Bake Off is book 2 of the Bake Believe series, and should be read in order. There is a lot of background information and ground work laid in the first book that would be needed to fully understand and enjoy Bake Off. While the book is written for children, I am an adult and thoroughly enjoyed it. I love the writing style, it was very realistic. There is a lot of sarcasm and phrases used, that makes it really seem like it is written by a 14 year old. The great Grandma, GG, is very well written. Her phrases are written in broken English, realistic of the fact that she is from France. The characters are all well written and I grew to love them all. Upon writing this review, I see that this is going to be a trilogy- yay! I cant wait to read another in the series. I plan to pass this book to my pre-teen daughter to read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-05-19 07:37:502022-05-19 07:37:50Bake Off (Bake Believe Series Book 2) by Cori Cooper – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Collateral Damage is a great book just like all the others in the series, HIGHLY recommend. I love this series and can’t wait for the next installment. This book focuses on Trey and Hailey, alternating point of view. I like that Hailey is a normal girl, not born into the Mafia, yet fits in perfectly into their lifestyle. Trey is not one of the bosses, but still involved, serving as their doctor, and the little brother to the new Boss. He is very sweet and reasonable, understanding Hailey and her feelings, and giving her time to explain disagreements. This book had a good balance of romance and suspense. There were some surprises along the way, with some of the supporting characters (read to see what I mean). I wish there was more closure with Justin, I felt like a lot was left hanging when it came to him. I also hoped for some peace between Hailey and her mom, but still did not take away from the book, just wishful thinking.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-05-14 07:36:122022-05-14 07:36:12Collateral Damage (Mafia Elite Series Book 6) by Amy McKinley – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
The Scent of Gardenias was very well written for the time period. It really felt like I was in the 40s. There were little details that really made it come to life. I loved the parts with the sticks of gum-There were a couple parts where Margaret talked about splitting sticks of gum in half, because it was a treat and to make it last. It really helped the readers understand their life, and the poverty she lived in. I felt for bad for Margaret. She was raised poor and wanted nothing more than to get away from that life and her controlling father. But she was young and naïve and too quick to “fall in love” – declaring so after just a couple times of meeting a boy/man. I was happy that she never gave up, and continued to work hard to raise her daughters. The characters were all well written and I enjoyed watching them all grow up throughout the book. I like how things were implied without outright saying them (references to certain people and their professions- I don’t want to ruin anything so keeping it very vague) I love that it was loosely based on true events- if you read the part after the story the author describes how she based the story and characters on her mother and events she went through.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-05-09 07:57:542022-05-09 07:57:54The Scent of Gardenias by Lorraine Haas – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Toby is a cute book for kids and adults. I love that it was written from the dog’s point of view. I wish it had more art work, but perhaps that is a downfall of an e-book. I read it to my 6 year old who really enjoyed it. It was a bit long to hold his interest, so we spread it over a couple days. The cat makes me think of the evil cats from Lady and the Tramp. Teasing the dog to get him in trouble. We laughed a couple times, as Toby is a very snarky and sarcastic little dog. My son felt so sad for Toby when he got in trouble, saying Poor puppy!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-05-05 07:52:132022-05-05 07:52:13Toby: The (Mostly) True Story of a Former Bad Dog by Stephanie Wilson Peterson – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Unabridged is a cute Romance story, about seconds chances. I really loved both of the main characters. The supporting characters are well developed too. I love the friendship between Angelina and her work BFF. The story was a good balance of sweet, funny and thrill. I was a little sad about the gap between the ending of the actual book and the epilogue. I felt like the ending was left hanging… the next book in the series doesn’t seem like it continues but I hope it does at least a little bit.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-04-28 08:03:232022-04-28 08:03:23Unabridged (Lovestruck Series Book 2) by Melinda De Ross – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Finding Melodie was a cute short book. I loved the characters and the happily ever after. Their friendship was fun to read about, with their playful banter and innocent flirting. They are the most unlikely pair, but their friendship works. Melodie has a very laid back, fun personality. She is a street musician during the day and works at a bar at night. Issac is a serious guy who works a 9 to 5 in a bank, and wears suits daily. Melodie is so selfless, she helps Issac try to win back his girlfriend, even though she has a secret crush on him. I love the ending for Katy- Karma sucks sometimes huh. I liked that the story transitioned to include Issac’s POV midway through the story. The Wedding seemed much longer than Finding Melodie, and they almost could have been a story together. I’m glad I read them as a box together, because I know I wouldn’t have wanted to stop after Finding Melodie. While it was a predictable romance, I still loved it. The story is cute and the ending was perfect.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-04-21 07:46:252022-04-21 07:46:25Finding Melodie and The Wedding Special Boxset by Laura Rossi – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
The whole Reigning Hearts series is amazing, each can be enjoyed as a stand alone series. They are all romance novels with loveable characters you quickly get attached to. I love this series because they are romantic stories that are kept clean, and allow the readers to get to know the characters individually and together. Highly recommend them.
Run to the Sea- The story was so sweet and while it had some sad moments, the happily ever after was appreciated. This is the story of Emeline Fischer and Thomas Capshaw. They were best friends as children, and lost touch after Thomas, or Cappy, went to college. He finds himself lonely and trapped in New York City, stuck in a job he doesn’t enjoy and in a relationship with a woman he doesn’t love. He returns home to settle his grandfather’s estate after he passed away, and ran into Emeline, or Emmy, on his first day back home. Their reunion was not pretty, and she all but storms out. She is a waitress in a diner, as well as works various jobs throughout town. She is the epitome of a struggling artist, painting in all her free time. But, destiny quickly brings them back together and the friends reunite. With their shared passion of art, and a box of photographs left behind from Thomas’s famous photographer grandfather, they become best friends again. Read the story to uncover their love for each other and steps they take to make things work. Stars Fall From the Sky- While it does follow Run to the Sea, it could be a stand alone book. The characters overlap, but this is a full story, with enough detail that you would still enjoy it. It is a beautiful story of second chances and finding love again after loss. The story follows Ginger McCormick after the loss of her high school sweetheart husband. If it weren’t for her newborn daughter, she probably wouldn’t even get out of bed in the morning. She slowly finds her way out of grief, and back into living her life. Much from the help of Jonathan Walden, the town doctor. He too is grieving the loss of his wife earlier in the year. They lean on each other to cope and mend their broken hearts. They hit it off straight away, and developed a quick friendship. But it seemed fate kept bringing them together. Perhaps each other are just what they need to move on and love again. There is a shocker toward the end, but without giving it away, I’ll just say, I did NOT see that one coming! A Sun So Bright- This book is the story of Fiona Merrill and Chris Ballard. Fiona is a billionaire heiress, who was handed life on a silver platter. Her dad was loaded and never spared an expense to show his love for his only daughter. Now that he’s passed, she spends her days as a socialite, going to lunch with her rich friends, or charity dinners. She has been single for too long, so when fate bring her and Chris back together, she takes matters into her own hands and hires him as her plus one. Chris comes from an entirely different world. Very blue collar, bar tender, and son of a cop. He has worked hard his entire life and cannot be a kept man. As the chemistry heats up, they both are left to decide what they are willing to compromise. I love the different view of this story. It allows us to see a whole different side of Fiona. In the previous books she comes off as a spoiled rich kid, which she is. However, she is also portrayed as a complete and total B. I actually loved her by the end of this book, and it was nice to see her develop and mature as the story progressed. The chemistry between her and Chris is off the charts I’ll See You Again- This book is an opposite’s attract romance book about a Scottish rockstar and a small town wedding planner. They are complete opposites and I was happy to see them both able to pursue their dreams despite being on totally different paths when they meet. I love the theme of the book, and the characters. It is a sweet romantic, love at first sight book. There is some happy parts and some really sad parts, so be prepared with kleenex for this roller coaster ride. The book has a happily ever after, but it takes a bit to get there. A Cold Creek Christmas- This was a cute quick story to get you in the Christmas spirit. The book focuses on Amber, bar owner and not a fan of the holiday and Giovanni (Geo) who loves the holidays. He has a young daughter, so he lays the Christmas spirit on thick. The two quickly hit it off, much to the delight of Gio’s grandmother, who is trying to play matchmaker between the two. I did enjoy the story and will be reading more by the author. My one complaint was the steamy scene… the words chosen were very… high school… and made me chuckle. But it didn’t take away from the story at all. I was glad to have a happily ever after.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-04-21 07:45:562022-04-21 07:45:56Reigning Hearts: The Complete Series (Books 1-5) by KG Fletcher – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
The Last Cabin Girl drew me in just from the cover, and once I read the description, I knew I wanted to read it. It lived up to the description of “psychological mystery crime thriller.” I did not want to put it down, and was shocked by the way the story turned out. I totally did NOT see that coming (tread lightly, as I don’t want to give it away) but holy wowzers. I love that the book was so current, taking place during the pandemic of the last couple of years. It was interesting to see someone’s perspective of it before and as it unfolded. The story telling was vivid and I was able to picture the setting and characters. I FELT Josie’s fear- excellent writing! I like that all the characters played a roll and became important in their own way, at one point throughout the story. We didn’t “meet” anyone by chance. Read the afterward, after the ending. It was eye opening.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-04-18 07:54:012022-04-18 07:54:01The Last Cabin Girl (Detective Josie Thompson Series) by Tom Swyers – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
The Sound of Murder is the first book in the Musical Murder Mystery series. For a good part of the book, I thought there was for sure another book before it… There is a lot of references to past events and a previous murder Ruby was part of. After some research, I found that it is part of another series, by the same author, and now Ruby is getting her own series. I am curious to read the other book, as there is a lot of references to it and its main character Sunshine. This book made me laugh a lot, which I did not expect. The characters Ruby and Nova are great, and I could really envision them. Ruby is very quirky and not your typical lead character, but I loved her even more for it! I look forward to reading the next book, as well as the prequel.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-04-07 07:42:282022-04-07 07:42:28The Sound of Murder (Musical Murder Mystery Series) by K.L. Montgomery – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Changes and Challenges is the 3rd book in the Notebook Mysteries series. I did not read the first book, but I did read the 2nd book. You could probably read this as a stand alone book, as it is a solid storyline. The characters do overlap, but their relationships are well enough explained to understand who is who. I really enjoyed this book. I like that Emma is a strong brilliant female, in a time where the world was led by males. While it is probably not the most accurate, in terms of international travel and sending wires as often as she does (that was expensive in the 1800s and only for the rich…) but that aside, it is a very good book. This book has a LOT going on, and I feel like it could almost have been 2 books, but it worked well. Emma is on another adventure, playing detective with her boyfriend Jeremy and her ex and now friend Tony. I hope there is another book, because I want to see how things go with the new house and hope there is more development on Emma’s sister and brother in law.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-04-07 07:42:112022-04-07 07:42:11Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges (Notebook Mysteries Book 3) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Ruthless Heir is the 5th book in the Mafia Elite series. Like all the others, it was ah-mazing. I was a little confused at first how the characters fit into the story, as neither seemed to be related. However, it all came together and turned out to be another great addition. I love that the characters are strong and independent on their own, and when together they are even stronger. There were a couple of parts that made me laugh out loud. The chemistry between Luc and Summer was strong, and I love how they fit into the couples from the Five Families. I cant wait for the next book in the series and am super stoked to see there are 2 more to come!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-03-31 07:51:252022-03-31 07:51:25Ruthless Heir (Mafia Elite Book 5) by Amy McKinley – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Mermaid and the Rainbow is part of the Mermaid Science books. I read this book to my 5 year old son, who enjoyed it. The art work is bright and colorful, and works wonderfully with the story. The tricks are cool, and we want to try the rainbow one, since it was new to us. I like that the story explained how the tricks worked, as well as showed them in the illustrations. Overall, a cute and educational book, appropriate for younger elementary kiddos.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-03-21 08:19:042022-03-21 08:19:04Mermaid and the Rainbow: Mermaid Science by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
The Killer Jack Mystery is part of the J.D Pierson Case Files series. It is the first book I have read, but I really enjoyed it and will read the others. The book is well written, with good characters and maintained mystery throughout. It is not very long, but seemed appropriate- I didn’t feel like it ended suddenly or was rushed. The book follows Jenny, as she fills in for her father, a Private Investigator in the early to mid 1900s. She is asked to check in on her cousin, who may be caught up with some bad people. That quickly escalates to million dollar thefts, murder and a whole string of lies and mystery. I love the characters, as Jenny is a strong independent woman, in a time where it is not common. I look forward to see what will come next, after her dad returns home. Highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mystery and crime. There is a cliff hanger at the end, that I was surprised to know it was based on a true story. I can’t wait to read the next book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-03-15 07:32:252022-03-15 07:32:25The Killer Jack Mystery (The J.D. Pierson Case Files) by C.H. Sessums – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
The Ghastly Gumball is a quick book, but jam packed with content. It is pretty lighthearted, that will make you chuckle. I was a little bummed when I realized the book wasn’t part of the Life is Hell series (I just assumed due to similar cover art). But despite having a whole new set of characters, I loved the book. I honestly don’t know how the author comes up with these things! I am not typically a fan of the paranormal, so maybe these things are known creatures, but I haven’t heard of most of them. But that doesn’t matter, because the imagery is so great, that I am able to clearly “see” the characters. This book ended much shorter than I excepted, but it had a good ending, things being wrapped up nicely. I would love to see this become a series, as I think Brixley has a story hidden in there- I want to know more about her powers and her on again off again girlfriend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-03-10 07:36:042022-03-10 07:36:04The Ghastly Gumball by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Lingering Spirits is the 4th book in the Soul Connection series. It shouldn’t be read alone, as you likely wont understand it. While this book focus’s on new characters Hope and Russ, the groundwork has been laid in the previous 3 books. The characters all build upon each other and are very close friends/family that work together. Each of them have their own past that has lead them to where they are today, which is not a simple explaination. This is a very interesting story, unlike anything I have read before. It is filled with paranormal, including talking to ghosts, having premenitions, telepathy abilities, out of body experiences, and more. I was really into this book, even more than the others. I stayed up far too late to finish it, but it was so worth it. I can’t wait until the next book, as the groundwork was already laid for it. I was left disappointed that we didn’t get to know what it was leading to, but at the same time, I look forward to the next book. The characters are all ah-mazing. Hope is a voice inside Russ’s head for months before they actually meet. He thinks he is going crazy, and doesn’t understand. But, based on his friends and their abilities, he keeps an open mind. This book will give you all the feels!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-03-07 07:42:302022-03-07 07:42:30Lingering Spirits (Soul Connection Book 4) by Nikki Lynn Barrett – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Seven Strengths: A Tale from Turaset is a prequel to the Industrial Age trilogy. It is the first I have read, but likely will continue reading. It took me a while to get into the story, as the first 1/3 or so wasn’t that interesting to me. After the groundwork was set, then I started to get hooked. It is a short story, that I read in a day or two. It tells the coming of age story of Celeste, in another time. Celeste is raised in the foothills, with limited technology, no electricity or cars, etc. Her life is filled with hard work and she longs to go to the City’s and see how the other half lives. She finally gets her wish, and attends school for two years, experiencing city life, both good and bad. When she returns back home for a quick trip, she is able to compare the two “lives” she’s been living. Earning a greater understanding to both lives, and weigh her options. Her family has secret powers, which may put her families lives at risk. The book ends in somewhat of a cliff hanger, and I look forward to seeing what comes next for Celeste and her friends and family.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-03-03 07:34:172022-03-03 07:34:17Seven Strengths: A Tale from Turaset (The Industrial Age) by P.L. Tavormina – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
I was anxiously awaiting Depending On You’s release date, because it sounded so good! I am glad I read it, and didn’t have to wait any longer. This book was so intense and had a lot going on, and emotions ran high. It had some lighter funny parts, but overall, it was a pretty intense story. The ending got a little cheesy, after school special feeling to me, especially considering how intense the first half was. This book is the telling of two best friends, and how one night filled changed their entire lives. They didn’t understand the power of that night, for nearly 20 years afterwards. We alternate between Cate and Patti’s telling of their senior year, and present day. The transition was done smoothly and easy to follow. There was a lot of hard situations in this story (death, drugs, alcohol, rape, etc) so reader discretion. But, if you aren’t triggered by those, I HIGHLY recommend this book. It kept me hooked and I read the whole thing within 2 days. I look forward to more by this author!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-02-23 22:47:412022-02-23 22:47:41Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
I loved the Worry Knot. I thought it would be good for my middle schooler, but wanted to read it myself first, and make sure it was appropriate for her age. It is rated as a 10-18 year old range, but I have in my 30s and loved it. The book focus’s on Rourke, a 7th grader with a big heart. He cares so big for others, it causes him to constantly have a “knot of worry” in the pit of his stomach. The ending had me in near tears, but I love the meaning behind the story. It lets us know how life can be for kids, when the have the weight of the world on their shoulders. Rourke is faced with even more hardship, having a sibling with special needs, and friends with heavy problems of their own. I highly recommend this book for middle and high school, as well as adults. I really enjoyed it, and will look for more from this author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-02-21 07:59:432022-03-02 15:11:59The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
I debated on reading A Bride for Noah for a couple days, before finally downloading it. I am glad I chose to read it, because I really enjoyed it. The summary of the story caught my attention, but the cover art made it seem like it would be really old fashioned. While the story did take place in an earlier time, it didn’t feel like an old western. I look forward to reading more in the series, as I assume they are going to be about Noah’s brothers. This book is the story of 2 young people forced into a marriage of convenience. Noah’s father passed away and made it a condition in his will that Noah must marry to keep his land. Mary is stuck between a rock and a hard place, and chooses to marry a complete stranger, rather than the man of her father’s choosing. I was very happy with the ending, because for a while, I didn’t know which direction the story would go. I don’t want to give anything away, but recommend this book. Its super short, but has a lot of content.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-02-17 07:36:182022-02-17 07:36:18A Bride for Noah (Brides of Broken Arrow) by Cheryl Wright – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
A Hundred Wishes is part of the Band of Sisters series. I haven’t read any of the others, but I likely will. I really enjoyed this book and the writing style. While it was narrated by a 3rd person perspective, there are parts that are more focused on each character and their feelings. I like that it was romantic, and had some hot scenes, but wasn’t overly graphic and raunchy. The developing relationship between Gina and Bryce was sweet. The characters are very real and down to earth. Their feelings and problems are realistic. I like the bond Gina has with her “sisters” and Bryce with his friends and family. There are parts that made me laugh and nearly cry. The ending though, really? REALLY?! How could you do that to us??? Now I NEED to read the next book for sure!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-02-10 07:07:452022-02-10 07:07:45A Hundred Wishes (Band of Sisters) by Marianne Rice – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Savage Secrets is a very fitting title for the 4th book in the Mafia Elite series. There was so much going on in this book that caught me off guard. It is action packed, and lots of surprised and twists. I loved it. While the book mainly focuses on Elena and Marco, there is added details to the other family members along the way. While you probably could read the book out of the series, I wouldn’t recommend it. They are all wonderful, and the characters and their stories overlap. The Five Families are all married into each other, in this new generation Chicago mafia series. The characters are great, and I love that the women are strong independent women, with an amazing support system for each other. At the same time, the men have a softer side that shows when around their sisters or wives. I can’t wait to finish the series, as I’m totally hooked.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-02-03 07:45:492022-02-03 07:45:49Savage Secrets (Mafia Elite, book 4) by Amy McKinley – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Sinful Vow is the first book in the Dark Mafia Sins series. I have read book 2, and didn’t even realize this was from the same series until the very end. So clearly, I like this series, and now I want to read them all. They don’t have to be read in order, and can be enjoyed as stand alone. I was back and forth on if I wanted to read this book- I didn’t like the idea of Luca “stealing” Aly, but I love reading Mafia romance books. I am glad I took the chance, because it wasn’t as gruesome and awful of an event as it sounds. I really liked the development of the characters, and their relationship. I don’t want to give things away, but there is more to the story than the brief description lets on. While Luca is a mobster, killer, criminal, etc, he is also kind of sweet. Aly is strong and I love the life she built for herself. Highly recommend this book (and series) and can’t wait to get the next book in my hands.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-01-31 08:10:582022-01-31 08:10:58Sinful Vow (Dark Mafia Sins, book 1) by Emily Bowie – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Wild Hare’s Daughter was so much better than I expected! This is a new story to me, and I didn’t read the first book in the series, Wild Hare. That being said, this book can (and was) enjoyed without feeling like I was missing something. I was pleasantly surprised to learn it was told from the main character’s point of view, and her DAD’s. More often that not, when we hear a story about a daughter, the focus is on the mother. I really liked this book, it was catchy. The characters were very personable and their relationships real and down to earth. You can feel their personality shining through with their mannerisms and thoughts and language. I really connected and now will go back and read the first book. I will say, I don’t love the cover art- it didn’t draw me in, and now really looking at it, I see so much more than just blue. Highly recommend, and look forward for more.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-01-27 07:42:292022-01-27 07:42:29Wild Hare’s Daughter (Wild Hares) by Laura Koerber – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
I was happy to see another book in the More Family Saga. Face the Fire was not my favorite in the series, but it was still a good continuation. The story picks up shortly after the previous book left off- with Miles and Bella still newly weds and managing life after the birth of their twins. They are listed as stand alone books, but I think you should read them all to get a full story. Miles has a unique gift, better explained in early books, and their relationship and overall family dynamic is built upon. I felt like this story had too much focus on external characters, mainly Pharroh. Pharroh is an artist within Ari Music, and Bella is his handler, so to speak. He develops a crush on her, and drama ensues. The book had a good ending, wrapping everything up nicely. I hope to have the next book focus on the twins.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-01-20 07:55:472022-01-20 07:55:47Face the Fire (Moore Family Saga Book 5) by Michele Sims – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Apocalypse Thoughts was a great book, I didn’t want to put it down. It is the 2nd book in the Pox Series, but I didn’t read the first. I was worried I wouldn’t understand what was going on, but that was not the case at all. The author did a great job filling the book with so much vivid detail. Think of it as COVID 19 times combined with every zombie movie out there… but with humor. The book follows a group of teens/early 20s as they navigate through the Appalachian trail during an apocalypse. The book is told from Kella’s point of view and I love the way she describes things. With her on the adventure is her brother and her cousin. Along the way they join up with a couple other people, who leave, but reconnect. The book is fascinating and I love the imagery. I was able to envision what the kids are going through, and the terms they came up with perfectly fit what we are “seeing.” The ending was a total cliff hanger, which was pretty upsetting to me. I kept looking at what I had left, and where the kids were on their journey, and thought it would wrap up nicely. Wrong. There better be another book ASAP!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-01-13 07:52:022022-01-13 07:52:02Apocalypse Thoughts (The Pox Series Book 5) by Kendra Griffin – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Swipe Right to Bite is the most recent book in the New Orleans Nocturnes series, but can be enjoyed freestanding. This series has overlapping characters, but they are all written in a way that you can read independently. I love this book, it is funny and kept me hooked. This is the most… adult themed… out of the series, since the main characters are Succubus and Incubus, which are sexual by nature. So reader beware, mature audiences. That aside, this book is hilarious. The author has a great sense of humor and the characters are wonderful. Katrina is independent and fun. I was happy to see Gabe was a nice guy, apparently nice guy demons are a thing… Their relationship has a funny start, and they quickly go from enemies to friends to lovers. They are very witty and this book puts a paranormal twist on a common love story. Highly recommend and cant wait to read more in this series… I’m invested!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-01-03 08:12:022022-01-03 08:12:02Swipe Right to Bite (New Orleans Nocturnes Book 6) by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
States of Grace was a really good book, I was shocked to see it was the first by this author. It had a lot of hints toward previous events, I thought for sure I missed a book. I hope there is a prequel in the future, as I want to know more about Grace’s past. I want to know about her military time, her marriage/ex husband and her hitting rock bottom. It seems there is quite the backstory and I want to read more about it… However, that being said, the book was really good. I was hooked from start to finish and didn’t want to put it down. The book was action packed from start to finish. The characters are well developed and have good solid relationships. The author really did her research and it shows. The ending was not at all what I expected, which is good. I like when I don’t have it all figured out, and to be caught off guard. I highly recommend this book, and am super impressed for a first time author. I genuinely can’t wait to read more about Grace Locke!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2021-12-27 08:17:302021-12-27 08:17:30States of Grace (Grace Locke Mystery Series) by Mandy Miller – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Unlikely to Stay is the first book I have read in the Parker Lake series. I haven’t read the first two, but I am planning to go back and read them now. Unlikely to Stay is book 3 in the series, but it can certainly be read as a stand alone book. This one is amazing and has strong lovable characters. They are down to earth and relatable. The writing of this book makes me wish I lived in a small town. Unlikely to Stay follows Brant Billings, and Colleen Chandler, known to her friends as CC. CC grew up in the small town of Parker, Oklahoma. She was always known as the weird kid, due to her hippie parents, but she has grown up and now is her own business owner. She is the town hair stylist, and is still best friends with her childhood girl friends Annabelle and Breckin. She has been crushing on the town’s Nurse for 2 years but thinks he is way out of her league. Brant is now a successful nurse, running Parker’s Medical Clinic, but his life wasn’t always great. He had a druggie mom, that landed him in the foster care system, bouncing from home to home until he was 11. Then he was placed with Betty Billings, who took him in and changed his life for the better. Turning his life around, and adopting him. Due to his history, Brant has always kept to himself and avoided friendships and dating. He has been eyeballing the town’s hairstylist for 2 years, but thinks she hates him. CC and Brant’s friends play matchmaker, and set them up on a date. Now its up to them to put their past assumptions and fears aside, and see if they can finally have a meaningful relationship.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2021-12-23 14:34:292021-12-23 14:34:29Unlikely to Stay (Parker Lake) by Olivia Sherwood – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
A Cold Creek Christmas is part of the Reigning Hearts series, but can be read as a stand alone. There are mentions to past characters, but the story is independent. This was a cute quick story to get you in the Christmas spirit. The book focuses on Amber, bar owner and not a fan of the holiday and Giovanni (Geo) who loves the holidays. He has a young daughter, so he lays the Christmas spirit on thick. The two quickly hit it off, much to the delight of Gio’s grandmother, who is trying to play matchmaker between the two. I did enjoy the story and will be reading more by the author. My one complaint was the steamy scene… the words chosen were very… high school… and made me chuckle. But it didn’t take away from the story at all. I was glad to have a happily ever after.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2021-12-16 08:19:402021-12-16 08:19:40A Cold Creek Christmas (Reigning Hearts, Book 5) by KG Fletcher – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
No Names to be Given is probably the best book I have read all year. It really stuck with me, and I didn’t want to put it down. While it is not advertised as being a true story, it totally could be. This book follows 3 women throughout teen and adulthood, and focuses around the tragic event that ties them together. Three unwed girls in the 1960s, shamed into a maternity home by their parents, and forced to give their children up for adoption. They did not even get to see their child, not knowing if they had a daughter or a son. All 3 had different back stories, again very realistic. This book was especially captivating after the recent events surrounding abortion and women’s rights. I loved that all three women turned out to have wonderful lives, although very different. I did not expect all the events surrounding their adulthood and children, but it was perfect. I love how it all tied together in the end. Highly highly recommend this to all!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2021-12-11 08:16:072021-12-11 08:16:07No Names to Be Given by Julia Brewer Daily – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
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Bake Off by Cori Cooper
