the FBI pursuing him, his sister’s cryptic conversations, and his dad coming up again, he’s not sure which way is up. Can Clayton-not Clay- help the FBI, and figure out his sister before all is lost? Or is this just the beginning of something greater than him?

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I could envision each character as the story played out. His boss and coworkers were all believable. The author did an excellent job writing the struggles of each character and their thought processes. I appreciated that Clayton started realizing that it wasn’t just the gambling that was the problem, but his selfishness and self-loathing that makes him unapproachable to others. When he really starts to look past himself and see others, that is when he truly starts to change and see what has been right in front of him for the last three years.

This is the first of many books, I hope!

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Jester by Brielle D. Porter – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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JesterJester by Brielle D. Porter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lisette grew up under the shadow of a father who was labeled a traitor after killing the king. When he is put to death before he could pass on his magic to Lisette, she feels the loss ten times over because she lives in Oasis- where magic rules. As she perfects sleight of hand that LOOKS like magic, she decides to enter into a competition to compete for the position of Jester to the Queen. However, her biggest competitor, Luc, has REAL magic. Lisette realizes very quickly that she will do anything to gain magic and fame. The farther she makes it, the more she has to lose, though. When she is approached with information concerning the death of the king not being at the hand of her father, everything changes. Can she trust the source of this information? Could it be true? Will the cost of the truth be her undoing?

I really enjoyed reading this story. It follows a girl that wants to be recognized as the best because she feels like she’s never been good enough. In her pursuit of being the best, she begins to make friends in places that she doesn’t expect. In the end, she realizes what is worth keeping and what is worth letting go. Her path isn’t easy, and she doesn’t always pick the right choice, but the ending is perfect!

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This Time Around by Jane Suen – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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This Time AroundThis Time Around by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Katie broke Chase’s heart after high school. He thought she was his forever and she had other plans. Fast forward 10 years and Katie has all that she wanted but is left feeling empty. Chase is now the father of his orphaned nephew and still a little bitter over Katie breaking his heart. When they both get paired up as each other’s plus one at a wedding, all the feelings begin to resurface. Can Chase forgive Katie for hurting him? Can she see past the work-driven, empty life she leads to find love again?

This is a sweet, quick read! I was pulled in immediately to the story and didn’t want to put it down until I knew how their story ended. The characters are relatable and down to earth. I would read another book by this author!

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The Liminal Space (Antipodes Book 2) by T.S. Simons – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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The Liminal Space (Antipodes #2)The Liminal Space by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a book! So much information is given in this book…. This is a book that you read and you feel like you are learning but you don’t know it because it is so enjoyable. The author does a tremendous job of describing Cam’s personal struggles and his inherent loyalty to his family. I also love that there are other characters lives that are drawn into the mix and their backstory is given.

This book hits you in all the feels! You’ll feel joy, sadness, and deep grief. But the human spirit of hope is never extinguished! Can’t wait for the next one!

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Rivals (Mafia Elite Book 7) by Amy McKinley – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Rivals (Mafia Elite, #7)Rivals by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mia Tucci is the daughter of a NY Mafia boss that is straight up EVIL. She needs a champion to save her from her father’s evil plans for her. Nico La Rosa fills that need and more, he just doesn’t realize it… yet. When Mia offers him information to take down her father’s illegal schemes hinging on them marrying, he’s not sure he can pass it up. Will he take the plunge and make her his, in order to take down an evil mafia boss? Or instead, will he find that she is the perfect match for him?

This is the last of the Chicago Mafia series… I am sad to see this series end, but I am looking forward to the cameos with the NY Mafia! I really would have liked this story to have been longer, but honestly, it’s because I didn’t want it to end. Mia is starved for family and what better family to be a part of then the Chicago Mafia family? I have thoroughly enjoyed reading about how these characters treat their women with respect and how deeply they love each other. There are no damsels in distress either; they are all fierce and loyal!

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Twilight’s Spy (Twilight Realm Trilogy Book 1.5) by K.M. Wray – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Twilight's SpyTwilight’s Spy by K.M. Wray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Yarissa thinks she can complete her spy training and then become a part of the Elite squad to protect the Twilight realm from ever being taken over again. However, her plans don’t go quite as planned when she is asked by King Pheonix to help with a mission that no elf has ever come back from… find Princess Zyanna in the Night realm where she was secreted away to for protection. Can Yarissa come to terms with her magic that she sees as useless in a fight? Will she be able to locate the princess before her cover is blown?

This is a quick, fun read! Yarissa has a lot of doubt in herself and her future. I enjoyed reading about how she slowly comes to terms with her magic and uses it to her advantage. As she gains confidence in herself, she becomes more self-assured and finds help in places she wasn’t expecting to find help. This seems to be a perfect gap book for the second book in this series. I am looking forward to reading the next book!!

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Love in the Roses (Love Through the Ages Book 1) by TL Clark – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Love in the RosesLove in the Roses by T.L. Clark
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Isabel is promised to a man that she has never met. She has a lot of insecurities about marrying a man she has never laid eyes on, but she trusts her father to make the best decision for her. She follows through with the marriage despite her doubts as to which side of the War of the Roses he is on. Needless to say, she is pleasantly surprised that her husband is honest with her and even though there are miscommunications along the way, they come to an understanding with each other. As the story follows the first year of their marriage, they learn together how best to serve their people.

I enjoyed this read depicting life in the 15th century during the War of the Roses. I appreciated that the author was up front about the history and that it was their perspective of how things might have played out if this story had happened. For me, it was fascinating how many holidays and celebrations the people had in 15th century England! Reading about how Isabel worked through new responsibilities and balanced it all while being so young was entertaining.

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny Series Book 1) by Theresa Van Spankeren- Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny # 1)Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Juliana is a young woman whose one, true love is the help’s son, Adam. Her father has higher aspirations for her though and forbids her to marry Adam but instead marries her off to Gregory! Unfortunately, he turns out to be an awful, and extremely abusive husband. When she doesn’t provide him with a male heir, his threats turn toward their daughter, Marie. One fateful night, Gregory crosses the line and murders their daughter in front of Juliana and almost kills her as well. However, as fate should have it, her rescue comes in the form of Samuel, a vampire. He offers her a different kind of life; one of freedom, power, and safety in friends, known as a Ka-Tet. She chooses this life but finds that she still has a lot of traumas to deal with from her past. Slowly she comes to terms with her choice, only to find out there is a threat to it all, too. Valentino is Samuel’s sworn enemy and will do everything in his power to eliminate their Ka-Tet. Can she come into her own power soon enough to help her friends that have given her freedom that she used to only dream about? Can she learn to love again despite her horrible past?

This is a very fast-paced read. There’s a lot of action, conflicts, and some romance thrown in there. It was hard for me to connect to Juliana because of her abusive background. I imagine that this would be very triggering for people who do have that kind of history in their lives. I did feel like the author did a good job conveying the abuse, the emotions, and the fall out of said abuse. The story drew me in rather quickly and before I knew it, the book was over! Looking forward to book 2!

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny Book 2) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny, #2)Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book finds Juliana’s story continuing 70 years after book 1. The Ka-Tet is still together, she and Adam are still together, and everything seems to be going strong. However, Valentino is determined to kill Samuel and the Resistance group. The Ka-Tet finds themselves caught between England and Spain’s political unrest and Valentino’s relentless attempts to end them. As the hits keep on coming, Juliana begins to hear a voice she hasn’t heard in a very long time. She wonders if she is slowly going crazy or if what the voice tells her is true of her. A shocking twist at the end of the book leaves her and the Ka-Tet reeling. Can they ever recover? Or has Valentino finally beaten them all?

This was fast paced for a second book in a series! Usually, second books are more filling in information that the first book only touched on. The author did an excellent job of balancing both the information side and the action side to the story. I am truly hoping book three sorts out all the unexpected twists this book dealt out!

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The Vardoger Boy (The Forerunner Saga Book 2) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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The Vardoger BoyThe Vardoger Boy by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This addition of the Agneson Clan adventures doesn’t disappoint! The Vikings are called together to defend their way of life. Agne and his oldest son, Cub, are called to battle and thus leave the family homestead. Gurid is left to defend the homestead with Kara and Sorven in her husband’s absence. Thorfinn has left with his Uncle Karl to fulfill his uncle’s oath to return for his men. As the men prepare for battle, Cub learns the ins and outs of battle. A blood feud comes to the homestead and the family is forced to flee to extended family for protection. Thorfinn finds himself dealing with a mast troll, a kelp man, and a dark elf that feeds the were-bear man his uncle must fight. Can the family survive the many trials before them? Will the Vikings succeed in their push for life to stay the same? Can Gurid get her family to safety before the blood feud catches up to them?

This is an exciting book! I did not want to put it down until I found out how things turned out. So many things are happening all at once that I couldn’t help but be sucked into the year 878 and feel immersed in Danelaw England’s struggles. I really like this series!

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The Cave of Rúin Ársa (The Cross of Ciaran Book 3) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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The Cave of Ruin ArsaThe Cave of Ruin Arsa by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the third book in the series, and it was an excellent addition! Ciaran and Caitlin are expecting twins and Aodhan is preparing to marry Niamh. Both are moving on with their lives like they weren’t born in the fifth century, but the past doesn’t stay buried for long. Ruadhan, their chief priest, comes back to haunt their dreams and appear periodically to them. As the brothers do their best to decipher the dreams, look for an empty tomb that could be Ruadhan’s, and protect their families from a possible devout priest of the goddess, they find themselves doubting what defies reality despite their very presence doing the same. Is the chief priest out for revenge? Is he even alive? Or are they both slowly losing touch with reality?

I am enjoying reading about these fifth century priests learning the idioms of the English language, navigating the “modern” times, and balancing their previous life with the one they are living now. The characters are all written realistically in the sense that I could see them being alive and well today. I love Ireland and how the author writes about the country and the characters. That’s what keeps bringing me back to this series!

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