Posts

Scandalously Yours (Titans of Manhattan Book 5) by Anise Storm – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Scandalously Yours (Titans Of Manhattan #5)Scandalously Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another great installment of the series! We hear Kris’ story in this one and it doesn’t disappoint!

Kris and Ale’s story delivers a page-turning, action-packed, steamy romance. As always, the author gives us flawless writing and story full of tension and romance that is difficult to put down. The depth of the characters and their stories, as well as strong supporting characters, are one of my favorite writing qualities of this author. She tackles difficult themes and circumstances and enchants the reader with the drama within the pages.

I read this in just a couple of sittings and can’t wait for the next installment and upcoming Titans series from this author!

View all my reviews

The Letter Carrier by L.C. Lewis – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

The Letter CarrierThe Letter Carrier by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I can hardly put into words the impact this story had on me. I have long been intrigued by stories from WWII, but have never read anything prior to now from the perspective of occupied France. The story of Michelle Naget and her family is harrowing, powerful, and breathtaking.

The author did a wonderful job writing this story from the perspective of Michelle Naget in a memoir-type style. It is evident that the author took tremendous care of her story and was well-versed and researched creating an authentic account and story that is so impactful on the reader. Though this was a poignant story, it was also powerful story full of endurance, hope, and faith.

This will be a story that sticks with me forever and has truly made a lasting impact on me!

View all my reviews

Love’s Mulligan (Stroke of Love Book 1) by CA Miconi – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Love's MulliganLove’s Mulligan by C.A. Miconi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A sweet, fast read with a little bit of steam! Imagine being the wedding planner for the fake wedding of the long-lost love of your life? Kellie and Harrison’s story is compelling in this quick second chance romance.

This is easily read in one sitting, but despite its length, you get a full story with well developed and likable characters and storyline! The storyline is entertaining and written in alternating his/her point of view chapters, giving the reader greater insight to the couple’s story. The writing style is engaging and keeps you turning the page. I really enjoyed this one and look forward to the next story in the series!

View all my reviews

Antipodes (Antipodes Book 1) by T.S. Simons – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Antipodes (Antipodes, #1)Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great post-apocalyptic dystopian novel! I’ve had this one on my list for a while and I’m sure glad I finally opened it up!

Since this is the first in a series, there is a lot of care taken to develop the characters and setting. It is well-researched, descriptive, and engaging. The world-building in the novel, of a post-pandemic world, is incredible and the character development is excellent. The author really brings life to this story and keeps the reader coming back for more.

The main character, Cam, is endearing and relatable. The author’s ability to fully develop characters, especially Cam, draws the reader in and enables the reader to become emotionally invested in his life and story.

I’m looking forward to the next one!

View all my reviews

Something About Aimee (Girls from the Street Book 1) by S.E. Smith – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Something About Aimee (Girls from the Street Book 1)Something About Aimee by S.E. Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An engaging, fast-paced read. I really enjoyed this story and the writers style is engaging and draws the reader in. The story felt realistic and it was made up of everything a good suspenseful romance needs.

Aimee is a strong leading female who is unexpectedly, but quickly, well-matched with Qadir, who proves himself a great leading man! Through from different worlds, their chemistry is palpable!

I really enjoyed this one by an author I’ve never read before! I look forward to additional books from her.

View all my reviews

Amber Waves of Grace by Jessica Berg – Review By Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Amber Waves of GraceAmber Waves of Grace by Jessica Berg
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an engaging and ultimately heartwarming story! I really enjoyed the authors development of the characters and story.

For me, the characters and setting made this story. The small town, hardworking community that bands together and help one another is heartwarming, even in the midst of tragedies, trials, and tribulations. I was expecting relationships and romance, but wasn’t expecting the twists and turns that kept me turning the pages. I look forward to additional stories from this author!

View all my reviews

Enemies of Doves by Shanessa Gluhm – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Enemies of DovesEnemies of Doves by Shanessa Gluhm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This may be my favorite read of the year so far! What a well-written, researched, and gripping story!

The author developed a page-turner with their ability to create tension and the need to know what happens next in this mystery that spans across time. The characters are developed well throughout the entirety of the story and the reader finds themself rooting for and relating to them. The author also has a unique way of creating setting and bringing the reader inside the story and feel like you are really there. The details really bring this story to life.

The author tackles many challenging subjects within the context of the story and does so very well and with integrity.

Ultimately, I look forward to more by this author and encourage you to pick this one up for sure!

View all my reviews

The Detail by Dana Wayne – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

The DetailThe Detail by Dana Wayne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Read this one! What a great, fast-paced story! I loved Jessica and Seth’s story. Partners with a palpable attraction, but each not knowing they like one another. Their developing relationship and romance draws the reader in and adds an element depth to the story, enhancing the suspenseful and thrilling pieces of the story. The author weaves the suspense in throughout the story and keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. I was turning the pages and read this in just a couple of sittings (and maybe lost some sleep) because I couldn’t put it down. The overall development of the characters and story culminated in an amazing read. I can’t wait to read another by this author!

View all my reviews

Levi (The Brothers of Creekside Ranch Book 1) by Edith Mackenzie Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

LeviLevi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a very well-written, fast-paced, clean romance. Levi and his brothers are triplets left to care for their sister after the death of their parents, but Levi’s past still creeps in. He also agrees to help a friend and moves Bella in to be a nanny for their sister, while also protecting her. Their love story is unusual.

This was a very good story and character development, especially if Levi and Bella, was excellent—especially considering the shorter length of this book. The story flowed well and there was romance, action, and tension, keeping the reader engaged. Excellent, quick, easy read!

View all my reviews

Body Checked (Astoria Bay Thunder Book 2) by CJ Cartwright – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Body Checked (Astoria Bay Thunder #2)Body Checked by C.J. Cartwright
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Every bit as good, if not better than the first! I loved the second installment in this series (though it can be read as a standalone). The author continues to deliver an engaging page-turner with Bridger and Tia’s story.

Bridger is a “bad boy/playboy” who keeps finding himself in trouble and in need of an image change. Tia has sworn-off the bad boys but a trip with her best friend and the team drums up an undeniable chemistry between them.

This book has it all: friendship, spice, sass, laughs, and fun! The characters are likable and relatable and you’ll find yourself rooting for them! The author develops the characters and their relationship in a mostly realistic way and the tension draws the reader in. I just love reading her stories and can’t wait for more Astoria Bay romances!

View all my reviews

The Lie That Binds by Amy Argent – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

The Lie That BindsThe Lie That Binds by Amy Argent
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a solid book with a good, intriguing storyline that keeps your attention. There was a lot of depth to the characters, especially the main characters, Holly and Nathan. Holly, new to town wants to fit in, but is immediately rejected but the popular group. Even so, she is still interested in Nathan and learns he’s been keeping a secret. Will it all unravel? Can real relationships be built on secrets and lies?

This was a well-written, interesting story. The authors writing style reels the reader in and the topics covered within the story are relevant to teen life today. I could see this being a popular read among teens and young adults for that reason. I was engaged in the story all the way through and enjoyed it overall.

View all my reviews

Burned by Fire (Firehouse 13 Book 4) by Danielle Jacks – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Burned by Fire (Firehouse 13, #4)Burned by Fire by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was an enjoyable, short read. The story is told from the perspectives of each of the main characters, Sol and Ember. Sol is trying to reckon with injury and pain of losing his life’s path and Ember’s career is starting to take off. Though younger than Sol, she’s always had a crush and it may finally be the right time to explore her crush, while also helping Sol find his way back to life. The feelings and steam between the characters is palpable.

Overall, this was an enjoyable story with fairly well developed characters; however there were time I was hoping for more depth. The story moves at a fast pace due to its length, but the reader is fulfilled in a complete story. This can be read in a single sitting and was worth the time.

View all my reviews

As Close to Perfect by Maria Jane – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

As Close to PerfectAs Close to Perfect by Maria Jane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an easy, good read with great characters. I enjoyed the story and development of the characters and brewing romance and chemistry between Bree and Nate, but Nate is everything Bree isn’t looking for, so she keeps looking!

I loved the quirkiness of Bree, she is an over thinker with a flare of sarcasm. Nate is patient and persisten, but how patient can he be?

Though this is part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone, which is how I read it. It was entertaining and I enjoyed the characters and relationships so I may go back and read the first two in the series now!

View all my reviews

Oliver, A Story of Adoption by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Oliver: A Story about AdoptionOliver: A Story about Adoption by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was an interesting take on a story of adoption. The illustrations were cute and the story was easy to read. There were elements of the story that normalized childhood imagination and the need we all have to belong. It was an easy read and I think would generally be enjoyed by children and could be relatable. I love the author trying to tackle the topic of adoption and addressing the reality how children of adoption may wonder about their biological parents.

View all my reviews

Caging Grace (Grace Series Book 1) by Carsen Lane – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Caging Grace (Grace Series, #1).Caging Grace (Grace Series, #1). by Carsen Lane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! A new favorite for me! This was a wonderful read and story about a girl literally fighting her way through life.

The author does an amazing job crafting this story and building tension through her storytelling. The cast of characters, especially Grace, is well-developed and “real” enhancing the story and the readers connection.

Grace carries the world on her back and we follow her story of life’s trials, opportunities, and successes. She is a character you root for and will keep you turning the pages!

View all my reviews

PREMEDITATED: A Trust Betrayed, Lives Sabotaged, A Love Undaunted (Agents of Justice Book 2) by Susanna Haymond – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

PremeditatedPremeditated by Susanna Haymond
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you have several hours to fill up in your life, grab this book! The author creates a suspenseful, engaging read that has you turning the pages until the very end.

The second book in the series, we see repeating characters from the first book, but it can be read as a stand-alone. The characters and story are largely believable and deals with difficult themes.

You never know who next target is when everyone is a target and you’ll find yourself guessing who is responsible until the very end! This is easy to read in one sitting with the action-packed, creative storyline and wonderful characters!

View all my reviews

The Mermaid and the Ice Cube Necklace (Mermaid Science) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Mermaid and the Ice Cube NecklaceMermaid and the Ice Cube Necklace by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A delightfully sweet children’s book! The illustrations are cute and story is creative! Children are sure to love these story about friendship and imagination.

Friends Fig and Maia enjoy a picnic and make an ice cube necklace for their mermaid friend. Though only one girl can see their mermaid friend, Trezzie, the girls enjoy the magic of the ice cube necklace and their picnic by the lake together! The diversity of the characters and friendship between them make this a winning story!

View all my reviews

The True Purpose of Vines (The Winemakers Book 1) by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

The True Purpose of Vines: An intoxicating historical romance about wine and love. (The Winemakers Book 1)The True Purpose of Vines: An intoxicating historical romance about wine and love. by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A lovely, engaging read! The author does a wonderful job bringing this story to life with wonderful descriptions, leading to vivid imagery. It is evident the author was well researched to bring this historical romance to life.

The author also does a wonderful job in her creation of the characters. Griffin and Julia are each enjoyable in their own way and you truly get a sense of who they are and find yourself rooting for them throughout the book. The author also does a wonderful job creating tension and chemistry within their relationship.

Pick this one up if you’re looking for an enjoyable enemies-to-lovers with a beau frigio historical setting!

View all my reviews

Everything to Me (Playing for Keeps Book 2) by Lauren Fraser – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Everything to Me (Playing for Keeps Book 2)Everything to Me by Lauren Fraser
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A sexy, fun read! I really enjoyed Kendall and Pete’s story and seeing a childhood crush turned adult romance.

The author does a wonderful job encapsulating the story and point of view of each of the main characters. I really enjoyed that Pete’s point of view felt more authentic to a man’s point of view in contrast to other romances of read. The story was full of steamy moments, as well as both funny and serious moments rounding out the book very well. This was an enjoyable page-turner that I would highly recommend.

View all my reviews

Unabridged (Lovestruck Series Book 2) by Melinda De Ross – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

UnabridgedUnabridged by Melinda De Ross
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was my first read by this author and it was delightfully entertaining. I really enjoyed the main characters, Angelina and Blade, and their story. The author writes with an engaging and easy-to-read style and easily keeps the reader entertained. I found myself turning the pages and getting lost in the story, because of this engaging style. I enjoyed the banter between the characters and the many laugh out loud moments. If you’re looking for a fun romantic comedy with some twists, pick this one up!

View all my reviews

Finding Melodie and The Wedding Special Boxset by Laura Rossi – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Melodie Boxset (Melodie #1-2)Melodie Boxset by Laura Rossi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a sweet, fun read! This no set contains two stories, following Melodie and Office Guy, aka Isaac.

Melodie is a lovable, relatable character. She is a free spirit and an artist and the books are full of her inner-dialogue, which add to the story and provides witty and funny commentary to the story. Office Guy is her opposite and her crush admired from afar, until one day their lives collide and a friendship…and more..is formed.

These stories are written in an engaging style with many laugh out loud moments. It is an easy read with the characters well developed. If your looking for a fun romantic comedy, pick this one up!

View all my reviews

The Last Cabin Girl (Detective Josie Thompson Series) by Tom Swyers – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

The Last Cabin Girl: A totally gripping thriller full of twistsThe Last Cabin Girl: A totally gripping thriller full of twists by Tom Swyers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first read by this author, but I don’t think it’ll be my last! This was action-packed from the very beginning and keeps that pace all the way through, with unpredictable twist and turns.

The author does a wonderful job putting together a story by fully developing the world, characters, and the details with each event. I enjoyed the intertwining of current events (COVID) that enhanced parts of the story to be more relevant and enjoyed the underlying mystery throughout the book. It definitely keeps the readers attention and is difficult to put down!

Josie, through events both past and present, finds herself in the middle of mystery that threatens her life. She knows if she doesn’t solve it, her life as she knows it, may be over! I don’t want to ruin anything, so just do yourself a favor and read it!

View all my reviews

The Sound of Murder (Musical Murder Mystery Series) by K.L. Montgomery – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

The Sound of MurderThe Sound of Murder by K.L. Montgomery
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable cozy mystery! This author consistently delivers fun and unique storylines and this one is no exception. It is a fun way to start a new series.

Ruby is part of a traveling theater group who recently lost a member to murder. In a new city ready to explore and move forward, tragedy unfortunately strikes the group again and Ruby decides to solve the case!

This page-turner was a great, fast read with laugh out loud moments and solid storyline!

View all my reviews

Lingering Spirits (Soul Connection Book 4) by Nikki Lynn Barrett – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Lingering Spirits (Soul Connection, #4)Lingering Spirits by Nikki Lynn Barrett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

All I can say is wow. The author delivers again in this installment of the series. Every time I read a new book in the series I’m captivated all over again. The author has a way of connecting the reader to the characters and story that is always meaningful and brings life to the story. I feel like it can be challenging to actually connect to a paranormal story, rather than just be entertained by it, but this author very easily draws a reader in and connects them to her stories in a way that is unmatched! The series build on itself very nicely and this story is just as unique as the previous books.

Hope and Russ connect in a way neither of them have experienced before, but why? Truths come to light in this page-turner! Highly recommend!

View all my reviews

Seductively Yours (Titans of Manhattan Book 3) by Anise Storm – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Seductively Yours (Titans Of Manhattan, #3)Seductively Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another hit in this series! The author does a wonderful job weaving another steamy romance in this story with Mason and Rhyann. I was curious how the author would tackle Mason’s story, the playboy that he is, but the story was believable, engaging, and authentic to who he is a person. Rhyann was a lovely addition to the series and loved her character development.

This author continues to slay this series with an engaging writing style and twists and turns in the story to keep the reader intrigued. I love the way the author develops characters and writes reliably wonderful stories! I can’t wait for the next!

View all my reviews

Juliet’s Journey to Love (Great Smoky Mountain Getaways Book 1) by Elsie Davis – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Juliet's Journey to Love (Great Smoky Mountain Getaways, #4)Juliet’s Journey to Love by Elsie Davis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A wonderfully sweet read! I loved Jake and Juliet’s story; it had everything a reader could hope for: a small town, likable characters, a faith-rooted, clean romance, and a serendipitous meeting of lovers.

The author developed both characters and story well, building tension throughout the story by slowly adding depth. It was a fast and easy read that kept my attention and had me rooting for Jake and Juliet throughout. I look forward to additional stories in this series and by this author in general.

View all my reviews

Love’s Full Circle by Cherry Christensen – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Love's Full CircleLove’s Full Circle by Cherry Christensen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a sweet story about second chances. Kayden’s first love, Liam, walked away when she wouldn’t pursue a physical relationship with him, staying true to her faith. When they reconnect years later, the flame is still alive, but can Kayden ever trust Liam again?

The author writes a sweet, clean story reflecting true connection between characters. Even in a shorter story, the author develops the characters and their relationship well. It was a fast, enjoyable read!

View all my reviews

Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Phenomenal. This author is consistently good; I love everything I read by her, and this is no exception. The characters always have such depth and the relationships are palpable. Nostalgia oozes through the pages on this book and a the friendship between Cate and Patti will give you all the feels. These two have been through a lot together, including a major trauma they have kept secret for decades—and has also kept them apart. Even with all of the time that has passed, their bond is just as strong, but with their secret coming back into the fold, can the best friends survive the revival of this trauma?

The shifting from past to present and building of the story was engaging and keeps you turning the pages until the end. Pick this one up!

View all my reviews

A Bride for Noah (Brides of Broken Arrow) by Cheryl Wright – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

A Bride for Noah (Brides of Broken Arrow #1)A Bride for Noah by Cheryl Wright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An easy, clean read! An unconventional story with a couple brought together by their individual needs and a means to an end, but could it work out forever?

The author writes an engaging novella. It’s an easy read with likable characters in both Noah and Mary. The author developed the characters and story well and I love that it is wholesome and where faith plays a central role. This was an enjoyable read and I look forward to the rest of the series.

View all my reviews

Journeys Through AllCreation (Journeys Through Book 3) by James Talisman – Review by Jess Engel

/0 Comments/in /by

Journeys Through AllCreation (Journeys Through Book 3)Journeys Through AllCreation by James Talisman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Yes! Yes! Yes! I waited for this book to be available after being hooked to the first two in the series and it delivers!

The author continues to utilize descriptive imagery and provides a depth to his characters that is nearly unmatched by other authors! Though it is a complex MultiVerse, he brings it to life and connects the story so well it’s easy to keep track of the events, worlds, and universes within the storyline. This final chapter was action-packed and so satisfying with every last detail recorded.

In this installment of the series, everything has culminated into a camaraderie of good throughout the MultiVerse battling evil to save many universes from total destruction and allow their ways of life to continue.

I’m so excited to see what this author will do next!

View all my reviews