Posts

Everyday Enchantments: Musings on Ordinary Magic & Daily Conjurings by Maria F. DeBlassie – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Everyday Enchantments: Musings on Ordinary Magic & Daily ConjuringsEveryday Enchantments: Musings on Ordinary Magic & Daily Conjurings by Maria F DeBlassie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Everyday Enchantments: Musings on Ordinary Magic & Daily Conjurings by Maria DeBlassie is a delightful little read, of short essays. Everyday Enchantments, isn’t exactly a self-help book, but more collection of personal essays from Maria DeBlassie, to demonstrate to readers the everyday experiences we have with magic, without noticing them. This book is very good for helping readers be more mindful, and more aware of the world around you, rather than stuck in your own head. I found it personally help me practice meditation and mindfulness, whilst being outdoors and active. It helped me gain a new appreciation for the smaller things in life and how truly beautiful this world can be, when we aren’t taking it for granted. Though this type of book isn’t something I usually reach for, it was definitely a refreshing and charming read. 4/5 stars.

View all my reviews

A Wicked Earl’s Widow (Once Upon A Widow Book 2) by Aubrey Wynne – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

The Wicked Earl's WidowThe Wicked Earl’s Widow by Aubrey Wynne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Wicked Earl’s Widow is the second book in Aubrey Wynne’s Once Upon a Widow series. A Wicked Earl’s Widow follows Eliza as she is plagued by abuse and loss; abused from her father and forced into a marriage she did not agree to. Accept her husband surprises her with his kindness and caring attitude. Together the two fall in love and prepare for the birth of their child, until his sudden death. Eliza is stuck with her terrible in-laws who do nothing but abuse her and plan to marry her off to the next available bachelor, so she is out of their hair. Then in walks Nathaniel, viscount of Pendleton, who is tall, dark, and charming. He’s smitten by Eliza and her head strong personality. I found both their characters to be very enjoyable and their relationship to be very wholesome, and cute. They blended very well together and made the story fly by, that I was almost sad to see it end. The story was not only engaging but also historically accurate to the time and the customs. I really enjoy Aubrey Wynne’s writing, and can’t wait to see what she produces next. 4/5 stars!

View all my reviews

Devil’s Backbone (Wild Beasts Series Book 5) by T. Birmingham – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Devil's Backbone (Wild Beasts Series Book 5)Devil’s Backbone by T. Birmingham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Devil’s Backbone is the most recent installment in T. Birmingham’s hot new paranormal romance series, the Wild Beasts series. Devil’s Backbone is the fifth book in the series, and the by far the best one, in my opinion. I absolutely adored this book and how each one just keeps getting better than the one before it. With higher stakes, bigger plots, more supernatural creatures than you can poke a stick at, and Benjamin Oliver to drool over. I really loved this wild ride of story and could really relate to Tess’s character and her super cool pet lizard, Todd. I really loved her journey and growth throughout the book, as well as Ben’s. Their characters are very well written and were a delight to read about. I highly recommend this fantastical series by T. Birmingham, each book can be read as a standalone, as each follows a different set of characters, but it’s better if you start at the beginning.
Overall I gave this book 4/5 stars.

View all my reviews

Happily. Ever After?: An Italian Relationship (The Italian Saga Book 6) by Gaia B. Amman – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Happily. Ever After?: An Italian Relationship. (The Italian Saga Book 6)Happily. Ever After?: An Italian Relationship. by Gaia B Amman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Happily. Ever After?: An Italian Relationship is the sixth book in Gaia B. Amman’s Italian Saga, that is a wonderfully wholesome read. The series continues to follow Leda as she slowly grows up, with each book focusing on certain parts and aspects of Leda’s life; all set against the gorgeous back drop of Italy. Happily. Ever After?: An Italian Relationship is set in the scenic Milan, with Leda falling hopelessly in love with Sergio, a stoner that flits in and out of Leda’s life, without explanation. Leda and Sergio’s relationship is a heart-warming, realistic love story, that was incredibly relatable and genuine. Both characters are incredibly complex and life like, that will have you falling in love with them despite their flaws. I really enjoyed the sixth book in the series, and found it to be a wonderful edition to Leda’s life story. Gaia B. Amman’s writing gets better every book, and her characters get more and more complex.
I highly recommend the series, and gave this book 5/5 stars!

Reviewed by @erin-davidson

View all my reviews

The Devil’s Shadow (Wild Beasts Series Book 4) by T. Birmingham – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

The Devil's Shadow (Wild Beasts Series Book 4)The Devil’s Shadow by T. Birmingham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Devil’s Shadow is the fourth book in T. Birmingham’s Wild Beasts paranormal romance series. Each book can be read as a standalone, as they follow two new main characters and their relationship and a new mystery to solve. The Devil’s Shadow follows Kieran Gimble and Ginny Zolanski and how they begin to slowly intertwine as fated mates. Their romance was very well written and mixed in nicely with all the paranormal elements of the story, that kept me on the edge of my seat. I loved the lore of the book, and the myths and monsters it has created, and Birmingham’s take on these creatures of the night. I loved her descriptions and writing throughout the book. I especially enjoyed her unique take on ‘light versus dark’ trope, and that complex characters aren’t one or the other; that humans always struggle with what is good and what is evil, and always sit in this gray area of morality.
I was a little skeptical when I first bought this book, but was quickly swept up in the magic of the story and the beauty of the writing. I highly recommend this series, and look forward to the next one by T. Birmingham
5/5 stars!

Reviewed by @erin-davidson

View all my reviews

Black Bullet (The Order of the Senary Book, #2) by L.D. Rose – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Black BulletBlack Bullet by L.D. Rose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Black Bullet is the second installment in L.D. Rose’s Order of the Senary series. This book can be read as a standalone, as it follows different characters from the first book, but the world building isn’t as strong as the first one. I recommend reading the first one to get a better sense of the world, and how it all came to be with leeches ruling over New York City. This book definitely started with a loud bang, and did not slow down for a second. I found the second book to be better than the first, in terms of Rose’s writing style growing and getting better and better. I found Lawan and Jon to be very interesting and realistic characters, that were written better than Blaze and Valerie from the first book. It’s amazing to see how much Rose’s writing improved between the first and second book, and how complex her characters are now. I loved all the books gory details, that for once weren’t left to the imagination. Rose weaves such a masterful story, that you can practically taste the blood yourself. I really really enjoyed this as a second installment and look forward to seeing how the series grows and develops.
4/5 stars

View all my reviews

The Light at Dawn by K.L. Montgomery – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

The Light at DawnThe Light at Dawn by K.L. Montgomery
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Light at Dawn by K. L. Montgomery is an emotional, heart wrenching story, that follows two parents that have lost their children due to suicide. The book explores darker themes, discussing sensitive material that may be upsetting to certain readers. But the book does a beautiful job of handling such a sensitive issue with utmost care and support. Montgomery does a masterful job of weaving two stories into one, with evocative writing that will not only have you crying like a baby, but leave you permanently impacted. It is a beautiful tale of heartbreak and strength, and the effects of how deeply people impact your life. I really really enjoyed this book, despite how much I cried whilst reading it. But it is brutally honest and eye opening to see how these two characters handle their grief, and how they try to keep moving forward, when they’ve lost so much. I highly recommend this book to everyone, as well as encourage everyone dealing with mental health issues to seek help. It ain’t weak to speak.
5/5 stars!

View all my reviews

Eight Steps to Alpha by Taylor Sullivan – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Eight Steps to Alpha (Nerdy by Nature, #1)Eight Steps to Alpha by Taylor Sullivan
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Eight Steps to Alpha by Taylor Sullivan had all the promise of a cute little rom-com, but it fell flat as it relied on sexist themes. I really wanted to enjoy this book that is a slow born, friends to lovers. But the premise of making the nice guy into a misogynistic meany to get a girl, seemed rather backwards. I liked Elliot before the transformation and his relationship to Fe. I thought he was a great guy and don’t know why he had such a ‘woe is me’ mentality, because he couldn’t get one girl. A woman that was his superior at work, and wants to work professionally with her colleagues. I think Sullivan had the best intention when writing this novel, to put a spin on the classic Cinderella trope, and focus on changing a guy into the fantasy of women; but it missed the mark for me. An alpha male isn’t my fantasy. Elliot before the change being nerdy, athletic, kind, and squeaky clean is my kind of jam. Guys that are rude to women, get into fights for no reason, aren’t the type of men anyone needs in this day and age. Personally I would have preferred a more 10 things I hate about you approach, where Elliot was changed from an alpha, to a well-rounded gentleman that makes grand gestures of love whilst singing ‘I love you baby’ by Frankie Valli. Granted in saying all this, I still enjoyed the simple cute moments between Elliot and Fe. Just watching their friendship grow was adorable to read, and really had me savoring those moments, before they were swept away. I gave Eight Steps to Alpha 3/5 stars.

Reviewed by @erin-davidson

View all my reviews

An Italian Adventure (An Italian Saga Book 1) by Gaia B. Amman – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

An Italian Adventure (The Italian Saga, #1)An Italian Adventure by Gaia B. Amman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An Italian Adventure is the first book in Gaia B. Amman Italian Saga. The story is a beautiful coming of age tale, that deals with all the troubles of leaving childhood behind, and entering adolescents. Set in Italy in the 1980’s it follows tomboy Leda, who wants nothing more than to hang with two friends Peo and Flavio, climb trees and ride their bikes through the fields. Until the newest kid in town, and school bully Nico shows them a porno mag, right before their first communion. Thus starts the biggest change in Lee’s life and friendship, as she makes it through the good times and the bad.
I thought An Italian Adventure was incredibly well written, with magnificent characters that came to life on every page. It was nostalgic to read about the troubles of teen years, and to remember when times were much simpler. When my biggest troubles were eating my vegetables and dealing with a bedtime. This story made me nostalgic for my childhood, and all the days spent playing on a playground, or swimming in a pool till I was blue. I adored this memoir of sorts, and look forward to seeing where the story goes in the future. I gave An Italian Adventure 4/5 stars!

Reviewed by @erin-davidson

View all my reviews

Less You Know (Ashes to Ashes Book 2) by Rowena Holloway – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Less You Know (Ashes to Ashes #2)Less You Know by Rowena Holloway
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Less You Know is the second book in Rowena Holloway’s Ashes to Ashes series. Charlotte is still hell bent on taking down corrupted tycoon Tyrone Garner, and airing out all his dirty laundry. But as Charlotte uncovers more about Tyrone, she digs her grave deeper and deeper. Before she buries herself she asks for help from her best friend Allie. But as things start to unfold and the secrets unravel, Allie vanishes; and Charlotte doesn’t know what to do.
I really enjoyed this second installment of Holloway’s Ashes to Ashes series. It was just as suspenseful as the first book. Equally as engaging and filled with more twists and turns. I could not put the book down, and was sitting on the edge of my seat the whole time. The writing was very captivating and well thought out. Everything was planned to the finest detail and executed perfectly. Highly recommend the series to anyone looking for a gripping suspense series.

Reviewed by @erin-davidson

View all my reviews

Bad Things Happen (Ashes to Ashes Book 1) by Rowena Holloway – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Bad Things Happen (Ashes to Ashes, #1)Bad Things Happen by Rowena Holloway
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Bad Things Happen: Gripping Psychological Suspense is the first book in Rowena Holloway’s Ashes to Ashes series. Charlotte never thought she’d be willing to kill someone for a story, but when her informant ends up dead under mysterious circumstances, Charlotte might just end up doing that or end up dead herself.
The book definitely took its time to ease you into the suspense, but once it had you in its clutches it did not let go. I found the start of the novel to be a little clunky; it dumped a lot of information and some of it was poorly explained. I spent a lot of time trying to understand the relevance of certain side plots and characters. As well as the various characters and their motivations. Eventually it did all make sense, and I found myself enjoying the book a lot more. But it took a hot minute to get there.
This book will definitely leave you on the edge of your seat, and have you reeling after all the twists and turns. Overall I gave this book 3/5 stars and look forward to reading the second book Less you Know, in Holloway’s Ashes to Ashes series.

Reviewed by @erin-davidson

View all my reviews

Shadow’s Keep: A Novel by Meghan O’Flynn – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Shadow's Keep: A NovelShadow’s Keep: A Novel by Meghan O’Flynn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Shadow’s Keep: A Novel by Meghan O’Flynn is a new thriller suspense book that leaves you chilled to the very core. I mean who doesn’t love a book that begins with a dead body found in the woods, with a cause of death labelled as suspicious. This is why you never go running in the woods, 90% of the time you’ll find a body, the other 10% will be running into spider webs and being eaten alive by bugs.
I found this book a little difficult to get into, as I struggled to understand and sympathize with William as a character. I think this was mainly due to the writing style and getting into the way Meghan framed the narrative. I much preferred Cassie as a character, and really enjoyed her character as it progressed throughout the novel. After getting in the story I really started to enjoy it and was left stumped at all the twists and turns that the novel took. I’m really starting to like Meghan O’Flynn’s books and the way she weaves a masterful story. Can’t wait to read another book from her. 4/5 stars

View all my reviews

Rising Star by Susannah Nix – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Rising StarRising Star by Susannah Nix
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rising Star by Susannah Nix is the first book in her new Star struck series. The book follows Alice, a sociology student trying to complete her dissertation and gain the PhD that she’s been working on for the last five years. As if that wasn’t stressful enough her roommate needs her to move out, so he’s boyfriend can move in, and her job as a background extra on the show Las Vegas General, is finished as it wraps up its final season. Now Alice is basically homeless with no income and a looming dissertation dead line fast approaching. Thankfully in walks the up and coming actor Griffin, who’s been playing the smoking hot doctor on LA General, and in desperate need of a dog and house sitter while he films the latest blockbuster hit in Atlanta.
Rising Star was a cute, fluffy, enjoyable romance, in the way that all well written romances are. It has the perfect moment when the two main characters realise that what they’ve been looking for has been in front of them all along; as well as the right amount of angst and cheesiness. Susannah Nix also tackles more serious issues of the #metoo and TIME’S UP in the field of academics, that is vastly underrepresented in popular culture. Alice was a very believable character as she faced these issues, and her demeanour to sweep it all under the rug, rather than face social and academic backlash is incredibly relevant. Many young women are scared to speak up, or undervalue themselves when something terrible like this happens. And just as Susannah made clear in her novel, none of this is ever ok. It’s your body, and your choice.
This novel was very inspiring, as well as a cute romantic-comedy novel, that I really did enjoy. Overall I gave it 4/5 stars.

View all my reviews

The Mother-in-Law by Judy Moore – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

The Mother-in-LawThe Mother-in-Law by Judy Moore
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The Mother-in-Law by Judy Moore is a suspense thriller novel that would be more aptly titled monster-in-law. This book is the perfect poster child for why you should never marry someone that you haven’t known more than a month. Which is exactly what Victoria does. Too her it was a fairy tale; she found true love and put a ring on it as fast as she could. But not all fairy tales have a happy ending, especially if there’s an estranged mother-in-law.
This was slow thriller book. It took a long time for suspense to build and motivations to be revealed, which after a while began to drag. I wish there was more suspense to this book, and there was more of a payoff in the end. A lot of the chapters felt as though they were acting as fillers to make the book chunkier, and didn’t add anything to the plot. Especially when comparing this book to Judy Moore’s Murder in the Vail, which had me hooked from the very beginning. In the end I found that I had no real connection to any of the characters, and their relationships didn’t affect me. Which truly is a shame, as I fell in love with the premise of the story, thinking I was in for book filled to the brim with suspense, but instead it all fell flat for me. I still loved the writing, and level of detail that went into in the book, as well as thought the idea was very creative, it just could have been executed a bit better. Alas, I still look forward to reading more from Judy Moore in the future.

View all my reviews

The Confectioner’s Truth (The Confectioner Chronicles Book 3) by Claire Luana – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

The Confectioner's Truth (Confectioner Chronicles Book 3)The Confectioner’s Truth by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The epic finale to Claire Luana’s highly anticipated Confectioner Chronicles has arrived and it did not disappoint. The Confectioner’s Truth is the final book in Claire Luana’s amazing new series that I highly recommend it to every man, woman, and child. It is so good and the finale wraps everything up deliciously. I absolutely adored this series and there isn’t much I can say about this final book without spoiling it for anyone. But seriously read this series, starting from the Confectioner’s Guild, you will not be disappointed by a tale this yummy. I cherished all of Claire’s characters, as they are incredibly well developed and rounded. They all read as real people, with their own back stories and motivations. Claire’s world building is also incredibly well done. Her magic system is flawless and perfectly executed, as she expands the world over the three novels. But I feel like one of the most underappreciated gems of the series was Claire’s ability to describe food and drink throughout the series. My mouth watered the entire series, due to her descriptions being so impeccable. I wish I could give this book a 6/5 star review, but alas it will have to settle for 5/5. Thank you Claire for another amazing series!

Reviewed by @erin-davidson

View all my reviews

The Confectioner’s Coup (The Confectioner Chronicles Book 2) by Claire Luana – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

The Confectioner's Coup (Confectioner Chronicles, #2)The Confectioner’s Coup by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Confectioner’s Coup by Claire Luana is the delicious second book in her newest series, the Confectioner Chronicles. The plot thickens in the latest instalment as an army arrives at the gates of Maradis, and the Guilds are thrown into dismay as the King struggles to gain power over them once more. But the Guild members are tired of answering to a blood thirsty King and his demands for Gifted produce from them. With an army fast approaching and Gifted guild members going missing, Wren must join forces with unexpected allies to help save the missing members and stop the King tyranny once and for all.
If only Wren’s life could be a piece of cake, first she’s framed for a murder she didn’t commit and now the possibility of a rebellion and war. The girl needs a holiday, where she can enjoy her delicious baked goods. I really loved this second installment of the Confectioner Chronicles, Claire’s writing is phenomenal and captivating. She will have you hooked after the first line. All her characters are well developed and constructed, that you can see them as real people. And her descriptions of all the food in this story will have you drooling over your book. Every time I read a passage I immediately start craving baked goods and chocolates, then I have to put the book down and go out and get some. Thankfully I work in a cake shop and chocolate is never hard to come by. Absolutely loved this book and to see how the story continues to get bigger and bigger. I can’t wait to read the third book in the series.
5/5 stars!!

Reviewed by @erin-davidson

View all my reviews

Rhapsody and Rebellion: Once Upon a Widow (Enduring Legacy Book 7) by Aubrey Wynne – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Rhapsody and Rebellion (Enduring Legacy #7)Rhapsody and Rebellion by Aubrey Wynne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rhapsody and Rebellion: Once Upon a Widow, is the seventh book in the Enduring Legacy series. An anthology series that tells the tale of a Scottish family and their descendants, that are blessed with three magical gifts; sight, empathy, and Truth. The gift is passed down the family, often skipping generations and only coming forward in a time of great upheaval. And with England and Scotland always at each other’s throats, the family must hide their gifts from those that wish to destroy them. In Rhapsody and Rebellion: Once Upon a Widow, Aubrey Wynne tells a harrowing tale set in the Scottish Highlands in the 19th century. The story follows Gideon, Earl of Stanfield and his principled black and white view of the world, that begins to falter when his mother tells him of her eerily accurate dream foreseeing his cousin’s death. Thus causing them to travel back to his mother’s ancestral home in Scotland, where he meets a recently widowed Alisabeth. Could it be love at first sight, or just a simple flare of lust between them?
This series is a perfect read for fans of Outlander, and lovers of historical fiction. Wynne did excellent research for the story does not make any inaccuracies and her tale. I really enjoyed the story, but found it to be a little short. I would have loved to have more, and really space out Gideon and Lissie’s relationship, as it did come across rather rushed and fast. But if you’re looking for a quick steamy story with Scottish Highlanders, then this is perfect for you.
Overall I gave this 4/5 stars!

@erin-davidson

View all my reviews

Once Upon a Romance (A Dream Come True Book 1) by Alex Bailey – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Once Upon a Romance (A Dream Come True, #1)Once Upon a Romance by Alex Bailey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Once Upon a Romance is the first book in Alex Bailey’s a Dream Come True series. All books will be set in Walt Disney World, and follow different couples as they find love in the most magical place on earth. Once Upon a Romance focuses on Sophie and her adorable niece, Ariel, as they make their way to Disney World for Christmas, as per Ariel’s Christmas wish. Except it is all sunshine and rainbows for Sophie. After losing her sister to breast cancer, the last place she wants to be is the Magic Kingdom, reliving her childhood, without her sister. But as fate would have it, she meets Professor Disney, that vows to help her make sure Ariel has the most magical Christmas she could ever dream of.
I really enjoyed this fluffy Christmas romance. It may or may have not made me plan my next holiday to Disney World. I absolutely adore all things Disney and romance, and could not turn down a book that ticks all the boxes. I fell in love with Ray, and his extensive knowledge of Disney and all things nerdy. I’ll take two of him any day. I also really enjoyed the building chemistry between Ray and Sophie, and how they interacted with Ariel. I also loved the level of description Bailey went into when describing the park, and all the rides; it felt as though I was right there next to them. Which only made me even more desperate to get to the nearest Disney Land, which happens to be on the other side of the world (the joys of living in Australia). I do wish there was more of an ending and I got to see a bit more of the characters, but it still ended very cute and fluffy.
I gave Once Upon a Romance 5/5 stars

View all my reviews

F*cking Frank (Smirk Series Book 1) by Jen Luerssen – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

F*cking Frank (Smirk Series Book 1)F*cking Frank by Jen Luerssen
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

F*cking Frank is the first book in Jen Luerssen’s Smirk Series. The book is a steamy hot romance, that I only recommend to those over the age of 18, because it sure is erotic. The story is about Frank, a down right prick at the best of times, and a man that could give the Grinch a run for his money. All the man wants to do is make sweet music and surf the perfect wave. Until her meets his doppelgänger in female form, Mikey. She is his identical twin from another bin. The similarities at first turn them on in a narcissistic kind of way, before they begin to get uncanny and slightly unsettling.
I found the story overall to be very engaging and entertaining. It was well written and the two main characters were believable, they just weren’t my cup of tea. I think it was because they were so believable that I couldn’t relate to them or feel empathetic of their situation. They became real people in my head, that I knew I would never associate with, because of how they treat their friends and interact with other people. I still thought the story was very entertaining and an enjoyable read, but for once I could not sympathize with a main character; purely based on my own personal preferences. I still recommend the book to friends who enjoy characters like Frank, that have very dry humor and break the fourth wall.
Overall I gave F*cking Frank 3/5 stars.

View all my reviews

Can’t Forget (Solum Series Book 2) by Colleen S. Myers – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Can't Forget (Solum, #2)Can’t Forget by Colleen S. Myers
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Can’t Forget is the second installment in Colleen S. Myers’ Solum Series, that takes off right where the first one ends. Elizabeth (Beta) Camden is struggling to understand her memories of the time she was with the E’mani. She’d thought that she had repressed them and lost them for good, until they begin creeoing their way back into her head. Unable to understand then and what the E’mani did to her while she was captive, sends her on the path of revenge to take down the E’mani’s stronghold in the dead of night. If Beta can’t forget her past, she won’t have a future.
It took me awhile to get into this series and enjoy the books, as all the new information is thrown rapidly at the reader, and it takes a minute to orientate yourself. Which can sometimes be an effective writing device, but other times it can feel a bit rushed and things get lost in translation. I found this to be the case for the start, and had to go back and forth to make sure I understood everything clearly and correctly. After I settled in and got the hang of everything I really started to enjoy the series and this book in particular. Marin and Beta’s chemistry together was fantastic and will leave you feeling flushed and giddy. Their tension was very well written and almost had me wanting more. I also enjoyed the creativity that went into writing this series and combination of magic and technology. I thought it was done very well, as it’s not a combination that you see often, or that works well together. But the author definitely proved that wrong.
Overall I gave Can’t Forget 3/5 stars.

View all my reviews

The Confectioner’s Guild (The Confectioner Chronicles #1) by Claire Luana – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

The Confectioner's Guild (The Confectioner Chronicles, #1)The Confectioner’s Guild by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Confectioners Guild is the first book in Claire Luana’s delicious new young adult series. I always knew cupcakes and confectionery were magical, and this book had me craving them till the very end. A succulent story of murder and mystery rolled into one scrumptious, bite sized book. Wren always poured her heart into her baked goods, under the watchful eye of her Master. Until one day she is whisked away to the Guild Master, only to be told that she has a unique set of gifts. She has the ability to manipulate a person’s good luck, with a single bite of her baked goodies. With a power like that, she must stay at the Guild and keep her gift a secret. But her sweet moment quickly turns sour, when the Guild Master dies from her poisoned cupcake. Framed for the murder, Wren has to unravel the mystery before her, and learn how to control her gift; before she’s trialled and beheaded.
I really Love Claire Luana’s writing. She weaves fantastical stories, that have you hooked from the very first line. I loved the book and think it is an excellent start to her new series. The characters were delightful, and well developed. Her descriptions of the desserts had my mouth watering and my sweet tooth aching. As well as, the stunning cover art; the more I look at it, the more things I find in it.
5/5 Stars!

View all my reviews

Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders Book 1) by Lexie Conygnham – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

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 the first book in Lexie Conyngham’s Orkneyinga Murders series. The book is a historical work of fiction, set in the Viking era, that is a tale of murder and suspense. Sigrid’s day can’t get any worse when she stumbles upon a dead body, that appears to be a messenger for Thorfinn. Thrown into an intense game of ‘who did it’ Sigrid and her best friend Ketil, must solve the murder before it’s too late.
This was my first ever historical read that focused on Scottish and Norse history. I found the plot very captivating, as I tried to guess who the killer was. The story was full of twists and turns, that had me second guessing every character until the very end. I really liked Sigrid as the main character; she was incredibly loyal to Ketil, and fiercely independent. I really loved the way the story was wrote, it beautifully captivated the setting of the Scottish Isles, as well as the time era it was set in. I thought the research that went in to this story was incredible, as all the small details really added to the story and the experience of reading it.
I really enjoyed this first book by Lexie Conyngham and gave it a 4/5-star rating

View all my reviews

The Plot by Melinda De Ross – Review by Erin Davidson

/1 Comment/in /by

The PlotThe Plot by Melinda De Ross
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Plot by Melinda De Ross is a suspenseful and haunting tale. I was hesitant buying this book, due to its content, but I’m so glad that I did. Yoko’s story was an incredibly harrowing tale to read, that took me on a roller coaster of emotions. Don’t let the romance fool you, this is a tale of suspense, mystery, drama, intrigue, and revenge. Yoko was abducted from Japan and falls prey to a human trafficking organisation that forces her to give up her innocence to the highest buyer. After escaping her world of nightmares, Yoko swears revenge on the man that ruined her life, and the life of many other young girls. On Yoko’s journey of revenge, she meets Mark, and things couldn’t be more difficult for Yoko as she grapples with the horrors of her past. This book was extremely emotional, and made my sick in the pit of my stomach. The way De Ross described the horrors that Yoko and the other girls went through was harrowing. I was so emotional and devastated whilst reading this. To know that these stories aren’t just fiction, and that human trafficking is still a prevailing issue in our society. I really loved this book for the way it made me think, and absorb the story it was telling. I highly recommend it, to anyone that wants to read a challenging story, that isn’t your classic romance.
4/5 stars

View all my reviews

Siren Call (Eastern Shore Swingers Book 3) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Siren CallSiren Call by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Siren Call is the third book in Phoebe Alexander’s Eastern Shore Swingers series. Each book in her series can be read as a standalone, as they centre on new characters and new relationships; but still include characters from the previous books.
In Ocean City, Maryland, there’s a secret club, filled with swingers, that venture far and wide to frolic and play in its themed rooms, every weekend. The Factory is where the magic happens, enticing strangers with promises of nights filled with mystery and fun. In Siren Call the Factory throws together Jessie and Sirena, in hopes of their relationship becoming a blossoming romance, but both have skeletons in their closet that they’d rather keep to themselves.
I really enjoyed the story overall. I thought the characters were very believable and relatable. They came across as real, genuine people, which helped me really engage in the story. I also really enjoyed the precipice of the series, and how sex positive, and body positive they all were. Which is great to read in contemporary fiction.
Really loved the story and rated it 5/5 stars!

View all my reviews

Hidden: An Ash Park Novel (Volume 4) by Meghan O’Flynn – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Hidden (Ash Park, #4)Hidden by Meghan O’Flynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hidden is the fourth volume in Meghan O’Flynn’s Ash Park series. The story is gripping, and will have you staying up all night with paranoia. The book is intense and not for the fainthearted, as it pulls you in to a haunting tale of mystery and murder. Just when you thought it was safe to go outside, this book sends you ducking back under the covers, and thinking everyone is a killer.
I immensely enjoyed this book, as it can be read as a standalone, though you don’t quite get the full picture, and miss out on small things. But the book is so well done, that you can just pick it up and go. I absolutely adored Ms. O’Flynn’s lyrical writing, and the way she paints a scene in your head; making sure to not leave out any gory details. I found myself completely absorbed in this book, and unable to look away from the horrors that were depicted before me. I really enjoyed this story and want to go back and read all the others, and pick up all the small details.
This book is masterfully written and is a solid 5/5 stars.

View all my reviews

Marks of the Mazza: Reverse Harem (Mazza Series Book 1) by Blake Blessing- Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Marks of the MazzaMarks of the Mazza by Blake Blessing
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Marks of the Mazza: Reverse Harem is the first book in Blake Blessing’s Mazza series. Isolde – like all of us – was just waiting for an Uber when destiny came knocking. After getting in the wrong car, Isolde discovers the world of the Fennin, an ancient fae like race, with incredible powers, that are on the brink of war. Isolde is a prophesied Mazza, a powerful supernatural, who has the ability to unite all the houses and bring unity to the Fennin. After being abducted by four insanely hot Fennin, Isolde must navigate their treacherous world, and decide on which side of the fence she sits, as she has the power to tip the scales.
I really loved the concept and story for Marks of the Mazza. I thought it was very creative and engaging. Blessing does incredible job of reeling the reader in and keep them in just enough suspense, so that they never want to put the book down. Isolde as a main character was fearless, and sassy; she also had a very distinct voice as a narrator. The voice wasn’t one that I could get my head around and enjoy, I found her to be to over explaining as a narrator, and it would disrupt the flow of the story. But that’s really the only thing I can fault from the book, and it’s just a personal preference. What I might not like, you might love. One thing I loved more than anything was the chapter title art, it’s beautiful watercolour, and you’ll have to get the book to see it. As it is stunning, and I’m a sucker for art in books.
I enjoyed this first book of the series and look forward to reading the next. 3/5 stars.

View all my reviews

The Boss Man (The Manly Series #4) by Teddy Hester – review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

The Boss Man: A Steamy Contemporary Romantic Suspense Novel (The Manly Series Book 4)The Boss Man: A Steamy Contemporary Romantic Suspense Novel by Teddy Hester
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Boss Man is a contemporary romantic suspense novel, that is the fourth book in Teddy Hester’s Manly Series. The novel follows the characters Jack and Jillian, and their unique, head strong personalities. Jack’s a bad boy and Jilly is opinionated wildcat, which often had both of them fighting for dominance over one another. The ending of the blurb does spoil the novel for readers, and I would suggest avoiding it as much as possible, if you hate spoilers.
The story itself was very engaging and highly enjoyable. All the characters where well rounded and their interactions will either leave you laughing for days, or get you all hot and bothered. Especially when its conversations between Jilly and Jack, you could cut their sexual tension with a knife. The book is on the lower end of the steamy scale. Majority of the ‘steam’ is through Jack and Jilly flirting with each other, and some frisky business. Whilst being a low-level, it was still incredibly fun and quick to read. I devoured the book in a single afternoon, as it felt like I was watching a rom-com.
I rate The Boss Man 4/5 stars.

View all my reviews

Belleza and the Brute by Jane Matisse – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Belleza and the BruteBelleza and the Brute by Jane Matisse
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Belleza and the Brute: A Modern-Day Retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Jane Matisse was a delightful retelling of an age old classic. I’m an absolute sap for all things beauty and the beast related, so this retelling was right up my alley. Matisse was able to give this old dusty fairy tale a fresh face and give it new life with a modern day flare. Both Elena and Tristan have skeletons in their closet that they’d love to keep tucked away. But when unlikely circumstances throw them together, neither can hide their attraction or their dirty little secrets. I really enjoyed this retelling of my favourite fairy tale and all the fun little quirks Matisse added to spice it up. I loved all the subtle nods to the movie and the original fairy tale, that made the story mesmerising to read. I loved all the characters and thought they were really well developed and three dimensional. I also loved how poetic and descriptive the writing was. Some parts were a little cliché, but it is a retelling and it’s impossible to not be. Loved the story and gave it 5/5

View all my reviews

The Portal Prophecies Volume 1 by C. A. King – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

The Portal Prophecies Volume I (The Portal Prophecies Volumes Book 1)The Portal Prophecies Volume I by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“I wanted to create a world other people could escape to. I wanted to share the place that had helped me for many years.” C. A King
You definitely succeeded! I just want to firstly say, how amazing and imaginative the world C. A King created is. Volume 1 of the Portal Prophecies series, is the first 3 books in C.A King’s epic series that follows Willow and her friends as they attempt to save our world and every other realm in between. Without spoiling books 2 and 3, the first focuses on Willow and her journey of self-discovery, after realizing that her small slice of life is a speck of dust in a much larger universe. After uncovering a secret temple hidden in the woods, and finding a large tome of prophecies that predict the end of life as she knows it.
Overall I loved the series and the magic system that was woven throughout the novels. The only irk I had, was that Willow seemed to be all powerful without many weaknesses, besides her friends and being somewhat vulnerable to a certain enemy’s charms. I still really loved all the individual characters and all their unique powers. I’m super jealous of Nathan’s powers; oh man, if I had that ability, I’d be unstoppable. I also loved the way the characters interacted with each other, and how much of a family they were to one another. It honestly warmed my heart. As well as when Willow was introduced to such mundane things. It reminded me of Starfire from Teen Titans, and how curious she is about our world and all the magic it contains.
This series is perfect for fans of X-men, or Teen Titans, as well as Avatar: The Last Airbender. As it’s a perfect blend of light-hearted moments, and serious sitting-on-the-edge-of-your-seat-and-chewing-your-nails-off moments. As well as fantastic characters and imaginative world building. Absolutely loved it! 5/5 stars

View all my reviews

Protected (Ariya Adams Trilogy #1) by Anna Applegate – Review by Erin Davidson

/0 Comments/in /by

Protected (Ariya Adams Trilogy, #1)Protected by Anna Applegate
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Protected is the first book in the Ariya Adams trilogy, wrote by Anna Applegate. First off I just want to say how cool the author and the main character’s names are; I absolutely love alliteration in names.
Anyway, back to the book. Protected follows the story of Ariya’s senior year in college, where not everything is quite what it seems. Turns out the hot new guys are vampires, and werewolves, and Ariya is stuck right in the middle of it.
I had an issue with the pacing of this novel, and general clichés that are really common in YA urban fantasies. But it was the pacing that really threw me off when reading. During action/fight scenes that sentences were very fragmented and disjointed, rather than keeping the flow of the book and increasing the tension and action.
All the twists and turns were very obvious from the beginning. And some of the choices that Ariya made, had me literally screaming at my kindle asking Ariya what she was thinking. Why didn’t she just write or text important information, if she was worried of being overheard?! So many problems could have been solved this way, but I understand that if she had done this, then I wouldn’t have had such a fun time watching all her misfortunes play out. Kind of like when you watch a horror movie and you’re yelling at the characters not to go downstairs, but they do it anyway.
This book was a lot of fun to read, as it reminded me so much of The Vampire Diaries and all of its vampire shenanigans. I look forward to reading the next two books in the series over the following weeks. I give this book 4/5 stars.

View all my reviews