Unlikely to Fit by Ashlie Knapp
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved loved this book. It was so cute and funny but also at times heartbreaking as well. I really liked the relationship between Breckin (Jellybean) and Griff. I was cheering for them the whole book. I absolutely recommend this series.
Tally and the Angel Book Two, Canada by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What a great book to share with young family members. I loved reading this with my grandson. He loved it as much as the first book. The story keep us both turning the pages to see what will happen next. We were not disappointed with this story! The characters become very real as you read the story. The places described in the book create a great picture in your mind. What a great series for all ages! We enjoyed reading this book during family time. I would suggest reading the first book before this one.
Tally and the Angel Book Two, Canada by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Not exactly the story I thought I was getting when reading the book synopsis, but it turned out to be a great book! The villagers and their story liking with the story of the angel was a great touch. Tally is very adventurous, saving Jak and going through everything to keep her and her father together. While reading you almost forget this story takes place in modern day, with the description of the village and how they all lived. Dog sledding through the North Yukon near old gold mines, fighting off wolves, and saving a village are great adventures for a 13-year-old travelling with her father around the world. Here’s hoping for book 3!
Tally and the Angel : Book One India by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Cute middle school age about what’s right and wrong, and someone having your back
A cute book about finding inner strength as well as having someone help you be true to yourself and good to others. Includes a mystery storyline.
While there is an Angel involved and there’s little snippets of its journey to get to today, this book is not overtly religious, which I appreciated. The setting here is mostly in India, so the novel gives facts about the country as well as the Hindi language, culture/style, and religion.
I enjoyed the fact that it seems that each character we meet has some character trait that they’re working on. For example, Tally is just a middle schooler who’s growing up and learning to be a good person, and her dad is trying do good in the world while also being there for his daughter after the passing of his wife/her mom.
I thoroughly appreciate the obvious research that went in to bringing the Indian culture and architecture to life on the page. I love ancient architecture and art and you can tell that the author did their due diligence in the background and representing it authentically for the young readers.
Content warning included in this paragraph: I would label this novel as upper middle school and recommend that parents be willing and able to have discussions with their child about what is read. There is a bit of a mystery theme to this novel as children have gone missing and I think it would be important to know how the child(ren) can handle mature themes like kidnapping and child labor.
Swipe Right to Bite by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
There are two demons in New Orleans. One runs a dating app for the supernatural. The other is giving lectures on how to be intimate without the sex. When they start to undermine each other’s business, one goes to the devil for a deal. Things go haywire from there.
Opinion
This is the sixth book in the series but only the first one I have read. I enjoyed it so much, I plan on going back and reading the first five. I had no problems while reading this as a stand alone. I presume that some of the couples in the book are from previous books.
The book itself was a fabulous, laugh a minute ride. Every chapter was jam packed with hilarious happenings. The conversations between the two demons were full of animosity that would make you chuckle. I truly enjoyed this book.
Tally and the Angel Book Two, Canada by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book two is better then book one.
I love this story.
It is so mysterious and so fun.
Now if an Angel is scared and wary then something may be wrong.
Can Tally save the town?
The adventure with the introduction of the magical aspect of the story brought this story to a new level.
I absolutely loved the attention to the quest and the path that Tally and her Angel are on.
This again was a light and fun read perfect for children and young adults.
I highly recommend this,
I look forward to more from this author.
The geographic aspect really brings the adventure to life.
I REALLY want an angel in a locket.
Tally and the Angel : Book One India by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
OMG!!!!! This was such a fun story. It was very Infernal Devices.
Having an angel at your beck ad call.
This is a fun read so entertaining.
I did not put this down and I am happy I didn’t.
I would highly recommend this book.
This would be categorized as a children/young adult fantasy story.
Save the world, save lives.
Such beautifully written, it has adventure and sacrifice.
This was a jumble of wonder and mystery.
Race against the clock.
So excited for book two.
The Traveler by Deborah Dugan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
While I will admit that I am not normally a Sci-Fi reader this author definitely changed my mind with this book. Our author really knows how to grab ahold of her reader in the beginning and keep them on the edge of their seats while she takes them on a wild ride. The ebb and flow of this book and its plots were both equally beautiful and I loved all of the characters. But more then loving the characters I love how she takes us almost behind the scenes and really let’s us see what makes each character who they are. This story really has it all from the power of friendship, trust, survival and so much more I just simply couldn’t put it down. So if the beautiful cover and the blurb aren’t enough to make you read this amazing story, then I also highly recommend you pick up a copy today.
The Traveler by Deborah Dugan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a unique Sci-fi fantasy story. It is a story like none that I have ever read before. The author did wonders with creating their own take on how first contact with extraterrestrial happened. There were a number of ways things could have gone in the story, but many times I found that my guesses for what would happen next was not right. I was left wanting to continue reading to know what would be happening next. Had I met the Traveler in the same way I would have had a totally different reaction than Tristan. I highly enjoyed this read. I am most definitely looking forward to continuing this series. If you are reading this review and still trying to decide I would encourage you to stop hesitating and jump into this sci-fi fantasy adventure!
Tally and the Angel Book Two, Canada by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Tally and the Angel series is a middle-grade children’s fantasy series that even adults will enjoy! I was so excited to get my hands on this second book in the series and it did not disappoint me in any way!
I loved how the author wrote the first book and couldn’t wait to find out what the next adventure would be! Tally is a curious young girl and with the help of her angel, she has the strength and courage to have a lot more adventures in book 2 which is set in the Yukon in Canada!
Even though the character is a younger age I really have enjoyed this series as an adult! The adventure that is told and the detail about the location the book takes place helps even me to be right there in the story with the character! I learned so much about the Yukon that no history book would have told me in school!
I would highly recommend this book, and this series, to anyone who enjoys reading books about adventure. I would also recommend it to any parents looking for a clean fun middle-grade chapter book series they can read alongside their child! Both adult and child alike will love this series!
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon. I loved this book. Its a different kind of read for me but it kept me turning pages late in the night. It’s the story of Lizabeth Gordon who is a school counselor in Washington where she moved with her husband Dan. When Dan suddenly dies Lizabeth is thrown off her axis. Her twin boys are in college 2 hours away in Washington so she decides to move back to South Carolina. where her family has a vacation cabin. While she is there she visits with family and friends and it doesn’t take her long to get back into the old town’s ways. While visiting with family she discover lots of secrets and mysteries in her family tree so she decides to do some digging. While digging she learns a lot of stuff about missing family members but hits a dead end. Feeling like her time in South Carolina is done she accepts a job in Rio de Janeiro and crazy as it seems she meets someone with her family name there. Could this person be the key to all her families mysteries? I loved this book and can’t wait to read more for this author.
Blindsided: A Contemporary Sports Romance by T. Christensen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Blindsided in her teens by her two best friends (Brock and Victoria) that made up their childhood treehouse trio, Kirsa doesn’t know what to do. She was beginning to think that her and Brock would become more. She loved their friendship! But they’ve made her life a living hell for the past three years, all for something that she never did. All she wants to do is keep her head down, survive senior year, and move on with a fresh start in college where no one knows her. With a new student (Rylan) arriving, she’s starting to have hope things might change though. He’s the new star of the football team and her only friend. Can she trust the changes that are happening or is it all a big huge setup to bully her even further? The more she hopes, the more confused she becomes. Will senior year be even worse for Kirsa? Will they scare her off to another school? Read this book to find out more!! PS… I LOVED the view into the intense bulling the characters dealt with in this book. It really opens the eyes to different ways the children of our world get bullied. I think that this book and a discussion into it could help many middle schoolers and high schoolers understand better to be more kind to others. Thank you to the author for opening my eyes a bit more!!
•*•❥☆ COMING SOON ☆❥•*••*•❥☆
Swipe Right to Bite by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the sixth book in this series, but it can be read as a standalone.
A fun, humorous read! I loved Katrina’s spiciness. I also enjoyed the focus Gabe had on building relationships on feelings and trying to make it deeper than the physical, and appreciated that it wasn’t instalove.
It’s got an enemies-to-lovers feel, but in a fun way.
Rebecca Steele Living The Dream by Joanne Patterson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was a wonderful read. I really enjoyed the western aspect of it along with the suspense and romance. I was so hooked I did not want to put it down. Page after page of amazingly beautiful details. I felt as though I was right along in the story.
Rebecca Steele Living The Dream by Joanne Patterson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the third book in the Rebecca Steele series and is 261 pages in length. This story is filled with drama and twists as Rebecca’s story comes to an end. Just when she thinks her life is on a straight path to her dreams, things happen. Her love for playing country music keeps her going and pushes her through. As with all series ending books, this one was hard to put down. This book has a little bit of everything – it was bittersweet.
Forbidden Moon by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A flipping amazing five-star read. This is number three in the Shadow Chronicles series and it’s the final chapter of the chronicles, at least I hope that we do get to hear more from some of the other characters in this series, as they all deserve to be heard. Do read these stories in order as you really do get the best out of it that way, this series has it all, romance, action, gripping story that will show you the complexities and drama of the story. You really do get pulled into the world and feel the panic and love, feel the drama leap of the page. Old enemies become allies as when you face a joint problem even an old enemy can become a friend when you need it. There is so much going on in this story, but the author manages to make it all go so well, you can keep up and keep the action together so you can keep the story going and make it to the end of this sublime series.
Review by @saraoxo
Forbidden Mate by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A Fantastic five-star read. This is number two in the Shadow Chronicles series and it picks up where the first story left off and picks up with a compelling story that you will not be able to put down once you start, so don’t be planning anything until you finish it. As you won’t want to put this down, its such a compelling read. It is best to read them in order as you would likely be lost starting with this one. You will sink into the world and not want to come out, I am so eager to get number three and find out what will happen next. What will Levi and Tasha do now, they are so good together, and the others they bring this story to life, I am eager for what’s next as this has been brilliant so far.
Review by @saraoxo
Forbidden Wolf by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A Forbidden five-star read. This is number one in the Shadow Chronicles series and shows great promise for the series if they are half as good as this one. This story is one that you will want to devour in one bite, the characters are so deep and complex you feel you know them no matter how scary they may appear at first. Tasha and Levi will show you that there is more than you can see beneath the surface, that you need to dig deep to reveal the truth of who you are. I am so excited to see what will happen next in this chronicle.
Review by @saraoxo
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was such an awesome way to end my year and kick off the start to 2022! The writing style allowed the book to flow like a conversation between friends. I could not put this book down. It was a quick read and I can’t wait to see what else this author writes.
This book is the story of a mid aged lady who has found herself suddenly widowed and her entire life as she knew it shattered. In order to find herself again, she decides to return to her roots, to learn more about the heritage she came from and discover who she truly is. There is raw emotion and not everything she discovers is positive.
Blindsided: A Contemporary Sports Romance by T. Christensen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Brock and Kirsa have been friends ever since he trod on her sandcastle and she pushed him down, but when another person comes into the mix, nothing will be the same again.
Kirsa has grown up with the protection and friendship of Brock, undeniable that these two were two peas in a pod, never out of each other presence. One day all that changes and in comes Victoria, a new girl in the neighbourhood so Brock and Kirsa be-friend her. As the years goes on the threesome becomes two and Kirsa is slowly pushed out of the group and favour.
Over the years Brock and Victoria make Kirsa’s life hell with relentless bullying, making sure everyone knows not to be friends’ worth her. Until Rylan arrives and pushes past the bullies and befriends Kirsa, this makes Brock angry but as the story goes on you see the manipulation and Brock questions his actions.
To say this story broke my heart I wanted to crawl into the book and just give Kirsa a great big hug. The relentless bullying this character entails in this book would crush anyone’s spirit but although she faulters at times she still stays strong and pushes forward. I have to say the character of Victoria was a brilliant manipulator and you see the weaving of her malicious lies within the story and yes from the first intro to her I knew she was someone I would not like, and boy was I right.
Brock was a frustrating book character; I was at one point shouting at the words on the page but not being able to change the outcome lol. You get to see this character grow somewhat through the story and understand the pain he invoked on his supposed best friend and in the end, it works out alright. If you are looking for a story of teenage angst and troubles, then this is a great book.
I really enjoyed the writing and the story developed brilliantly; the flow was just enough o have you wanting to read more to see where the story would go. I did enjoy the secondary character of Rylan and hope he found the one in the end. The author was sensitive to the topic and should just enough to be shocking but not too much to stop reading. This is not my first book by this author, and they do not disappoint with any story. Can wait to read more.
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3 Stars
Exiled South is the debut novel by Harriet Cannon. It is an interesting and emotional journey through history- a quest for healing and understanding- this story delves into secrets, family, generational divides, conflict, racism, slavery, trauma, discovery, the civil war, sacrifice, healing, ancestry, and new beginnings.
The story spans history, continents, and time as Lizbeth delves into her family history to uncover the shocking truth hoping to find a way to bring about family reconciliation and healing.
Thought provoking and emotional.
Thank you Harriet Cannon!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book touched me on such a deep level. As an African American woman with a multicultural family that I’m still learning about, going in Lizbeths journey with her resonated with me. What I enjoyed most is that she didn’t shy away from her families past. Although that would have been the easiest route. Family trauma is hard to repair and it’s not easy. What touched me even more was learning about the Author. I am so impressed with this book.
Both sides of my family have ties to the south. Both sides are multicultural. A lot of our history is lost and there are many questions that may never be answered. After reading this story I’m going to keep trying. Maybe I’m my discoveries I can bring some healing and understanding to my family as well.
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have always been a history buff and loved reading historical fiction but I must admit as an Australian my knowledge of the American Civil War is somewhat limited. That being said, this story provided so much historical (and other) information, it helped me to learn a great deal. It stirred my interest so that I was Googling any terms I didn’t know (as a foreigner) and also looking up recipes for some of the dishes mentioned!
And Lizbeth, the main character is so passionate about social justice and equality, just like me – although I must admit she’s braver than I am! Definitely a great book to read and I would recommend it!
Review by @sparkinside
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed stories that are second coming of age and this was one of them. The main character has to start all over and decides to seek solace in a new state but instead she finds a new adventure.
Blindsided: A Contemporary Sports Romance by T. Christensen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Kirsa spends three years the victim of brutal abuse from her peers with no support from her parents or the school. While her relationship with Rylan is what starts her healing, her relationship with Brock is a myriad of emotions. Whether you like Brock or not, the author writes with such strong language that you can’t help but feel those strong emotions. I spent the entire book wanting to scream at the lack of support system for Kirsa and I kept wondering how the poor girl will heal without years of therapy. She used football to keep her sane and there are many football references throughout the book, though the majority of the book is the relationship between Brock and Kirsa.
Unlikely to Stay by Ashlie Knapp
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Books like these always pull on my heartstrings and make me wish I grew up in a small town. This is a slow burn, clean romance, but a mature one. There’s some hunting at sexual stuff but no details. CC and Brant couldn’t be a better couple. I love everyone else in the town as well. I especially love that CC has friends that don’t let her make bad decisions. This is book 3 but can definitely be read as a stand alone.
Exiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a fascinating story! Lizbeth was such a strong and intelligent woman. Losing her husband, and being alone she finds solace in researching about her family’s culture and history. The information she stumbles upon takes her on journey of self exploration as well as opens her eyes to her ancestors lives before her. The emotions that she experiences as she finds out intimate family history, and secrets that were unexpected are intense. This is such a good story that spoke to me on many levels, and something I felt easily able to relate to.
States of Grace by Mandy Miller
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
States of Grace: A Grace Locke Mystery by Mandy
Miller
Five Stars
This is my first read of 2022, and I can tell you that I started this year out with a Big Bang. For a debut book this author hit this one out of the park. This book if full of action. Once I picked the book up, I couldn’t put it down until I finished. Grace Locke is a gritty lawyer/veteran who has been through some hard times. This author has really brought Grace to life and the story is so detailed it made me feel like I was right there with Grace chasing down the truth. I look forward to reading a lot more Grace Locke books in the future. Now, if I can just keep five star reading picks up for the rest of this year I will be in beaver.
Review by @sunbarn