I ‘binge read’ this anthology of apocalyptic and dystopian stories, each one very different, but all set in an apocalyptic world. Each story in the collection highlights the traits of courage and perseverance against adversity. In each story there is a hero or heroine who overcomes their fears and suffering to bring hope and salvation to others. This was definitely the case in, Courtney Konstantin, story ‘Babysitter of the Apocalypse’, in which an alcoholic bar owner and loner is left being responsible for two young children. Their mother leaves them with him to ‘babysit’, and never returns, as the zombies take over the city. This short story was a real page turner and had me gripped from start to finish. The whole anthology had me hooked, and I definitely recommend this collection, but maybe don’t read it at night!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-09-12 17:18:362022-09-14 10:29:57Fractured Worlds: Courage in the Apocalypse by Courtney Konstantin – Review by Jennifer Gordon
I thoroughly enjoyed this enemies to lovers, cowboy romance set in a small ranch town named San Sity, in Florida. Hollywood talent scout Jules turns up in San Sity to scout talent for an upcoming reality dating show to be filmed there. One man, a hunky cowboy, Mitchel Scott catches her eye, and Jules decides to convince him that he’s the ‘spark’ needed to make the show a big hit. However, the no nonsense, blunt, rough, rancher wants nothing to do with either Jules or the dating show. At least, that’s what he claims, and what Jules believes, and they continue to fight each other, over everything. Neither Jules or Mitchel are prepared when their growing animosity actually turns into love. The chemistry between Jules and Mitchel sizzled off the page, and I was hoping they would get their HEA. The setting really came to life through the descriptive narrative, and made me feel immersed in the story. I loved the main characters, and liked how Jules and Mitchell’s relationship changed and developed throughout the story. The small town feel really came across in the narrative. The storyline had me hooked, and I was happily turning the pages of this enjoyable and engaging read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-09-10 17:55:142022-09-12 12:30:20The Lonely Hearts of San Sity by Stacy-Deanne – Review by Jennifer Gordon
I really felt as though I had Journeyed back in time to unlock the secrets of the Aztec in this YA illustrated novel based on mythology and legends. Azreya has always accepted her place as one cursed by the gods, since she was three years old and placed in the care of Nukpana, a shaman. However, when she has foresight of an impending slaughter, Azreya dares to attempt to reverse the Aztec people’s fate, even though it means clashing with the shamans wishes. Forced to flee, and with her family refusing to take her in, Azreya is determined not to stand by and see the demise of her people, and so begins her quest to enlighten them. She faces many challenges, but the biggest one is the monster hiding under her skin. Azreya has to learn how to control her inner beast, in order to convince her people to break from their old ways, to prevent the Aztecs being vanquished by the enemy. The detailed descriptive narrative along with the wonderful illustrations really bring the characters and the setting to life, and made me feel immersed in the story.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-09-10 17:24:092022-09-12 12:31:48Azreya, Aztec Priestess: An Illustrated Mythology Legend by Tricia Copeland, Illustrated by Matt Maes – Review by Jennifer Gordon
This is an enjoyable and engaging YA cozy mystery, and a great first book in a new series. In this story we are introduced to the heroine of the series, Emma, who is working at her family’s bakery but dreaming of adventure. Set in Chicago 1881, and the city is recovering from the Great Fire of 71, and the author does a wonderful job of bringing both the setting and the era vividly to life, through her descriptive narrative. Emma takes the opportunity of working with the boys on the delivery wagons, in her quest for a more exciting life. Emma has always been very observant and dreams of being a detective. Her observations lead her to investigate cases ranging from robbery to murder. However, her first case becomes more complicated when her family seem to be involved, and family secrets are revealed. Emma has to use all her skills, including her self defence and knife skills, in order to protect both herself and her family. This is a very entertaining, page turner of a novel, which I thoroughly recommend. Emma is a great main character, who is likeable and relatable, and I look forward to going on many more cases with her during this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-09-07 11:23:382022-09-08 06:03:41Notebook Mysteries ~ Emma (Notebook Mysteries Book 1) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Jennifer Gordon
Having read and enjoyed the previous stories in this trilogy, I was looking forward to this third and final instalment, and I was not disappointed. The storyline continues from book two, so I would recommend reading this series in order. It was great being back with the three friends, Imani, Melody, and Lance, who all feel a bit like old friends to me now too! The trio have been through a lot together and like friends are supposed to, they have stuck together through thick and thin. They have always been able to depend on each other before, but when tragedy strikes, yet again, can they still depend on one another. Imani Cabrette, has always been strong and proud, and never asks for help, however, following an accident her world changes forever. Imani needs to overcome her stubborn pride, as she’s going to need help from her friends. Melody Wilkins, is sweet and dependable and owes her life to Imani, but now that it’s Imani who needs help, will Melody step forward. Meanwhile, Lance Dunn, has not seen Imani since she chose another man over him, can he forget their complicated past, and be there for her when she needs him the most. This novel like the previous two, took me on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading it, and I was hooked from start to finish. The three main characters, are likeable and relatable and it’s been fascinating seeing how they have all progressed and developed throughout the trilogy, individually and as a trio. Their friendship has continued throughout each story, and has always come across strongly in the narrative. This was a real page turner, and I was happily turning the pages late into the night. I definitely recommend this series, and I’m slightly disappointed that I’ve now finished the trilogy and that I won’t be back with the friends again.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-09-07 10:50:072022-09-08 06:00:19True Colors (The Colors Trilogy Book 3) by K.R. Raye – Review by Jennifer Gordon
This is book four in this gripping dystopian romance series, and having read and enjoyed the previous three books, I was looking forward to this fourth instalment, and I was not disappointed. I would recommend reading the novels in order as the storyline continues where the last book left off. It was nice being back with the wonderfully detailed main characters, Cam and Freyja, who are now happily living with their family and friends on Lewis. They are finally feeling safe and content within their isolated and sustainable community, having gone back to their Gaelic roots. The community are getting used to living their ‘new normal’ lives, calling on the circle of protection and security that the Caim provides. However, it’s not long before their frightening adventures continue, when old acquaintances arrive with shocking news, forcing Cam, Freyja, and a few trusted friends to leave their homes behind once again. The couple will also discover the truth about why they were chosen, and what the diabolical plans are that the scientific community has planned, especially for Freyja. Yet again the descriptive narrative brings the setting vividly to life making me feel immersed in the story. The plot twists kept me hooked and the storyline is a mix of drama, mystery and romance, which ensured I was happily turning the pages, late into the night! I look ‘impatiently’ forward to book five!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-09-05 15:36:142022-09-06 18:36:30Caim (Antipodes Series Book 4) by T.S. Simons – Review by Jennifer Gordon
I thoroughly enjoyed this fairly short but action packed story, which had me hooked from page one. Teagan Stone was working in the Navy when she was recruited to work with an elite group, where she became a rather notorious spy. However, after many years service she takes retirement to enjoy time with her husband and three children. Until one day, she wakes up chained to a bed in a small cell, with no memory of where she is, how she got there or why. Teagan has to rely on her skills that she learnt when working as an undercover government operative, if she is to survive and save her country. For a short story this was a really fast paced, page turner full of action, drama, adventure, suspense, crime and mystery, which kept me gripped. Teagan is a great heroine of this story, and I look forward to following her adventures in this new series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-09-04 16:19:352022-09-06 10:15:13Fatal Memory (Agent Red:Teagan Stone Series Book 1) by Ava S. King – Review by Jennifer Gordon
An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance, with an intriguing twist on the usual blind date theme. Jake is one of five men who have mutual business opportunities, and who want to find real love in a world where everyone knows who they are, and what’s in their bank account. Jake decides to use a new blind date service after his last girlfriend only wanted him for his money. Everything is done through an app, and dinner dates are done in the dark, to see if the couple get on or not without actually seeing each other. Meanwhile, Lauren ends up going on a blind date when her boss’s sister begs her to go, and she reluctantly agrees. However, her and Jake get on really well and have a great date, there’s only one problem and that is that Lauren doesn’t like rich men! She’s had bad experiences before, when men expected her to bow down to them just because they have money, and she hates being thrust into the media. It turns out that how Lauren will react when she discovers who Jake is, will not be the couples only problem, as it then turns out that Lauren is one of Jake’s friends assistant. I liked both Jake and Lauren and felt engaged with them, and their chemistry came across in the narrative. This was a page turner with great characters, and enough drama along with the romance, that I was kept hooked until the last page. I look forward to book two in this new series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-09-03 15:38:182022-09-06 09:57:27Jake (Billionaire Blind Dates Book 1) by Toni Denise – Review by Jennifer Gordon
An enjoyable and entertaining romantic comedy, which gave me some pure escapism whilst reading it, as I was transported to the tropical Postscript Island and the P.S. Resort. Painter Marissa and the now billionaire condom manufacturer, Weston have a difficult past, but now they have come face to face again on the Island. After Weston fled to the states, Marissa threw herself into her painting and is now studying for an art degree, whilst helping her parents run the resort. She’s also dating again, but although the local cafe owner is sweet he’s also safe. Her life is turned upside down when Weston returns to the Island to help his Mum sell her boutique. Weston, who bought a small condom manufacturing plant, which turned out to be very successful and profitable is now a billionaire, living the perfect life, or so he thought, until he saw Marissa again. The couple need to decide if they can put the past behind them if they are to have a future. I loved Marissa and Weston and their chemistry definitely came across in the narrative, leading to some steamy scenes. I liked the witty banter between the couple and the innuendos added humour to the story. I liked the ‘will they won’t they’ element of the storyline, and the added plot twists, involving a mystery kept me hooked from start to finish. Although it can be read as a standalone story, I look forward to reading the previous books in the series now, so that I can return to the P.S. Resort!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-31 16:14:212022-09-02 12:19:30Tropical Date (Postscript Island Book 3) by R.S. Jonesee – Review by Jennifer Gordon
I literally ‘binge read’ this box set, of the first three books in ‘The Aloha Series’, and I thoroughly enjoyed all three stories. Each of the historical romance stories are set in the tropical islands of Hawaii in the late 1960’s. The author does a wonderful job of making the beautiful setting of Hawaii come to life through her descriptive narrative, which made me feel like I was actually there, and immersed in the stories. In book one, ‘Try Easy’, we are in 1968, and introduced to heroic surfer, Keoni and tourist, Lou, in a slow burn vacation fling romance. Then in ‘Try Me’, the steamy romance involves a fake relationship, between champion surfer Declan Bishop and Pearl who is determined to become the first famous female surfer. In ‘Try Right’, a friends to lovers romance leads to souls mate finding each other. Claudia was a famous Hollywood actress, but now she can only get a bit part role in a tv series filmed in Hawaii, along with fearless stuntman Henry. Henry agrees to help her find her first true love, a heroic surfer that she met, but as the couple get closer, maybe he’s not Claudia’s soul mate after all. Each of these enjoyable and engaging retro romances are standalone stories, but do have some crossover characters. These heartwarming stories had me hooked from start to finish, and I felt transported not only to the heat and beauty of Hawaii but also to the 1960’s, by the added historical details. The characters are well defined and the chemistry between the couples comes across in the narrative, and I was cheering them on hoping they would all get their HEA. I definitely recommend this box set, which had me happily turning the pages.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-31 15:39:172022-09-02 12:18:28The Aloha Series Box Set (Books 1 – 3) by Jill Brashear – Review by Jennifer Gordon
This is a heartwarming and at times heartbreaking contemporary romance, with a love triangle and a second chance at love theme. Mavis Benson made a huge mistake when she had sex with her high school sweetheart’s twin brother, but she hadn’t expected to fall in love with him. Mavis definitely didn’t expect to then find herself with an unplanned pregnancy at seventeen either, but to save her boyfriend, Josh from the fallout she left town. All Josh Templeton received was a letter of apology, from Mavis, before she disappeared, however, she did confide her secret to Josh’s brother, Austin. When Austin comes back into her life years later, she can’t help but be confronted by her past. Not only does Josh want Mavis back, but so does Austin, and for Mavis she just feels caught between the two men. One of whom she ended up with a broken heart over and the other, who helped her pick up the pieces. One thing is certain though, and that, is that secrets always have a way of coming out. This was a page turner of a read, with some wonderfully detailed characters, and I felt completely immersed in their world and engaged with them. I felt for both Mavis, and Josh and Austin, and wanted them all to have a HEA. I’m looking forward to book two in this trilogy, and definitely recommend reading this first instalment.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-28 12:00:192022-08-30 11:09:36I Loved You Yesterday (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 1) by Julie Navickas – Review by Jennifer Gordon
This charity anthology is not only for a good cause, but it’s full of wonderful stories, all of which are well worth a read. I literally ‘binge read’ this book and thoroughly enjoyed each story, although, the anthology as a whole definitely took me on an emotional rollercoaster. Each story is by a different author and each one is a different genre, so there is a story for everyone! The authors have written tales covering everything from horror and persecution, to loss, and unfair struggles, which all lead to either new lives, new perspectives, or new romances.
Having read all of the entertaining, enjoyable and engaging stories, it’s hard to pick out just one or two. However, C.A. King’s, story ‘ Clara’s Story’, did stand out, following a tragic accident, a mother has to come to terms with the aftermath, and the life changing effects it’s had on her daughter. The mother also gets a second chance at love. The plot had me hooked from the start and I felt engaged with the characters, and immersed in their world. I found the storyline both heartwarming and at times heartbreaking, and although it’s a fairly short story the characters stayed with me. ‘A Wife from the Homefront’, by, Jordan Leger, also stood out for me, the story focuses on a husband and wife, separated when the husband is deployed. In this story the wife is having to manage at home with their young daughter. The storyline is about having a spouse in the military and the sense of loss and loneliness that they can feel, and of course worry for the one deployed. The plot also shows how the other spouses all support one another, and how with a bit of imagination the couples can still have intimate moments even when they are apart, which does lead to some steamy scenes.
The underlying theme in this anthology for Ukraine, is survival and survivors. Each story has a very well deserved HEA, and I was left with a sense of hope, inspiration and positivity for the future at the end of the anthology.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-25 17:26:382022-08-30 10:12:54Together We Stand Volume 2: A Charity Anthology for Ukraine by C.A. King, JA Lafrance, Rose Bak, A.N. Waugh, AM Cosgrove, Crystal St. Clair, Sky Purington, A.L. Morrow, TL Mayhew, C.L. Collier, Jordan Leger, Zorha Redwolf Edwards, Emery LeeAnn, Pandora Snow, M.A. Abraham, Tricia Daniels, Raven Belasco, M.K. Moore, KL Fast, Illustrated by Mikki Noble – Review by Jennifer Gordon
An enjoyable and engaging second chance at love romance, with a twist, which had me happily turning the pages. Addison and Wesley were teenage sweethearts who were separated after a brutal attack, which left Wesley with memory loss. Having been blamed for the tragedy Addison had to stay away from Wesley, and was forced to watch from a distant as he rose to fame, singing songs that they had actually written together. Ten years later and Addison gets accused of stealing Wesley’s lyrics when an old songbook of hers comes to light. When the couple come face to face their connection is still there, and one look at Addison and although Wesley does not remember her, he recognises something in her. Neither of them can resist the chemistry between them, and Addison can’t resist being with him once again, even if it’s just for a night. Does his instant attraction mean that his memories are coming back, and if they do will it be their second chance or will Wesley wish he had remembered to forget Addison. I loved Addison and Wesley and felt immersed in their story, but they did take me on an emotional rollercoaster. The storyline is both heartwarming and at times heartbreaking, with an unpredictable plot that kept me hooked. I was hoping that the couple, who’s chemistry really came across in the narrative, would get their HEA.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-21 16:03:222022-08-23 14:44:30Remember to Forget Me (Too Lost to Love Book 1) by Hazel Storm Review By Jennifer Gordon
A gripping dual timeline, historical thriller, set in Venice, both in the present day and in the 16th century. I was hooked from page one by this novel and could not put the book down! Nick and Julia O’Connor are having a trip of a lifetime in Venice, when Nick hears a haunting voice coming from the world’s largest oil painting, ‘Tintoretto’s Paradise’. Nick believes the voice is that of his soul mate, a 16th century woman, from his previous life. Whilst Nick is adamant that the voice is real, Julia worries that her husband is suffering from a delusion. Nick’s infatuation with the past starts to effect his relationship with Julia, as he is determined to destroy the painting in order to liberate his soul mate. Nick discovers a religious order going back centuries who developed a way of extracting people’s souls, which they then imprison in Paradise. The order have judged thousands of souls, sentencing then to eternal purgatory. In order for Nick to free his soul mate, he must destroy the painting. However, by freeing her he would also be allowing all the other souls to be reborn, and the order will never let that happen. This has a intriguing storyline which I thoroughly enjoyed, at the heart of this thriller is a love story which lasts for centuries. The descriptive narrative really brought the setting of Venice to life both in the present and in the past. The added historical details made me feel I had been transported to the 16th century, and the author has obviously done his research. The dual timeline element worked well, and I felt engaged with the main characters. The plot kept me happily turning the pages, and I definitely recommend this novel.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-19 16:38:442022-08-20 14:15:59The Prisoner of Paradise (Painted Souls Book 1) by Rob Samborn – Review by Jennifer Gordon
I’m a big fan of this series, and yet again I was gripped from start to finish with this mystery, crime thriller. I loved being back with our heroine, Logan McKenna and her now husband, Ben, both of whom feel like old friends. Logan is enjoying life at the start of this story, enjoying playing her violin, taking long morning runs, and having time with Ben. Logan then decides to volunteer at a wildlife rescue centre, and becomes involved with the wild raptors. Logan’s peace doesn’t last long though, when a coworker is found dead, and although there’s no sign of a violent struggle, the cause of death remains unclear. Despite the autopsy finding no evidence of homicide, Logan believes it could be murder as the office had been vandalised, and things just don’t seem right. Taking matters into her own hands, she decides to uncover the killer and along with two friends she digs deeper. However, this brings her to the killer’s attention and if she’s not careful she will end up as the next victim. I was hooked by this fast paced, page turner of a novel, and literally could not put the book down. As usual the descriptive narrative brings both the characters and the setting to life, making me feel immersed in the storyline. An enjoyable and engaging read, and one which I definitely recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-19 15:54:372022-08-20 14:12:54In Plain Sight (Logan McKenna Mystery Series Book 8) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Jennifer Gordon
Having read and enjoyed the previous books in this series, I was looking forward to this fourth instalment, and I was not disappointed. I was yet again hooked from start to finish and it was lovely being back with our heroine, Emma, and Jeremy, as they go off on adventures to solve crimes and mysteries. Due to the wonderful descriptive narrative I was transported back to 1887, to Chicago, where Emma and Jeremy are chasing bank robbers. The pair get caught up in a train wreck and have to get help from a nearby town, all whilst avoiding injuries themselves. Never one to be bored, once they are home and recovered, Emma finds a new case whilst looking through the newspaper. When a second case turns up Jeremy steps in, but they soon become entangled in each other’s cases. Whilst Emma’s case involves a missing husband and murder, Jeremy is looking into child labour and possible sabotage. They both quickly learn that things are not as they appear in either case, and have to make tough decisions. I was fully immersed in the storyline and the plot twists kept me gripped. The story is fairly fast paced and the main characters are so well defined that Emma and Jeremy feel like old friends. I hope there will be a book five!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-17 16:04:322022-08-19 17:33:51Notebook Mysteries ~ Unexpected Outcomes (Notebook Mysteries Book 4) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Jennifer Gordon
An enjoyable and engaging historical romance, where falling in love with a rogue is risky. Living her life in a social whirl, Lady Celia Buchanan is also hiding a secret which could ruin her. Celia needs to find a suitable husband who is either unaware of her secret, or one who won’t care. It’s not until she meets Gabriel, that she actually believes that such a man exists. Gabriel Rose, lives on the border between nobility and the murky London shadows, and is known as a rogue. Gabriel has also been watching Lady Celia Buchanan from the shadows, and his obsession with her is growing. When Celia and Gabriel share a kiss in the darkness, her fate is sealed, as far as Gabriel is concerned she’s his and he will do anything to keep her. For Celia, Gabriel’s kiss sets her on fire as do the scandalous words that he whispers in her ear, but can she trust a rogue. When a change in circumstances and rank, along with a compromising situation result in a hasty marriage, the couple have to deal with society’s prejudices. However, when a threat from the past arises the lovers may realise that they do indeed belong together. Celia and Gabriel are wonderfully detailed characters, and Gabriel is definitely an unapologetic and possessive hero. Their chemistry sizzles off the page and leads to some extremely steamy scenes, and Gabriel’s bad language is definitely not gentlemanly! I was hooked by this romance and the author does a great job of setting both time and place, making me feel immersed in the story and the era. An entertaining read, and one which I recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-16 16:21:272022-08-17 07:55:34My Darling Rogue (A Wicked Rogues Romance Book 1) by April Moran – Review by Jennifer Gordon
The exciting adventures, of the now scattered, Agneson clan continues in this fourth novel of the series, and it’s as enjoyable as the previous ones. This epic series set in the Viking Age, but with added fantasy elements, is yet again brought vividly to life by the descriptive narrative, making me feel immersed in the story. The storyline mainly focuses on Kara, who is fleeing an arranged marriage, and with dreams of becoming a warrior, she escapes across the narrow sea. Kara gains a place within the king of Dublinn’s ranks, but must prove her worth, and soon she realises that, being a warrior is not what she expected. Elsewhere, Cub has joined Rollo’s horde in Britany, having escaped from slavery, and his outlawed brother Sorven, is fighting for his life in the Welsh mountains. Meanwhile, Uncle Karl and his warriors rally to Harald Tanglehair, in the hopes of unifying the wild kingdoms of the North Way. Young Thorfinn has been left safely behind, secure in a tiny fishing village, or so everyone thinks, he has in fact been kidnapped by an 8-armed giant! It’s nice being back with the main characters from the series, as they feel like old friends now. I would recommend reading the books in order, for a better understanding of the characters and the plot. As usual the historical details add to the sense of time and place. This is a real page turner which had me gripped, and I’m looking forward to book five.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-15 12:35:412022-08-15 14:02:48Kara, Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner Series Book 4) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Jennifer Gordon
An enjoyable and engaging read, which kept me happily turning the pages. Having read book one, it was nice to be back with the three friends, Lance, Imani, and Melody. The storyline continues from the previous book, and the friends are all coming to terms with the traumatic events that occurred. Having nearly lost his two friends, Lance is determined to protect them, along with fulfilling his dream of becoming a professional footballer. Imani, is continuing with her chemical engineering degree and the hope of a promising career. Melody has been left shattered but is even more determined to find true love like her parents. As the friends try to recover from the unimaginable, their friendship is tested. Lance’s promiscuity may not only affect his NFL dreams, but also endanger the girls again. Meanwhile, Melody is at risk of making the same mistakes that nearly got her killed, and Imani’s racist preconceptions may prevent her academic progress. This is an emotional rollercoaster of a read, full of drama and angst, but fundamentally the friendship element shines through. The characters are all likeable and relatable, making me feel engaged with them and their lives. I look forward to book three, and with ‘catching up’ with the trio of friends again.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-12 12:47:272022-08-15 08:24:35The Colors of Love (The Colors Trilogy Book 2) by K.R. Raye – Review by Jennifer Gordon
This is the third book of this romantic dystopian series, and it’s just as gripping as the first two. We are back with Cam Mackintosh, who was left heartbroken at the end of the previous book, and this story follows his adventures, as he decides to leave his home in search of answers. During his journey he faces new challenges and opportunities, and makes new friends. Cam is also reunited with his ex lover, Freyja Jorgensen, making Cam believe that their lives have come full circle. However, Just as Cam and Freyja are settling into their new life, they are forced to defend those they love when their sustainable community is threatened. Friendships are tested when Cam and the others finally learn the horrifying truth as to why they were all chosen. Cam and Freyja’s relationship is put to the test when faced with a diabolical plot, that makes them question everything they value. Another exciting and entertaining read, which had me hooked from page one. I would suggest reading this series in order, as the storyline does continue in each book. The characters yet again made me feel engaged with them, and the descriptive narrative brought them and the setting vividly to life. An enjoyable and engaging read, and I am looking forward to book four.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-12 11:59:372022-08-15 08:21:46Ouroboros (Antipodes Book 3) by T.S. Simons – Review by Jennifer Gordon
An enjoyable and engaging, second chance at love romance, which kept me happily turning the pages. Kellie is the event coordinator for a Vegas hotel, and she’s excited to be in charge of planning a celebrity wedding, for Mila, a well known swimsuit model. However, her past comes back to haunt her when she learns that the groom is Harrison Hayes, the golden guy of golf, and Kellie’s high school sweetheart. Harrison left both their small town and Kellie behind to explore his bright future in golf, breaking her heart in the process. Unfortunately seeing Harrison again stirs up all her old feelings, but she’s determined to be professional, after all he’s getting married and her career in hospitality management is at risk if the wedding doesn’t go perfectly. Harrison can’t believe that his wedding coordinator is the girl who got away, and the one he still loves, Kellie. In order to gain some tour sponsors and lucrative endorsement deals, Harrison’s publicity team have arranged for him to get married in order to improve his image. He reluctantly goes along with the plan, but that was before Kellie came back into his life. Harrison needs to convince Kellie that he never stopped loving her, and that it’s her he wants to marry. This is a heartwarming romance, which had me hooked from page one. Both Kellie and Harrison are likeable and relatable characters, who’s chemistry came across in the narrative. I felt immersed in the story, and I was cheering the couple on hoping they would get their HEA.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-11 16:49:522022-08-15 08:09:11Love’s Mulligan (Stroke of Love Book 1) by CA Miconi – Review by Jennifer Gordon
The gripping dystopian romance set in the aftermath of a global outbreak continues in this second book in the series. The adventures of main character, Cam Mackintosh, who was one of a select group of highly skilled young people to have been selected by Australian scientists, to establish a sustainable island community, continues. Cam is now happily married and content with his new life on Lewis, and is working as an active member of the community. Just as life is becoming mundane for Cam, he learns that someone he loves may also still be alive. Cam decides to go on a journey to find this person, but along the way he discovers the true value of family and loyalty. The bleak and challenging post apocalyptic world is once again brought vividly to life by the authors descriptive narrative, making me feel immersed in Cam’s world. Cam is a very likeable and relatable main character and I was pleased to carry on his journey with him, and am looking forward to the next book in the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-06 16:30:362022-08-09 06:34:44The Liminal Space (Antipodes Book 2) by T.S. Simons – Review by Jennifer Gordon
A page turning romantic suspense, which had me gripped throughout. The main characters really are complete opposites, Aimee Wheels who was born on the streets and loves her free-living lifestyle, and ultra rich, Sheikh Qadir Saif-Ad-Din, who was born into royalty and power. Aimee is happy with her courier job in New York City, and although she hasn’t got a lot, she’s contented as long as she has her crazy friends and her skateboard. Qadir is used to having money and every that goes with it, and is used to wielding his power. However, his life changes when he is both saved by and then dismissed by a woman carrying a skateboard, and wearing tattered jeans. He instantly knows that he wants her. Aimee’s life also changes dramatically having saved Qadir from an assassination attempt, and then becomes part of his world when she become a target herself. As well as the fact they have both led very different lives, the couple also have to deal with a rival billionaire trying to kill them. Can their budding relationship survive their distrust and differences, and lead to love. This was a fast paced, entertaining read with an exciting storyline and great main characters, which had me hooked from start to finish. The plot twists kept me guessing and the action, suspense and romance kept me happily turning the pages.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-05 16:13:362022-08-06 10:09:51Something About Aimee (Girls from the Street Book 1) by S.E. Smith – Review by Jennifer Gordon
This is book three in the trilogy about Cat Anderson and her magical baking. It was nice being back with Cat, as she is a very likeable and relatable main character. Cat has to navigate being a teenager alongside her magical baking abilities. Having been to her family’s bakery and learnt all about her magic baking, Cat is happier and more confident. In fact she’s making the world a better place through her baking, and is using her abilities at class parties and at family meal times. Just when everything seems perfect a surprise visit and a big announcement turn Cat’s world upside down, leaving her wondering how she can continue to ‘bake happy’. This is a fun and lighthearted read with a quirky and unique storyline, which had me happily turning the pages once again. I felt engaged with the characters and immersed in the story due to the descriptive narrative. An enjoyable read for both YA and adults alike.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-08-04 16:45:482022-08-05 10:48:56Bake Happy (Bake Believe Series Book 3) by Cori Cooper – Review by Jennifer Gordon
I was gripped from start to finish by this crime, mystery thriller and found this story to be a real page turner. Angie Taylor was the only one of four college girls who were abducted to escape and survive, the other three were brutally murdered. One month later and the traumatised Angie is yet to speak, it’s believed the shock has caused her to become speechless. Angie is unable to talk about her experience and has been unable to speak to describe to a police sketch artist the murderers face. Police are starting to think that she killed her friends and then had a mental breakdown, even her psychiatrist believes that Angie has an emotionally unstable personality disorder. With everyone in the city not sure what to believe, but fearing the worst, that there is a killer on the loose, the FBI send in someone to hopefully get some answers. FBI Special Agent Brenda Reynolds, of the VSRT has been assigned the case, and she must investigate whether, Angie, the silent girl is in fact a killer, has gone insane, or is she actually a victim. If she is a victim then she could still be in danger from a killer who wants to finish what he started. The storyline had me hooked from page one and the plot twists kept me guessing. The story was full of drama and suspense and I felt immersed in the novel. The main characters all bring something different to the overall story. I really felt for Angie, and found that her traumatised state came across in the narrative. Brenda is definitely a ‘no nonsense’ Special Agent and I felt she brought the story together. I loved the interactions between her and retired Marine, Jake Wolfe and of course Cody, his military dog. This was an entertaining read and one which I recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-07-30 16:35:502022-08-01 14:31:01The Girl Who Escaped by Mark Nolan – Review by Jennifer Gordon
I thoroughly enjoyed this engaging small town mystery which kept me entertained from start to finish. The storyline has a great mix of murder mystery, life in suburbia, drama and suspense, and a bit of romance, all of which had me hooked. Elizabeth Candew is newly divorced, has a mountain of bills, a dwindling bank balance, and is arguing with her ex husband over him paying, or rather not paying, child support. Elizabeth believes her luck is changing when she meets the glamorous and seemingly reputable Louisa Davenport. When Louisa tells her about a business opportunity, Elizabeth thinks her financial problems are over, and so uses her credit card to invest in the business. However, when she arrives for a training session with Louisa, she discovers that she has been murdered, and Elizabeth can’t get a refund. Making things even more stressful for Elizabeth, is the fact that the detective assigned to the murder case is an old high school boyfriend, who broke her heart and then left town. Elizabeth also has her own ideas as to who murdered Louisa. This was a great read, the storyline and plot twists kept me guessing and I found it hard to put this book down. I loved Elizabeth as the main character, who was likeable and relatable and brought the story together. The setting was brought to life through the descriptive narrative and I really felt immersed in the story. I loved the use of humour throughout the novel, giving it a light touch. I found this to be a real page turner, and one which I definitely recommend reading.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-07-29 16:36:192022-08-01 14:03:30Stitch by Stitch by Marie-Therese Hernon – Review by Jennifer Gordon
A heartwarming contemporary romance which had me hooked from start to finish. Corrie Lancaster moves back to the family farm following her father’s accident, just in time to help with the harvest. When the farm’s hired hand quits, and with a bumper wheat crop needing harvesting, Corrie has to accept the help of Aaron Tuttle, her ex boyfriend’s older brother. Corrie soon starts to lean on Aaron for emotional support, as she’s busy with the farm and harvesting, but also looking after her younger siblings and having to watch her parents marriage crumble. Unfortunately, Corrie learns that her ex boyfriend, Luke isn’t over her, and when he apologises for the past and attempts to rekindle their romance, she must decide between the two brothers. When everything is finally under control, a stranger arrives at the farm asking for shelter, and an old nemesis returns looking for revenge. Corrie must decide which man she loves and who’s love will restore her faith. Corrie is a likeable and relatable heroine of this novel, who brings the story together. I love the connection between her and Aaron and enjoyed seeing how their relationship developed throughout the story, especially with the complication of Luke reappearing. The storyline had me gripped and I found this book hard to put down down. It took me on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading it, and I felt immersed in farm life, as the setting was brought to life by the descriptive narrative. A real page turner, which I definitely recommend reading.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-07-29 11:56:152022-08-01 14:00:40Amber Waves of Grace by Jessica Berg – Review By Jennifer Gordon
I thoroughly enjoyed this romantic cozy mystery with a Jane Austen/Pride and Prejudice twist. American Eliza Darcy travels to “Merry Old England” to attend a Darcy/Bennet family reunion. However, Eliza has an ulterior motive for going, and that is to resolve the estrangement between her father and uncle. Having arrived in England and explored the vast Pemberley estate of her ancestors, Eliza has to, “channel her inner Agatha Christie” when a dead body surfaces. Suddenly afternoon tea is replaced by murder and mayhem, especially as the body count starts rising. When clues to the murder begin to merge with her investigation into her family’s rift, she decides to let loose her “inner wannabe sleuth”, even though she promised to keep out of the official Scotland Yard investigation. With the help from the handsome Heath Tilney, and her batty great-aunt, Eliza rushes to untangle the web of lives and secrets, and still finds time to flirt with her British heartthrob. Three murders later and the clues are running out as Eliza keeps investigating and realises that her own life is in danger. This was a great read, I loved the fact that all the characters were descendants of Elizabeth and Mr Darcy, and I loved all the Austen references dotted through the book. Eliza is a wonderful heroine and could just as easily have been in a Jane Austen novel herself. I felt immersed in the story and engaged with the characters. The storyline had me hooked and the plot twists kept me guessing, making it very hard to put this book down! I look forward to the next book in the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-07-24 12:15:402022-07-25 10:15:48Murder Most Pemberley (Eliza Darcy Mysteries Book 1) by Jessica Berg – Review by Jennifer Gordon
An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance which had me hooked from start to finish. Although the story is inspired by true events it is set in a fictional world, and the storyline focuses on single Mum and artist Katrina and TJ, an ex-NFL player, turned chemistry teacher. Katrina has not had an easy life and has never really felt loved, she’s now divorced, and moves to a small town to start a new life, just her and her son Toby. When Kat meets TJ, sparks fly and she feels as though she has been led to him, especially as he appears to be the faceless man she conjured in her mind. As soon as TJ burst through a strangers door and came face to face with Kat and Toby, he’s in love, and he feels his soul telling him they were meant to all be together. Just as Kat tells TJ she’s in love with him, her perfect facade begins to crack and she’s scared that he will leave, like everyone else always has. TJ doesn’t understand why the best night of his life has ended with the women he’s given his heart to kicking him out of her house. The mixed signals he’s getting are confusing him and he’s worried that she will break his heart. I was totally immersed in this story and in Kat and TJ’s romance, it was obvious they should be together from the moment they met. Their chemistry sizzled off the page and the connection between them really came across in the narrative. They are both such likeable and relatable characters, and I really felt for both of them. I was cheering them on, hoping they would get their well deserved HEA. I was taken on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading this wonderfully written romance. The storyline does involve some difficult topics, but these are addressed sensitively. A heartwarming and at times heartbreaking read, and one which stayed with me long after I had finished the last page, always a sign of a great book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-07-23 16:50:232022-07-25 09:53:31Key to His Heart by Kristina Beck – Review by Jennifer Gordon
An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance, which kept me happily turning the pages. As soon as billionaire Dylan Knight and Mia Harris, who works at an art gallery meet, sparks fly and their sexual chemistry sizzles off the page. The couple are consumed by their mutual desire and feel as though they have met the person of their dreams. However, appearances can be deceptive and having fallen hard and fast, can one of them be using the other as a pawn in their plans. Can one of them really be a, Liar, Con-Artist, Swindler, even a thief? This is a standalone steamy romance with added drama, suspense and plenty of emotional angst. I loved Dylan and Mia and their chemistry really came across in the narrative. Both of them were likeable and relatable characters, who were well developed and I found myself wanting them to get their HEA. The storyline flowed well and the plot twists kept me hooked, thankfully there was no cliffhanger ending! A great read and I would definitely recommend this novel.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-07-22 12:14:022022-07-25 08:34:40Kiss a Thief by Marina Hanna – Review by Jennifer Gordon
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Fractured World: Courage in the Apocalypse Collection by Maira Dawn
