House Valdis Origins: Xenobia by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a very short and easy read. It gave a great preview into the series following Xenobia discovering her powers and struggling to help others escape from slavery. It will pull you in and get you wanting to read more. Great writing by this author.
Perfect Office Pact by Maria Jane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book kept me turning pages late into the night so I could see what was going to happen! Mira just graduated from real estate school and has been picked as the top prospect for Jordan Reality. She is young, living in an apartment above her parent’s garage, and sharing an office with Cade, the big mouth from school who came in second place. She is hoping to win Rookie of the Year and learn all she can from working at such a great company. She is excited about the job, but not the boss Declan. He was one of her professors for a few classes and she thinks he may hate her. Declan is a genius and runs a huge company at the age of 30. Declan ends up crossing a line and crossing boundaries in her privacy. She could get him in trouble but instead they make a pact. She will keep his secret if he helps her be the best. He pushes the boundaries because he just wants to know her better and she starts to learn more about his quirks. There are a lot of great characters between the people at work, Mira’s family, and her friend group and the story lines were perfect! Now I need to go back and read Bree’s story in the first book!
Delayed Redemption: DAG Team Series: Book 3 of 4 Special Ops Romantic Suspense by Kel O’Connor
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This one was out of my normal storyline choice (gangs/mafia type), but I ended up enjoying it and I am glad I branched out. Great found family, forced proximity, second chance tropes. Janey is shy and wary, overthinks everything she says and does due to her past trauma. Mateo helps show her her hidden strengths, and protects/saves her many times along the way. He’s also battling his past and overcomes his doubts that Janey could love him for who he is. It was a great fast read with twists and turns, especially toward the end.
The Truth About Myths by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Princess Isabel and Henrique … let me see. WOW their chemistry is sparking feelings Isabel never knew she could experience. The proper princess is discovering she has desires she has hidden for a very long time. The rakish playboy Henrique never expected to feel like this either. Bound and determined to never settle down. Wonderful historal romance.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’ve read this story before, so it was very exciting to listen to it come to life aloud. Love the characters, love the story line! The narrator had a bit of an odd accent that took a little time to understand, but it ended up being adorable as the story went along.
The Scent of Snow by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
First, let me say that I highly recommend the Winemaker’s series by Giovanna Siniscalchi. It is the prelude to this wonderful little story and introduces all the characters and tells the majority of their stories.
The Scent of Snow is another absolutely beautiful historical romance set in Victorian Portugal. Pedro, Anne, and Anne’s family are together to celebrate the winter holidays. All is well until Pedro is haunted by the demons of his past, and he and Anne are forced to face the demons for their relationship to move forward and for them to find their true happiness.
This is an absolutely beautiful and wonderful continuation of Pedro and Anne’s love story, and I know I’ll be looking forward to anything that Giovanna writes in the future!!
The Other Side of Together by Emily Cox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
The Other Side of Together by Emily Cox and Nicole Allen proved to be everything the blurb promised, and more. Emotionally charged with raw and gritty developments, these authors stummed my emotions and delivered an captivating angsty YA romantic drama.
This has a bit of a forbidden romance x star-crossed lovers feel and the darker elements worked beautifully. Marcus and Mei Li are a case of opposites attract, but will face challenges that will test them- so will they risk it all for love? Their story is set to continue, so bring on Book #2 ASAP!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Emily Cox and Nicole Allen!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Master Botosoni by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I’ve had the privilege of reading and a reviewing a few of the books in this series, and I’m so glad I get to read more of it. Watching each couple add to the world thus far has been amazing.
I can only imagine what it felt like being Catina thrown into the middle of everything. Having to be the strong one in a family of no goods is rough, but she’s doing all she can to keep going. Being thrown into the middle of an underground war is a lot to handle. Her skills are amazing, and I love how she uses them.
Her and Botosoni are hot and spicy, and despite their struggles, they’re fantastic together. I’m so glad I got to read their story 😁😁
Nash is finally back from doing his duties as a Marine. He did not, however, come back the same man. Some of his scars are visible but there are many that are not. Betsy Bobbins, the local librarian, was afraid of him and his eyepatch at first but once she got to know him that quickly changed. Her sister has returned and along with her came some trouble she was having a hard time shaking. The only one Betsy could think to call for help was Nash. The narration was alright but I felt the added accent for the character was a bit much. It did make it a little harder for me to concentrate on the story itself. Overall I did enjoy the characters and the storyline.
Elusive Surrender by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I haven’t come across another author that crafts such flawless stories the way that Via Mari does. This book definitely brings the steamy scenes, but the author doesn’t rely on those scenes to be the sustenance of the book. The storyline is one full of adventure, drama, danger, emotions, suspense, and yes, definitely some spice. Do yourself a favor and clear your schedule when you pick this up because I lost a couple days’ worth of time! I simply could not put it down, so chores fell to the wayside. One major thing I have loved about this series is the fact that it just keeps improving with each book. You’ll want to read more about Sheldon and Alexis in the first part, and then Nick and Allie in the second. I enjoyed the extremely well-developed characters as well as the flow of the story. I can’t think of anything that I DIDN’T like throughout this entire read. I highly recommend picking this up as well as the rest of the series!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Fuller Sight by John Stone
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Fuller Sight by John Stone. This is my first read by this author and it was so good. I truly enjoyed it even though it really made me think. Don’t go into this book thinking I’ll breeze right thru it because to truly understand it you have to slow down and savor it. Its a metaphysical read that goes into different times and in different forms. It mainly follows 18 year old Danny Anderson who loses his mom at an early age and he is left with his alcoholic, abusive father. When his father ends up dead from weird circumstances Danny is the main suspect. His best friends wants to protect him but he can’t let her do that. He takes matters into his own hands. He also meets his mom again and she guides him thru some things. We also see Danny back in time in several different time periods and several different ways of life. Its a thought provoking read that you will be left thinking about long after you finish.
Beach Ball Blunder by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes. These are the best books for young children because not only are they entertaining but they teach great lessons as well. Its another fun story about Cray on the Bay and his friends. This time its Seal Gray and his favorite beach ball. Seal learns that when you lose your ball and it creates all kinds of havoc its best to not lie and to own up to your mistakes. When you lie it messes up friendships and breaks trust. My 5 year old nephew loves these books and we always discuss the lesson involved. The pictures are always amazing as well. Add this great book to your child’s library, you won’t be disappointed! Great for gifting or for teachers to read to the classes.
Curse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I’ve read many books by C.A. king and I know that she never fails to deliver. The books usually have something a little outlandish for the subject matter but each time this author delivers a well written, satisfying story, although usually on the shorter side these novels are packed full. Curse of the Forbidden Island is a reverse harem, paranormal romance focusing on Selene. Selene I actually felt for because I’ve had similar feelings about myself my whole life. Never being quite good enough, there always being some reason people have an issue with me even though I’ve done nothing wrong. She actually gets fired from another job in the very beginning of the book to set everything off. What better place to go after than an intriguing new job on a mysterious island?! I definitely liked this fast paced, steamy novella.
I enjoyed listening to Check Out by Debra Parmley. The voice of the narrator was unique and made you feel like you were actually listening to someone straight from the south. She was original and it made for a nice change from your typical audiobook narrator. The story itself was such a fun read and I enjoyed Nash immensely, he was so sweet to Betsy, and I loved the fact that a lot of it took place in a library. The only thing I didn’t like was Betsy seemed a little immature and childish at first. Overall it was a well rounded enjoyable read that I’m glad I listened to. I will check out book number two as well to see where life takes her sister.
Deceptively Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Jessica Stone
So, this is the first book in a new series by Anise Storm about a group of Billionaire men whom call themselves titans.
Right off the bat for any sensitive readers please heed the trigger warnings, this book is spicy and has so subjects that some might be sensitive too.
So this book is about Harper and Gabriel, to friends whom have known each other all of their lives who naturally ended up deeply in love with one another until tragedy strikes and they are forced apart in the blink of an eye. To save Gabriel from heartache and even more pain Harper ends things with him and promptly disappears from Gabes life. Until 9 years later when a dangerous situation forces Harper to seek out Gabriel and thrusts them back together(rather reluctantly in gabs part)
Will he find it in his heart to forgive and move past the hurt he experience, will Harper finally open up to gabe and be honest about why she broke his heart all those years ago.
I lovedddd these characters so much, I honestly can’t decide if I like Harper or Gabe more, I love the headstrong character that Harper is, but the vulnerability that she still has. And I adore the sweet spot that Gabe still finds himself having for Harper even after all the hurt he’s felt. Their relationship is just so day one, they were made for each other. Alsoooo, the dark sexy side of Gaberial that is alpha whole, demanding, takes what he wants just does it for me. And Harper being this shy sweet girl who is actually a little naughty is what I believe all women should be able to feel and experience.
All and all I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the characters were fun and interesting without being overloaded with unnecessary information, the world building was spot on, and the story was fun and engaging with a splash of good ole smut. I can’t wait to read what the author has in store for the rest of this series.
Deceptively Yours, Titans of Chicago Series, Anise Storm, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Contemporary Romance, February 2024, Jessica Stone
Savage Lies by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Savage Lies is the very first book in the Hidden Valley Elite series, and what a read! It’s full to the brim with drama, emotion, and HEAT! Cole and Riley are both such addicting characters, truly a new addition in the classic, but fantastic enemies to lovers trope! I personally recommend reading the prequel Savage Start before diving into this, there are several references you may not got if not, as well as it being just as thrilling to read! Was truly enthralled with this series and could not put it down, finishing it in a day just like a did with the prequel! Definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a spicy, anger inducing, amazingly frustrating book!!
Hidden Mischief by Alyndra Quinn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a well written story which is focused entirely on the two main characters. This is the first book that I have read by this author and I enjoyed getting familiar with their writing style. I didn’t necessarily connect with the story itself but I found the main characters interesting enough that it didn’t matter. I loved the connection between them. They had an undeniable chemistry that just seemed to work for them.
I thought this book was a great way to get a feel for this authors writing style. I showed what kind of work they produced and has definitely piqued my interest for further books. I am going to explore what else they have to offer, including any more in this series.
Dirty Heartbreaker: Hamilton Steelhawks Book 3 by A C Sheppard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is a great sports romance story with a enemies-to-lovers theme. The players had an interesting history which coloured their first few interactions and set the tone for the entertaining story we got. It is quite a slow burn story but for me, that just gave us more time to get to know the characters and love them for who they are.
The book is a well written story that is a great mix of good story-telling, romance and spice. This is the first book that I had read by this author and it can definitely be read as a standalone. Having read this book however, I know I will be going back to read the others because I enjoyed this one so much. This is a great book and I am excited to read more.
Cutter: Devils’ Spawn Daddies by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I have read books by this author previously and I really liked her writing style so I was looking forward to getting stated with this one. Overall I enjoyed it, I’ve read quite a few stories in this genre so nothing really surprises me although I would say that DD/LG is probably one of my least favourite to read however the story was much more than that. There was a lot of action that kept my interest throughout and the characters were great to read about. They had their own things going on. I did really like Cutter, he was a great character to read about and the chemistry between him and Emily was undeniable!
I would recommend this book and I am looking forward to reading more from this author again in the future.
Cray Saves the Day by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another wonderful book about Cray and his friends. In this book the author touches on the subject of dropping litter and trying to save our oceans and beaches from the rubbish that people leave behind after they have enjoyed their days out. The story again is told in a lovely rhyme that is really engaging for children. My 4 year old really enjoyed this story. For slightly older children this book would be a great introduction to the subject of dropping rubbish and how it can have an effect on our environment.
Beach Ball Blunder by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another really cute and fun story about Cray on the Bay and his friends. The authors lovely rhyme throughout the story is so engaging and my 4 year old loved the story. There is a great moral to the story to about lying and how it is always better to tell the truth, something that we always teach children so this story would be a great starting point to encourage discussions about the subject. Again the story was accompanied by beautiful, colourful illustrations that complement it well.
A Miracle In Muffin: A True Story by Darlene Duemo
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is not the usual book that I read however I do love cats so I thought I would give it a go. The story was sweet and you could really feel how important God and faith is to the author – whom this story is based on and this really came across well in the story. I can imagine people who have a particularly strong faith would find this book lovely to read and especially for younger children who are learning about prayer and believing. The book was well written, a nice short story for young children/adults to enjoy.
Whilst it was not my kind of story I did enjoy reading it.
Curse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This paranormal romance was NOT long enough! This is an intriguing and spell-binding treat to indulge in. I started the story sympathizing with Selene and then rapidly found myself quite jealous of her! It is a steamy tale but well-written, and it left me wanting oh so much more. This is a good one to dig into when you don’t want to commit to anything lengthy, but you will definitely wish it was longer and that’s my only complaint here. I love the way this author writes and highly recommend this story.
Cray Saves the Day by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
So far every single book I’ve ready by this author has been so well written! This is another one I’ve sat and read to my 3 year old! He just adores Cray and his friends! This is such a wonderful series and we always wonder what Cray and his friends will do next!
Elusive Surrender by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another entertaining two book collection of dark mafia romances, with plenty of drama and suspense to keep me happily turning the pages. I love these ‘duet’ books as I can ‘binge read’ the series! Sheldon and Alexis’s story is one of being in the wrong place at the wrong time, which is what happens to Alexis. Sheldon is a bodyguard to wealthy billionaires and the Larussio Crime Family, and so recognises the danger she’s in before she does. A criminal sets his sites on Alexis and so Sheldon steps in to recue her, as she causes his protective and possessive instincts to kick in. In book two, Nick is a wealthy member of a security team which protects billionaires and Mafia men and is used to getting what he wants. Then he rescues Allie who both takes his breath away and has a sassy mouth, but she’s weary of men and keeps him at a distance. However, Nick is determined to break down her defences, and when she’s in danger from criminals he will protect what is his. These two stories are both engaging, and the storylines had me hooked throughout. The characters and settings come alive through the descriptive narrative, making me feel immersed in the stories. I love the dark romances but also love knowing that each couple will have a guaranteed happily ever after!
Deceptively Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This book was an ok read for me. I thought the overall story was good but it just didn’t hit all the way for me. I liked Gabriel’s character development more than Harper but feel that Harper wasn’t as developed as a character the way I felt he was. I would have liked to see more for Harper. I also feel like the details in his development made you want to really hate him. It was a little too dark for my comfort.
Magic Wanda by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
We are such fans of this series. I love Grandma’s Closet. Being a grandma myself makes this such a fun series. In this story, grandma tells her about the magic wandas, which look like flowers, but they have magicand can talk. They can look like anything. The story allows for creative thinking aand allows for the imagination to roam. We enjoyed reading this one and plan to add it to our story library.
Hidden Mischief by Alyndra Quinn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ashton is a strong, Independent woman when she is in her job is formidable but there is a secret which is buried deep down and she is nervous to let lose, her submissive side. Ashton believed she had “retired” from the scene but when she decides to give Shattered Embrace a chance but will see get what she wants and who she wants??
Zach in his day to day job is the CEO of a major company, but he has a secret where he and his brother co-own a BDSM Club. Memberships are hard to come by and have a vigorous process until one application peaks his interest, so when he discovers its the new consultant they have hired he decides to give into the obvious chemistry they have but is she really the submissive he wants and requires?
This is the first book I have read by this author and lets say it won’t be the last. I loved the character of Ashton, all strong and determined in her day job but knows what she wants and is ready to take it if needs be. When you add into the mix of Zach’s character the chemistry just explodes off the page.
The way the story weaves and slowly opens up Ashton’s story is brilliant and the at time soft approach of Zach is beautiful to read. The secondary characters also add another layer to the story and hoping that some of them get there stories in the future.
Thank you for adding another book boyfriend to my list and hope to read more of the wonderful group of people in the future.
Murder She Meowed by Ruth J. Hartman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
Murder She Meowed (Bookshop Kitties Mysteries, Book 2) by Ruth J. Hartman
Murder She Meowed is the second book in the Bookshop Kitties Mysteries and is a wonderfully written Cozy Mystery. I absolutely loved reading this book and it was the perfect book to curl up with on the couch with on . This was such a fun lil cozy mystery it’s packed with drama, adventure, humor ,family, friendships ,banter and so much more . What will happen when Christy shows up to help a friend out and finds a dead body? Can she prove it wasn’t her friend? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. Im looking forward to reading more from this Author.
Kingdom of the Oceans by Martin Ferguson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
As like the previous book of this series, the author pulls you in on what happened in the past but gives you a glimpse of the history between a few of the characters. Within a few pages, the reader will understand the relationship dynamic of the older characters. The use of descriptive words are very well done, I can see what is actually happening. There is a lot of action that will keep you on your toes. I would recommend reading the previous book before reading this one, it will make more sense if you do.
