Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This a a very quick short read.
Errapel I like this character.
Carissa and Errapel interactions.
I wish it was a more full story as I felt I was just getting into it and it ended.
The Groomsman by Marina Hanna
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a good fall read for me! I really enjoyed the angst between them and how it created this trust in the end for them. At first I wasn’t really sure if it was going to be any different from other romance novels I’ve read but I appreciate the turmoil that they had to get through. Definitely recommend for a quick read!
Snowflakes & Stockings by Marianne Rice
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Snowflakes And Stockings is book four in A Wilton Hills Christmas series by Marianne Rice. This is my first time reading anything from this author and the series, this book can be enjoyed as a stand-alone story.
I’m a huge fan of a festive-themed book and couldn’t wait to get started this year. Stockings And Snowflakes was a great book to kick things off with.
Liberty is up for a promotion, and it’s pretty much a guarantee if she can solve the most recent mystery…who is the famous secret Santa?
I loved the warmth of the story and the Christmassy feel that this book had, it was such an easy and cosy read. The characters are likable and relatable, and I really enjoyed the building up of the relationship between Liberty and Sawyer. Their chemistry made this story even better.
This book was a lovely accompaniment to a gloomy (sadly, not snowy) Sunday afternoon.
Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I am a loner in the world, banished from love and shunned by my world as I touch the dead but he came into my life unexpected but can we stay together or will the law win.
Acheron is a Vulture shifter and is a loner as many people from his world shy’s away as he touches the souls of the dead, but when he is sent on a mission to help a nurse usher a soul to the other world he jumps at the chance to change his surroundings and experience something new.
Errapel is nursing the soul, when Acheron arrives he sees more than the keeper of the soul, he sees a man who has love in his heart but the only problem is that Acheron by law can not find a mate. Can they overcome this and find a mate in each other.
I do have to say that I’m not normally into this Syfy genre but I actually enjoyed this short story. The story between these two main characters was intriguing and interesting to read. The detail in this world was brilliant and as the book is technically a novella it does not feel like you have been short changed.
Will I read more, probably this story has peaked my interest within this genre and would like to read more by this author to see inside the world of shifters.
Blood Oath by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
So this is the second book in the series. So we follow Sofia and Enzo in this book and their journey isn’t by any means easy. I really liked that we had a past history with them. I love how protective Enzo was when it came to Sofia and keeping her safe.
Reviews by @samanthajayne96x
Shadows of Doubt by Merissa Racine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a really enjoyable read. I found the mystery really interesting and even though I haven’t read the first book in the series I did not feel lost in any way, the characters were likable and fun to read and felt real and relatable.
Lauren is a stenographer in need of a bit of cash, and as such ends up accepting a job offer from her ex-husbands who is acting as a judge on a pretty mahoosive case. Faced with a little choice Lauren takes the job, only to quickly realise that some shady shenanigans may be afoot and that the things going down the courtroom may only be the tip of the proverbial iceberg.
I really enjoyed this and thought that Racine’s writing was gripping. Really recommend this for anyone that loves a good mystery.
Ashes of Aldyr by Russell Archey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oh sweet magical fantasy realms of awesome sauce, I really loved this book. It was new and refreshing and just a delight to read.
Ever since The Rupture darkness has dealt a hefty blow to Alda; the Aldyrs are dying, the elves are going with them and the dwarves have retreated to their homes safely tucked away in the mountains. Humans are all gathered together in settlements that have seen better days and nasty ass gods do nasty ass things to the world.
I’ve got to say that I love this, it’s always a good sign when a book leaves you just a little bit breathless with wonder. Archey has created a wonderful world that is just bursting with awesomeness. Really recommend reading this book and am looking forward to the next installments.
The Elements of the Crown by Kay L. Moody
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Who doesn’t love an adventurous tale of magic and action? I like how the use of magic is so commonplace, but also not everyone is insanely strong – and even the main characters have their limits. I really enjoyed seeing the character development from multiple characters throughout the story as well. We also see a lot of different elements in the book and I loved how it was built into the society in a way that explained some of their world and reasons for certain things. If you’re looking for an interesting, clean-romance, magical tale: this book is for you!
Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie is a fantastic paranormal MM romance. Wonderfully woven, this story is another feather in Ms. Valkyrie’s hat! She seems to have a limitless well of intriguing stories just waiting for her to release them onto the pages and into the world for us to enjoy. She never ceases to amaze me with her highly original storylines that have their own identity and her unique and clever touches stamped all over them.
This book had a bit of an Egyptian mythology feel to it- turning up the intrigue level several notches for me. This story might be on the shorter side, but it packs the punch of a much longer novel. I would have loved the story to be longer, not because it was lacking anything- but because I was so caught up in the story that I wanted to know more about the society and backgrounds etc.
Archeron is a vulture shifter, an outcast from the ‘normal’ shifter society due to his service to the dead and dying. Errapel is a caring nurse hare shifter. Their worlds collide when fate brings them together to ‘care’ for a dying client. And so, the sparks of change ignite- making for a wonderful story about fated mates and the power of love.
The story is sweet, spicy, sexy, emotional, and romantic. It has a bit of dystopian feel to the fantasy, too. We enter a shifter society with its own unique identity- with superb worldbuilding from Ms. Valkyrie- she constructed a very interesting world in which to set her story. She also explores themes of race, discrimination, castes, bigotry, societal expectation- as well as setting a spark for change.
Can’t wait to see what Ms. Valkyrie does next!
Thank you, Naomi Valkyrie!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Unlikely to Fit by Olivia Sherwood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
Unlikely to Fit is the second book in the Parker Lake series by Olivia Sherwood. This is a great contemporary romance- with a small town setting, second chances, chemistry, emotion, humour, drama, banter, antics, and wonderful characters with depth and a real endearing quality.
I loved the first book, so when I saw this pop up I happily grabbed a copy and jumped right in. Breckin and Griff were so easy to love and invest in. I was immersed in their story, cheering them on from the sidelines. They didn’t have an easy run- but this book has all the feels you could want in a story. It dug its way under my skin and left a permanent impression.
Bring on Book #3!
Thank you, Olivia Sherwood!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
A Spell of Rowans by Byrd Nash
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A Spell of Rowans by Byrd Nash really made an impression on me. I was still thinking of this story, and characters, long after closing the final page. It is an interesting blend of women’s fiction, crime, a touch of the paranormal, intrigue, mystery, emotion, and more.
The story touches on some sensitive topics and could be considered a trigger for some (domestic abuse towards children, domestic violence, mental abuse etc). The story is emotionally charged in places, and I found my emotions definitely got a bit of a workout. My heart broke and I wanted to storm into the story and set things right.
If you like an interesting story that makes you feel a myriad of emotions, then this might just be the story you’re looking for.
Thank you, Byrd Nash!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Spoilsport by Belinda Williams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Spoilsport is the second book in the Pierce Brothers series by Belinda Williams. Ms. Williams’ never fails to deliver a great read and this book was no exception. This is a fun romcom with second chances, opposites attract, humour, angst, tension, steam, and a touch of drama.
What if you were a love-‘em and Leave-‘em kind of girl and the only builder available to help you with your fixer-upper is a guy you swore never to see again after a hot and steamy one-night-stand. Could get complicated. Right? Well, that’s exactly where Nadia Alverez finds herself when desperate times call for desperate measures. But she should be able to keep things professional. Right? Keep the past passion right where it belongs- in the past. Easy peasy…. well, not so much. Chemistry comes into play, complications arise, and sparks fly….
Looking forward to Book #3!
Happy Reading!
Thank you, Belinda Williams!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Blood Oath by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Blood Oath is the second book in the Mafia Elite series by Amy McKinley. This book follows another Mafia princess, Sofia, as well as the Vitale underboss, Enzo. Enzo and Sofia have always had a connection to each other. When a marriage contract between Enzo and Elena is signed, Sofia is sure her heart will never be the same. But can Enzo and Sofia really deny their connection? Ruthless killer, Ivan, has set his eyes on Sofia for no apparent reason. The families race to stop him and save Sofia. Will Enzo save Sofia in time and find a way to be with her? Find out in Blood Oath!
Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A short but poignant book. On the surface this book is a wonderful love story of finding a mated bond. When you look beyond the surface the story brings an awareness of racism and fear of others different then yourself. The author shows that love comes at any time in one’s life whether you are ready for it or not. The strength of our elders is given to the next generation to be brave and stand up for what they believe in no matter the consequences. A very enjoyable quick read.
The Mating Call by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
The Mating Call is the first book in the Long Claw Pride series by Brooke May. It is the start to a sublime new shifter series- this time we get mountain lion shifters. Ms. May had me at shifters – but making them mountain lions added an extra element of interest for me. It turned out to be a really great paranormal romance, with fated mates, drama, angst, family, community, finding where you belong, letting go of the past, and more.
Cheyenne and Lane were so easy to love- I was completely invested in them and the outcome of their story. Ms. May didn’t make it too easy for them though- and they had to work for their chance at happiness. This is definitely my favourite book of Ms. May’s- so far!
I am really looking forward to reading the rest of the series now! Can’t wait!
Thank you, Brooke May!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Caught in Midnight Shadows by Sharleen Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
Caught in Midnight Shadows is the fourth book in The Caught Series by Sharleen Scott. This is another fantastic romantic suspense, with danger, drama, intrigue, tension, mystery, suspense, chemistry, surprising developments, and action.
I can always count on Ms. Scott to deliver a very intriguing story and this one certainly lived up to expectations- pulling me in right from the very beginning. The intriguing nature of the story had me trying to figure out what was going on, and completely immersed in the story.
The mystery and suspense were done really well done, with plenty of tension which gave it a bit of a sinister and gripping vibe. A tightly woven plot with clever touches full of dramatic developments that had me on the edge of my seat, reading avidly to discover how it would all play out.
Looking forward to seeing what she has in store for us next….
Highly recommended!
Thank you, Sharleen Scott!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Check In by Debra Parmley
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3 Stars
Check In is the second book in The Bobbins Sisters series by Debra Parmley. This is a romantic suspense story with drama, mystery, and intrigue.
I hate to say this, as I know how much time, energy, heart, and soul authors put into their work- but I really found it difficult to connect with the story and the characters. There was something missing for me. I felt it needed to be a little more dramatic, with more tension, intensity, and chemistry for this story/series to really grab my attention. I found my interest and attention wandering and had to really force myself to stay focused. I prefer the story to grab me and pull me in so deep that I lose all sense of time and place. This story wasn’t that for me.
But please don’t let my opinion put you off reading the book/series because plenty of readers would probably really enjoy this book. It’s just that I like my romantic suspense/mysteries to be a little meatier.
I will come back and re-read this book again in a few weeks just to see if I still feel the same way, or if I was having a bad reading day when I picked this up.
Thank you, Debra Parmley!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Luke by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Luke is the 4th and final (sob sob) book in the awesome Default Distraction series by A. S. Roberts. I absolutely loved Brody, Rafferty and Cade’s stories and have been waiting impatiently for Luke’s story to complete this awesome series. It’s definitely been worth the wait as I think Luke and Nikki’s story is my favourite of the four. The four stories all take place at the same time and it would make sense to read them in order, although each one can be read as a stand-alone.
Default Distraction are a chart topping, mega successful band. Bass player Luke has had a difficult past, including losing his wife to a drug overdose. Now he’s looking for a new nanny for his 4 year old daughter Brielle. I have to say that for me, Brielle is the star of this book. She’s the sweetest, most amazing little girl ever and she totally stole my heart.
Luke and Nikki’s story is a roller coaster of emotions and takes you on an amazing journey that you get swept along with. The story flows well and you are most definitely kept entertained from start to finish.
I also loved getting to see the other Default Distraction guys and their trials and tribulations at finding love with their significant others.
This is a great conclusion to a series that has brought me so much joy. I’m not sure I’m ready to let go of the Default Distraction guys yet.
The Elements of the Crown by Kay L. Moody
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book #1) contains the first four parts of The Elements of Kamdaria by Kay L Moody; Ice Crown, Wind Crown, Dust Crown, and Flame Crown.
It is a wonderful YA Fantasy- with magic, mystery, action, and adventure. I think it has a bit of an Avatar The Last Airbender feel to the story- but definitely has its own unique identity and originality too.
I found the story to be well written and very interesting. I think this series holds great promise, and if this is anything to go by the rest of the series looks set to be fabulous.
I am looking forward to exploring the coming instalments and am intrigued to see where the series goes from here!
Thank You, Kay L. Moody!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
The Groomsman by Marina Hanna
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
“Of course there are some rules that should be adhered to at weddings, such as dress code. Not wearing white. Not upstaging the bride. But wedding hook-ups are expected. I don’t think there are any rules against that. It’s just two people who are insanely attracted to each other, giving in to their desires. The bridesmaid and the groomsman keeping with tradition and doing the dirty.”
The Groomsman is the second book in the Unexpected series by Marina Hanna. It’s a wonderful contemporary romance that completely captivated me with a wonderfully sexy story. The chemistry between the characters nearly set my Kindle on fire.
In this story we follow Lauren Roberts and Mark Taylor. We met Mark and Lauren in the first book, Love Unexpected- Jules and Adam’s story, as Lauren is Jules best friend and Mark is Adam’s lawyer and best friend. I really loved the first book, so it was a given that I would snap up a copy of this to find out more about Lauren and Mark. With Adam being a groomsman and Lauren a bridesmaid at their friend’s wedding, chemistry begins to combust- then sparks fly and things get very steamy. What was supposed to be a one-night-stand to release their sexual tension gets a little more complicated and angsty than they expected. Will love win out in the end? This is definitely worth the read to find out.
The story was everything I could have hoped for and more. A fun story- but with enough drama, angst, and emotion to keep the momentum going the whole way through to the end. I loved catching up with what was happening with Jules and Adam too.
Bring on Marina Hanna’s next book!
Thank you, Marina Hanna!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Come Back Tomorrow by Amy Argent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Amy Argent…. shame on you for making me cry so much. JK!! This book is a masterful combination between romance and heartbreak.
The characters are superbly written and the story is realistic and so so good.
I’m truly blown away by Amy’s talent with drawing you into this emotionally charged story.
I’m actually struggling to put into words how amazing this story is.
This book also showed me how special the simple human touch is, and what it means to someone
Blood Oath by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Dare I say I loved this book as much as, if not a smidge more, than the first.
If you dont read book 1 and immediately dice into book 2, the author has kindly put a character list in here (which I needed for a refresher)
I really loved these characters and their story. I felt all of it, the love, danger, suspense, you name it it was in here.
Great new series and Cant wait for more!
The Groomsman by Marina Hanna
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Groomsman by Marina Hanna
5-stars
First off, I’ll start by saying that this was the first book I’ve read by this author but it most certainly won’t be my last! This was a thoroughly enjoyable read, one that I was able to read in one sitting as I was so captivated by the characters and their dynamic that I couldn’t seem to put it down.
This author wrote with such great detail that I was able to picture everything playing out in my mind, which was a real treat as this couple had insane chemistry! Though this was a quicker read I felt like the author did a great job in making it a well-rounded story with the perfect amount of drama.
If you are looking for an intense romance read look no further this is the book for you!
Blood Oath by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Blood Oath (Mafia Elite #2)
By Amy McKinley
5-stars
This book and series are must reads!!! Seriously so amazing!! Blood Oath is the second book in the Mafia Elite series, a series that I would recommend reading in order for full reading enjoyment.
This storyline is action-packed, intense, twisted, unexpected and truly entertaining. The characters always have me feeling so intrigued and captivated, just like with the first book I ended up reading this book in one sitting as I couldn’t bring myself to stop reading. This author writes with so much detail that I found myself fully immersed in the story and unable to put it down.
Even though I just finished book 2 I am already looking forward to reading the next book of the series asap!
Luke by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the 4th book in the Default Distraction series. As with the books before I have really enjoyed this story. The author does an amazing job with her characters. The characters are all relatable and their stories are moving and heartbreaking as well as heartwarming.
Luke is a member of Default Distraction. He has a hard start in life after his mother left him on the church steps when he was born. He grew up in the church orphanage and his determination brought him to where he is today as part of a successful band. However things haven’t always been good for him. After losing his wife to a drug overdose he now finds himself alone with his young daughter. As the guys in Default Distraction start making plans for their future Luke needs some to care for his daughter. And that’s where Nikki comes in.
Nikki also hasn’t had a great upbringing. With her dad leaving her family she has taken on the role of supporting her family. Now she finds herself out of a job and no idea what to do.
When she gets the job as Nanny to Lukes little girl she feels like all her dreams have come true. She has always been attracted to Luke but does her picture in her head match what Luke is really like? Meanwhile Luke is struggling with his feelings towards Nikki. Since he has sworn off love he struggles to accept what he is feeling now.
Can they both work through their bad pasts and upbringing to realise that love can exist for them both? Or will the secrets and deceptions from their pasts come back to haunt them and destroy them?
Cross-Country Christmas by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
My heart needed this beautiful story! CC is on a journey of self healing when she crashes her car into a cattle fence in a remote town. Reese owns the fence and rescues CC, offering her shelter in his home. While awaiting the repair of her car, CC and Reese find themselves each facing a difficult past, thus putting distance between them.
I loved CC’s playful, Christmas loving character. The way that she tried to lighten the environment and make it magical is so relatable. I am a lover of Christmas Spirit and would want to create Christmas joy just like she did. Reese seemed to be the strong and silent type, but his story is so complex, it was wonderful to see his layers revealed. I love that Laurie Lewis was able to sprinkle a little faith in there, and bring the love of God to her characters! This story made me feel like I was watching a movie, like I was actually there with Reese and CC. I would love to see their story continue, I NEED to know what happens next!
Review by @nrl0522
Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie is an amazing short story that kept me through it all. Acheron has lived in Kharon his whole life. He finds that something is pulling him to a city he’s not allowed to go to as a vulture shifter. When given his assignment to go, he takes the chance and finds Errapel, a hare shifter, the nurse to his assignment as well as his mate. During his whole stay, he learns about the life of his assignment, and how he will choose his future. You will have to read how it all plays out. With only 57 pages, this is a masterpiece! Thank you, Naomi! 🙂
Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a very interesting story. The characters were fascinating. Two different species brought together to bring change. A mother always watching her son from the outside. I found a them of “being on the outside” throughout the book. This made it very intriguing to read. I think the author could make a series from this short story. The characters were fascinating. It left me wanting to know more about their society and the people in it. Unanswered questions make even a short story soo very good because you are left wanting more; you try to figure out what happens next. It is a very good story that keeps your interest and is thought-provoking, two key features I love. It is worth the read. Take a chance. You’ll want to read to more by this author.
Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is an author I never hesitate to pick up. I have loved her books from the first one I picked up. They are well written and her attention to details make her stories realistic. This book is no different. The characters pulled me into the story with ease and kept me engaged to the end. This is a paranormal romance story that is one of my favorites. Kharon feels this strong pull to the city, imagining his surprise when he discovers that it is Errapal. He is not allowed to take a mate but the attraction is hard to resist. On top of it he is there to help him. What will happen with these two? Can two opposites find happiness together and beat the odds? I loved their chemistry and growth throughout the story. The plot also had great growth and kept me wanting to know what was going to happen next. This is a must read book that I highly recommend.
Review by @bjwagner
Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Fate, Frankincense & Funerals is an M/M paranormal romance by Naomi Valkyrie. Having not read this author’s work, I was a little excited to see what I would discover. It was a really good read. Although very short and a little rushed, I got the plot and readied myself for an entertaining story. As the M/M trope is my second favourite, this story was a delight in its uniqueness, creativity and originality. A lot of thought went into this short story and it was well set out. I liked the characters and found it was a fantastic way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Short, to the point and thought provoking. 4 stars.
