Wild Lavender by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was really good. It’s a fantasy romance. Anna was living in a terrible arranged marriage. Lord Roger was the best at belittling Anna. Larkin is a ladies man, he likes to go from one to the other. Once he lays eyes on Anna everything changes for him.
Diamonds & Deception by Ellen Butler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another winning installment in this fun cozy series, yes, I said fun. I like murder type cozies. They are fun to solve and generally have action and suspense. This author has a way of writing that brings you all in to the story and she also uses themes with each book. This was another story that I just jumped right into. I couldn’t put it down. I loved everything about it.
Fatal Legislation by Ellen Butler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Wow!! I love how she grabbed me and threw me right into the story this time. Let’s jump right in and join the walk with her and Senator, who is probably having a heart attack. This story was intense and wonderful. I love these mysteries. This one had me right in there trying to figure it out with her. The story and writing is engaging and exciting.
Isabella’s Painting by Ellen Butler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a fascinating first book in the series. It’s fun and quite entertaining. Our protagonist has her own set of challenges to deal with while she, somehow, ends up solving mysteries. I love that she’s not a detective and this isn’t her primary job. She somehow has the resources to solve the case. What I didn’t know is that this is based on a true case. I loved the author’s writing. This is a story that grabs you right from the start and you can’t put the book down. A definite must read.
No Amends by Angela Lam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Different, but in a good way.
A suspenseful thriller, No Amends leaves you guessing. Everything is not what it seems. Even though this is a short story it packs a punch with an unpredictable story line filled with deadly secrets, mystery, intrigue and dramatic plot twists. The writing draws you in, has great pacing and is well executed. Looking forward to the next book from this author. Recommend.
Cruel Truths by T. Christensen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Cruel Truths was a quick and thoroughly enjoyable enemies-to-lovers office romance!
I was completely hooked from the opening pages of this book. Lindy has a dream to become a fashion designer, and she has worked hard to make that dream come true. Now, it seems she might actually have a chance to get her foot in the door of the fashion company she wants to be a part of. The only thing standing in her way is Cade Kingsley, her new boss. After their first meeting, it’s apparent their working relationship is full of fireworks and not in a good way! She refers to him as Mr. A (if you catch my drift). And, Cade really lives up to that name. Things become complicated when she gets another job duty, “fake girlfriend.” These two soon discover that sparks fly in another way outside of the office, and I loved watching every minute of them falling for one another.
Lindy captured my attention from the very beginning. Her personality jumps right off the pages of the book and brings her to life, and believe me, she has a bigger-than-life personality. She is one of the strongest female characters I have come across in a while. Her childhood was much different than Cade’s, and I loved the way that she reminded Cade that not everyone was as privileged as he was. She was loyal and loved her family, and Cade was able to use that to get Lindy to bend to his will. Lindy was also not afraid to be brutally honest with him. Beneath that strong exterior, she was also vulnerable and not really trusting of men. So, when she allowed the walls to fall from around her heart, it was a beautiful thing to see.
Cade captured my attention as well and not in a good way…at first. I, like Lindy, found him cold and an A. At the same time, I was also intrigued about the mystery of who he REALLY was. Sometimes, I felt like he took advantage of Lindy’s love of her family and used it to benefit him. But, he did say he always got what he wanted, and he wanted her. As time went on, his vulnerabilities also were exposed. Despite his controlling nature, I got to see the sweet side of him in the way he showed his affection and love for Lindy.
I am a huge fan of enemies-to-lovers romances, and the push and pull between Lindy and Cade is why I always keep coming back for more. In the beginning, it was hard to tell if these two even liked each other. I enjoyed the way they pushed each other’s buttons, and in the end, I loved the people they became. I have read some of T. Christensen’s other books but not in this series, and now, I can’t wait to go back and read the previous books in the series. Her sister, Tessa, and her complicated relationship with her husband really piqued my interest! If you love a complicated alpha male and a gutsy woman who pushes his buttons, then give Lindy and Cade a try. I think you will come to love them just as much as I did.
Murder at the Wedding by Christine Knapp
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
Murder at the Wedding is the first book in the Modern Midwife Mysteries series by Christine Knapp. This fast-paced cosy mystery is a great book to escape from the drudgery of normal life for a while. I enjoyed the added element of the midwives thrown in with the mystery.
Christine’s easy writing style is engaging and dabbed throughout with a bit of humour. The easy banter, a touch of wit and descriptive narrative makes it enjoyable and the story flow nicely.
It is a cleverly put together plot with ebbs and flows of complexities that keep the story moving forward. Add in a whole cast of quirky, unique and sometimes obnoxious characters is there any wonder there is mystery, murder, mishaps, mayhem and life and death, just to name a few, get ready for the fun to begin.
With drama, fear, angst, ‘those’ kind of in-laws, a husband’s freedom and catering business on the line, a dachshund, suspects, agenda’s, motives and danger Maeve is desperate, so along with her barbed tongued sister and quick-witted mother, she sets out to find a murderer. Much to the chagrin of her reluctant police chief brother.
Christine gives the reader an added bonus of easy to-follow recipes. Bon Appétit.
If you love a good whodunit Murder at the Wedding is a must.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery by Ellen Butler
Spectral Revelations is the sixth book in the amazing Karina Cardinal Mysteries by Ellen Butler. I was so excited to see Ellen had another book out. I love this series and each book just keeps getting better and better. Each book could be read as a standalone, but I strongly encourage you to go back to book one where it all began, and we first met Karina. They are great stories.
Ellen is a master at mystery and sure knows how to write a great story wrapped in lots of suspense, drama, danger, tension and so much more.
Karina Cardinal and the gang are back, and I just love them all. Karina has the knack for finding herself in trouble or should I say trouble finds her but whatever happens it is a fun journey. Things go from bad to worse as she tries to solve the mystery of what has happened to Aunt Vera.
With ghosts, humour, great characters and lots of surprises make for an amazing journey.
Spectral Revelations is gripping, unpredictable and thrilling. It will have you laughing and your heart pounding at the same time. I love that we never know where Ellen will take the story or what is going to happen next.
Another a brilliant tale from the legendary Ellen Butler. I thoroughly enjoy them.
Reviewed by @jennadb
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/177651357-vixen” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Vixen: (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1686701759l/177651357._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/177651357-vixen”>Vixen:</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8281675.D_M_Earl”>D.M. Earl</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5905510364″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Yet another 5* read from this author, as the others in this series the links and character development continue to weave a web pulling everyone closer. The emotional rollercoaster continues, touching again on the darker side of human nature.<br />Vixen is dragged back into a past that she has tried so hard to move on from, a call for help and that is what the MC is all about helping those that need it. Prostitution, Abuse and trafficking are all hidden in plain sight. And it is these that Vixen is trying to leave in the past alongside a strong individual that she hoped not to have to bring in.<br />Again the Devils Handmaidens come together with Tank and his men, Panther and his, and the guys from Ollies Ranch, Ironside is called in but can he step up and face the history that is there.<br />The world that is being built around these characters continues to consume this reader and I cannot wait to read more. <br />
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/34425105-tracy”>View all my reviews</a>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123237780-taz” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Taz: (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1678716418l/123237780._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123237780-taz”>Taz:</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8281675.D_M_Earl”>D.M. Earl</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5905503928″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
The third book in this series that I have read in a row and I am in awe of how the author continues to keep their multi character development and world building as on spot as they do. We have constant input from Tink and her badass MC, Tank and his MC and family, the GRim Wolves MC, Panther and his men, and Ollie and his veterans ranch. Everyone has an important part to play in these books.<br />Taz the accountant and her autistic son are once again dragged into the past when Taz’s ex makes an appearance alongside his white supremasist militia. Taz has a dark and painful past including loss of her sons father and abuse, she has found her place in the Devils Handmaidens MC, where the MC family truly come into their own.<br />Enforcer or Travis to Taz goes from their on off relationship to fully blown away by his feelings for the brightly coloured semi hippy bike riding badass that is Taz, when he discovers her past and understands how strong she is to have survived he becomes more protective. Again mentions of abuse, supreme race , death and surviving are all involved and mentioned. WE are starting to build a picture of the world and how the underworld works and is linked in this world that is being built by the author. <br />
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/34425105-tracy”>View all my reviews</a>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63042658-shadow” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Shadow (Devil’s Handmaidens MC-Book Two)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1666218172l/63042658._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63042658-shadow”>Shadow</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8281675.D_M_Earl”>D.M. Earl</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5905497724″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Another amazing read from the author, following the lives of those in the Devils Handmaidens MC, like the others written the book links very closely with others in the same world that DM describes so vividly.<br />Shadow enforcer for the MC has many demons from her past and as you get further through the book it becomes obvious just how deep and dark some of those demons are.<br />Abduction, human trafficking and abuse all are mentioned.<br />Introduce Panther and his men to the mix and the relationship between Panther and Shadow is one that is so involved on so many levels that you cannot hope for a happy ending.<br />The other members of the MCs continue to make very bold appearances and the character development continues, the depth of human depravity of trafficking, selling, slavery, and race supremacy all have a hand in making this book gritty and another you cannot put down.
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/34425105-tracy”>View all my reviews</a>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62075078-tink” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Tink (Devil’s Handmaidens MC-Book One)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1661374657l/62075078._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62075078-tink”>Tink</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8281675.D_M_Earl”>D.M. Earl</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5905488178″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
I have read a few books by the author in the past and knew I was in for a read fest with a huge book hangover when I delved into the Devils Handmaidens MC series. <br />I love the way the author links in characters from previous books whilst bringing to the forefront the main characters of each book.<br />The continuing character development of previous characters goes hand in hand with the main characters and we get to know them all that little bit more.<br />In this book we follow Tink the pres of the Devils Handmaidens MC as she continues her fight, her search and the rehabilitation of those that are rescued from some pretty dark places. Dealing with her past, of Rape, abduction and stalkers.<br />There is a lot of family background that one brought to light only makes you feel more deeply for Tink and her MC of badass ladies.<br />Noodles ex Navy SEAL is introduced to the fray and we follow their relationship, he has his demons too and alongside the rehab ranch, Tink and her MC and Tank and his MC, with a bit of the Grim Wolves MC this book is one that you cannot put down.<br />
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/34425105-tracy”>View all my reviews</a>
Vanishing Day: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Logan Book 4 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Logan McKenna books always touch on tough subjects. This one is no different. Except this time, for me, it hit close to home. I have been in Lori’s shoes with two little girls. Sometimes, stories about domestic violence don’t seem to really be written well. They don’t seem realistic or almost glorify it. This was definitely not the case in this book. Valerie Davisson wrote Lori’s story beautifully. The way she wrote of Lori and what she’s gone through and continues to go through, makes me think she either knows first hand about this sort of thing; or she did her research. I hope it’s the latter of course. Her other books all prove that to be true in my opinion.
Devil’s Claw: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Book 3 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book three in the Logan McKenna series is another that keeps you from wanting to put the book down. I believe these books can be stand alone books, but I prefer reading any series in order. The thing I want to mention most about his story is the fact you learn about otters! One of the cutest creatures ever to exist. This time, the mystery hits super close to home. I am really enjoying this series.
~ ~ ~ ~ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Karina’s aunt is missing—along with a list of historic treasures. Is she a victim or guilty party?
Karina is trying to keep her mind on getting a cosponsor for a bill, but it’s tough with her Mom blowing up her phone. By the time Karina finally stops hitting “ignore”, Mom is frantic. It appears Karina’s Aunt Vera has disappeared, fibbed to her employer about the reason for her absence, even abandoned her beloved cat, Nightshade—which is completely out of character. Karina would bet her favorite pair of designer shoes that Vera is in some kind of trouble.
However, when Karina hauls her cookies from D.C. to historic Williamsburg to search Vera’s house, she finds nothing suspicious. Except for a mischievous Civil War ghost who scares the bejesus out of her and keeps trashing Vera’s office. Until Karina realizes his seemingly random ectoplasmic tantrums have a purpose—revealing key evidence.
Something is definitely fishy, but the clues aren’t adding up. And as the spirit’s visitations become more urgent, Karina calls on reinforcements for help—her latest squeeze Rick Donovan and her sister Jillian. Because the cops are following faulty leads, which could put Vera on the wrong end of an arrest warrant … if she’s found alive.
Click here to view the Book Trailer for Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler 
Ellen Butler is the international bestselling author of the Karina Cardinal mystery series. Her experiences working on Capitol Hill and at a medical association in Washington, D.C. inspired the mystery-action series. Book critics call the Karina Cardinal mysteries, “intelligent escapism” and “unputdownable adventures that will take readers on an electrifying yet light-hearted and humorous journey.” Butler also writes historical spy fiction. Her WWII spy novel, The Brass Compass, recently won a 2022 Speak Up Talk Radio Firebird Book Award for historical fiction. The second book in the duology, Operation Blackbird: A Cold War Spy Novel, is Butler’s latest historical fiction. The novel is inspired by true events, and won a Next Generation Indie Book Award gold medal for historical fiction. Reviewers are calling it “riveting,” and, “a thrilling adventure.”
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/48726786-vanishing-day” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Vanishing Day: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Logan Book 4 (Logan McKenna Series)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1573138812l/48726786._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/48726786-vanishing-day”>Vanishing Day: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Logan Book 4</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5872901.Valerie_Davisson”>Valerie Davisson</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5905347689″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
So far of all the books in the Logan McKenna Series this is by far my favorite one. Logan befriends young, single mother who just moved into her neighborhood. As we know our girl likes to help people, she soon becomes embroiled in this mystery. Her new neighbors, Lori and Shannon, have secrets that they are keeping as close to the vest as possible lest their stalker find them. When Lori is attacked, Logan may hold the only clue to solving the case. She unwittingly draws the attacker ever closer the more she dogs into this young woman’s past. How will she keep herself out of danger this time? This book does touch on the heavy subject of abuse so it may be triggering for some. It is a very well written book and the author did an amazing job as always.
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/106111308-charlisa-wahtomy-alba”>View all my reviews</a>
The Podcast Chronicles by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
The Podcast Chronicles by Kathryn Dodson is a fantastic women’s fiction story, with inspirational elements, family dynamics, a case of empty-nest syndrome, challenges, high stakes, politics, corporate greed, family dynamics, determination, staying true to yourself, standing up for what you believe in, community, perseverance, and finding purpose.
Sue Cleary has a case of ‘empty-nest syndrome’ and is at a bit of a loss of what to do with herself. We follow along as she finds new purpose, as she endeavours to save her idyllic town/community from greedy corporate developer.
One of my favourite movies is a bit of an Australia ‘cult’ classic called ‘The Castle’ – and this book/story reminds me of that, having the same kind of vibe happening. I can see this making a great movie too.
This is different from the other book of Ms. Dodson’s that I have read, ‘Tequila Midnight’- but proved to be just as enjoyable. It definitely showcases Ms. Dodson’s versatility as an author.
Looking forward to more from Ms. Dodson.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Kathryn Dodson!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Wondogfilled: Look, a Dog! The story for children who love dogs between the ages of 0-8. A perfect addition to home and classroom libraries. by Dr. Kimberlie Harris
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
Wondogfilled: Look, A Dog! Is a wonderful children’s picture book by Dr. Kimberlie Harris. This is such a delightful book- the illustrations are really bright and beautifully done. The plot is cute, interesting, and very engaging- making for an easy and fun read.
We meet Kingston, his mother, and some furry friends on this charming little adventure- who not only provide a great story, but also imparting a few lessons along the way.
Highly recommended!
Thank you, Dr. Kimberlie Harris!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Forest Park: Logan Book 2 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book two in this series is another cozy mystery. This time, there are several stories woven together beautifully. As with the first in this series, the author adds sensitive real life issues into the story without making them awkward. They feel genuine. The setting was detailed well. You feel like you are actually there. I am looking forward to reading more in the series
Tears into Gold by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was quite interesting. Branka is a scullery maid and all she wants is freedom for her and Mama Cook. She is able to get this wish, but at what cost? Ontop of all of this, she is in love with a boy who is above her station and it is forbidden. This book had me in from the get go and had a whole variety’s worth of classical stories rolled into one story. I absolutely loved it. I’m going to have my daughter who is 11 and I know she will love something like this! I can’t wait to read other books by this author!
Killer Smile by Allan Evans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I’m loving this series about Cade and his determination to solve the murders that are popping up in his area. This time, a group of serial killers have descended on Cade’s location and have challenged him. Cade, not one to back down from a challenge, puts together a task force and finds himself dealing with not one, but three, serial killers.
Another very well written story that I wasn’t able to put down until I finished! I enjoy the moments of levity scattered throughout this story, as parts of it were pretty intense. I look forward to more from this author!
Killer Blonde by Allan Evans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I could not put this book down!! This is my first exposure to this author and he quickly has found a spot on my “favorite authors” list. The writing is very well done and the story is engaging from the first word. There are moments of levity scattered throughout but mostly, a hold onto your seat kinda thriller that is bound to keep the reader guessing until the end!
Beautiful Dangerous by Becky Flade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I am so glad we got a continuation of this series. This is a great romance with some suspense mixed in. This was an easy quick read for me and I really enjoyed it. With all the twists and turns happening throughout I was easily hooked and kept that way the entire time. I recommend this book.
Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love this series so much. I was so excited to get the rest of Aspen and Phoenix’s story. And I wasn’t disappointed! There so many emotions you feel throughout the book. Excellent Series and excellent book. You don’t want to miss out. Pick it up today!
Wild Lavender by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I am sometimes wary of a book that promises Medieval Historical Fiction with “strong female characters” because that narrative does not always come through as a believable story line. Wild Lavender absolutely delivers on strong female characters in a male driven time period, with Anna at the heart. I thoroughly enjoyed the dramatic twists and turns of Anna’s marriage to a sadistic traitor, her background both as a horse master as well as a member of a long-line of female warriors and as the Lady of the land that loves her people, despite her evil husband.
Ms. Kelleher did an amazing job of setting groundwork for future novels not only with this character but many others and I cant’ wait to read the next one.
Vixen: by D.M. Earl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Vixen: (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter)
I think this is my favorite of this series but can’t figure out how this one hit me the way it did.
Vixen has dealt with some serious problems in her life and still has a lot of baggage due to her past which after learning all she has been thought I don’t know how she is going on.
Ironside won me over pretty quick after being introduced. He based his decisions on how it would effect Vixen and her new life. They weren’t always the right decisions but they seemed to be at that time.
I am love with all of these woman, they’re strong, independent and not afraid doing anything necessary to save and protect others who aren’t as strong or in dire need of help.
Though they can standalone I highly recommend reading from the beginning and you should get started soon.
Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A great cozy mystery to get sucked in to. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Logan has great character development. She goes through an awful lot but doesn’t let any of it keep her down. After a lot of loss, she must find something to do with the rest of her life. This book is loaded with real life issues mixed into a fictional story. You can start to relate to the main character and you really start to care for her.
Vanishing Day: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Logan Book 4 by Valerie Davisson
This is my first book of the Logan McKenna Series but even though it is book 4 it is stand alone. In this gripping thriller you’ll spend your time rooting for Logan and her new friend Loriand her daughter. So many puzzle pieces get put together as the story unfolds and you can only metaphorically close your eyes to avert the damages. A great story from start to finish. I cannot wait to read another Valerie Davisson story.
Wondogfilled: Look, a Dog! The story for children who love dogs between the ages of 0-8. A perfect addition to home and classroom libraries. by Dr. Kimberlie Harris
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is definitely a different kind of kids book. I like that it is from the perspective of the child. I found it odd how it ends so I gave it 3 stars.
This is not my first audio book by this author but it is one of my favorites. This is a series that I have enjoyed reading and listening to from the start. I enjoyed the narrator’s voice and how engaging they kept the story with their voice. The author did a great job of creating something so amazing and the characters are steamy. Truck is badly scarred from his past but will Allie be his savior? Will she show him there is more to her than just a friend? Loved their chemistry. This is a must listen to audio! I highly recommend this audiobook.
