Hush, My Darling by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Lila Dayne is a traumatized cop. Thanks to the I-80 killer and her being the only surviving victim. He has shown her he is back. What is Lila to do? Keep soldering on or quit her law enforcement job. A really fast paced easy read that you won’t be able to put down.
Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book grabbed me from the very beginning, and I read it all in one sitting! It was so captivating and I was absolutely engrossed the entire time. I didn’t realize this was a series so I am very glad to be able to go back and read them all in order. Even without reading the first two, I feel like I was able to follow along well and didn’t take away from the amazing storyline. I feel that I pick up on clues and can guess what happens next in mysteries, but this one had me puzzled and clueless the entire time! I highly recommend picking this fast-paced book up and I’m headed to start at the beginning of the series now!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Bees in Loretta’s Bonnet by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Loretta loves exploring her world. When she was helping to collect firewood, she discovered a mysterious rolled-up leaf. When her mother explained it was a nest for leafcutter bees, Loretta wanted to learn more! As the seasons change, Loretta follows the progress of the bees to learn all she can.
This book is adventurous and informational. It is a good lesson on the life cycle of leafcutter bees and what they do for our environment. My kids were engaged in the story the entire time. The illustrations are bright and fun. There is even a cute activity included at the end! If you have an insect-loving kid, this story is for you.
The Golden Garza by S. Ann Cole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I had not read the previous books in the series, as it stated this was a standalone story, but I will absolutely be reading the first 3 books immediately. This was a fantastic story about Tripp and Soleil in the Red Cage series. The author did an amazing job of setting up the history between the two characters, as well as their individual backgrounds. Being his little sister’s best friend, Soleil has always had a crush on Tripp, but he always made it clear that he found her annoying. The steamy slow burn between them, in the background of the danger and mystery, created a pager turner I couldn’t put down. The story had excellent pacing and each time you thought everything was resolved, the author threw another twist. I also adored the secondary characters and I can’t wait to see Tillie get her own story and discover the mystery X. I highly recommend this story and can’t wait to see what else the author has in store for this series.
Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A girl turns up dead and takes everyone back to two friends who died 25 years ago. A killer seems to have struck again. As the investigation goes on, it seems this is larger than anyone in this small town would have ever dreamed.
Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I do like it. Throws you right in the first page. Love how blunt the author writes. It did take me a bit to get the groove of the book since I’m jumping in at book 3. I did put everything together still a great book.
Bees in Loretta’s Bonnet by Lois J. Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a cute little story for young readers. A lost bonnet turns into a learning experience for little Loretta. I read this book aloud to my five year old niece who is not a fan of bees. The book has her wanting to lose one of her hats outside for the bees to make a nest in too. We both enjoyed the story! The little helpful bee nest making instructions at the end was a bonus. This spring we will be making one to see if we can attract some bees to our yard for our flowers.
Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A gripping and suspenseful crime thriller which kept me hooked from start to finish. Having read and enjoyed the previous books in this series, I am familiar with the main characters, Elizabeth Benoit and Lila Dayne. I was looking forward to reading about their next case, and I was not disappointed. When a young woman is killed in the same circumstances as a death from twenty five years earlier, it’s more than a case of Déjà vu for Sheriff Elizabeth Benoit. The previous victim was Elizabeth’s best friend and Deputy Kyle Lundquist’s older sister, and Elizabeth has never stopped trying to catch her killer. Elizabeth is convinced that the crooked ex-Sheriff was involved in the crime, but although she has a thick file on him she knows she needs irrefutable proof.
Due to the legal consequences of Elizabeth being too close to the case, Deputy Detective Lila Dayne takes charge. However, she can’t seem to pin down their main suspect despite using all her investigative skills. When prominent members of the community begin to disappear, Elizabeth is back on the case, but things turn personal when her sister then goes missing. Benoit and Dayne must catch the killer, and end up in a showdown that’s been brewing for decades in Eckardt County. The storyline had me turning the pages well into the night, and the plot twists kept me guessing as to the outcome of the story. The descriptive narrative brought both the setting and characters vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the story. This was a real page turner of a novel, and one which I recommend.
Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first Mystery I have read in a long time and OMG I am so glad I did! I was totally hooked from the very first sentence right to the very last word. This is a totally captivating read filled with interesting characters and a fantastic storyline that will keep you hooked and on the edge of your seat the whole way. Elizabeth and Lila are such strong determined women who will let nothing stop them from getting to the truth! You will be on their side every step of the way. I found myself wanting to know more about some of the other characters as well, Rafe and Kyle for example, so I will definitely be finding the rest of the books in this series. This is the 3rd book of this series and I do think that it can be read as a standalone because I totally enjoyed it and followed along with no issue even though I had not read the previous books. I will however be going back and reading the previous books because of how much I truly enjoyed this one. This amazingly talented author definitely has a new fan in me! I just can’t wait to read more!!
Bees in Loretta’s Bonnet by Lois J. Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Read this book with my 6 year old. We loved it. We had recently learned about honey bees, so it was nice to learn about another type of bee! I like how she includes learning in books but makes it fun! Lois Wickstrom is a children’s book author I will continue to come back to over and over. Very cute story.
Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Straight for the Kill is book number 3 in the Benoit and Dayne Mystery series by Winter Austin. In this installment, Sheriff Benoit’s past comes back to haunt her when a body is found that shows strong similarities to previous murders. One previous murder was someone close to Benoit which motivates the sheriff even further. As more members of the community disappear, Deputy Dayne and Sheriff Benoit must use all of their abilities to find the killer. Then, Sheriff Benoit’s own sister goes missing. Can Benoit and Dayne find the killer in time to save Benoit’s sister, or does the killer get away? Find out in Straight for the Kill.
Just like the previous books, the characters are relatable with very realistic feelings. The reader can feel the emotions of the characters. This book is a gripping read full of twists and turns. I did not want to put the book down and it left me wanting more from Winter Austin.
The series just keeps getting better and better. Each book could be read as a standalone as Winter Austin does a fantastic job of ensuring the reader knows the important aspects in each backstory. It is a page turning, at the edge of your seat, police thriller. I highly suggest picking up a copy.
Hush, My Darling by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Book two in the Benoit and Dayne Mystery series, Hush, My Darling can either be read by itself, or after the first book. Winter Austin does a fantastic job of filling the reader in with needed information from the first book. In this installment, Deputy Lila Dayne’s past comes to haunt her. She narrowly escaped from her prospective killer the first time, and now a new body turns up which makes Lila believe that her killer has found her in her new town. Her reaction to the find causes other members of the department to question her ability to continue being a deputy. Will Lila be able to prove that she is stable enough to continue with her job, or will the killer succeed in taking her down? Find out in Hush, My Darling.
Hush, My Darling is full of twists, turns, and relatable characters. The reader can feel right along with the characters. Lila’s fear is almost palpable through the pages. Winter Austin does an amazing job creating a visual of both the physical and emotional aspects of the story. This story is gripping and a page turner.
I absolutely loved every moment of this story. I did not want to put it down. It is full of mystery, tragedy, twists, and turns. If you do not pick up a copy, you are missing out.
Amaleigha and the Big Idea by Janice Pratt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Amaeigha and the Big Idea by Janice Pratt is such a fun and inspirational book for children. Amaleigha is a 5-year-old girl that loves nature and loves to explore. She enlists the help of friends and family to share the things she loves with the rest of the world. This is such a sweet book with lessons for young and old. It shows how you can enjoy the things you love even if others don’t agree. I love that in a social media-filled world, this book shows how children can enjoy the great outdoors. Such a wonderful story.
Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is book 3 in a series. However, this could be read as a standalone. There will be bits and pieces that might be confusing so I do feel it best to read the books in order.
I read this book in just under 5 hours in one sitting. It’s gripping and will have it’s hooks in you from the start. Prepare accordingly with your favorite beveridge, a snack, and a blanket. You’re not going to want to put this book down.
Elizabeth Benoit is still a fairly new sheriff and, while she’s seen her share of things going on in her little county over the past couple of years, she was not prepared for a 25 year old bandaid to be ripped off. Elizabeth’s best friend, who is also Deputy Kyle Lundquist’s sister, was murdered 25 years ago. The case had essentially gone cold until recent events started looking a lot like what occurred back then. Deputy Detective Lila Dayne is on the case as an outsider, not really being privy to the previous event.
Is it possible that Elizabeth can finally put away the dirty, crooked former sheriff? His hands could be all over this but then there are new but old faces popping back up in town too.
I can’t say enough about this book but I also don’t want to spoil anything. Just do yourself a favor and carve out the time you need to read this one in one sitting!
Arrrgh! Me HATE To Wait! by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Half-pint Porky is very excited about the opportunity to go to pirate school like her older siblings. She’s got a bit of a wait though. Half-pint Porky does NOT like to wait! When she’s finally able to go to pirate school, she can’t wait for it to end.
This is a super cute children’s book! Kids will love the pirate language as well as the vivid imagery in the pictures presented. There are a few fun alliterations to enjoy too! I would recommend this book for children of all ages, including us more seasoned! My favorite aspect of this book is the focus on patience and how being patient can bring a bigger reward in the end.
This is book is seriously amazing. I literally hated when I had to put it down. Deputy Lila Dayne and Sheriff Elizabeth Benoit are two of the most amazing characters I have ever come across. In fact, Sheriff Ellie, reminds me of Alex Cross who is from James Patterson’s books. I felt every emotion that these two and the rest of the sheriffs office went through as they tried to figure out the murder that happened recently and how it connected to a murder that happened decades prior. I promise you that this book is hands down one of the best books I have read. I honestly believe that everyone needs to read this book. I am also going to read the other two books, since this is Book #3. I strongly recommend that everyone gets this book now.
Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is book is seriously amazing. I literally hated when I had to put it down. Deputy Lila Dayne and Sheriff Elizabeth Benoit are two of the most amazing characters I have ever come across. In fact, Sheriff Ellie, reminds me of Alex Cross who is from James Patterson’s books. I felt every emotion that these two and the rest of the sheriffs office went through as they tried to figure out the murder that happened recently and how it connected to a murder that happened decades prior. I promise you that this book is hands down one of the best books I have read. I honestly believe that everyone needs to read this book. I am also going to read the other two books, since this is Book #3. I strongly recommend that everyone gets this book now.
A Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A fun YA romance that braces on the edge of historical fiction and entertainment. The characters are witty and have the quirks that make this an easy read. A tad slow to begin but slowly churns itself into a book worth reading. The character development itself is worth it, but the “opposites- attract” theme ties you in. The sense of duty and longing hit hard in this story, and overall a good read. It’s worth the initial push in the beginning!
Chasing Redemption by Shannon Nikole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A great, easy to read romance with a suspenseful twist. The twins were adorable and Marley and Max were very likable, complex characters. I loved their nicknames for each other! In reading their story I discovered a great new to me author and am looking forward to reading the rest of this series including book 1!
Reviewed by @sparkinside
The Golden Garza by S. Ann Cole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 stars
The Golden Garza is the fourth book in the Red Cage series. After reading the other books it was a no brainer getting this one. I somehow started the series with the third book but went back and read the first two though and I loved them.
I love this series and the wonderful characters who are complex and fully realised. There is also a cast of secondary characters that you will like just as much.
This fantastic romance tale is intriguing, steamy, and has suspense, danger, drama, action and so much more to keep the pages turning.
This is Tripp and Sunny’s story and what a story it is. I was totally engaged throughout, and I loved the push pull between these two and the love hate, hate to love relationship with the sizzling chemistry. The two of them are passionate and stubborn.
When trouble comes calling can she rely on his help her out or is there deadly consequences?
I can’t wait to see what S Ann Cole does next.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Arrrgh! Me HATE To Wait! by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a fun picture book that children between the ages of 4-to-8 will enjoy. The illustrations are bright and colourful and full of many things to discover that will delight little eyes. What child doesn’t dream of becoming a pirate and finding treasures and sailing the seven seas?
I read this to my Grandbabies as they liked it so much. It has now become one of their favourite bedtime stories.
Journey along with Half-Pint Porky as she dreams of becoming a pirate and all that goes along with it. Will she do what she has longed for, or will she give up her dreams?
Grab a copy and let your little ones enjoy
Reviewed by @jennadb
Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Straight for the Kill is the third book in the amazing Benoit and Dayne Mystery series. To say I really enjoyed the other books written by Winter is an understatement.
This is a chilling crime thriller series that is as intriguing as it is suspenseful. This gripping tale will have you on the edge of your seat. A tale of murder and mayhem, vengeance and power, mystery and obsession that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat. There is a cast of many characters that are fully realised and complex.
When a body shows up Sherriff Elizabeth Benoit is chilled to the bone. She knows that it is the same as her best friend’s murder years earlier. Between herself and Deputy Detective Lila Dayne catching the bastard is harder than it ought to be.
As the author writes “it’s a no-holds-barred race against time in the showdown that’s been brewing in Eckardt County for decades”.
I’ve said it before, and I will say it again that this is one series you don’t want to pass by. Prepare to be captivated by Winter’s writing skills.
After this book Winter is now cemented as one of my favourite authors.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Night Hawke by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The prequel for the Hawke series packs a PUNCH. Jack has the air of mystery surrounding her and Isaac is not some nerdy graduate ready to enter the big boys club. This book had me blushing, heart racing and devouring it whole. I honestly think this ranks as one of my favourites of the Hawkes and I will definitely be reading this again. Such a wild ride and one I happily would have stayed on as it went round and round! Gwyn is a queen and I thank the stars i found her books often!
Chasing Redemption by Shannon Nikole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Chasing Redemption: A Small Town, Romantic Suspense (The Quimby Grove Series Book 2)
As much as I loved Beckett and Ellawyn’s story I think I loved Max and Marley’s just a bit more.
There are so many little things that happen and bring the story together and make it that much better for me. I hated having to work because that meant I wasn’t able to continue reading this great book.
Max kept thinking about the one who got away without so much as a name which ended up being his only regret. Marley is in the same boat, thinking about that amazing nameless guy.
I have been nothing but impressed with this author. She has two books under belt including this one and you would never know it while reading her work. I cannot wait to read her next book, I think she can go far.
Arrrgh! Me HATE To Wait! by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is an enchanting children’s book full of colorful illustrations that will draw the reader’s eyes. The unique pirate language and imaginative character names are just another bonus. I think kids and adults will both enjoy reading.
Half Pint Porky is anxious and doesn’t want to wait to go to the big pirate school like her siblings. When the time finally comes for her to go to big pirate school, she gets nervous and doesn’t want to go. Will she finally make it to her new “big” school? Will the wait have been worth it?
This is a really cute story that not only teaches about patience but about being nervous going to a new school and encountering new situations. I think kids will love this book and not even realize they are learning while enjoying the fun pirate talk and story. I definitely recommend this book to readers of all ages!
Night Hawke by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the first book I have read by Gwyn McNamee. I was first interested in the title and then the mystery of the synopsis pulled me in good. The book is a dual perspective between two strangers that have a chance meeting in a local Chicago bar one night. Both looking for an escape of what the next day could bring but so entranced in the moment they accept whatever consequences may come.
His entire life has been planned for him for as long as he can remember. She is a mystery; her actions are that of a strong independent force to be reckoned with. Only her words leave him coming up short and struggling to keep to the deal of no real talk just a fun night with a stranger. Her entire life has been controlled by her parents, worry plagues her mind and what they will do just to find her if she doesn’t come home one night. What’s the worst that can happen when two strangers have a chance meeting?
This is an amazing and steamy introduction into the second generation of the Hawke Family series. I have never read any of the books from the original series but had no trouble understanding the book or references. With the first official book to the 2nd Gen series, Ruthless Hawke, coming out February 23rd, I plan to read the original series soon. The world and characters the author creates makes you feel like you know them.
Chasing Redemption by Shannon Nikole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the 2nd book in the Quimby Grove series but the first I read. It was so good. The love just oozed off the page. A chance meeting one night, and then again years later. Marley and Max’s lives are forever entangled after the night they could never forget. Can they find the path to each other, or will they allow others to stand in the way of their love for each other?
Bees in Loretta’s Bonnet by Lois J. Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a really cute book! Not was only was it cute it was also informative about bees. This book is definitely for older children in my opinion, because younger children aren’t going to understand some of the science and logistics of this story. There are also some really neat and interesting crafts and projects at the end of this book that kids would enjoy!
Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
Straight For the Kill is the third gripping instalment in the Benoit and Dayne Mystery series by Winter Austin. It is another edgy and engrossing story full of all the twists and turns that I love about a great thriller. Again, Ms. Austin had had me on the edge of my seat, guessing the whole way through.
This is the third book in the series, and even though it could technically be read as a standalone as the author does touch on previous events, I really recommend reading the previous two book before starting on this one, as experiencing what has happened previously will definitely enhance your reading experience of this book, as well as the series as a whole.
This book has all the ingredients required to keep me completely immersed in this gripping crime thriller. With murder, mayhem, mystery, suspense, intrigue, tension, intensity, and drama really makes for a gritty read.
With buried secrets things take a complicated turn when skeletons start to come to light. Elizabeth Benoit and Lila Dayne will have their work cut out for them here, as they try to get to the bottom of it all.
Can’t wait to see what happens next!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Winter Austin!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Hush, My Darling by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
Hush My Darling is the second book in the Benoit and Dayne Mystery series by Winter Austin. It is an engrossing thriller that had me guessing the whole way through. It is gritty, gripping, suspenseful, intense, and entirely intriguing. This serial killer murder mystery is set in a small town, which gives it an added element of interest for me.
Elizabeth Benoit is the new sheriff in town, but settling in just got complicated as flooding devastates the area. When a decomposing body is discovered, things intensify, and it soon becomes apparent that there is a serial killer in their midst. What happens makes for a riveting read.
Bring on Book #3!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Winter Austin!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Fear Inc.: Volume Three by Melinda Valentine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a good read! This can be read as a standalone, although there were a lot of characters that I am assuming are from the previous books that make appearances and so that was a little confusing. But it had really no bearing on the storyline of this book so it can still be read as a standalone in my opinion. This was book was spicy, and the main characters had all the tension. I really enjoyed the story and the characters and would enjoy reading the the other books and continuing this series.
