First of all I will say that my new fave author for all the emotional twists and turns has finally arrived! This entire series was a suit on the edge of my seat kind of experience and it has been so well worth it! I’m really impressed by the type of friendship Melody, Imani, and Lance have in this series. I mentioned on another review that I identify with the emotions and pains and strife of going through engineering college, but this friendship is something else. I’ve never been more interested in how to keep friends like this before and thought it may happen! But enough about me! I love how the story comes together. The author takes her time and ensures we recall the actions in book 1 and 2,and she just keeps the drama coming. I don’t want to give any spoilers but you will be surprised and full of joy at how great these friends become closer through the tough times. I hope we all learn this great lesson!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Phillipshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Phillips2022-10-07 16:17:072022-10-11 12:27:29True Colors (The Colors Trilogy Book 3) by K.R. Raye – Review by Ashley McMillon
Young Hester spends her days tending to the animals on her family’s farm and helping with chores that need to be done. The river, Sabrina, is her happy place, and she sneaks off to visit her whenever she can. Hester loves to listen to the river speak to her as Sabrina tells her to be wise, be strong and finds delight in watching the river nymphs dance. It was on one of these trips to visit Sabrina when she was a little girl that Hester met a young man named Aaron. He too could speak to the river and knew about the healing powers of herbs and flowers.
As Hester became older, she becomes more intrigued by this young man and wants to learn about herbal remedies so that she may help heal others as her grandmother had. She convinces Aaron to train her in secret because she knows that her mother would not approve of Hester learning something that she refers to as witchcraft. Hester knows that healing others with herbal remedies is what she wants to do with her life, but it seems that nobody wants that for her. Aaron has his own issues that he is trying to work through, so he feels that stopping the lessons is in Hester’s best interests. Hester begs and pleads with him, and he reluctantly agrees to continue helping her learn.
Hester’s mother has other plans for her and decides that she must get married and have children because that will settle her down. With the townsfolk gossiping about Hester and talk of her being a witch, her mom feels that she must get married immediately and arranges a marriage for Hester to an older, local fisherman. Knowing that this marriage will not be good for her, Hester flees to the only place she feels safe. She turns to Aaron for help, but he also feels that her getting married and leading a normal life is the best thing for her.
This book is loosely based on the true story of a woman in the early 20th Century who was trained in healing and accused of being a witch. The story contained many layers and was very well written with wonderful characters throughout. Hester was a remarkable young lady who was resilient, headstrong, determined and knew what she wanted. She would stop at nothing to get it, regardless of how much hardship she had to face to get it. Aaron had issues that he needed to resolve which made his character a bit hard to understand at times. It seemed he wanted to be Hester’s teacher but perhaps longed for more. Hester’s mom was another character that was a bit perplexing. She loved Hester and wanted the best for her but tried to force Hester into an arranged marriage to a man Hester loathed. However, when you think about the period this book was written in, it makes a bit more sense that reputation was important to the common class of the early 1900’s. That helps the reader understand that Hester’s mom really did feel that was the best choice for her daughter. A fantastic and haunting read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2022-10-07 16:12:412022-10-08 22:14:24River Witch by Cheryl Burman – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Hester is a farmers daughter who lives with her parents and three brothers on a farm near the town off Shiphaven, she helps out with the chores on the farm and the sewing her mother completes to earn a little extra income, they are a happy family, but they do think that Hester has her head in the clouds, what they don’t know is that Hester can hear the river speaking to her and can see the nymphs as they ride in the waves, calling for her to join them. Aaron is a gentleman who lives on his own in a little cottage in the woods, near the river, it is further away from Shiphaven than the farm and has seen better days, but he is too tired and his spirit is too lacklustre to move anywhere else at this point thanks to events in his past which still haunt his memories.
One day, Hester is walking by the river and listening to her words when she meets Aaron, he explains that the river is a goddess and her name is Sabrina, he also tells her that not everyone can hear her and that they are special, not ordinary and that they are wise, he then walks Hester back to her farm. A few years later and Hester is quickly growing into a young woman, but the siren call of Sabrina and the nymphs one day drive her to where the river meets the sea, but Aaron stops her from joining them and gives her a gift to keep her strong and give her courage, he also tells her about the flowers and plants they see as they walk together, this sparks an interest in Hester that soon grown within her.
The next time Hester and Aaron meet, she insists that he tells her more about being a wise person and herbal lore and she won’t take no for an answer, especially as it is now a driving force in her to become a wise woman and not just settle for being an ordinary woman with a husband and children. However, when Hester tells her mother about what she would like to do, her mother scorns her decision and dismisses it as old wives tales and witchcraft, saying that no good will come of it, then when Aaron says he would be better off as ordinary, she is devastated and feels betrayed.
Will Hester be able to convince Aaron to help her fulfil this need to use the lore of the forest and fields to heal those who need it, or will he let the past overshadow the bright future this young woman has and will the river help or hinder his decision when she constantly tells Hester to “Be wise and be strong”? This is a fantasy tale of one young woman and her struggles to see her dreams become reality amid a turbulent and twisting path which will keep you reading until you know whether she succeeds or fails.
Bax is a teenage boy who thinks his life is typically boring, that is until a strange man with purple eyes talks to him outside of his apartment building. The man offers Bax a ring claiming that it is for Bax’s estranged father. Bax, being curious, takes the ring. He shoves it into his pocket. Thinking the ring is just a gaudy piece of costume jewelry, he doesn’t think much about it. Bax ends up rubbing the purple jewel on the ring and an ugly creature appears before him.
The creature tells Bax it is a Janni which is a type of Djinn. Bax can’t believe his luck. His luck quickly turns when Janni is not what it seems. There is a darkness to the creature and the ring. Nothing is as it seems and Bax has to find out the hard way.
At first the book seems like a typical coming of age fantasy but it turns dark in an instant making it much more enjoyable to me. It was twisted and yet easy to read and relate to. I definitely recommend this book for YA and adults alike.
Having read and enjoyed book one in this trilogy I was excited to be back with main characters Thomas and April, and to continue their sci-fi adventure with them. I would personally recommend reading these books in order as the storyline picks up from the end of the previous novella. After receiving an intriguing text saying, “I think I found it.”, Thomas and April set off to explore the world they discovered previously. The pair go with a plan this time and hope they will be able to visit their new friend Flick along the way, but this undiscovered world has something else in store for them. It’s a good job their motto is, “Expect the unexpected”! The authors descriptive narrative and wonderful world building really brings the setting vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the story, as though I was exploring alongside Thomas and April. I look forward to the third book in this trilogy.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-10-07 15:31:532022-10-08 22:13:04The Second View (The View from Here Trilogy Book 2) by Leon Stevens – Review by Jennifer Gordon
Savage Secrets: There’s always been a pull between Elena and Marco. However, she has to go into hiding from the Russian mafia; leaving everyone behind thinking that she is dead. Marco finds out she’s alive and goes to retrieve her before the Russians can find her. To give her added protection, he marries her. As the heat on Elena ramps up, will they be able to find out why the Russians want her so bad? Can Marco protect her from them, if he finds out?
Ruthless Heir: Luc doesn’t know that he is in line to be the next Brambilla BOSS. He also didn’t realize that his one-night stand, Summer, is his new executive assistant. When his accounts are drained and Summer looks guilty, he THINKS he knows what’s happening. Little does he know that he has inherited loads of money and found the one for whom he was made. But there is something else going on entirely with Summer. Can he crack her defenses and learn how he can best protect her in time? Can he convince her that he is worth her trust in time?
Collateral Damage: Trey is the doctor in the Mafia Elite house. He works himself hard because of the guilt he carries over the untimely death of his late girlfriend. He knows it happened because of her association with him and his family and he can’t seem to forgive himself. At a hospital function, Hailey catches his eye. She is someone he could see himself with but balks at pushing it farther because of his last girlfriend. When Hailey is kidnapped out in front of the hospital and a ransom is asked for her return, Trey is asked to find her because of his Mafia ties. He has every intention of finding her and returning her. However, things go awry when not all is as it seems! Can he save the girl and protect his heart? Or will he lose his heart and possibly the girl?
Rivals: Mia Tucci is the daughter of a NY Mafia boss that is straight up EVIL. She needs a champion to save her from her father’s evil plans for her. Nico La Rosa fills that need and more, he just doesn’t realize it… yet. When Mia offers him information to take down her father’s illegal schemes hinging on them marrying, he’s not sure he can pass it up. Will he take the plunge and make her his, in order to take down an evil mafia boss? Or instead, will he find that she is the perfect match for him?
This series is AMAZIING!! I have loved each book. The way the author writes about these people, it seems like they are very real, and their lives could be playing out right before my eyes. The relationships, the love, and their commitment they all have with each other, and their families are how I feel life should be. Pick this series up… you will not regret it!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Desiree Ottingerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDesiree Ottinger2022-10-07 15:23:282022-10-08 22:08:57Mafia Elite Series Box Set Volume 2 by Amy McKinley – Review by Desiree Ottinger
History, as we know it, is kept in balance by time travelers. Time travelers that battle beings from another realm. Being part of a series, I know I’m missing part of the story, but I was able to easily pick up on what’s going on. I’m even thinking I have to go back and read the previous books. I highly recommend this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Terri Jo McAllisterhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTerri Jo McAllister2022-10-07 15:20:432022-10-08 22:09:05Nightfall in Deptford (Crescent Moon Chronicles Book 4) by L.E. Towne – Review by Terri Jo McAllister
Baxter is a teen boy who has grown up poor and watched as his mother has worked hard to provide the necessities of life for them both. He cannot help but wonder how different life would have been if his father had been around and yearns for a relationship with him. Baxter spends his days either at school where he tries his best to fit in, or with his best friend Jason playing video games. Although content with his life, young Baxter cannot help but dream big and hope for something extraordinary to happen in his life. Little did he know that is exactly what would happen, but unfortunately not in quite the way he had expected.
When Baxter returns home one evening, he finds an old man with glowing purple eyes standing on his doorstep. The man creeps Baxter out but tells him that he has a ring that is intended to be a gift for Baxter’s father. Reluctantly, Baxter takes the ring thinking that perhaps it can be sold, and the money used to help his mother. When he starts having weird dreams about the ring, he realizes the ring might be worth keeping. When Baxter accidentally rubs the ring and produces a powerful dijin he feels that his dreams may finally come true. Although happy to have a dijin to fulfill his wishes, Baxter desires more and learns he can summon an Ifrit which is even more powerful than the dijin. Now all of Baxter’s wishes will become true but at what cost?
The Ifrit turns out to be a sinister demon that feeds on Baxter’s subconscious thoughts and will go to any length to make Baxter’s dreams and fantasies come true. Before long the Ifrit has left a trail of death and destruction in its wake. Baxter’s life is turned upside down as it all points to him. Now it is up to Baxter, Jason, and their friend Ashley to find a way to stop the Ifrit and banish it from their world forever. Will they have what it takes to stop Ifrit?
I loved this book and was drawn into the story from the first pages. I loved the character of Baxter and felt myself rooting for him as he struggled to fit in. I understood his desire to want more and loved the magic ring that could produce a dijin to help him fulfill his dreams. I found myself shaking my head as he unleashed the Ifrit and knew that nothing good would come of him being so greedy and wanting more power. I loved the characters of Jason and Ashley and admired how they stood beside their friend and helped him out even when times got tough. This book was well written with a great storyline. Not only did it take some twists and turns, but it had some hidden, underlying messages about power and greed. A fantastic read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2022-10-07 15:02:412022-10-08 22:09:13From Brick & Darkness by J.L. Sullivan – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
This is the first book by this author I have read and it was not disappointing. I have to admit it was not my usual go to genre but I did get drawn into the world created by this author. The story is well written and the world that the author created is unique. I was at the edge of my chair as I got deeper and deeper into the story. There was a just enough drama to draw me into the story and I liked how there was a bit of complexity to the story with the djinn not being what was expected. I will definitely be reading more from this author in future.
I LOVED this story so much! Honestly I think it’s up there with my favourite reads of 2022 and I love that this is also the first book that I have read by this author. This is one of those books that could so easily be turned into a film – I would happily sit and watch this any day of the week! I loved everything about this book, it was funny, emotional, romantic and so much more. I adored the characters both human and furry!!! The story was so much fun to read, it flowed well and it really was just an absolute pleasure to read. This was a wonderful read, one I thoroughly enjoyed and could talk about all day and 100% one that I would recommend to other readers looking for a lovely light-hearted read with wonderful characters!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Katie Matthewshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKatie Matthews2022-10-07 13:53:572022-10-08 22:09:32Hate You Later (Lit Lovers Series Book 1) by Ciara Blume – Review by Katie Matthews
I think this title of this story pretty much sums up how I feel about this book – I honestly felt like I was trying to breathe underwater whilst reading it. The two authors did a great job with this story, the transition between the two writers was seamless and it was hard to tell that it was not written by just one person, their writing styles gelled really well and the story was really easy to read. I’ll admit at times there was a lot of story going on and I skimmed over a few parts but I still really enjoyed what I read. The characters Damian and Evelyn were great to read about and I am a sucker for a second chance romance and actually what I got was so much more than that. The authors threw in some great twists and turns which meant my interest was kept from beginning to end. Overall a great read and one that I would highly recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Katie Matthewshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKatie Matthews2022-10-07 13:41:472022-10-08 22:09:50Breathe Underwater by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by Katie Matthews
I absolutely LOVE it when this author comes out with a new book but this time it’s a whole new series and I couldn’t be more excited! I loved this book so much – it was a fantastic read from beginning to end. I loved mafia romance reads especially with a bit of darkness thrown in and this is exactly what I got from this book. Salvatore and Adrianna were fantastic to read about. I’ll admit whilst I found Salvatore to be the hot and powerful don it was Adrianna who I loved – she was so strong willed and it was refreshing to read the female lead who is as strong as she was. I loved seeing their relationship develop, they definitely had the spark there between them from the very beginning! I loved this story and I’m so excited for more to come from this series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Katie Matthewshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKatie Matthews2022-10-07 13:28:322022-10-08 22:07:36Boss’s Vendetta (Sicilian Gods Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by Katie Matthews
If you are into Mafia thrillers, this book is for you! When I picked up this book, I was unaware that it was part of a series, but the author gave enough background that this book can be read as a stand-alone book. The series of books follow The Five Families of Chicago’s mafia. Each book follows a different member from the Capo to the lowest man in the family. Each book picks up where the last one left off just following the next person’s story. The author’s attention to detail in connecting each book, yet each book centering on different family members, keeps me coming back for the next book. I would not suggest reading this or any of the books in this series as a standalone because each book adds to the bigger picture and will have you hooked on the edge of your seat I am a new fan of these thrilling, on-the-edge-of-your-seat mafia books! This series has become one of my favorite Mafia series. The author gets you hooked from the first chapter. A must-read series and a must-read author!! I have a feeling this is not the end of the storyline!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Lapehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Lape2022-10-07 13:26:332022-10-08 22:07:45Mafia Elite Series Box Set Volume 2 by Amy McKinley – Review by Ashley Lape
Hunter Divine is hired to investigate Hollywood actress Megan Getz blackmailer. The investigation leads to other answers in Hunter’s life that he has long awaited for. A tangled web has Hunter and his crew unraveling more then they expected.
This was good, it read more as a detective style story. Reminded me of some of the Ellery Queen mysteries I used to read. Kept me guessing as to where the story was going .
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emily Heislerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmily Heisler2022-10-07 13:03:552022-10-08 22:08:14Fallen Star (The Divine Devils Book 2) by R Weir – Review by Emily H
This is a second chance Dark Romance about Evelyn and Damien. Before you dive into this and read it in about a day like I did, PLEASE check the trigger warnings. There are some dark topics touched on and talked about in this book.
That being said I absolutely loved this. The passion, the lust, the angst and just the overall emotion tied to it. Even, if there is a judgemental cat named Max judging us at every possible moment, this story is well put together. After years of thinking the other couldn’t stand each other they’re face to face once again. And from there the rest is a passion and lust filled emotional ride. I cannot wait to physically own this so I can annotate in it and take down the quotes not just on my kindle.
If you are debating picking this up, don’t! Just pick it up is so worth it. Review by @michellerenee6590
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Marlowhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Marlow2022-10-07 12:52:012022-10-11 12:27:17Breathe Underwater by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by Michelle Marlow
A beautiful tale of the struggles of the women who don’t fit the mold and refuse to conform. This is the tale of Hester, and her connection to nature as she grows up. Her refusal to become what is expected of her by society, her family, and everyone in her life. Burman manages to convey the despair, struggle, hope, and triumph that Hester and most likely so many women have gone through throughout the ages in their struggle to become more than the sum of what is expected of them. She manages to do this with grace in a setting that is burgeoning with beauty. There are so many characters throughout that, while secondary add to the story and make it so much more robust without being a distraction. In short this book is a masterpiece and should be in collections everywhere.
Wow, this is a great YA Fantasy book…I was not sure what to expect…but this book totally surprised me in a great way.
What truly happens when you want something to come true….you wish hard…and in turn find out it is not what is all seems? This happens to Bax…..when a shady character offers him a ring and links him to a Djinn. But when a wish leads to danger and intrigue and loved ones in danger…will Bax remain strong? Definitely pick up this book to find out.
I love the characters and the overall story. It really sucks you in from each turn of the page and I LOVE LOVE LOVE YA genre of book! So well done!!
Savage Secrets: I swear! The books in this series just get better and better! McKinley does it again with a deeper look into two lesser known characters. I absolutely love the way she develops her characters and she doesn’t disappoint with Elena and Marco. These two have a complicated relationship to say the least. Elena was promised to another mafia boss through an arranged marriage, but her “death,” and a few other factors, lead to that be voided, and Marco couldn’t be happier. Elena, however, has mixed feelings about not only her own feelings towards Marco, but his feelings towards her. I absolutely love seeing these two characters develop over the course of this book.
This book is action-packed and filled with suspense. There are so many twists and turns that you’ll forget which way you are going. While I did see some of the twists coming, there are others that completely blindside you! McKinley does answer quite a few questions leftover from the previous books so a lot of loose ends are tied up. This one really grabs you from the beginning and doesn’t let go until the end. And we can’t forget the spicy parts! I love the way Marco and Elena are so cautious in their feelings toward each other because it just builds and builds!
As always, I recommend reading the books in order. As a reader, you just get so much more and can appreciate what McKinley does not only with her characters, but also with the plot. Wonderfully written! Honestly one of my favorite series!
Ruthless Heir: Another great installment to the series! I absolutely love the way McKinley develops her characters. They are so well-rounded and she doesn’t play into the stereotypical role of women. I must say that I am missing some of the characters we’ve grown to know and love, but that’s only because I still want to know what’s going on with them! But McKinley doesn’t disappoint with her characters. I love the way Luc and Summer’s story evolves throughout the novel. McKinley does an awesome job of driving the plot forward without rushing the development of the characters or timeline. And her *spicy* scenes are perfect! There is just enough of them to entertain without being gratuitous. I absolutely love this author! I can’t wait for the next installment to the series!
Collateral Damage: I absolutely love this series by Amy McKinley and (I know I’ve said it before) but this was the best yet! I love the intertwining of all of the characters and their lives and how we never really “lose” any characters once their book is done because they will always show up in another one, one way or another. I love McKinley’s character building and her plot development. She really takes her time building and sculpting her characters, individually and as a couple. The way McKinley moves her plot throughout the novel is just *chef’s kiss*. I don’t feel like the plot is ever stagnant or that McKinley rushes anything. It’s really a perfect pace. Trey has to be my favorite of the Mafia guys. He’s just so sweet and wholesome (not my typical type) and has a really good heart. While he doesn’t play a full-time role in the Five Families, his role as physician/surgeon is just as integral. He also doesn’t flaunt his connections around, but uses them wisely and discretely. He is still grieving the loss of his girlfriend and has push Hailey away previously. But when she’s in trouble and Trey is asked to help, he can’t help feeling drawn to her once again. Hailey is no stranger to tragedy and grief. She lost her sister and her father in a tragic accident. Hailey’s mother has remarried and pushed Hailey to the side leaving Hailey to deal with everything on her own. Hailey has been pining after Trey ever since they first met at a gala and they danced the night away. She’s friends with Sofia, Trey’s sister, but has never had the courage to ask her to set them up. Once Hailey and Trey meet again (cue second chance) the passion and sparks fly. The sexual tension is there; however, it’s pretty PG throughout the book…but hey…we can use our imaginations, right? There are twists and turns you won’t see coming and your heart may break a time or two, but it’s definitely worth it. I cannot wait for the next (and final?) book in this series to come out. While you can read each one as a standalone, I really recommend reading in order to get the most out of it. You really get a sense of the characters and the family dynamics. But either way…JUST READ THEM!!
Rivals: Amy McKinley has done it again! I know I say this with every book in this series, but this is the best one yet! I cannot believe this is the last one! As always, you can read this as a standalone; however, I would recommend reading the entire series, in order, as you will get the best understanding of the plot line and all of the characters. You will also understand all of the little nuances and seemingly “minor” details better if you read the prior books. The heat between Mia and Nico is electric *wink, wink* from the first time they meet and only continues throughout their story. With Mia on the run from her horrible family, the only person who can protect her is Nico and the only way he can truly protect her is to marry her. So Mia risks it all and seeks him out, offering to take down her family if he’ll change her last name. Can they trust each other enough to do this? Or will both of their pasts interfere and ruin everything? McKinley definitely saved the best for last with Mia and Nico’s story. I absolutely love how they are both guarded but they bring that guard down for each other. I think their story is my favorite. I love the way McKinley writes her characters, especially her female characters. They are completely capable of standing up for themselves and getting themselves out of precarious situations. They also stand with the guys during the tough times and are forces to be reckoned with. They are badasses. This has been an amazing series! It’s a definite must-read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Megan Kimleyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMegan Kimley2022-10-07 10:18:142022-10-08 22:07:28Mafia Elite Series Box Set Volume 2 by Amy McKinley – Review by Megan Conley
Yes!! What I thought the last installment was missing this one definitely hit the mark! Not only did it have the budding romance, the crazy woman that wants to prove she can do everything a man can, and some are they going to make it, but it also made it so I read the entirety in the course of an afternoon. Loved it! Honestly, this author knows how to draw you in and leave you hanging on every word. Well done!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00AimstoReadhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAimstoRead2022-10-07 09:31:312022-10-08 22:11:24My Bronc Riding Cowgirl (My Cowboy Series Book 6) by Brooke May – Review by Amy Brennan
Ultimately, I am a sucker for romance novels, especially when the woman is a strong fierce female such as the ones found in this series. I do believe that communication is key and within these pages you’ll find that to be true as well.
I found the authors writing style to be quite immersive, enjoyed the plot and the want to stand out amongst those in her field of work. The ending will put a silly smile on your face too, I am sure. Well worth a read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00AimstoReadhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAimstoRead2022-10-07 09:27:252022-10-11 12:27:05She’s No Cowgirl (My Cowboy Series Book 5) by Brooke May – Review by Amy Brennan
This book is the 5th book in a series and brings the series to conclusion. I enjoyed this book as I did the entire series. I highly recommend reading the other books in order first, before reading this one. There are a lot of characters and would be quite confusing if starting with this book. This book follows Freyja and is told from her point of view, rather than from Cam’s. She wrestles with herself a lot and is struggling with PTSD. She wrestles with not feeling like she’s enough and that resonated soundly with me. I really enjoyed the mystery and danger in this one. I could not figure out who was behind it. The book (and series) was well written and highly enjoyable! You won’t regret reading it!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecca Hillhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebecca Hill2022-10-07 08:27:542022-10-08 22:04:18Sessrúmnir (Antipodes Series Book 5) by T.S. Simons – Review by Rebecca Hill
I enjoyed reading this book. This is a slightly different fantasy story for me but I enjoyed it from beginning to end. This is a new author for me which I enjoyed their attention to details that gave life to the story. A well written story that has connectable, strong characters that pull you into their story. I enjoyed watching their growth as well as the growth of the plot throughout the story. This is a fast paced story that kept me engaged. A great story that you don’t want to miss. I am glad I picked it up and so will you. I highly recommend this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2022-10-07 07:53:552022-10-08 22:10:17Queen’s Destiny (Blood Prophecy Book 1) by Barb Jones – Review by Bobbi Wagner
I enjoyed reading this romance story. This is an author that I never hesitate to pick up. I know what kind of story that I am in for. One that is hard to put down and will heat up the pages. This book is no different. It is a well written story that has characters that made me feel as if I was part of the story. I had no problem relating to them. They pulled me into the story with ease and had me coming back for more. This is a fast paced story where Damien and Evelyn had a past and now there is a chance that they just might be their present. They have great growth and chemistry. They made the story for me and were my favorite characters. I really enjoyed reading this story which I highly recommend this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2022-10-07 07:39:302022-10-08 22:15:21Breathe Underwater by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by Bobbi Wagner
Mafia Elite Box Set Volume Two contains Books 4 – 7 in the Mafia Elite series by Amy McKinley. This rounds out the series, so if you have yet to read the first three books, or Volume One Box Set, then I highly recommend that you do before starting this, Volume two. Yes, the books could be read as standalones, but together they provide a richer reading experience, as well as painting a larger picture, one you won’t want to miss. This is such a stellar series- which just gets better and better with each new instalment, and I really am hard-pressed to choose a favourite from amongst them all because they are all so brilliant! The series, and this box set, brings fantastic mafia romance- romantic suspense at its best, with plenty of action, danger, drama, intrigue, mafia politics, chemistry, passion, steam, tension, emotion, hidden agendas, dramatic developments, and so, so much more. What are you waiting for? Grab yourself a copy and dive in…. you won’t be disappointed!
The Box Set contains:
Savage Secrets (Book #4): Marco had thought his love died years ago. But he is about to discover that isn’t the case when he’s approached with an arranged marriage deal. Danger is circling and she needs his help if she is to cheat death for real. GAH!!!! Love Marco and Elena. Love this series so hard. One of my favourites. Each book just gets better and better! Highly recommended.
Ruthless Heir (Book 5): Here we get his is Luc and Summer’s story- and WOW, Ms. McKinley certainly didn’t hold back with this story, keeping me on edge and completely invested in the characters and the story, right from the very beginning. I didn’t come up for air until I had devoured every word. I loved all the interconnected details, secrets, tension, danger, and intriguing threads that Ms. McKinley is weaving through her stories, and series. It makes for riveting reading. I am completely addicted, and I can’t wait for my next fix!!!
Collateral Damage (Book #6): I was so excited that we finally get Trey’s story. And what a story it is… WOW! Another fantastic addition to the series, and it’s getting harder and harder for me to choose a favourite because they are all sooooo good. We have met Trey previously through the series, as he is Sofia (Book #2) and Marco’s (Book #4) brother. His family is ‘the mafia’. But Trey isn’t really involved in the family business on a day-to-day level as he is a doctor working in a local hospital. But that’s not to say he doesn’t ‘contribute’ when needed. Trey is called on to help out on a kidnapping – and becomes more tangled in the situation than he desired. Especially since he and the kidnapping victim have some pre-existing chemistry. Queue the sparks and sizzle. But danger lurks and things are not quite what they may seem. What happens makes for an exciting read.
Rivals (Book #7): This is Mia and Nico’s story- and wow, you’d better buckle yourself in for this one. When Mia needs help, she turns to Nico for help… Nico is intrigued as she’s the ‘enemy’. There’s far more than their hearts at stake, and you know what they say about ‘no good deed goes unpunished’- so what happens here makes for quite a riveting read. You won’t want to miss this exciting story… but be prepared to develop a taste for Ms. McKinley’s stories. One book won’t be enough.
Seriously, if you love mafia romance, and/or romantic suspense, then you definitely won’t want to miss this exciting story/series!!! Happy Reading!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2022-10-07 06:37:282022-10-08 22:15:11Mafia Elite Series Box Set Volume 2 (Mafia Elite Series Books #4 – 7) by Amy McKinley – Review by Angela Hayes
Hester dreams of following in the footsteps of her great grandmother and becoming a respected herbal healer. Unfortunately, her mother has other ideas of marriage and babies to settle her wild heart. With encouragement of strength and wisdom from the River, Hester’s journey has just begun.
This started slow for me and by the end I was mesmerised. The writing was beautiful. Hester’s strength and wild heart is gripping and I really enjoyed the magical elements and friendship in the story.
Wow wow wow!!! This amazing author continually brings us totally captivating stories that always have me on the edge of my seat from the first word to the very last!!! With every book that I read in this amazing series I read faster than I would usually simply because I have to know what is going to happen next. I just can’t put them down!! While these can all be brought and read individually why would you do that when you can read them all!! I highly recommend reading the whole series from the very start not only because they are so worth it but also because it will give you valuable knowledge of all the characters and the series of events that lead to this point.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Juleshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJules2022-10-07 05:58:352022-10-08 22:07:19Mafia Elite Series Box Set Volume 2 by Amy McKinley – Review by Jules Herbert
Evie and Damian are wonderful characters who have a deeper connection than you first expect, combine that with an enthralling storyline where something is always happening and some great steamy moments and in my opinion you definitely have a great book! To put it simply, this wonderful author just never disappoints so do yourself a favour and start reading today!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Juleshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJules2022-10-07 05:32:532022-10-08 22:13:51Breathe Underwater by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by Jules Herbert
I have read many books by Anise Storm and when I saw that this was her next book that was coming out, it was a no brainer that I would want to read this book. I was NOT disappointed it! This book had me on the edge of my seat from the first sentence to the very last. The book revolves around Evelyn, a girl who in her teens was tutoring a troubled teen and in the course of that fell in love with him and when he left was severely heartbroken. It also revolves around a Damian, who has grown up on the wrong sides of the tracks, who has had a severely troubled life who cannot seem to get Evelyn out of his head. When these two reconnect, there are sparks flying! I was reading so fast as I needed to know what happened next! If you want/need a great mafia, dark romance then this is the story for you!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Carlie Del Gallohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCarlie Del Gallo2022-10-07 05:25:382023-08-05 14:19:53Breathe Underwater by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by Carlie Del Gallo
The author did an amazing job setting up the scene for college, engineering at that, and reminding me of my days at my Alma mater. My fave books are those that take me away from my current world, but give me a bit of nostalgia at the same time! Reading this book I identify with Melody so much with her relationship choices and even her view on them in the first place! Before I grew up to identify with the appropriate use of terminology, I was proud to call myself a hopeless romantic! What an oxymoron! I was hooked to this book as it was so easy for me to keep the pages turning, eager to find out more about my new book bestie! I know I’m an intellectual and an engineer in a male driven workforce, but there are way too many opportunities missed to let me be ultra feminine and UBER sensitive with my feelings and choices. I know exactly how Melody felt in this book. I’m really looking forward to continuing this series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Phillipshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Phillips2022-10-07 02:37:332022-10-08 22:02:40The Colors of Friendship (The Colors Trilogy Book 1) by K.R. Raye – Review by Ashley McMillon
This is the second book in The Cool Things Series. I enjoyed the first book so was excited to see this one. If you like sci-fi adventures with creatures and experiences you can never imagine then this books is definately for you. There is also dark humour involved which adds a twist to the story and makes it even more entertaining.
We are back in a world of experiments gone wrong and the consequences when they aren’t dead. It is full of danger, mutants, things you can never dream off and things you wish you had never read about but it all comes together to make a very enjoyable and entertaining read.
The author’s creativity with the characters and the story is what really makes this series unique and stand out from other authors of the same genre.
I really enjoyed it and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2022-10-07 02:13:152022-10-08 22:02:49Lab Spill (The Cool Thing Series Book 2) by Robert Rife – Review by Kerry Carr
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True Colors by K.R. Raye
