Posts

Finally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social Skills (Donut & Peanut Collection) by Debbie Sullivan – Review by Gabrielle

Finally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social SkillsFinally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social Skills by Debbie Sullivan
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a cute and helpful book for young children to learn how to make new people. Showing the reader that different approaches may be needed and that what seems harmless to you may come off as different to others. It was nice to see Donut learn from the mistake and try again with each new approach. Peanut also learns to understand someone else’s way of friendliness. With the help of Bobo, the two become friends and even include Bobo in that friendship. I like the message that this tale has for young reader.

View all my reviews

Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Gabrielle

Fate, Frankincense & FuneralsFate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Acheron is a vulture shifter and he is going to the city on a mission but he must be careful as his kind is not wanted in the city. Yet Acheron feels a pull to the city that he cannot ignore. When Acheron meets Errapel he realizes just what has called to him.
This is an interesting book that dealt with different shifters than I am used to. I found the journey that Acheron and Errapel go on an engaging read. The two are good together and it was nice to see the way their bond builds. It was nice to be along for the ride as the two decide if they are going to grab and hold on to what they could have or let it slip through their fingers. Their story is a quick read that pulls you into the world and its characters leaving you wanting to return to this world for more from these characters.

View all my reviews

Midnight Falls by John Evans – Review by Gabrielle

Midnight FallsMidnight Falls by John (ronin) Evans
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

When life takes a turn for the worst Josh finds his way to a small town where things are not what they seem. Soon Josh discovers the evil that lurks in the shadows.

This is an interesting tale about monsters in the night. Although the storyline is an engaging idea, I found the pacing a bit slow. It was nice to see Josh and his few friends band together to figure everything out. I would have liked to see the supporting characters a bit more fleshed out, as it was the relationship that Josh has with his dog is what made the most impression on this reader.

View all my reviews

Driving into the Night by Amanda Kay – Review by Gabrielle

Driving into the NightDriving into the Night by Amanda Kay
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Mikael and Kenai come from opposite sides. One is the demon angel and the other is the hunter. The two feel the pull to each other and one simple teenage game will change everything for them. As the boys grow and learn what needs to be done will love find a way or will the ring get its way once again?
This is an intriguing story. Readers are introduced to a new and interesting paranormal world. I found the idea of the ring and how it affects the person it is tied to an engaging storyline. It was nice to see the way Kenai and Mikael form a relationship and how far they will fight for it. The two work hard to prove that love is stronger than hate. Their story is well paced and has a good mix of romance and action.

View all my reviews

The Human Mating Site, Complete Series (The Human Mating Site Series) by B.L. Wilde – Review by Gabrielle

The Human Mating Site, Complete Series : A Steamy, Dating Humour RomanceThe Human Mating Site, Complete Series : A Steamy, Dating Humour Romance by B.L. Wilde
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This box set contains a collection of short stories. We follow Bella as she finds herself and what she truly wants. She never realized what she lost of herself until her cheating husband leaves her and she begins her own journey.
I enjoyed being alongside Bella as she finds herself. She has given up so much to make others happy and now she gets to enjoy her freedom. There are ups and downs as Bella navigates through the dating world. Each book in this series gives readers a look at a new Mr. in Bella’s life. It was entertaining to see her time with each new man while she looks for the man that will be the one for her. Bella struggles and has a few mishaps along her journey and she must decide on who and what she truly wants. This is an interesting look at Bella and where life takes her.

View all my reviews

Master Bistrita (Masters of the Consulate Book 11) by Sylvia Black – Review by Gabrielle

Master Bistrita (Masters of the Consulate #11)Master Bistrita by Sylvia Black
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

When Chara and Master Bistrita’s worlds collide everything changes. There is no denying the attraction between the two but there is a war going on and Master Bistrita must work to figure out how to deal with more than just his emotions.
Chara and Master Bistrita make a nice couple and seeing the development of their relationship made for a nice read. It is interesting to see the way Chara deals with learning about fated mates and BDSM and the interaction she has with Master Bistrita about them. Their story moves at a good pace and is full of emotions. This book has a nice mix of action and romance making it a nice addition to the series.

View all my reviews

The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a cute story book that shows lots of different homes and families. The illustrations are engaging and help to tell the story. Full of animals and people each with their own home. This is a nice way to show that each home is different but still a place full of love. A quick but engaging book that little ones can enjoy.

View all my reviews

G is for Gossamer: A Children’s SMART & SOPHISTICATED ABC’s Book by Miss Whitaker – Review by Gabrielle

G is for Gossamer: A Children's SMART & SOPHISTICATED ABC's BookG is for Gossamer: A Children’s SMART & SOPHISTICATED ABC’s Book by Miss Whitaker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a beautiful alphabet book. I love that it uses new and different words for each letter. The pictures for each letter and word are full of color and whimsy. It was nice to see that there are definitions for each of the words as well. This is a wonderful way to introduce new words to little ones.

View all my reviews

Unexpected Heroes by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Gabrielle

Unexpected HeroesUnexpected Heroes by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is an intriguing story. Elijah and Jude both have painful pasts that they are trying to deal with. The two men develop a tentative friendship and when Elijah is in need Jude is more than ready to help. As the two spend more time together emotions began to come into the picture. Jude is a good man and will do what he can to keep Elijah and his son safe. Their story moves at a good pace and has a nice mix of drama and emotions. It was nice to see the way their friendship developed and deepened into something more.

View all my reviews

The Ghastly Gumball by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Gabrielle

The Ghastly GumballThe Ghastly Gumball by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a quick and fun read. One impulsive purchase changes Lockwood’s life. He soon finds himself immersed in a different world that he never knew existed. Lockwood goes on an adventure that pulls you in and keeps you engaged to the end. This may be a short read but it is full of interesting characters and fun times.

View all my reviews

The Book of Fears: A Collection of Short Stories by K. S. Gantt – Review by Gabrielle

The Book of Fears: A Collection of Short StoriesThe Book of Fears: A Collection of Short Stories by K.S. Gantt
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is an interesting collection of short stories. Each one centering around a certain kind of phobia. There are eight different stories that deal with the worst possibilities for those dealing with these phobias. The stories can be a bit creepy especially for those with the same kind of phobias so be sure to read the trigger warnings before jumping in. The stories move along nicely and kept me interested and thinking twice about phobias and what may be the cause of them.

View all my reviews

The Big Book of Booper Snoots by Suzanna Lynn – Review by Gabrielle

The Big Book of Booper SnootsThe Big Book of Booper Snoots by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A fun and engaging read. This book gives readers of all ages interesting facts about animals. We are treated to twenty-six different animals and facts on each one. I enjoyed getting to see the picture of each animal’s nose first and then getting some facts about the animal. It was nice to see different animals for each letter and not just the usual ones that are used in these types of books. The animal facts are interesting and I loved the added weird facts. This is a good book for all animal lovers, young and old.

View all my reviews

Unrequited Love (Magic and Heartache Series) by E.L. Roux – Review by Gabrielle

Unrequited Love (Magic and Heartache, #1)Unrequited Love by E.L. Roux
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a sweet and endearing story. Jordan works hard at her shop and even though she hurts every time she sees her ex come in with his new love, she cannot seem to tell him not to come in anymore. There is a light though in her days and that is Cane. Jordan never imagined what she could enjoy with Cane and when he comes to her with a proposition Jordan must decide what path she will take. It was nice to see the two find their way. Looking towards the future and away from their pasts. Their story moves at a good pace and shows the magic in love.

View all my reviews

Toasted (Love Burns Series Book 1) by Isobel Reed – Review by Gabrielle

Toasted (Love Burns Series Book 1)Toasted by Isobel Reed
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A cute engaging read. Libby has just moved into a new town and she is already having to call the fire department. Yet her perceived bad luck may end up being good luck when firefighter Zach shows up on the call. I enjoyed the banter between these two. Watching their relationship take shape made for a nice story. It was nice to see that Libby is a strong woman and she is a good match for Zach. Their story is a sweet and fun read.

View all my reviews

Scotland : Stunning, Strange, and Secret : A Guide to Hidden Scotland (The Hidden Gems Series) by Christy Nicholas – Review by Gabrielle

Scotland: Stunning, Strange, and Secret: A Guide to Hidden ScotlandScotland: Stunning, Strange, and Secret: A Guide to Hidden Scotland by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book is full of bite size nuggets of information of places and history of Scotland. The history is an easy and interesting read and the list of places to see and visit will have you eager to start your journey. The author talks to you in a comfortable and friendly tone. It would be nice to see more pictures included though. There is a little something for everyone in the list of places to visit. The appendix and website resources were a nice addition. The author shows us that there is so much to do and see in and around Scotland. This is a book you should add to your list if you are planning a trip to Scotland.

View all my reviews

England: Cultured, Classic, and Charming: A Guide to Hidden England (The Hidden Gems Series) by Christy Nicholas – Review by Gabrielle

England: Cultured, Classic, and Charming: A Guide to Hidden England (The Hidden Gems Series)England: Cultured, Classic, and Charming: A Guide to Hidden England by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A quick and easy read that highlights ways to travel to and in England and then many of the spots that you may want to visit. It is written so that it is easy to understand and helpful. It is a book that should be added to your list if you are planning a trip to England for the first time. Although I don’t think there were a lot of hidden gems in the list of places to visit, I do think it was a good list where just about everyone can find something that they enjoy. It would have been nice to have included a few more photographs. The author does a nice job of giving you an idea of some of the things that you can find to explore in England.

View all my reviews

No Rest for the Wicked (Life is Hell Series) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Gabrielle

No Rest for the Wicked (Life is Hell #1)No Rest for the Wicked by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is an interesting start to the Life is Hell series. Delilah needs a vacation and she goes to Juniper Lake thinking that the small town will be a nice break, little does she know what is in store for her there. This vacation comes with a plethora of paranormal beings and one sexy sheriff.
I enjoyed meeting Delilah and being along for the adventure that is her vacation. There is more than one surprise for Delilah in this little town. I loved that Delilah is a strong woman who can stand on her own and is more than ready to fight for what is right. Her story moves at a good pace and is full of engaging characters. The author has created a delightful little town with interesting characters that pull you into their adventures and have you eager to return for more.

View all my reviews

Give Us Bad Boys & Billionaires by L.M. Mountford – Review by Gabrielle

Give Us Bad Boys and BillionairesGive Us Bad Boys and Billionaires by L.M. Mountford
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a collection of hot and quick reads. They contain many different genres and plots. Each of the stories is a short read and you can pick any story when you like and get some spice when you want it. If you are new to this author, it is a nice way to try out their writing style to see if it is to your taste. As with most collections there were some stories that stood out more for me than the others. There is not much in character development as these stories are big on the titillation and some lean towards the taboo. While I enjoy these kinds of stories, I do wish that some were expanded and had more character development to them.

View all my reviews

The Missing Red Envelopes by Yobe Qiu – Review by Gabrielle

The Missing Red EnvelopesThe Missing Red Envelopes by Yobe Qiu
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a sweet and fun read. I enjoyed meeting sisters Lorie and Weina as they celebrate the Lunar New Year. It was interesting to see what they did as a family to celebrate and the great relationship that everyone in the family has. The sisters work together to figure out what happened to their red envelopes.  As an Asian myself it is nice to see a book that shows more of the Asian culture with readers.

View all my reviews

Curse of the Forbidden Island by C.A. King – Review by Gabrielle

Curse of Forbidden IslandCurse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a quick and sexy read. On her last leg Selene finds herself taking a chance on a job that seems too good to be true. Soon she has more questions than answers. Will her curiosity cost her another job or will Selene finally find one that she is good at?
I liked the idea of this book but found the actual story missing something for me. I would have liked a bit more depth to the characters and their connection. Selene does not stand out for me and as much as I was interested in the plot I was not pulled in to the story. The male characters that we do get to meet are intriguing and it would have been nice to see more of their personalities. This is a quick adventure that gives readers a titillating story with a touch of the paranormal and mystery.

View all my reviews

The Human Mating Site, Box Set 1 (The Human Mating Site Series) by B.L. Wilde – Review by Gabrielle

The Human Mating Site Box Set 1 : A Steamy, Dating Humour Novella's 1-4The Human Mating Site Box Set 1 : A Steamy, Dating Humour Novella’s 1-4 by B.L. Wilde
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This collection of stories is a fun and entertaining read. As Bella deals with the pain of her breakup she soon finds that she has a decision to make, will she let the pain and heartache consume her or will she take her future into her own hands? Each new man gives Bella a new adventure. It was nice to see Bella begin to grow and find herself as she goes through each relationship. I like that Bella is a strong woman who is trying to take back her life. Bella goes through a lot of different emotions with these men as she returns to the dating scene. These novellas move at a good pace and I was pulled into each new journey that Bella takes. The author does a nice jo of giving Bella new experience with each new man and I wonder what will find Bella next.

View all my reviews

Shifter Shorts by TK Lawyer – Review by Gabrielle

Shifter ShortsShifter Shorts by T.K. Lawyer
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is an interesting collection of stories. Each story gives readers a look into a different characters and their journeys. Some are darker than the others and may be a trigger for some readers. These are all quick reads that give you a taste of the authors writing. There a shifters of all sorts in these stories and each couple has their own adventure to go through. Shifters and their mates must figure out how to communicate and work towards finding a happy ever after. There are some strong characters in these stories and emotions come in to play. It was nice to see that there were different kinds of shifters in these short stories. I would have liked a bit more character and plot development with these stories. I felt as if the stories were interesting but I was not invested in the characters and their plight.

View all my reviews

The Alien & the Crime Boss by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Gabrielle

The Alien & the Crime BossThe Alien & the Crime Boss by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Leilphun and Kasper are both dealing with their own problems. One is on the run while the other is trying to lay low and hopes that things will go his way. When their paths cross the excitement begins. Can they trust each other and the emotions that are beginning to take shape?
I enjoyed meeting Leilphun and Kasper. The two work well together. Each of the characters is strong and it was nice to see their relationship take shape. The sci-fi element gives this story an interesting twist. It was nice to see the two work to fight for what they feel. Their story is a fast paced and quick read that grabbed my attention right from the start.

View all my reviews

Bad at Being Good (An MM Brother’s Best Friend Romance) by A.L. Morrow – Review by Gabrielle

Bad at Being GoodBad at Being Good by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Benji made a promise a long time ago and now he finds it harder and harder to keep that promise. Milo has grown up from the boy he used to be into a man, a man that Benji promised to stay away from. When grief brings these two men together emotions come into play and their attraction cannot be denied.

This is an engaging story that pulled me in right from that start. Milo and Benji are each dealing with their own problems but together they may be able to find their way. It was nice to see the relationship grow between the two men. Emotions take center stage in their story and will pull on your heart at times. The two learn that life is full of ups and downs but with the right person at your side you can survive and even thrive. The author does a nice job of bringing these characters and their emotions to life.

View all my reviews

I Am A Bold Asian Boy (Asian Family Series) by Yobe Qiu – Review by Gabrielle

I Am a Bold Asian Boy: A Positive Affirmation Book for Asian Boys (Asian Family Series)I Am a Bold Asian Boy: A Positive Affirmation Book for Asian Boys by Yobe Qiu
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a nice book that helps to give young Asian boys a way to feel strong and self-assured. It helps to show that they can be proud of who they are and their culture. Each new page gives a new reason for them to be strong. It also contains nice illustrations of different cultures and different activities. It is a good way to give young children positive support. It is a quick read with colorful picture making this a good book for young children.

View all my reviews

Arriving Home (Lake Juniper Series) by Chelsea Lauren – Review by Gabrielle

Arriving Home (Lake Juniper Series)Arriving Home by Chelsea Lauren
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is an interesting story, Elijah books himself on an author’s retreat hoping to find that spark again but what he finds is so much more. Austin just happens to be working the author’s retreat and when the two meet the sparks fly. Neither man is sure of the step to take but they cannot deny what they feel.
It was nice to see the way their relationship progressed through this story. Each man is dealing with his own trauma and must decide if he wants to take a chance with his heart. Who knew a fake relationship would take them on a journey to this? Their story is sweet and low angst. It was nice to see how they supported each other and were willing to fight for what they wanted.

View all my reviews

The Men of Eden Cove Manor by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Gabrielle

The Men of Eden Cove ManorThe Men of Eden Cove Manor by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a fast-paced story that brings readers into the paranormal world. Lucifer decides to take a chance and investigate the mysterious Manor while the residents are away. Little does he know that when he enters the house he is not alone. Soon Lucifer is drawn into a world that he never imagined existed. Will he survive or has he pressed his luck too far this time?
Lucifer’s adventure is an interesting one. He finds not only Mordecai but others who make a difference in his journey. The men of the manor each have their own personalities but we do not see a lot of them. It would be nice for these men to have more depth to their characters. Readers get a lot of glimpses at what the characters are like. Lucifer and Mordecai are very one dimensional for me and I did not get lost in their story. The plot is an interesting idea and I would have liked a bit more information on the past and the circumstances that they find themselves in now. It was nice to see all the friendships and connections that the characters have in this story and how strong love can truly be.

View all my reviews

Tracker (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Gabrielle

Tracker (The Talisman Series)Tracker by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is an intriguing story about Celtic warriors of this time. This story brings readers a look at the world belonging to The Talisman series. Tracker gives readers the story of Riley and Lynnette. When the two meet their lives are turned upside down. I enjoyed seeing the way these two bonded. The two work well together and it was nice to see them fight for what they know is right. I liked seeing how Lynnette grounds Riley and how together there is nothing that can stop them. Their story is fast paced and has strong characters. The author has woven a world full of magic and emotions and I am interested in seeing what will happen next in it.

View all my reviews

Mystical Midlife Mate (Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo Series) by Reggi Dupree – Review by Gabrielle

Mystical Midlife Mate: A Paranormal Women's Fiction Novel (Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo Book 2)Mystical Midlife Mate: A Paranormal Women’s Fiction Novel by Reggi Dupree
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is an interesting read. The author has created a world full of magic, mayhem and strong characters. I like Gwen and the strength that she has, she is certainly not a damsel in distress. It was fun to see so many different paranormal creatures in this town. Not only does the main character have a lot to say but the supporting characters make themselves known as well and do not just fade into the background. Gwen is dealing with a lot and she must find a way to save everyone and everything dear to her. This story is fast paced and has some twists and turns that you may not see coming. The author has mixed a good amount of humor into the story as well giving readers a creative world full of memorable characters. I enjoyed seeing a strong older woman as the main character and not some young girl just finding her way. The author writes a strong story that brings you into the world and I am wondering what will happen next.

View all my reviews

Mr. Wimp (The Human Mating Site Book 1) by B.L. Wilde – Review by Gabrielle

Mr Wimp (The Human Mating Site #1)Mr Wimp by B.L. Wilde
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a quick read about a woman finding a new life after years of marriage. Bella is taken by surprise when her marriage ends. Never realizing the rut she was in and how lost that she was. Yet Bella is not going to take this lying down. Soon she decides that she will take life by the horns and find herself again.
I enjoyed seeing Bella realize her worth and begin a new chapter in her life. Her adventures have just begun and it will be interesting to see where Bella will go from here. It was nice to see Bella become strong and come back to her true self from the place she had let her husband take her and their marriage to. This book is an interesting way to start this series and I look forward to seeing where Bella goes from here.

View all my reviews