Healing Hearts by C.R. Alam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a quick reads. It was a short novella and I liked the characters. I feel like I wanted it to be longer and full length! I enjoyed their chemistry and dynamic throughout.
Will You Pretend Marry Me by Christi Barth
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I read this book as a stand alone, and did not realize it was part of a series. You could absolutely read this on its own, although it made me so curious and wanting to grab the previous titles to get those stories! This was an amazing read and I loved the story line and chemistry between Everett and Abigail. The story is focused in a school setting with a relationship between the Vice Principal, Everett, and a new teacher, Abigail. The story line was believable and hit close to home because I work in a school. There is fun spice, and banter, but the story itself is just one you don’t want to end. I especially loved the relationship between all the other characters in the book too.
Finding Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Sofia was out for her annual hike for her mother’s birthday when she comes upon a guy that is unconscious on the trail. As she approaches to check on him he begins to wake up. She calls Ash to ask for help getting him to the hospital. Once there the doctor decides he possibly has amnesia. Sofia is having a hard time believing all of this but she decides to give him somewhat of a chance. Sofia is trying to get her business off the ground as well as trying to help this mystery stranger, Isaiah. She wants to trust him but she has been hurt in the past. With the help of her friends Ash and Holly can they figure out what is going on?
Summer of Mud by Rebecca Bischoff
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
“Summer of Mud” by Rebecca Bischoff is a gripping novel set in the summer of 1976, following the story of twelve-year-old musical prodigy Scoob as she navigates the challenges of being stuck in a small town in Idaho with her older brother, RC. As Scoob dreams of becoming a jazz legend like Louis Armstrong, she faces the dilemma of choosing between her big break in the music industry and helping her brother unravel his mysterious past.
The author expertly weaves together themes of family, friendship, and perseverance against the backdrop of a divided community grappling with the safety of a newly built dam. Bischoff’s writing is captivating and emotionally resonant, drawing you into Scoob’s journey of self-discovery and resilience.
The plot is fast-paced and engaging, with a perfect blend of mystery and suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The characters are well-developed and relatable, each facing their own struggles and challenges that add depth to the narrative.
Summer of Mud by Rebecca Bischoff
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 stars
Rebecca has the ability to transport you into the story where it feels real, has depth and is vividly rich in its telling. A place where you feel right alongside the wonderfully written characters. This is one of the many things she does right with all the stories I have read written by her.
It’s funny to me how a book that is set in 1976 is now classified as a historical tale. But I guess at my age now I am just as historic having been born in 1962. Any how I digress.
Summer of Mud is a compelling heartfelt and fun coming of age historical YA novel that takes you back in time when life was much different to the world of today.
We follow Scoob who has dreams, but those dreams may never come to fruition. Tragedy strikes causing emotional turmoil and Scoob to reevaluate somethings and the importance of Family. The relationship she has with her brother is endearing.
This gripping tale had a few twisty turns and had me on the edge of my seat and the ending…. Well, you will have to read it to find out what happens.
Reviewed by @jennadb
4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced by Julie Castle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book brings it’s readers a four book series in one and who doesn’t love that!! The more the merrier right? Each story drew me in right from the start and kept me captivated to the finish with great likeable characters, interesting storylines and a few little twists along the way that you may or may not see coming. This is a new author for me and I will definitely be reading more from this talented author.
4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced by Julie Castle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 R’s is a compilation of four full stories with each having a strong woman and an alpha man who you will just delve into and have a selection of new book boyfriends to choose from.
Roped
Sarah left he life with Rafe when she discovered so things but were they true or false, so she has decided to return and try and help Rafe regain his reputation within the community. So as she lays down the rules of her help there is something bubbling under the surface with them. Can she help him and can this chemistry they feel between them be good or blow up in their faces?
Rescued
Samantha can not marry this man, so becoming a runaway bride is the best option she has but there are risks and disasters with this. Thinking she could escape to her families cabin but once she arrives she finds Jake there doing a job for her father. A discussion is had and agreement settled upon but will they be able to keep their hands of each other longer to see the danger in their mist.
Risked
Serena’s father is missing due to his new book about the most elusive man Grayson, but when a plan goes wrong and someone gets shot, Serena and her son’s life is in the balance until the FBI assign FBI Agent Mark Riley to her case. When things don’t quite go to plan and Marks thinks she has something to do with it, can they both trust each other enough to get to the bottom of it all and leave their feelings at the door at least for now.
Romanced
Candy is back at her high school reunion and wonders why the life she is there until in walks Greg Morris. As they getting chatting is is obvious that he needs her to help him out with his job but Greg creates a offer she can not refuse or a situation she can not remove herself from. So when it comes out that they are engaged (although fake) her world is turned upside down. from nasty interactions with his mom and not wanting to be in this situation, with spending this time with Greg their feelings are becoming more the enemies.
This is the first books I have read by this author and they are wonderful and well written, just enough edge to keep you engaged to the end.
I love how each of the female characters are strong, accomplished and strives to help on each story and not ashamed to show this side to anyone. The male leaders although strong alphas in there own right are a wonderful yang to the female characters and add a layer with the enemies to lovers frustration they have with each and the interactions are just brilliant.
I can’t wait to read more by this author and more in this series.
The Rake by Ava Bond
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is a well written and interesting historical romance story that really comes to life. As I turned the pages, I was pulled into the mystery surrounding the whole story and couldn’t wait to find out what the author did with the characters.
This author is one I am only recently familiar with but I have enjoyed every book I have read so far, with this one being no exception. The historical knowledge really came through in this book for me and I think it added an extra layer to the story. I loved the connection between the characters and I really enjoyed getting to know them. I was drawn into this story right from the start; if this book is any indication for the rest of the series, I am already looking forward to it.
Murder on West Main: A South Shore Mystery by I.M. Foster
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the second book in the South Shore Mystery Series. It is the first book that I have read however I will be going back to read the first book as I have enjoyed this so much. This is a really interesting cosy historical mystery. The author has done an incredible job with the research which really brings this story to life and transports the reader to the time period.
This story is full of secrets and twists and turns that will keep you guessing who is the actually murderer.
When Colin finds his boss dead one morning there is loads of evidence pointing to his guilt. He was about to be fired, there were disagreements heard by his colleagues. With the evidence pointing to his guilt he is arrested.n
Now it’s a race against time for Daniel, the villages assistant coroner and Colin’s sister Kathleen to work together to prove his innocence. Who is responsible for the death of Colin’s boss? Did Colin do it in a drunken rage? And if it wasn’t him then who was it and what secrets will be uncovered when the killer is revealed.
I really enjoyed this story and I can’t wait to read more in the future.
What Eyes Can’t See: Spicy contemporary fiction by Paulette Stout
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Barbara thought she was in the begging of the next stage of her life only to have it fail fully in heartbreak. At thirty-one she envisioned a different path and she is beginning to question the carefully fabricated life she has lead with her father’s push towards excellence in everything she does. Meeting Sebastian is a breath of fresh air, he is completely different than any man she has met. Barbara begins to open her eyes as a successful black woman she thought she had gained everything on merit, but she couldn’t be more wrong. Everything changes for Barbara and she starts to forge the life she wants for herself which includes Sebastian.
One of the terrific things about this book is the growth in Barbara, reading her transformation was inspiring and thought provoking. The chemistry between Barbara and Sebastian was wonderful. I loved Sebastian’s story as well but Barbara was the stand out for me. Fantastic story.
The Better Man by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first book that I have read by this author and it certainly will not be the last one. Once I started reading I just could not put it down.
Laramee got call from her parents about selling their farm. They wanted to give her and her brother a chance to take over the ranch if that’s what they chose to do.
As she is driving she runs into Jamie, who is the real estate broker that they have hired to access the property for them.
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read another book by her.
Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story, An Echo series novella by C. R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. I read it in less than two evenings. Once I started I just couldn’t stop reading it.
Dr. Gene Rowland was driving down the road when he witnessed a single car accident. The car in front of him, swerved and ran into a tree. When he pulled over to race to help the victim, he discovered that it was a woman. Later he finds out that he actually went to school with her. It was Amanda. What he doesn’t know is Amanda used to have a crush on him.
She doesn’t want to be admitted to the hospital, so he goes home with her as a Dr. and friend to make sure that she is okay. She also is known by his mother as the Pie Queen.
She insists that she did not see a deer and swerve that it was a young girl who appeared to be afraid of something. No one believes her.
Check out the story and I am sure that you will enjoy it as much as I did.
The Winemakers – Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical Romances by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a great trilogy, all brilliant characters, I loved them! They follow the attempted rescue of vineyards in book one then characters featured in book one in the following ones. Really well written in beautiful surroundings, beautifully described. A real page turner!
4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced by Julie Castle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this series. There was just enough spice and romance but it didn’t overshadow the plot which had quite a bit of action, mystery, and intrigue. In this collection, you get 4 fairly quick reads: Fool’s Gold (Roped), Her Heart’s Desire (Rescued), Serena’s Web (Risked), and It Had To Be You (Romanced). I enjoyed all of these stories; however, my personal favorite was Jake and Samantha’s story in Her Heart’s Desire (Rescued). I appreciate how the FMCs are strong and independent and the MMCs let them be who they are but they are still there when they need them and protect them. There are tropes for everyone throughout these stories. Castle pretty much hits them all within these 4 books. The storyline moves fairly quickly; however, some of the chapters tend to be on the longer side and, for me personally, I like shorter chapters. But, overall, I’d recommend these stories, especially if you are looking for something on the lighter side of romance.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
What Eyes Can’t See: Spicy contemporary fiction by Paulette Stout
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Barbara devastated by finding her fiance cheating has given her wedding venue to one of her best friends. While at the destination wedding she meets Sebastian, former bad boy turned lawyer. Barbara’s parents always told her she had to work harder than her white counterparts to get places in life. Sebastian is a white man, not Barbara’s usual interest.
This isnt the usual genre I read but I figured I would give it a shot. I like Romance but typically read romantacy. This book was more real. It had real scenarios, real feelings, real loss, hurt and pain but also growth, love, and potential happiness. It’s a nice read if you are looking for a romance that is believable, and relatable.
The Winemakers – Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical Romances by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is an amazing trilogy. I love that each book is in this set. It makes carrying on through the series so much easier and you don’t have to wait for another book. You have them all at your fingertips. This is a historical romance that is set in the 1800’s. I find that I don’t mind historical romance but it isn’t my go to genre. I was no disappointed with this series. I will admit that I didn’t really know anything about Portugal but this book really set the stage for what it would have been like. I feel like the author really kept with the culture of Portugal, which I found I really enjoyed. The characters in each book are completely relatable. There is also enough differences between the stories that you are able to keep each book separate in your mind but they flow as if it is just a continuation of each book. Yes, the books all centered-around different characters but they are all blended so well. Meaning that each book takes you on a journey that is different but familiar. I highly enjoyed reading this series and would recommend it to anyone who just loves a really good romance series. This book is historical but is really relatable so you don’t really get hung up on the historical parts. I really liked that.
Reviewed by: @bbohls
Kris & The Missing Prince: The Adventures Of Kris by Art Blegen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Kris is the daughter of a single dad. He calls her his princess but she doesn’t want to be called a princess. She wants to be seen as a strong and daring knight. Her dad goes away on business and she is sent to her grandmother’s farm while he is away. While there, she of course has an adventure! She finds herself transported into a magical world where the prince has been taken. Being the brave and heroic knight that she is, she must save him! She meets many friends along the way and learns that sometimes, even brave knights need a team of friends to help.
The Winemakers – Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical Romances by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
These are three historical romance stories based in Portugal. I enjoyed reading about Portugal and these characters set in the 1800’s.
The first story follows Julia who is trying to keep her vineyard going after her husband passes away. In this era, winemaking is really only done by men. She must face many obstacles, including a very large one, to prove she can do it as a woman. She meets Griffin, who she instantly connects with. He is there to check on his own vineyard, but ends up helping Julia in several different ways.
The second story I was hesitant to like, simply because Pedro was not a likeable character in the first story. However, this follows his life, his background and why he is the way he is. It is Pedro’s redemption story. He ends up meeting Anne, who he finds out is the sister of a man he hates. Despite this, they are drawn together and you see a lot about hate and revenge as well as romance in this story.
The third story deals with different characters and a whole different story. I enjoyed the first two stories more than the third, but still liked it. Isabel is a princess who is sent to deal with political issues in Spain. She is given an escort, much to her dismay. He drives her absolutely insane, and are nothing alike. Yet, there is something brewing beneath the surface.
4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced by Julie Castle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I’m glad nobody asked me to choose a favourite out of these 4 books as that would be impossible! From cowboys to PIs to men in uniform and alpha males! Plus strong female characters who often surprise their man and the reader! I look forward to reading more from this author! Highly recommended!
Reviewed by @sparkinside
Breaking Apart by Wanda J. Venters
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another awesome book by this author. Once I started reading it I just could not put it down. I enjoyed it so much that I can’t wait to see if they release another book in this series.
Marnie starts a new job at the VA Center and on her first day there she finds a deceased man in a pick up truck in the parking garage. It looks like he has committed suicide. When his wife finds out she just can’t believe it. She says that things were going good between them. Josh was looking forward to his new job at the hospital.
The Police have ruled it as a suicide and closed the case, Amanda insists that she needs answers and asks Marnie to help her find them. So Marnie and Louise set off to see if they can find anything to confirm or deny Amanda’s suspicions.
I really enjoyed this book and think you will too. Check it out and give it a try. I don’t think you will be disappointed.
•°•☆ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ☆•°••°•☆
Click here to view the Book Trailer for Summer of Mud by Rebecca Bischoff
Rebecca Bischoff is the award-winning author of several books for both middle grade and young adult audiences, including The French Impressionist, a contemporary YA novel, The Grave Digger, a historical middle grade mystery, and Streets of Shadow, a historical YA mystery recently released this year. Both The Grave Digger and Hole in the Rock were honored as finalists in the 2020 and 2021 Best Book Awards. Rebecca loves to read everything from mysteries to paranormal to historical novels. She tends to research quirky and little-known facts from the past and loves anything that might make her laugh. Rebecca lives in Southern Idaho with her family, where she enjoys not visiting the outdoors. She’d rather stay inside, eat chocolate and write.
BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE Goodreads – Italian American (Jack & Mariella Book 2) by Luigina Vecchione
Bookbub – Italian American (Jack & Mariella Book 2) by Luigina Vecchione
~ AMAZON ~
Luigina Vecchione is an actress and writer. She has lived, worked and raised a family on both coasts and in Europe. Now, she and her husband Dennis are empty nesting in New York City.
Kris & The Missing Prince: The Adventures Of Kris by Art Blegen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was a cute, well written kid chapter book. I read it with my nephew over the weekend 🥰 and it was a quick, but still fantastic read. This is the first time picking up a story by this author and we’re definitely going to be reading the rest of Kris’s adventures. I loved the message of this story, because yes not every girl wants to be a princess and that’s okay(but glad she doesn’t mind it in the end from her dad). I totally understood her,I was that way, so I would’ve loved to have read this when I was younger. I also loved the fun adventure she goes on to save the prince and seeing all the cool friends she made along the way. I can’t wait to read the rest of these stories 🥰 ps the photos at the beginning of each chapter are awesome, they help with trying to picture the characters.
Amese of Animalis by M.J. Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first book from The Borosa Legacy series. I enjoyed the idea of enchanted bees in this story and it captured my attention from the beginning. Amese of Animalis is full of adventure and magic. This novel is targeted for 10-14 year olds but I enjoyed reading it as an adult!
The Ghostly Diva by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Ghostly Diva by Sandra L. Young is a romance novel about a Museum assistant director ( Justine Saunders) who can see and speak with ghost. While appraising items at Jackson Maddox’s request, she stumbles on to a family secret. Meanwhile her job may be in jeopardy due to budget cuts. While trying to navigate her own life, she helps Jackson navigate the revelations of his family and may be falling in love.
I absolutely love Justine. Shes smart, tactful and sweet. She’s open to change and she’s helpful. Jackson once the layers are peeled back is a real stand up guy. The supporting characters all have great personalities and you definitely get that small town feel. Everyone knows your business but they have your best interest at heart. The Ghost in the story is spunky, fierce and very insightful.
I highly recommend this story for any romance reader. There is some adult content but it isn’t too raunchy. I smiled slot while reading the book. The interactions between the characters are delightful. 5 stars!
A Song of Salt and Secrets by Amanda Marin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection) by Amanda Marin. This is somewhat sad, young adult, Paranormal read. It’s the story of Corisande who is a special type of siren that this supposed to use her song to kill sailors but she hates the thought of killing anyone. Corisande has attended Magwitch Academy trying to learn to control her song and she has to come extent but when she accidentally causes Noah to wreck his boat and he is injured which devastates Coriande. Trying to nurse him back to health they are both drawn to each other and feelings do occur. Can she keep that part of herself hidden from Noah and can he be the one person to help her control it. She loves to sing and its so hard to lose that part of herself. This is such a fun, Paranormal read. Even though this is the 2nd book it can be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed it.
Master Oradea by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Master Oradea (Masters of the Consulate Book 10) by Sylvia Black. This is the 10th installment in the Masters of the Consulate series and while they don’t have to be read in order, I highly recommend it. In this book its the story of Oradea & Natalia and the story is told from both their perspectives. Master Oradea is very angry because he has found out Lucas who is Overmaster Descallia’s right hand man, is a traitor. Lucas’s mate is even being treated as a enemy even though she has always fought for the vampires. Oradea is on the hunt for the rogue because he can’t afford for their secrets to be found out. He knows that if their secrets are revealed it will put them all in danger. When a beautiful red head, Natalia puts herself in harms way, Oradea is intrigued and knows he must save her. When Natalia uses her magic it puts a light on things that should have been left in the dark and exposes them all to danger. Will they be able to accept they are fated mates and will they be able to stop the evil from destroying everything around them? Read this Paranormal fantasy to find out!
Will You Pretend Marry Me by Christi Barth
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a really fun read! I’ve not read this author before but I’ll be looking for more of her work.
There are double lives and secrets abounding in this rom-com. It was like peeping through the lives of Kaia/Abigail and Everett. Their relationship is a love-hate right from the start but can they continue to deny their true feelings?
Master Oradea by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the first book I’ve found to read in this series, but it won’t be the last. From the world-building that is done and shared here in book 10, I look forward to starting at the beginning and watching all of the characters and scenarios build.
Master Oradea seeks out rogue vampires and shifters in this vampire mafia dark romance. He is currently trying to figure out how to handle the traitorous actions of Lucas, Master Descallia’s right hand man. Everyone is on edge and unsure of who is trustworthy. When Lucas requests safety within the borders of Oradea’s territory, he refuses. When Master Oradea decides to seek out the help from the new family of the Syndicate brothers to catch the rogues and avoid the war amongst the supernatural, they are leery of getting involved until their younger sister is threatened and offer their help if Master Oradea takes Natalia and protects her.
Natalia and Master Oradea immediately spark off of one another when he just wants her to listen, and she wants to do anything BUT listen to him. While we are led to believe that Natalia is only human, she proves to have powers of her own for Oradea to contend with on top of her defiance of him and secrets she keeps. The included tropes are vampires/shifters/witches/fated mates/paranormal worlds, enemies to lovers, suspense, tension, magic, chemistry, rogue attacks, betrayal, passion, and so much more. It’s unfair to place this beautiful world down into a series of tropes when it is so much more. Really looking forward to jumping in at book 1!