This was a wonderful slow burn of fantasy, romance and some mystery. Even though it is a little slow at the start, it is worth it to keep going. The beginning is mainly world-building so it is understandable. The heroine, Petra, is very determined and her quest ends up being for revenge and also about self-discovery. On her journey, she crosses paths with a Captain who intends to punish her for not bowing in respect, but then Captain Rand instructs them to leave her alone. This is the changing point of the book. Enter high tension, romance, and some spice. I highly recommend to all fans of fantasy and romance.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-10-21 19:21:012024-10-23 07:32:25Sanctuary by Bree M. Lewandowski – Review by Helen Dawkins
This was a wonderful and exciting book to read. The author is not only excellent at worldbuilding but the characters are very relatable and delightful. Whisper is a page-turner full of curses, death, hope, fantasy, mystery, suspense, plot twists and excellent characters. Kay Ross, the author, has such skill in the way she delivers this unique story. Everyone loves a good curse book, but I absolutely devoured that the curse in this book becomes sentient, it is BRILLANT. Whisper provides you with a story that is full of emotion. Such a masterpiece and I am very excited for the next book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-10-14 21:04:542024-10-22 19:06:18Whisper (The Entian Curse) by Kay Ross – Review by Helen Dawkins
The Discovery of Magic by L.J. Evias is such a wonderful Teen/YA Adult to start of the book series “The Intrigue of Magic”. The book begins a bit slow for me personally, but I do think that a teen would be more appreciative of the beginning as it shows a lot of the mind of a teenager and them just going through each day. Alice and her friends one day are having a picnic when they stumble upon a portal in a cave, which takes them to a different world named Parsas. The book mainly follows the friends as they are trying to figure out this new world and also are trying to get back home. Alice and her friends are seperated from each other, each thrown in this new world in different locations. Each of them is quickly emerged into the war of the North and South, but Alice is thrown into the feeding frenzy of royal court and starts to be weary of her new “allies”.
The author did a wonderful job with world building and character development, my only issue is the speed of the book sometimes felt a little slow and some character interactions felt forced. But otherwise was a wonderful book, and start to a new series. I am intrigued to see where the author takes this series from here.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-10-03 05:00:292024-10-21 13:46:11The Discovery of Magic (The Intrigue of Magic Series) by L. J. Evias – Review by Helen Dawkins
Wonderful book. I was hooked from the very beginning and loved every minute of it. This is the first book in the series, and focuses mainly on Gillian and Roman, but it also shows a lot of creating this world, that the other books will use to expand on.
Gillian grew up much like other kids in her world did. Human and terrified of the Shadowland & its beastly creatures. When a sickness unlike any other takes a hold of their world, her younger brother falls ill with the fatal disease. One night she overhears her mother speaking about traveling into the Shadowlands to find the witches of a coven. Gillian thinks that her brother needs his mother more than his sister and decides to take it upon herself to go search for the witches and hope they can help her brother. Gillian is very headstrong and is unwilling to bend, break or give up attempting to save her brother.
Early on, Roman, a strong dragonborn, finds Gillian. He just wants to keep his dad happy, and he will do anything for him, so when the Great Dragon says he wants to mate Gillian – Roman puts aside his growing feelings and does whatever it takes to deliver Gillian to his dad.
There is such a deeper situation happening that what is originally shown/stated. There are a lot of working parts to the entire plot. While it says this is a book for 18+ I personally do not agree, as there is nothing really explicit in the book. There is one super brief intercourse scene at the very end but personally I think it would be okay for older teens. The entire book was super fun, and I can totally see this being a large, interconnected fantasy series as there are so many directions it can go. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait to read the second book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-09-02 14:18:092024-09-27 12:38:23Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Helen Dawkins
A Gothic New Orleans. I loved the overall feeling this book had. A.D Brazeau has a way with words and this book does not disappoint. The book is full of darkness, but also small bits of romance, paranormal aspects, as well as greek mythological characters and the fact that it is based on a historical situation, makes it all that better. (the author obviously took creative liberties with the history)
One of the main characters, Greer, is such a strong-willed, and brave young woman. She was not like the other “casket girls”, she did not want to be sent oversea to marry a stranger, she was taken by force. Given no other choice, Greer has decided to make a deal with Hades to help her and her friends, as well as Theron. Does Greer succeed in saving those who are close to her?
Even though there are creative liberties with what is the “truth” about the casket girls, I very much enjoyed this book and the mix of historical information, greek mythology, and the paranormal aspects that have surrounded the casket girls’ stories. I have seen a good bit of New Orleans, including the Old Ursuline Convent, and so it was very easy for me to imagine everything said in the book, which I loved. I absolutely will be reading book 2 and recommend this book to anyone who loves historical, paranormal romance.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-08-18 16:10:362024-09-27 10:12:15Blood & Ravens (The Casket Girls Book 1) by A.D. Brazeau – Review by Helen Dawkins
This is the first book that I have read by the author Sinister Styx, and my thoughts are in the middle, not necessarily “bad” but also not great. This book is EXTREMELY fast-paced and short, it only took me about 10-15 minutes to read the entire novella. The length and speed did not bother me too much, except that I just wish there was ‘more’ as I felt like there was just something missing throughout the entire book, but, I can’t place exactly what it is. The book was very concise and jumped right into the plot, but I felt there just was not enough description to fully grasp and hold my attention. There are a bunch of twists and turns and I was pleasantly surprised by the ending.
Falcon and Ivy’s relationship is cursed/doomed from the start, even though they do truly love each other. Ivy just wants everything to go back to normal, to go back to the time before she began to question her husband’s fidelity, but is that even possible? The book felt very similar to Romeo & Juliet, featuring jealous lovers, betrayal, love and revenge. Falcon does not take Ivy’s accusations lightly and things go up into flames and spiral out of control very quickly. Will Ivy and Flacon receive the blessed happily ever after that they both want or will their marriage be destroyed beyond repair?
Considering this is a dark romance and very graphic, please make sure to read the trigger warnings beforehand. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves dark romance and may want a pallet/mind cleanser between other books. Also, because it is such a fast-paced book it would be perfect read if it is one of those weeks where you want to read, but you are struggling to actually maintain focus.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-08-15 22:11:142024-09-27 08:12:05Glass Houses by Sinister Styx – Review by Helen Dawkins
This is a retelling of The Epic of Gilgamesh by Nicole Bailey. I love almost everything the author has written but I have an indifferent feeling about this book. I neither liked nor disliked it.
The world-building is wonderful, and the characters are described amazing as well. I felt so much of this book was repetitive – this was probably my main issue with the book. I wanted to love the story, but I just couldn’t. The speed of the book changes a few times, which has some to do with my inability to love it. The book starts off pretty energetic with the War but dies down TREMENDOUSLY after the second, maybe third chapter. It does not speed back up until the last 10% of the book.
The book starts off following Gilgamesh, who is 2/3 God, and the King of Uruk. He is also insanely arrogant, selfish, blood-thirsty, and overly obessed with crafting a legacy that withstands time. The Gods create Enkidu, who is a wild man but also God blessed. Gilgamesh now finds himself in a TRUE competition with someone who is not so easily beat. Enkidu was my FAVORITE character and overall aspect of this book.
This book is a part of a duology, and it DOES end on a cliffhanger. I do look forward to reading book two in hopes it is better than this one.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-07-06 15:34:462024-09-26 11:50:03In the Midst of Omens (The Legacy of Gilgamesh Series) by Nicole Bailey – Review by Helen Dawkins
This is the first book I have read by the author Cori Cooper. It is a surprising and fun YA fantasy book. There were times that the book was a little on the slow side, but it wasn’t so slow that it took away from the book. It is jam-packed with adventure, quirky & loving characters, wonderful fantasy worldbuilding, teenage drama, magic, emotions all over the place, and so much more!
The concept of doing a DNA test to see if you have “villain” in your heritage is such an interesting idea and then to expand that idea into finding out your ‘tendencies’ is even more interesting! The most fascinating aspect for me is that we all want to be seen for who we are now, or who we are trying to become, not who we used to be. No one wants to be known for the past. What had me hooked was the statement “Every good fairy tale needs a villain” because YES!!
Maddy is less than thrilled when her DNA results come back with 1/4 villain, not only is she not thrilled, she is insanely confused by her mom and grams reactions to the DNA results. What does this even mean?
Maddy figures out quickly that the world she knew is completely incorrect, there are magical realms. After Maddy’s best friend is banished to another realm, she MUST go rescue him. After things take a turn for the worst, Maddy starts to think there is fact to her DNA results – could she actually be villain, does that make her a bad person? Maddy’s black/white view of you can only be good OR evil, but not both, is turned upside down, and I absolutely loved how she grows as a person!
All of the characters involved in the story were so personal and entertaining, especially Leo. There is a wonderful mix of modern day teenager and magical fairytale. The ending was *perfection* – one of the best endings I’ve read! The book does not end on a cliffhanger, BUT, I would love to see where Maddy and Leo’s story goes, so I am looking forward to that. This is an amazing book for YA, while there is some romance, it is wholesome. This would also be a good pallet cleanser for just a clean, fun, and quirky book! Highly recommend too anyone YA (and even older!) who enjoys a little modern mixed with their fairytale magic.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-06-17 17:02:592024-08-15 14:30:59One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper – Review by Helen Dawkins
A Song of Salt and Secrets is the second book in the Mythic Academy Collection by Amanda Marin. It is a YA teen fantasy with sirens, an ancient Goddess, a curse, magic, romance as well as friendships. It has a little mermaid vibe just revamped. We follow Corisande, who is a siren, attending the Magwitch Academy. She is desperately trying to keep her cursed singing voice under control, but despite warnings, she lures in Noah, who is a student at a nearby Prep school, and almost kills him when he crashes his boat. Cue in angry Goddess Aphrodite. Corisande is rapidly starting to feel a pull towards Noah. Fate must have a plan, even if it doesn’t seem that way at the moment.
Will Corisande ever be able to control her curse? Will Aphrodite cause problems than cannot be averted? How could Noah ever love a monster like Corisande?
While this is the second book in the collection, it is and can be read as a stand-alone. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
**Noah’s mom is probably the only aspect of the book I did not like. While I understand she was wanting to keep her son safe, it came off really odd. But it did not make that big of an impact of how much I loved the book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-05-10 20:20:142024-05-16 07:28:05A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection) by Amanda Marin – Review by Helen Dawkins
Wonderful paranormal fae romance that is set in New Orleans. The book is written by a collection of 10 authors: Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Moran, Livell James, Machelle, Hanleigh, Melissa McKinnon.
The book started a little slow but picked up about a third of the way through. The romance is insta-love/insta-lust with mystery, tension, and of course insane chemistry. I thoroughly enjoyed their love story, especially that it is a forbidden love. Aeris, who is fae, is very interested in humans outside of her home, Laric. But she is given several warnings from her older brother about them. Her curiosity wins out, and she decides to use glamour to watch humans. The twist is… Callum, a police detective, (human…..or is he?) can see her.
Aeris doesn’t understand how Callum could see her, but after some research, she realizes glamour does not work on other mythological creatures. Since Callum, must have mythological blood, she reveals to him that she is fae. But what type of creature is Callum?
There are lots of twists and turns that are executed perfectly. I was worried that the book would not flow properly considering how many authors are involved, but the story is seamless. There is steam, but it is toned down and is more plot than steam. The book was excellent and intricately woven. This is the first book of a five-part series, and I will definitely be reading all five.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-04-16 18:44:562024-05-14 14:15:36Touched: Elemental Passions Book One by Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon – Review by Helen Dawkins
This is the first book in the series ‘Spicetopia’, technically, they can be read in any order as they are individual storylines with interconnecting parts. But I recommend starting with this book and reading in order.
Jolie and Cy have an immediate connection. To bad each other them are hiding major parts of themselves. Cy, the millionaire and son of parents who own the family theme park ‘Sweetopia’ and Jolie, the single mom that is half family theme park Queen and other half dominatrix.
Cy has his inheritance on the line and agrees to go ‘undercover’ in the theme park to figure out who the rebel employees are and their plans to go public with horrible information about the Sweet Family, specifically Cy mother and father. Cy is originally under the impression the rebels are lying and just stirring up trouble. He doesn’t expect to end up on their side nor to fall in love with the beautiful Queen, Jolie.
Jolie, has been under extreme pressure taking care of his chronically ill son as well as juggling two equally demanding jobs. The Sweets, have horrible health insurance and want a robot more than an employee. She wants to put their ignorance on the live news for everyone to see, but she didn’t imagine she’d ever find a wonderful man that makes her feel alive.
They both have secrets and when those secrets are exposed, they are both left wondering what to do next. Will Jolie be able to take care of her family while also enjoying her own life? Will she forgive a man who utterly lied about everything, even his name? Will Cy, chose his blood family or the woman he has fell in love with? How important is money to him?
I absolutely loved this adventure with these two and would recommend this book & series to anyone who wants a spicey romance without the storyline being too heavy.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-03-30 17:22:202024-05-03 11:19:45Sugar & Spice (Spicetopia Series) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Helen Dawkins
This is the first book I have read by the author, K. Rose, and it was a pleasant, quick and fun read. While this is book 9 in the Silver Springs Pets Series, it is a standalone and the series can be read in any order.
The book has an unusual take on vampires that is quirky with a side of romance (reverse harem). Have you ever heard of a VEGAN vampire? No, I didn’t think so. On a horrible date, the FMC, Basil, is turned into a vampire and ends up in a supernatural sanctuary called Silver Springs. The FMC is a brilliant biomedical engineer and puts her skills to use to create a synthetic serum, so she does not need to drink blood – hence being vegan. I loved how creative this book was in every aspect, the plot, the world building, and the characters. At times it did remind me a tad bit of Twilight, specifically that the vampires are sparkly. I do wish that the FMC had more character development, but it was enough to still enjoy her character thoroughly.
This book will take your emotions on a rollercoaster – laughing out loud to crying. If you are looking for a quick quirky read that is drenched in spice, fated supernatural mates, glittery vampires, and full of adventure then I recommend you definitely pick this book up and read it! You will not be disappointed.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-03-05 17:51:302024-03-25 11:38:28Basil (Silver Springs Pets Series) by K. Rose – Review by Helen Dawkins
I am never disappointed with a book written by C.A. King, and this is no exception. Wonderfully crafted paranormal romance, that is perfectly unique! This book is a short novella (52 pages) about a young woman down on her luck, named Selene. There is definitely potential to either continue the story or write a more in-depth view of the book. The story is full of steam (reverse harem) and is shrouded in mystery.
Selene is the definition of weird. She can’t hold down a job, and constantly is having complaints about her. After being fired from her job, she stumbles upon a new job adventure on the Forbidden Island. It almost seems too good to be true – the job is perfect for her, she is provided housing and free meals, and also gets the amenities of a wonderful island resort. The only people who live on the island are the 6 owners, and the guests. Selene doesn’t quite understand a few things about the island, especially the rule about wearing a mask if you go out at night. What is this horrible curse? Will she be able to keep this job, or will she be fired from here too?
I would recommend to anyone wanting a quick steamy read that is also paranormal. Also, I would VERY much be excited if C.A. King made this a full-length novel! So many possibilities!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-02-04 16:42:072024-02-16 08:03:47Curse of the Forbidden Island by C.A. King – Review by Helen Dawkins
The Uncrowned King is book two in The Blood Prince Series, by Ayla Marie. You MUST read book one in order to understand this book. I was on the edge of my seat the entire way; this book is just as emotional and exciting as the first.
Leo and his family are now in Arkezo, where he finds out that he is the heir to the throne. There is a lot of new information being thrown at Leo and Cael, not to mention trying to find their way through a new city. Will Leo end up taking the throne? The connection to the crown may make keeping his family safe easier, but at what cost? Leo, Cael and Elana just want to keep everyone safe and to finally have peace.
This is a great read for all ages in my opinion, not just YA. It is action packed, and full of deeper meaning. The way the author weaves this story is amazing and she is truly talented! Being that the Ayla is still in high school, she is definitely an author to watch – both of her books are wonderfully written.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-01-12 11:54:382024-01-13 20:07:08The Uncrowned King (The Blood Prince Series) by Ayla Marie – Review by Helen Dawkins
The Blood Prince is the first book of two, by Ayla Marie. This is a wonderful YA fantasy book that has amazing world building and complex characters. The book is captivating and deals with loyalty, love, and persevering as an individual, but also as a family.
The first half of the book is from Leo’s perspective. He is an assassin/mercenary who is the most wanted criminal. While he is extremely lethal, he is also very kind and a loving brother, who would do anything for his family. When one of his younger siblings shows the signs of having the same lethal abilities as him, they must flee in order to stay live.
Family is everything, and even in the darkest of times, the Hael family shows that you can prevail, stand strong, and flourish. I cannot wait to read the second book and see where the story leads!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2024-01-12 11:38:342024-01-13 20:06:58The Blood Prince by Ayla Marie – Review by Helen Dawkins
Let me start off by saying this is a wonderful book. With that being said, I wanted to like it so much more than I actually did. This book is a stand-alone romantic fantasy novel, but it does have two other books in the same universe.
Song of Earth and Claws has a good amount of the “regular” fantasy elements, such as drama, danger, magic and mystical characters (in this case Fae – as well as shapeshifters). But there are also a few elements that the author adds that I find are quite unique and interesting, the main one being the way the fae differ from one another. They all have the deeper connection as far a morals go, but they couldn’t be any more different regarding powers, personalities, and physical attributes.
There is A LOT, and I do mean A LOT of information to take in that is honestly pretty necessary to keep the story line straight. This is a chacteristic most dystopian books have, especially in the very first book introducing the world, so I don’t have a problem with the amount of info but, my issue is more so with how much of the information if very alike. There are only very small differences, but those small differences are crucial at understanding and comprehending. Another issue I have is the names are very similar as well. Which would have been fine if they were characters on the same side, or for smaller characters, if a small description (without necessarily being redundant) was included when mentioning them. I completely understand this is easier said than actually done when it comes to writing characters lol.
There are several characters that I would consider “main” characters, but as far as the romantic story line of the book, it is focused on Lannahi and Ashared. I do deeply love their connection both physical and mental. The romantic part doesn’t really have momentum though until over half way, and I feel there was a lot of missed opportunity there because the book is focused on explaining in depth the rules of the fae universe as well as Lannahi as a person. I feel like the author was torn in two directions – the romantic portion of the story vs. the universe the romance took place in. I think the book generally would have been better if there was just one direction the author focused on. Because of this, the flow of the story was a little choppy.
The beginning of the story focuses on Lannahi only and the “games”. But the “games” are not really well explained and left me a little confused on why exactly they existed besides the fact to keep the fae from just murdering each other at random. Another large aspect of this book that heavily confused me was what the ACTUAL plot was, out of the plethora of things that could be considered, none of them really made enough sense to be the MAIN one. Yes, Lannahi wanted protection from Nihhal and she couldn’t speak of what he aspired to do, as well as she did not wish to become a slave. But wouldn’t becoming a Queen solve these issues? Isn’t that the whole point of why she became Queen? Not to mention, after she becomes Queen, it barely mentions him again until almost 3/4 ways through.
The element of danger is never missing, there is always a slight worry that someone might lose their life at any given moment. Has Lannahi bit of more than she could chew? Who knew being Queen would be just as dangerous as her future looked with Nihhal. Loyalties are tested, secrets are kept.. and broken, family members cannot always be trusted, and greed is not always the motivation behind a person’s intentions.
The universe itself is easily imagined; the author does a wonderful job of explaining the world. It is a BEAUTIFUL world, and I think this is one of the best things about this book. It is just enough similar to other fae worlds that makes it easy to imagine fae living there, but so different that you might just take a step back and imagine fae, as a whole, differently than before.
The underlying story had SO much potential, and I feel like it did not really meet its mark for me. But regardless, it is a good story and I encourage you to pick it up and read if you love fantasy romance!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2023-12-31 02:32:222024-01-13 16:31:38Song of Earth and Claws (Faelands Series) by Lena Abram – Review by Helen Dawkins
This is the first book I have read by J.N. Sheats and I fell in love. This book is a wonderful YA paranormal suspense with the supernatural, mystery, tension/angst, complex characters, ghosts, occult, slight horror, and wonderful world building. Even though it is YA, I think that older adults would definitely love this as well.
I did not read the first book in the series, but I do not feel like it made this book any less than because of that. With that said, I will be going back to read the first book. I can see a few areas in the book where knowledge from the first book would have been beneficial. I would recommend reading the first book and then this one, but it is not 100% necessary to understand and love this book.
The main character Joey is struggling to keep up with her normal day to day life, but she is also experiencing several supernatural events happening around her. She is desperately trying to find her new “normal” in college, but after everything that has happened, she is not sure if that is possible anymore. What is stalking her in her dreams? What is a dream and what is real? Will her life ever go back to normal?
If you enjoy books with supernatural, paranormal, with some mystery then you will most definitely enjoy this book! I cannot wait to read what comes next!
This is the first book I have read by Hazel Smith, and it was an absolute delight! Murky Muder is the 4th book in the series, but it can be read as a stand-alone book. Even though it can be a stand-alone, I will be going back and reading the previous books, as I have fallen head of heels for these quirky characters. It is a lighthearted cozy mystery book for all ages. The entire book is a whodunit feeling, and it doesn’t make it easier to guess, considering every person is hiding a secret.
Ivy has just been promoted to head maid at the Hotel LaFontaine and has just gone her first date with her boss, the owner of the Hotel, Max (Sir Maximillian Humphrey). Their date went wonderful, all except a crazed hooded person running towards their table with a knife. What Ivy thought was just a one off turns into a series of mysterious events. Starting off with a creepy cryptic letter the hotel receives, which is followed by a guest, being murdered. Just as you begin to think you know what is going on, the author throws in another great suspect. I did guess the bad guy correctly, but I will say, I made myself second guess a good bit – which I loved!
Such a great quick light book to read! I definitely recommend to anyone who loves a bit of mystery and wants something light or quick to read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2023-12-08 19:36:262023-12-15 06:38:44Murky Murder (A Maid Ivy Cozy Mystery Book) by Hazel Smith – Review by Helen Dawkins
This is the 8th book, but the 2nd book in Shane’s duet. I have said this before and I will say it again from the roof tops, I ABSOLUTELY LOVE this entire series. I am NOT ready to say goodbye. Every single character in the entire series is super relatable, and even their experiences are as well. You do not need to read the other 6 books, but I highly do recommend that you do as that they are all wonderful in their own unique ways and it also heightens the experience for the rest of the books in the series, including this one. This book definitely is an amazing way to end the duet, and the series as a whole.
Now, on to this book specifically. I adore Shane, he has always been one of the characters I just CRAVE to know more about. Winter also captured my heart immediately. There is plenty of chemistry, angst, drama GALORE, love as well as hate, revelations, family, and of course just the right amount of some mystery!
This is not a lovey-dovey type of romance it is a bully romance; I repeat A BULLY romance. Please check the trigger warnings if you have any.
Throughout the book, Winter and Shane seem to be both not necessarily “stuck in the past”, but most definitely dealing with trauma that happened in the past. For Shane, it is his father, who wanted nothing to do with the boys (him and his brother) for years, until recently. But now, it seems the reoccurring theme with his dad is – MONEY. Winter’s sister, Summer, was supposedly drowned by her mother. Winter’s mind has been blocked and she’s begun to wonder if there is more to what really happened. That is until recently she has been remembering more and more about what happened to her.
Winter is almost abducted, and everything just gets M-E-S-S-Y! While Shane is dealing with his greedy Grandfather who wants Shane to pay a steep price for money assistance. Money that his father is asking from him, putting him in a horrible position in order to get the money.
The two finally come together, to help figure out who has targeted her and why?
This book, and the first part of the duet, will have you falling in love with both of their stories. The character development is amazing. The plots themselves are outstanding and not typical. This is a series that I will continue to reread over and over again. The characters will always live rent free in my brain! The book and the series are highly addictive, and you won’t want to wait a minute until you have read it to completion!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2023-12-01 12:29:132023-12-07 12:26:47Wicked Ends: A Dark College Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Series, Book 8 ) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Helen Dawkins
This is the first book that I have read by author Cambria Williams, as this is her debut dark fantasy novel, and I thoroughly enjoyed this book and her writing style.
The Befallen is a strong debut novel, in all honesty, I would not have guessed this to be her first book. Her writing style is so smooth and lyrical. I devoured it in one sitting. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy, and definitely to those who enjoy dark fantasy. The thing I loved most about this book though is how it is a representation of disability but still being able to make such a big impact and change in the world.
The characters in The Befallen are well developed and easy to love, as well as relate to. You can tell Cambria Williams put a lot of thought into her world building as well, and it is absolutely spectacular. Even though there technically are “slow” parts where you are learning in depth about the characters, it did not feel slow. The author engages you on a deeper level and it just feels natural. The story is a wonderful mix of “info” and plot.
This is a story that will take you on a journey, that has a strong message of faith and hope. It is such a beautiful experience to see, and feel how the MC’s, Sloane and Sir Tolvar, crave to find their self-worth and place in the world. Sir Tolvar is looking for redemption and Sloane is wanting to be seen more than a “cripple”. As some who struggles with a disability, there were an insane number of parts where I just sat and cried. I felt Sloanes pain and longing as it is mine.
Sir Tolvar and Sloane set out to find a cure for the curse that has caused Sloane so much pain, and in the process Sir Tolvar also strives to become a better man. The journey is a waterfall of emotions, so get ready to be on a rollercoaster. The characters have so many obstacles they must overcome, and I held my breath at every single one. There are times where I was angry and frustrated at what they were being put through, and at other times I was jumping for joy cheering them on.
The ending is so beautiful, and I look forward to reading more from this author!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2023-11-28 15:08:192023-12-07 11:23:53The Befallen (The Unsung and The Wolf Duology) by Cambria Williams – Review by Helen Dawkins
I absolutely love everything that Lilliana Rose writes, and this is no exception. This is an amazing start to a wonderful series of witches, werewolves, a somewhat enemy to lovers’ trope, secrets, destiny, lots of action, adventure, and tension.
This is such an interesting forbidden love story. This beginning book to the series is such a great start and for a steppingstone to continue the series. It is such a superb blend of the paranormal genre. The world building was very well thought out, and the plot was written wonderfully as always. I love the way Lilliana writes, it is so personal and easy to follow, but at the same time full of so much information. The end of this story made me wish it hadn’t ended.
Tanjie is a witch but does not know it. When she loses someone very special to her, y. After their death, she finds herself in a new town and in a bookstore. A bookstore that is soooo much more than it seems on the outside. She finds out that there is much more to the world, and herself than she had believed. In order to save the future of the coven, she now must claim her birthright and power.
Alaric, is a werewolf, who loves stalking as much as he can throughout the night. He is ready for the next step on the pack’s life. There is a war coming, but he might just have fallen for the enemy.
Both are terribly stubborn and very ignorant at first, I really wanted to shake them and ask what the heck was wrong with them!!! On the other hand, I did like watching them work through those issues, and then seeing them finally growing together! I feel that their character development and relationship was very realistic and easy to relate to.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2023-11-18 21:49:532023-11-22 08:02:39Dark Moon Secrets (The Witch Moon Series Book 1) by Lilliana Rose – Review by Helen Dawkins
I love this series! This is book 4, and while I loved the book, I felt there was very limited information on what New has happened.
Usually, C.A. King can write a 100-150 page book, and I feel like I’ve read an intense amount of details, but this book felt as if it was rushed and thrown together. Even with that said, it wasn’t a bad read, just very, very short and not a lot of details.
The Crones are out in full force again. This time, who can she trust? Anyone? This year, she isn’t even allowed to have her helpers! She is being watched at every turn and of course the person she turns to is the one person everyone forgets about meeting immediately. I feel a romance brewing there 👀.
Now that she has chosen to exile herself to a grave yard no one even knows exists, will she have the opportunity to change the magic world for the better? Will she uncover more nasty truths the Crones have made disappear?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2023-11-18 20:49:372023-11-22 08:01:53Grave Digger Academy IV (Grave Digger Academy Series) by C.A. King – Reviewed by Helen Dawkins
This series was definitely interesting, and you can tell the author put a lot of thought into writing the book. However, I feel it fell flat in a few areas, and at times was hard to follow the storyline. The book does have a very slow start, but I did enjoy it, as you really were able to connect and get a good feel for the characters. This story is focuses deeply on perseverance even though the characters had a LOT of hardships and challenges. My favorite aspect of this story was that it was set in dark fantasy world – that alone captivated my attention. As the story came to a climax, it definitely made your breathing almost stop. Would Oden end up ending this war…or would he die first? The relationship between Oden and his daughter was absolutely beautiful, and explained as well as showed exactly how far a father will go for their child. Even though, I believe this was written as a stand-alone, the author did leave room if they wanted to write another book that followed the ending or just was another story in this dark fantasy world. I do recommend reading this book, as the messages throughout the book were absolutely beautiful and thought out. I look forward to reading more by this author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2023-11-15 19:10:132023-11-20 13:56:41Doombringer by Marcel Liemant – Review by Helen Dawkins
This is the first book in the Raven Academy by Brandi Elledge and boy did it have me on the edge of my seat; such an excellent beginning to a series.
The characters and storyline are very well thought out and excellent for teens or even adults like myself. Brandi’s writing style is super easy to follow and relate to. The beginning is a little info heavy, but I promise it is worth it to keep on going and it is important for the rest of the book. Brandi does excellent with her world building with all of the different characters – vampires, witches, etc.
There is everything you need for an excellent book, drama, who is going to die questions, who is going to be saved, suspense, different species not just one, which i love particularly.
You won’t want to put this book down and you will eagerly be waiting for book two!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2023-11-09 18:03:332023-11-17 06:38:55Shadow Bringer (Raven Academy Book 1) by Brandi Elledge – Review by Helen Dawkins
This is the third and final book in the Fallen Hearts series by Meredith Hart. There are some things I really liked about this book and others that just fell a little flat – overall though, it is a good book and a good ending to the series.
Just like the other books, this one is written in dual POV. The two main characters are Alindra and Phaedron. Both who have felt extreme pain and wish to escape their reality. It was one major complication after another, and I felt horrible for both of them. Alindra is on the run, and the only place she can go where they may not find her is the Lands Below. Her and Phaedron’s adventure starts quiet literally with a portal opening.
We are introduced in Phaedron in the other books, but this is the first time he is front and center, and you really get to know him better and on a deeper level. There are some other characters that you see that also cross over from the other books, which i enjoyed.
Meredith Hart’s world building skills are amazing, and I can submerge myself into the world easily. If you enjoy romance with a little magic and adventure this is the story and series for you. The way the series wrapped up was done nicely. I definitely recommend reading this book, and series.
This is an excellent book for young adults and teens!! I am 27 years old and it was still highly enjoyable for me to read. I was intrigued at the very beginning. The characters are wonderful thought out and the magic elements are well written. You can tell the author did their research about Louisiana before writing, as all of the small details are spot on. There is a wonderful balance between murder, mystery, magic, and humor. The only thing that threw me off, was that the title included “the musical” which I do not understand as it isn’t a musical – but does deal with teens going to a drama camp.
The book starts out with a fun, light, summer camp vibe but then turns into the more dark, sinister, mystery. The story takes place in New Orleans, which adds a bit of mystery all on its own. The two main characters, CeCe and Portia, are very easily relatable, and I loved seeing them together, as well as their relationships with other characters. CeCe is a necromancer, who helps her dad, a police detective, solve murders. When CeCe goes off to camp, a sinister supernatural start to target CeCe making everything dangerous for everyone around her.
This is definitely different and unique than most stories in the same genre. There is a twist at the end that I truly hope leads to a sequel! Definitely recommend this book from young teens to young adults, and even adults who just want something light and super easily to read!
In a nutshell, this book is a wonderful paranormal teen mystery with necromancy, magic, crime investigating, danger, friendships, high school teens, family, and quirky characters.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2023-10-27 22:21:532023-10-30 07:09:37Necromancy the Musical by Debbie Hibbert – Review by Helen Dawkins
This is book 7 in the Hidden Valley Elite Series, but the first book in the duet focusing on Shane and Winter. It is not necessary to read all of the previous books in order, but I do recommend you do so, as it will give you much needed background on Shane and some of the other elite characters.
This book will hit you with every single feeling you possibly could have while reading a book! Shane has always intrigued me from the very beginning of the series, just something about him constantly caught my attention. His personality is much more complex than the other three boys in his family. Shane is a mixture of anger, rage, and broodiness but at the same time is the type of boy you’d find yourself staying up late to talk to about absolutely everything, and it would come effortlessly. At the end of Cruel Love, we see that Shane is being arrested on involuntary manslaughter – and this book starts out exactly what happened to get to that point.
Winter – she is a brand-new character entering the series, which I thought was refreshing. She is returning after being gone for 8 years. Her father died, and her sister was then murdered by her mother, who was sentenced to 10 years. Jaxon’s family decided to take her in and showed her what a TRUE LOVING family was supposed to feel and look like.
Twist time—- Shane and Winter have a dark and messed up past together. Winter almost droves Shane to end his life in the fifth grade, and now seeing her back in town, he vows to make her pay for what she did to him. The worst part is…. Winter doesn’t even recognize Shane, so he ends up “pretending” to be a guy named Landon and begins to date Winter.
Such an amazing book but be warned it does end of a hefty cliffhanger! I cannot wait till the second part of the duet comes out!
Will Winter find out who Shane is? If she does, how does she find out? Is Shane in too deep with Winter? Will he know when he has gone too far? Will Winter’s om be granted parole at her next hearing?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2023-10-27 22:03:422023-10-30 07:09:26Wicked Games (Hidden Valley Elite Book 7) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Helen Dawkins
Wild Lavender is the first book in the Heart & Hand Series by Nicole E. Kelleher. This is a medieval historical romance. It took me a about a third of the way through to actually capture my attention, the pace goes from very slow to extremely fast. The beginning is not bad, it just is very slow, and you MUST pay attention to every detail as Nicole E. Kelleher drops small hints throughout the book, which I loved, but just wished the pace was consistent throughout. At times it felt like there was a good bit of filler information.
This book is full of castles, secret passages, war, betrayal, strong heroin, and arranged marriage. Anna is such a headstrong and brave young woman, her idea of a blissful marriage is quickly shattered when she realizes her husband is a cruel, sadistic, hateful and abusive man. Lord Roger hides behind a mask, he can be charming and alluring. Anna, with the assistance of several people want to get rid of Roger, but he is two steps ahead of them – Roger ordered that if he is to die, that not only is his Captain supposed to kill Anna, but they are also supposed to kill her entire family and harm her hometown, Chevlain.
Lord Roger is up to something, but they cannot prove it. Larkin and two other men from the Royal Guard show up in Stolweg to try to uncover any wrong doings by Lord Roger. When he arrives, he is stunned to see the woman who has haunted his dreams for years. if Lord Roger is proven to be guilty, Anna may be implicated as well since she is his wife.
By the end of the book, it was a captivating romance with plenty of action, violence, prophecy, and challenges. The book really starts progressing when Anna decides to save herself and her people from the sadistic Lord Roger. I recommend reading this book if you love medieval fantasy romance! I cannot wait to read book 2. PLEASE CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS FOR THIS BOOK!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2023-10-20 14:27:402023-10-26 14:13:09Wild Lavender (Heart & Hand Series Book 1) by Nicole E. Kelleher – Review by Helen Dawkins
This is Book 1 of Phoenix’s Duet (there is a prequel Cruel Start). Even though this is the beginning of the duet, it is the 5th book in the series. It is not necessary to read the previous books, but I highly suggest you do as they are interconnected and will give you 10x the reading experience and understanding of Phoenix.
Readers hold on to your hearts and stomachs because you are about to go on an insanely intoxicating rollarcoaster. Phoenix and Aspen’s relationship is part toxic part pure infatuation. They both desperately do not want to have the lives of their parents, but it seems that at every turn, Phoenix and Aspen are at each other throats.
It was never in either of their cards to have a baby, and definitely not a baby with someone so infuriating or distracting to their plans of a future. They also both can’t deny that they are extremely attracted to the other. As well as an all-consuming passion. They consume eachothers every thoughts. But is that enough to let their guard down around one another?
Everyone seems to notice the way they feel about each other, except the other person. They both keep lying to themselves that they, in fact, want nothing to do with the other, but yet can’t keep them off their mind. Their entire relationship or should I say “fake relationship” is very Hot & Cold.
There are so many things that the other does not know about them. They quickly are learning there is more to their character than what they originally judged them as. But so there are so many secrets, hidden daggers in their families, and so so much trauma. Will they ever make it past any of that? Are they doomed to recreate their parents’ mistakes? Or maybe even worse ones?
The ending will leave you gasping for air at the intensity of the cliffhanger. I can not wait for book 2 of the duet to see where their lives and relationship are headed!!!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2023-09-02 18:09:172023-09-14 07:43:25Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Helen Dawkins
This is the third book in the Protector Wolf Shifter Series.
Tamaska and Kodiak are both still having a push-pull contest of whether they want to be together.
It is becoming abundantly clear that Tamaska is not safe anywhere – even with the wolf shifters. The vampires will stop at nothing to get her, more specifically, her blood. The Wolf shifters early on experiencing an intense loss, making them th scramble to regroup. Why do the vampires want Tamaska? Will Tamaska and Kodiak finish their bond connection? It seems the only option is to turn Tamaska into a wolf shifter – that is, if she can survive the transformation.
I absolutely love the storyline, but …. I am not a fan of the characters themselves. It looked like it was getting better in book 2, but they just reverted to their old ways in book 3. I find both Tamaska and Kodiak extremely annoying and whiney. They both want control, but neither are willing to give even an ounce of submission. Also, several times, the author repeated things that had just happened. There were also things that were “revealed,” but technically, they had already been revealed or uncovered in book 1 or 2. Several times, characters asked questions that they should have already known the answer to. Also, there are so many things that have happened to Tamaska, yet she tells no one… I understand keeping some of the things secret because the author can not just explain everything all at once. But it just made Tamaska seem like she could care less about literally everything – her life, ancestors, the wolf shifters, and even the vampires.
I did enjoy the cliffhanger at the end, and I am looking forward to reading book 4. I would love to see more of Ash. She is by far my favorite character in the book…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Helen Dawkinshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHelen Dawkins2023-09-02 18:00:302023-09-14 07:43:03Rogue Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 3) by Lilliana Rose – Review by Helen Dawkins
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Sanctuary by Bree M. Lewandowski
