Posts

Under the Bandage by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jenni Bishop

Under the BandageUnder the Bandage by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 stars
Under the Bandage is another unique children story from Lois. The story is told in a rhythmic rhyming way that makes the kids want to join in. Not only is there is the main story, but Lois also includes smaller pictures and information facts pertaining to a certain portion of the story.
Follow along as what started out as a scrape turns into a war. A troop of soldiers ready to defend and repair and stop those that are attacking.
What better and fun way to teach little minds and explain what is going on so they are not so worried about scrapes and injuries. But this is what Lois does, she takes a topic and makes it into a bright, colourful and fun learning experience without them even knowing because to them it is just a story.
I would recommend this book for any 5–8-year-olds. Have fun reading.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

The Strategist (WaterFyre Rising Book 5) by Nadia Han – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Strategist (WaterFyre Rising, #5)The Strategist by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
I can’t believe we are at book five in this series already. I have loved this series from the very first book and each book there after only gets better and better. This is my favourite story in the series although I have said that about the others. This is one series that you should get behind because it is great reading.
Each book can be read as a standalone, but I say make sure you start with The Mastermind which stars the first of the WaterFyre men to get his story told.
The Strategist is Arrow’s story and Nadia has woven a complex tale that I could not set aside I had to keep the pages turning because I couldn’t get enough of it and wanted to see how it all went. I love getting the inside thoughts of the characters instead of it being one sided and Nadia does this by writing in dual POV.
Arrow left the life of a Navy SEAL behind but that doesn’t mean he can leave behind painful memories that is until her but when danger comes calling can he help her? Or better yet does she need his help? Will her secrets keep them from what could truly be? Danger and dark secrets that may just destroy it all. What happens next makes for one intriguing and engrossing read.
As always, I look forward to seeing what Nadia gives us next.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Kris & The Cowboys (The Adventures of Kris) by Art Blegen – Review by Jenni Bishop

Kris & The Cowboys: The Adventures of KrisKris & The Cowboys: The Adventures of Kris by Art Blegen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 stars
Kris & The Cowboys is the third book in The Adventures of Kris series by Art Blegen. It is a colourful and imaginative chapter book adventure story. It is appropriately aimed at children from six to ten years old.
This delightful children’s story is fun and is vividly rich in its story telling. It brings delight to young minds as their imagination puts them into the story along with Kris. It’s not just a story as there are things to learn along the way.
Follow along as Kris is out in the beautiful countryside where things are not what they seem. With Cowboys, Indians, horses, cattle rustlers and much, much more there is something for everyone.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Summer of Mud by Rebecca Bischoff – Review by Jenni Bishop

Summer of MudSummer 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

View all my reviews

Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story (The Echo Series) by C.R. Alam – Review by Jenni Bishop

Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda's Story, An Echo series novella (The Echo Series)Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story, An Echo series novella by C. R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
Healing Hearts is #0.5 the prequel contemporary romance tale and where it all begins for The Echo series. I love this series. We got to see these characters throughout the previous books as CR intertwines the characters, so it is good to see how Gene and Amanda’s story came to be. This heartfelt and fun-loving story will have you falling in love with the characters and hooked from the word go.
It has tension and angst, chemistry and steamy scenes, unbridled passion, pain and emotions and let’s not forget the humour. There are a couple of twisty turns, small town gossips and rumour mills in this small-town romance.
I thought the last book was my favourite, but I this one definitely is now.
Gene is tired and what was once is passion is now a chore. He has lost his faith in what he does, and little does he know that it only takes a special someone to make it all ok again.
Amanda is not sure how she ended up how she did, but she is grateful for the help she is getting. Now she just has to deal with her wayward thoughts of the hot new doctor in town.
I am now waiting patiently to see what CR brings next.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

The Rake (Daughters of Dishonour Series) by Ava Bond – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Rake (Daughters of Dishonour #1)The Rake by Ava Bond
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 stars
The Rake is the first book in the Daughters of Dishonour series by Ava Bond. Ava is an unknown author to me which is why I decided to give it a go. Historical romance is not really my thing but every now and then I don’t mind reading one and I usually end up liking it as I did with this one.
The Rake is an opposites attract tale full of secrets, lies, murder, mystery, treasure maps, jewellery heists, bastard children, debauchery, and wanton Rakes.
Lord Silvester Beresford makes no bones about what he is and uses his charm every chance he gets but when a strange and beautiful woman runs into him, he finds more than he bargained for.
Margot maybe the daughter of a vicar but she is new to the sight before her when she chases after a potential murderer.
If you like historical romance with a murder mystery, then The Rake is for you. I look forward to reading the next book to see if I get some answers.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

The Ghostly Diva (Divine Vintage Series) by Sandra L. Young – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Ghostly Diva (Divine Vintage)The Ghostly Diva by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Ghostly Diva is the third tale in the Divine Vintage series. Each book in this series can be read as standalones but if you are looking for something a fun with a paranormal twist then start at the beginning with Divine Vintage the authors debut novel.
This fast-paced ghostly romantic tale peals back the layers to find the truth of one man’s parentage that was taken to the grave. But it is from beyond this grave that this ghost has other ideas.
Jackson has always wondered where he came from, but it was never revealed to him now it was beyond his reach of finding out or is it?
Justine loves to forage for treasures and being vintage is even better but when she comes across a grouchy impatient stranger and an interfering ghost intrudes things start to get interesting.
There is a little bit of everything to keep the reader fully engaged and intrigued. Vintage treasures, a ghostly encounter, an interfering ghost, a grouchy but sexy stranger and a snowstorm make this one tale that should not be missed.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Come Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson – Review by Jenni Bishop

Come Home to DeathCome Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Come Home to Death is a romantic suspense tale by the award-winning author Marilyn Levinson. Having not read any of her books before I thought I would dive in, and I was not disappointed. The release of this book has been a long time coming for Marilyn and I am happy I got the chance to read it.
Money can be the root of all evil and it is just that in this cleverly woven complex mystery thriller. The suspense is palpable as it leaps off the page. This twisty tale will have you checking who is around the next corner and looking for what goes bump in the night.
Erica is surrounded by people with their own agendas, opinions, interference and controlling ways. There are deaths, threats, lies, secrets, who can she trust, who has her best interest at heart, who wants her dead? She thought she could some kind of refuge, but she had been silly to think so and realised why she left in the first place.
If you enjoy a good read, then Come Home to Death is one you shouldn’t miss.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

The School of Nine (Mythic Academy Collection) by Amanda Marin – Review by Jenni Bishop

The School of Nine (The Mythic Academy Collection, #1)The School of Nine by Amanda Marin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 stars
With a unique and intriguing storyline, The School of Nine is a YA paranormal fantasy romance tale with clever world building.
With characters that are interesting and well-developed you will fall in love with them. I really like the premise and the mythos of muses in training along with prophecies and the chosen one.
The School of Nine is set in a magical world of Brightling Academy – a prestigious school for female Muses. So, when Sebastian turns up imagine everyone’s surprise but not everything is as it seems.
Bianca has her reservations about this newcomer but there is more to him than she first thought.
With tension, intrigue, frustration, drama, turmoil, danger, action, adventure, there is something for YA lovers of magic.
Will Bianca be able to rely on help to stop the trouble before them? To find out you will need to grab a copy of this book.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection) by Amanda Marin – Review by Jenni Bishop

A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection)A Song of Salt and Secrets by Amanda Marin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Song of Salt and Secrets has a unique and intriguing storyline and clever world building. It is a standalone YA fantasy romance novella-length tale. With a lot of emotions frustration, fear, longing, love, suffering, suspense, action, adventure, and there are a lot of ups and downs.
Corisande ties hard to keep a side of her hidden because if not she can destroy and that is not who she is. Being born as a siren is a curse but can’t help wanting to sing it is who she is, but it is that very thing that puts everything in peril. She lives her life on hopes and dreams. Will Noah be the one to save her from herself and himself along the way?
A Song of Salt and Secrets has well-developed and interesting characters that are hard not to like and feel for. I really enjoyed the premise of this short, sweet read.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Meal Time at the Zoo: PB&J Café by James Williamson – Review by Jenni Bishop

https://www.goodreads.com/rMealtime at the Zoo: PB&J CaféMealtime at the Zoo: PB&J Café by James Williamson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This quirky tale Mealtime at the Zoo, PB & J Café, is James’s debut book. It is just what the doctor ordered or should I say zoo animals to bring happiness to the young at heart. This delightful book is aimed for kids 3 to 8 years old.
Everybody loves PB & J sandwiches and James added in a couple of recipes that my grandsons were only too eager to help try out ending with sticky fingers.
Mealtime at the Zoo: PB&J Café is a journey that teaches valuable life lessons to children as well as expanding their imaginations. The illustrations bring the story to life as we follow along on this adventure with hidden delights on each page.
This delightful children’s story is full of fun and told in a rhyming way that makes the kids want to read along.
I look forward to reading more of books from James.
Enjoy!

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Master Oradea (Masters of the Consulate Book 10) by Sylvia Black – Review by Jenni Bishop

Master Oradea (Masters of the Consulate #10)Master Oradea by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was so excited when I saw this book was out. I absolutely love this series it has become one of my favourites. You are absolutely missing out on all this dark paranormal goodness if you don’t read them all and especially if you don’t read them in order even though they can be read as standalones.
I have said it before, but I will say it again, I have been there since the beginning of this series and Sylvia knows how to write an epic dark paranormal tale that you are unable to put down. I am always instantly lost in the story and to the beauty of the harsh world that Sylvia created.
Master Oradea is the tenth book in the fantastic Masters of the Consulate series where the vampire mafia rule and fated mates are a guarantee.
This is an enemies to lovers story where you get shifters, witches, vampires and more and great writing. The Masters are wonderfully deliciously dark characters who are fierce, loyal and love hard and let’s not forget the sexiness, the passion and the explosive chemistry but cross them and look out.
I cannot wait to get my fingers on the next book Master Bistrita. Bring it!

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Marshmallow Rabbit by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jenni Bishop

Marshmallow RabbitMarshmallow Rabbit by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Marshmallow Rabbit is a clever colourful and imaginative 30 paged adventure story. It is aimed at children from kindergarten through 3rd grade. Lois writes stories that are adventurous and teach valuable life lessons to children.
Annabelle loves candy and this sneaky little thief tours the chocolate factory whenever she can and leaves with all the sugary goodness she can steal. But Mr Bonbon decides to put a stop to her thieving ways and find a punishment that is befitting the crime.
This delightful children’s story is full of fun, with colourful and interesting illustrations by Janet King. The narrative makes for an engaging tale. There are also things to learn along the way such as the consequences of one’s actions.
You don’t have to be a child to enjoy the adventure.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

4 R’s: Roped, Risked, Rescued, Romanced (4 R’s Series) by Julie Castle – Review by Jenni Bishop

4 R's: The Complete Series4 R’s: The Complete Series by Julie Castle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced is the complete 4 R’s series in one book. They are quick and easy reads that you can’t put down once you start. The characters will have you finding a new book boyfriend to chose from or all of them.
Roped (Fools Gold) is the story of Sarah and Rafe. Sarah left after finding a note changing everything she thought and wanted but was it true or was it lies? Rafe is in dire need and Sarah returns to help but even in dire need it comes with stipulations. There is lots of chemistry, wants, needs, hopes, misunderstandings and antics that made me laugh.

Rescued (Her Heart’s Desires) is the story of Sam and Jake. Sam does a runner on her wedding day and runs into the arms of another man. Jake is on stake out when a woman runs into his arms. Now he has to keep her safe from a man who is dirtier than anyone knows. This sexy enemies to lovers tale is full of spice and a little suspense.

Risked (Serena’s Web) is Serena and Mark’s story. Serena is caught up in a dangerous web of mobsters when she decides to save her father. This puts her in the cross hairs of the FBI. Can he keep her safe even from himself? This forced proximity tale sizzles with a lot of suspense.

Romanced (It Had To Be You) is Candy and Greg’s story. Candy grew up on the wrong side of the tracks, but she is back in a town she left in her wake. Unfortunately for her she has to business with someone she would rather not have to give the time of day. She loves to hate, and he just wants to love the one that got away. This old enemies to lovers tale is steamy and makes you want to believe in love.
I know you will love it.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Kris & The Missing Prince (The Adventures of Kris) by Art Blegen – Review by Jenni Bishop

Kris & The Missing Prince: The Adventures Of KrisKris & The Missing Prince: The Adventures Of Kris by Art Blegen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kris & The Missing Prince is the first book in The Adventures of Kris series by Art Blegen. It is a colourful and imaginative chapter book adventure story. It is aimed at children aged from six to ten years old.
Just like Kris readers will be swept into the story as she finds herself in a magical world of creatures of all shapes and sizes right in Grandma’s back yard. Kris has a wild and vivid imagination, and she is not one to sit back, she is one for getting into the thick of things as she is faced with trying to thwart an evil gnome and rescue the prince.
This delightful imaginative children’s story is full of fun, with illustrations. Art’s narrative leads to vividly imagined scenes that makes for a very engaging story. There are also things to learn along the way.
You don’t have to be a child to love the adventure. I look forward to more of Kris’s adventures.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Mood Swings and Hockey Flings (Hot Flash Hookups Series) by Sylvie Stewart and Marika Ray – Review by Jenni Bishop

Mood Swings and Hockey Flings (Hot Flash Hookups #2)Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mood Swings and Hockey Flings is the second book in the Hot Flash Hookups series by the delightful duo Sylvie Stewart and Marika Ray. The first book Hot Flashes and Hockey Slashes started out with a bang and this one is just as good. I suggest you read them in order, so you don’t miss out on anything.
This light-hearted and fun Romantic Comedy is a love hate sports romance with witty banter leaving you laughing out loud at the antics and banter. These characters just cracked me up.
Banks Bennet is at it again and has a reputation a mile wide. What’s new! Kaitlyn is driven to succeed in a male dominated arena and finds herself between hot flushes and mood swings and one frustrating male. Well actually make that two because she wants to prove something to her boss.
The heartwarming tale has quirky characters who are to die for, and the chemistry and heat is turned way up.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Murder on West Main (A South Shore Mystery) by I.M. Foster – Review by Jenni Bishop

Murder on West Main: A South Shore MysteryMurder on West Main: A South Shore Mystery by I.M. Foster
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Murder on West Main is the second instalment in the historical South Shore Mystery series set in the early 1900’s. IM as usual does a good job of incorporating the history of the time into the story.
What started out as a normal day turned out to be anything but!
We once again find ourselves embroiled in this cosy mystery along with coroner’s physician, Daniel in a murder investigation where the victim is an evil and horrid person. Things hot up when he tries to piece it all together to save an innocent man or is he?
Kathleen decides to insert herself smack dang in the middle of everything even when the consequences could be fatal. The story definitely keeps you on your toes as you navigate through the clues. Even though I pieced it together before the big reveal I still really enjoyed this tale.
Murder on West Main is well written, intriguing, and full of suspense. There is a few twisty turns, mystery, danger, murder, mayhem, angst, and drama. All of that makes for an engaging read and have you immersed in the story and the pages turning.
If you like cosy mysteries, then give Murder on West Main a go.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

War in Sorcery’s Shadow (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 3) by Elise Carlson – Review by Jenni Bishop

War in Sorcery's Shadow (Ruarnon Trilogy #3)War in Sorcery’s Shadow by Elise Carlson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 stars
The adventure continues in War in Sorcery’s Shadow the third book and last book of this Epic YA fantasy trilogy. I definitely recommend you start with the previous books starting with the first book Manipulator’s War, so you get to know the characters and the world that they live in.
It is an all-inclusive LGBTQ+ action-adventure story with an MC’s who is asexual and nonbinary.
Everything is culminating toward the final war as Ruarnon, Linh and friends race against time to bring word to the people who have been lied to. Armed with understanding, knowledge, fear and hope they can defeat a mad man who wants to annihilate them all.
As with the other two books there is murder and mayhem, myths and lore, assassins and magic, drama and sorcerers and more.
If you love Epic YA fantasy tales, then give this trilogy a go.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Will You (Pretend) Marry Me (Swan Cove Series) by Christi Barth – Review by Jenni Bishop

Will You Pretend Marry MeWill You Pretend Marry Me by Christi Barth
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Secrets everywhere! Double lives. Different paths collide.
I have read several of Christi’s books now and have enjoyed each one. It seems I have once again come in from the end. I discovered that this is the last book in the Swan Cover trilogy which means I need to go back and read the other books. I must say though that I did not feel as though I was missing out on anything so this can be read as a stand-alone.
Will You Pretend Marry Me by Christi Barth is a contemporary romance that has several tropes with an enemies to lovers and fake boyfriend story. This makes for a fun and romantic read. There is witty banter that will have you laughing along with some tension, angst, drama, insecurities, emotions, chemistry and humour.
Need a book to curl up and spend some Me time then give this book ago. You won’t be disappointed.
There are a cast of many interesting characters in this entertaining tale that would seem to be more of a delightful Rom Com.
This unconventional duo are opposites in a lot of ways, but they say that opposites attract but are they really that different underneath it all. To find out you will have to read it for yourself.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to more.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Unicorn, Don’t Do That! by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jenni Bishop

Unicorn, Don't Do That!: It's okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstepUnicorn, Don’t Do That!: It’s okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstep by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ask any child if it’s ok for a Unicorn to poop on your doorstep and most of them will tell you yes and laugh their heads off especially little boys, just ask my grandsons. They thoroughly loved this book.
Unicorn, Don’t Do That! Is entertaining, funny, and cute.
The illustrations by Ada Konewki are delightful and paint a picture for little ones to enjoy. The book is aimed for children from the ages 4 – 8 years of age.

 

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

What Eyes Can’t See (Bold Journeys Series) by Paulette Stout – Review by Jenni Bishop

What Eyes Can't See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging (Bold Journeys)What Eyes Can’t See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging by Paulette Stout
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What Eyes Can’t See is a women’s fiction story in Paulette’s Bold Journeys series. Paulette is known for writing stories that are often outside people’s comfort zones. This contemporary fiction story is fast paced and filled with lots of emotions, betrayal, pain, angst, disgust, drama, steam and laughter and lots more.
This is a thought-provoking story is that of two people both Lawyers who grew up on different sides of the track. One with money and one without. One white and one black. One a woman and one a man. But two people who fight for justice.
Barbara’s journey takes us along as she tackles issues of infidelity, being a black woman in a high demanding role and family issues, multi-cultural relationships, courtroom drama, and racial discrimination. It’s a wonder she’s still standing but along this journey she grows in strength and self-worth.
Sebastian’s journey is just as hard as he has had to fight for everything including for his life. Now he finds himself in a position that no man in love should find themselves and has to once again fight for what he wants.
I like Paulette’s writing style and it is an interesting story that kept the pages keep turning.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Breaking Apart (Finnerty and Liccione Mystery Series) by Wanda Venters, MD and Mary Rae, MD – Review by Jenni Bishop

Breaking Apart (A Finnerty and Liccione Mystery, #2)Breaking Apart by Wanda J. Venters
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
Breaking Apart is the second engaging book of the Finnerty and Liccione Mystery series which I discovered when I was halfway through so I will have to go back and read the first book in the series. What a formidable writing team this duo is.
This expertly crafted medical thriller had me on the edge of my seat as I navigated the emotions, the ups and downs the frustrations, the struggles, the pain, the lives of military men and women centred around a VA medical centre. Having PTSD myself it was easy to relate to. The characters are complex, real and raw and well written. The plot is a complex weave of threads making the mystery as interesting as it is intriguing with some action thrown in as well as we race against time to solve a murder. Or is it? I was unable to put it down and it stayed with me long after I had finished it.
I absolutely look forward to reading more from this talented duo.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Texas Winds by Dana Wayne – Review by Jenni Bishop

Texas WindsTexas Winds by Dana Wayne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
Texas Winds is a heartbreaking and heartwarming small-town contemporary romance that has a little suspense and tension. It is easy to imagine the world that Dana has created and feel the wind on your skin as you get lost in the story. The story kind of kicks you in the feels in the beginning as emotions threaten to overwhelm you. Dana has given us a heartfelt complex tale but simplistic in its telling. The characters feel real with substance and vulnerability, and you will fall in love with them. I love that Dana writes in dual POV because it adds depth to a story, and you get inside their thoughts.
Jake is a man who know a lot about the worst kind of betrayal and pain enough to make him a shell of a man he used to be. But he can no longer hide as he finds his heart being put back together piece by piece. But is he willing to take a leap of faith again. One precious little girls heart may depend on it.
I look forward to reading more of Dana Wayne’s books.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Stop that Lion (Kingdom of Mir Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jenni Bishop

Stop That Lion: A Tale of Friendship Love and Peace (Kingdom of Mir)Stop That Lion: A Tale of Friendship Love and Peace by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Stop That Lion is an entertaining picture book for children between the ages of 4-8 years. The illustrations by Timna Green draw the eyes and move the story along beautifully. The story depicts some lessons for young ones as they learn about friendship, peace, selflessness and more. It will be a hit amongst children as it is original and different to other children’s books.
Wynnie is a clever young girl who looks outside the box to help solve a problem that affects kingdoms and one sneaky lion who likes to eat sheep. Will the king take Wynnie’s suggestions to the problem and implement them?
I read this to my grandboys, and they really enjoyed it and came up with some suggestions of their own.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Rhapsody in Black: An Elena del Carral Mystery (Rhapsody In… Series, Book 1) by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra – Review by Jenni Bishop

Rhapsody in Black: An Elena del Carral MysteryRhapsody in Black: An Elena del Carral Mystery by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rhapsody in Black by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra is the first book in the Elena del Carral Mystery series. It is a tribute to her mother who was a famous prima ballerina.
This cleverly crafted mystery is fast-paced with some thrills that is as interesting as it is intriguing.
With accidents, drama, threats, scheming, sabotage, secrets, agendas, romance, and so much more Rhapsody in Black takes the reader in to the cutthroat world of dancing, ballet. But it is not all doom and gloom there are some laughs to be had as well.
The characters are well written, and the plot is cleverly crafted but some of the story is told by recounting of events that I feel would have been much better had they been made a part of the main story itself.
Elena a ballerina and choreographer has been invited to perform but she soon remembers why she left this life behind. Nothing has changed from when she was in it but now it seems it has only gotten more deadly.
Ballet enthusiasts will love this story and if you aren’t it is something different than your average cosy mystery.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Drag Me Down (Full Throttle Cyborgs Series) by Landra Graf – Review by Jenni Bishop

Drag Me Down (Full Throttle Cyborgs, #4)Drag Me Down by Landra Graf
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
Drag Me Down is the fourth exciting action-packed tale in this unique Sci Fi romance tale. I think this one is my favourite so far. Landra takes her readers on a thrilling ride of their life with fast cars, artificial intelligence, cyborgs, sabotage, gangs and so much more. This fast-paced tale is full of high speed, action, suspense, adventure and revenge.
Drag has been battered, bruised, betrayed and left for dead but now it’s time for revenge. They say revenge is sweet and he can almost taste it. He won’t be fooled this time.
Bridget makes no bones for what she does so when she tries to infiltrate the enemy, she is thwarted at every turn but what she hadn’t counted on was her traitorous heart.
They race fast and live hard doing what they love. It’s full throttle and pedal to the metal all the way. This enemies to lovers tale gives us a romance where the sexual tension is so palpable it is off the charts. I can’t wait to see what comes next.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

The Winemakers Box Set (The Winemakers Series) by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Winemakers - Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical RomancesThe Winemakers – Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical Romances by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars

Giovanna has put these wonderful stories into a boxset for us to enjoy. No need to scramble to find the other books as they are now all together so you can go from one straight to another to enjoy.

The True Purpose of Vines is a historical romance is not really my thing, but I was pleasantly surprised by this compelling story and the authors narrative. This enemies-to-lovers story is Giovanna’s debut novel and as a first book she has done very well. It is an historical romance story set in the 1870’s in the Douro region. It vividly showcases Portugal’s rich history, culture and lore’s and traditions and winemaking mixed in with a dash of romance. Giovanna’s beautifully written tale will not only capture your heart but will leave you wanting more. With cultural differences and prejudices and a plague can one headstrong woman and one man who believes himself above others come together and find true love? Julia is the best winemaker in the region. She has everything she loves and will defend it to the bitter end, but it is all threatened by her late husbands’ debt. Griffin is an arrogant Englishman. He doesn’t want to be where he is, but trade dictates the need. However, he may just have met his match.

The Taste of Light is a historical romance tale and the second book in the series. I was pleasantly surprised by the first book and enjoyed Giovanna’s storytelling. This tale is richly told from 1872 Portugal and port to port as our characters are on the run. The story is steeped in history, traditions, cultures, a conspiracy and accusations and the love of winemaking. There is heartbreak, compassion and passion, tenderness, danger and tension, angst and animosity, chemistry and romance. We met Pedro in the first book, but he is front and centre in this book. We find that there is so much more to this character and how he has been shaped. It is hard not to like him. As long as he cannot reconcile his past and present there is no future and all that he longs for. Anne finds herself in the most unlikely of circumstances and on a ‘road trip’. She is young and naïve but is full of light and wonder but don’t let that fool you. Under it all is a woman that has a backbone and strength.
Will they make it together or will the past be too much to overcome? This intricately woven tale will have you hoping against hope that love will prevail.

The Truth About Myths is a historical enemy to lover’s romance tale and the third book in fabulous The Winemakers series. It is easy to imagine the world and time period as Giovanna writes with rich historical detail, descriptions, and world building, with such passion and in a vibrant style. This Regency romance is set in Portugal and Spain amongst the Monarchy and court politics, secrets and scheming. This beautiful love story shows the difficulties and struggles they face with their relationship. There is heartbreak, compassion and passion, tenderness, danger and tension, angst and animosity, chemistry and romance.
I love that it was told in dual POV as we learned so much about these characters and especially Henrique’s rakish ways. Their journey is filled with sense of duty, patriotism, and unexpected twists and turns. The swoon worthy playboy Viscount Henrique doesn’t believe in love, and he has big dreams, but he is about to be whacked over the head with it. He is witty, charming, sexy and an unapologetic rake. It’s hard not to like him. Princess Isabel is the epitome of entitled princess. She is a determined, strong and intelligent woman who cares about doing the right thing for women and is about to find out there is much more to life. I loved their wit, banter, chemistry, and the perfect amount of push pull denial and tension as they learn more about each other. I often found myself laughing at their antics or situations they found themselves in. I recommend reading this book if you are a fan of historical romance, enemies to lovers, opposites attract forced proximity stories.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Touched: Elemental Passions Book One by Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon – Review by Jenni Bishop

Touched (Elemental Passions #1)Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
Touched is an action-adventure fantasy tale that came together by 10 talented authors: Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon.
It’s not a boxset of stories. They don’t have their own stories it is one story with each giving their own input, a piece of themselves collated into one intriguing story. This is a tale of forbidden love, forbidden fruit, fate, destiny, Fae, magic and lots more. It is steamy and sexy, alluring and passionate, supernatural and fantasy. This tale will not only capture your heart but will leave you wanting more.
Detective Callum LeBlanc thought he had done it all, seen it all but boy was he wrong. It was always in front of him but now that his eye were open there was no going back. Not that he wanted to go back.
Aeris knew it was forbidden but he was her one. The one fate had promised but could it be a cruel twist that it had bestowed upon her.
This intricately woven tale will have you hoping against hope that love will prevail. Very cleverly done indeed. It is the first book in a five-part series I can’t wait to see what they bring in the other books.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Loris Opens Up His Heart (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Jenni Bishop

Loris Opens Up His HeartLoris Opens Up His Heart by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Loris Opens Up His Heart is another educational tale in the Courage Tales series that is heartfelt and full of lots of rollercoaster emotions as we travel along with a little boy in foster care. This one is going to hit you in all the feels.
The story is aimed at children aged 5 – 10 years of age but we could all learn from it. This compelling tale helps tackle dealing with emotions, like when feeling alone, angry, frustrated, being scared and more.
This beautiful tale is a raw and will teach children about compassion, about kindness, about courage, and about overcoming fears. I just wanted to scoop him and the others up and wrap them in love and hugs. Loris Opens Up His Heart is a must. The illustrations by Lau Frank are beautifully done.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Finding Cheer (Magical Emerald Hollow Series) by Heather Schneider – Review by Jenni Bishop

Finding Cheer (Magical Emerald Hollow #2)Finding Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
Emerald Hollow is the place to be since Holly came to town. Things are not quite what they seem. Finding Cheer is another magical delight in this paranormal series that will have you wanting to be in this sweet small town and enjoying the magic and laughing at the goings on.
This wonderful sequel is a little more mysterious and is Sophia’s story. When a mysterious man turns up Sophie can’t explain this strange pull, she has towards him, but it is mighty inconvenient especially when he doesn’t know who he is or does he? It is a sweet, heartwarming and fun tale and underneath there is Ash and Holly’s story which is ongoing. What will happen when she uncovers old magical secrets?
Finding Cheer is a little raw and a little more emotional than the first book as there is heartache, loss and heartbreak, healing and hope just to mention a few. There is also a little twist of a surprise tucked in there that I didn’t see. It doesn’t end on a cliffhanger but there are some unanswered questions that I am sure we will get in the next book which I can’t wait for.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews