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Nightfall in Deptford (Crescent Moon Chronicles Book 4) by L.E. Towne – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Nightfall in Deptford (Crescent Moon Chronicles #4)Nightfall in Deptford by L.E. Towne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a very interesting story! The legend in the beginning was a beautiful way to set up the actual storyline. The details and descriptions in the setting were truly captivating, painting a picture in my mind as I read through. It was almost as if I was watching a movie, reading through each chapter and getting to know the characters. Truly seeing how Kit was thinking, whether it was about Tam, his fate, or what was happening in his hometown, was really eye opening. The alternating points of view was also fun to see, the way each character is different but complements the others they are around or discuss. I also love the premise of time travel, and the way the author uses it in this book is simply stunning and absolutely worth the read!

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We Blend (Falling for the Rockstar’s Daughter Book 1) by Willa Drew – Review by Jo Frizzell

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WE Blend (Falling for the Rockstar's Daughter Series #1)WE Blend by Willa Drew
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a beautiful story. Seeing into El and Wil both just kept me completely captivated. I just kept pretty much yelling at Wil to just tell her already, but they kept getting closer with so many perfect moments for him to have said something. The emphasis on music for both El and Wil just makes so much sense for me because I firmly believe music is the universal language and can speak for you when you don’t have the words. The lyrics they write together are so beautiful and I just wish that I could hear the instruments, the melodies and harmonies, blending together to create magic. I also feel like El’s relationships with her parents was so relatable, like something we all understand, knowing our family expects something specific from us, but that’s not our dream. I also truly adored her relationship with Zoe, having a true confidant is so important to not feel completely alone, but also to have someone who will just cheer you on as you take steps to follow your dream. The entire story just sucked me in from the very beginning, and I was cheering for both El and Wil through their whole journey.

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Grave Digger Academy (Grave Digger Academy Book 1) by C.A. King – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Grave Digger AcademyGrave Digger Academy by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was intrigued by the title, the summary interested me, and I’m really glad I chose this book! I really like Makayla! Her struggle being the youngest of her six brothers and the pressure she feels to get into the “right” school is so relatable. Her drive to understand, even in a place she doesn’t feel she’s supposed to be is really cool too. The friends she makes, the teachers, her helpers, every character is interesting and there is something about every single one that kept me wondering more about them as I read this beginning of Makayla’s journey. I’m really looking forward to the next one!

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Euphoric Wonderland by Ryan M. Becker – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Euphoric Wonderland: An Eclectic Collection of Psychedelic Poetry to Stimulate the Senses and Open the MindEuphoric Wonderland: An Eclectic Collection of Psychedelic Poetry to Stimulate the Senses and Open the Mind by Ryan M. Becker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The last poetry book I read before this was one of Shel Silverstein’s when I was a kid. I remember running the gamut of mostly positive emotions with laughter as a common reaction. I say that to say, I don’t normally read much poetry, but I’m really glad I picked this book up! These poems took me on a journey, seeing inside the author’s soul as they bear it to the world. With the variety of emotions as well as the illustrations and the page design, I really enjoyed these! Based on the color theme – even without reading the title – I had a general idea of what side of the emotional spectrum each poem would be, which just made the reading experience even better! If you like poetry, I would absolutely recommend this book!

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Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

These were adorable! I love the themes of teamwork and camaraderie in both! The pictures were fabulous and dinosaurs are always cool! The kids I know will love them! Their parents will like them too, because with a strong focus on working with others and friendship, they demonstrate healthy skills and relationship traits while still having a good storyline to keep the littles interested.

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The Aloha Series Box Set (Books 1 – 3) by Jill Brashear – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Aloha Series Box Set Books 1-3Aloha Series Box Set Books 1-3 by Jill Brashear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

These were all beautifully written romances. I was immediately drawn in by the beautiful descriptions, allowing me to feel like I was right there in Hawaii with the characters, seeing what they were seeing. I enjoyed the small sample of Hawaiian culture with the words that native Hawaiians use when talking to each other, like haole. I always love learning more about the characters as they get to know each other. Bones, Keoni, Declan, Lou, Penny, all of them, and every other character we get to know, are so interesting and complex. They don’t have that one dimensional, basic personality type that sometimes happens when romance is the focus. Although, I definitely adore the bits of their friendships that we get to see during their stories. If you’re looking for a beautiful view, strong friendships, fabulous characters, and romance in late 1960s Hawaii, this is your pick!

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Fractured Worlds: Courage in the Apocalypse by Courtney Konstantin – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Fractured World: Courage in the Apocalypse CollectionFractured World: Courage in the Apocalypse Collection by Maira Dawn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an amazing collection of stories! I love reading apocalypse stories and post-apocalyptic stories because they have this tendency to be so unique! None of these disappointed in any way, shape or form! One of the themes I noticed was the teamwork, the way that characters banded together, working with each other to survive whatever terror inducing threat they faced. If you’re looking for a new apocalyptic story, look no further because this book has 19 of them!

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Azreya, Aztec Priestess: An Illustrated Mythology Legend by Tricia Copeland, Illustrated by Matt Maes – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Azreya, Aztec PriestessAzreya, Aztec Priestess by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was amazing! Azreya’s journey to accept herself and save her people was absolutely beautiful! I love the relationship between Azreya and Tecuani, as she learns to accept everything about herself, the byplay between them was stunning! Her ability to discern trustworthiness was something that I think many of us wish we could have in the day to day, and the relationship she builds with Cocotetzin after she trusts him is amazing. Going on her journey with her, I found myself hoping for success for her, and saddened when things didn’t always go as planned. If you enjoy stories with a basis in mythology, I would definitely recommend this one! Also, if you enjoy learning words in a different language, the glossary of Aztec words of Nahuatl is so interesting and I loved being able to learn new things!

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From Brick & Darkness by J.L. Sullivan – Review by Jo Frizzell

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From Brick & DarknessFrom Brick & Darkness by J.L. Sullivan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an excellent reading experience! And yes, it truly was an experience, learning about djinn and Ifrit along with Bax. Seeing his prejudice as he walked his path, and his growth as he realized his mistakes. This story kept me engrossed from beginning to end. I truly adore fantasy stories, and I’m a sucker for a young adult read. This was such an excellently written glimpse into getting wishes granted and the perils of not being careful what you wish for. It brought to mind a lyric by Daughtry, “Be careful what you wish for, because you just might get it.” If you like modern takes on fantastical and mythological themes, this is definitely a fabulous choice!

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In Plain Sight (Logan McKenna Mystery Series Book 8) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Jo Frizzell

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In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I always love a good mystery! This author does an amazing job of crafting a whodunnit that you don’t guess with the first clue! Logan is such a dynamic character who is so intuitive and doesn’t hesitate to follow her instincts. Her camaraderie with her friends and her stubbornness and follow through is so awesome to see as she follows the trail of the elusive murderer, even when not everyone is even sure there really is a murderer. The alternating points of view were fascinating to me, going from Logan to an unknown who is much darker and more compulsive in their thought processes. If you enjoy reading murder mysteries, this is definitely the one you should pick next!

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Remember to Forget Me (Too Lost to Love Book 1) by Hazel Storm Review By Jo Frizzell

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Remember to Forget Me (Too Lost To Love, #1)Remember to Forget Me by Hazel Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a beautifully written book! I really enjoyed traversing the journey Addie and Wesley are on with them. Their chemistry was so realistic as they fought their own demons to find their happiness in each other. Their shared history was stunningly written and I adored the alternating points of view that fabulously illustrated each of their sides of the story. I’m a sucker for a happily ever after, but I also really like reading stories with a little basis in reality. This story has both, with realistic events and reactions and the happily ever after, I absolutely recommend it to anyone who likes stories with a touch of reality and a happy ending!

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a truly captivating read! I really enjoyed this take on Cinderella. Reading different interpretations of fairy tales is always fun, seeing how the author decides to change it up or make it more modern. From the prologue to the epilogue, Ashley’s story is one that we’ve read or seen more than once, in various retellings of Cinderella, but it is by no means the exact same. The bones of the story were recognizable, but the rest of the body of the story was truly unique and beautiful. Ashley and Harry’s relationship was tested for sure, but isn’t everyone’s? If you enjoy reading modern fairy tales, this is definitely a must read!

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Key to His Heart by Kristina Beck – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Key To His HeartKey To His Heart by Kristina Beck
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a beautiful story! Katrina and TJ’s journey to their happy ever after was truly stunning. The alternating points of view are such a wonderful way to tell a story, seeing from the main character’s eyes and truly understanding their take through their trials. Their story was one that has been told before, in reality, and was fabulously illustrated and wonderfully realistic and relevant. If you enjoy modern romance stories with a happy ever after, this is definitely an amazing choice!

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Enemies of Doves by Shanessa Gluhm – Review by Jo Frizzell

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

From word one, I was stuck into this story, needing to know everything! Joel’s mental state and the protectiveness he felt from the very beginning to the other side of the coin in the more recent years of the story drew me in. I wanted to know the truth of what happened in 1932 and what happened to lead Joel to where he was in 1991 when Garrison first comes to him chasing answers. The alternating points of view and differing points in time that the story is told are fascinating, and it’s such an amazing way to share this story. If you enjoy mysteries with an emphasis on family secrets and the relationships those same secrets can change through existence, this is definitely the read for you!

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The Secret Cure: A Gripping Psychological Thriller with a Twist by JD Spero – Review by Jo Frizzell

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The Secret CureThe Secret Cure by J.D. Spero
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was excellent! I was drawn in immediately by Rosalie and didn’t want to put it down! I love reading thrillers, and this one is on the same level as James Patterson’s Alex Cross series. It kept me on the edge of my seat, needing to know what came next. If you enjoy psychological thrillers that keep you wondering, with alternating points of view, this is one you should definitely read!

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Princess of Prias by Courtney Davis – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Princess of PriasPrincess of Prias by Courtney Davis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an excellent story! Elle is so relatable, and her reactions to finding out that she’s literally not from this world is intriguing. I adore her headstrong personality and the way she faces the new situations that could have other people completely losing their minds. Locan intrigues me with his Warrior mindset and focus on duty, even as he feels connected to Elle. His protectiveness is so complete, and it makes me want to know him, but also the ones he knows. Traylon makes me laugh with his carefree attitude, even as he focuses on what he knows he needs to do. The characters are so interesting and the world the author built is amazing and I wish I could see it through my own eyes instead of through theirs.

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Watcher (Star-Crossed Celestials Book 1) by A.L. Morrow – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Watcher (Star-Crossed Celestials Duet #1)Watcher by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a great story! When I read Romeo and Juliet in high school, I didn’t like it because in the end, what started as a beautiful love story was just a tragedy. I know that tragedy is a real life thing, but I read to escape real life, so I don’t necessarily want to read something with an unsatisfying ending like a true Shakespearean tragedy. This was a fabulous take on a classic that held more emphasis on romance than tragedy. I enjoyed the fact that it was queer as well. I will definitely be continuing to find more by this author, and reading the next installment of this story!

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Antipodes (Antipodes Book 1) by T.S. Simons – Review by Jo Frizzell

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

This book was wonderfully written! The setting was described so eloquently that I could see in my head what the characters were seeing. The distinct personalities of each of the characters was amusing because I could hear the tone that they would have been speaking in, and I truly appreciated the level of sarcasm some of them used. The storyline fascinated me, using an event the whole world is somewhat familiar with, and taking the main character – Cam – on a journey to find himself, and more. Cam himself was so fabulously written, and I could see myself becoming friends with him. The way he faced each obstacle he faced, even struggling with his anxiety was amazing. I can’t wait to read more about his journey and how it continues!

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Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Paige and the Reluctant ArtistPaige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was beautifully written! The author did an amazing job illustrating the setting with words alone. I could see everything each of the characters saw solely because of the words the author used in their descriptions. Their characters were so fabulously written too. I adore the alternating points of view, giving me an understanding of both Mark and Paige. The friendship between Paige and Camilla was fabulous too, it was obvious that the two were very close, almost like family. If you like a happily ever after, I would definitely recommend this beautiful journey!

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Blood & Vengeance (The Casket Girls Book 2) by A.D. Brazeau – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Blood & Vengeance (The Casket Girls #2)Blood & Vengeance by A.D. Brazeau
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was just as compelling as the first one in the series! I started reading and didn’t want to stop. Desiree is such a strong-willed, yet compassionate person who has the courage to stand up and face the true monsters while understanding those who were forced into being. Jaxon is such an interesting character, and the two of them have so much in common yet so many differences too, making them perfect for each other. I adore the dynamic between Desiree, Fosette, Sylvie, and Theron – made families are so beautiful! Everything about the way this book was written was amazing and I can’t wait for the next one!

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Twilight’s Spy (Twilight Realm Trilogy Book 1.5) by K.M. Wray – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Twilight's SpyTwilight’s Spy by K.M. Wray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book! This author has this way of writing that makes it seem like we’re traveling on the journey with Yarissa, seeing the way she thinks things through – or doesn’t think things through, as the case may be. I adore the world she’s weaved, and wish I could walk through it with Yarissa. I appreciate the way that her superiors have this faith in her and see her potential in a way that she doesn’t, because it mimics what real life seems like. So many times, it’s the people around us who see our true potential and give us hints as to what our next steps should be, and that is beautifully illustrated in this book. I truly enjoy watching Yarissa grow throughout her journey and look forward to reading more by this author!

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On Viking Seas (The Forerunner Saga Series Book 3) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Jo Frizzell

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On Viking Seas (Forerunner Series)On Viking Seas by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was truly as fabulous as the first two books in the series! I’m still utterly fascinated by the world and wish I could walk through all the places that are wonderfully illustrated by the author. The historical aspect keeps me completely enthralled and I just wish I could meet all the characters. This author weaves a brilliant story and builds a fabulous world. If you enjoy historical fiction with an emphasis on lore and beautifully written familial relationships, I would absolutely recommend this story!

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Distant Memories (Nurse Morgan Series Book 2) by Kate MacInnis – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Distant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book TwoDistant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book Two by Kate MacInnis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this continuation of Morgan’s story! I love her personality and the way she interacts with the world around her. The people she has surrounded herself with are great too, and all of them are so unique and play a different role for her. The Wilkersons make me laugh with their very distinct but interesting personalities and the way they interact with her and those who know about or see them. The illustration of them and the much less tolerated Esmeralda was interesting in the way Morgan reacted to or related with them. It definitely was fabulous and I’m glad I continued it!

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Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove Book 1) by Shannon Nikole – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove #1)Finding Starlight by Shannon Nikole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was excellent! I really enjoyed reading Ellawyn’s story. Her courage and strength of spirit were an inspiration. Seeing the relationships between the characters is always beautiful to me as well! However, my favorite part is the haven she finds in the midst of an escape from her prison. Starlight Books being her haven is something I can completely understand, seeing as books are my safe place too. I love stories that take place in small towns because the camaraderie is almost inevitable and the relationships that can be built are so enduring. If you enjoy books with a strong female lead, romance, and some suspense, this is definitely a must read!

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The Lie That Binds by Amy Argent – Review by Jo Frizzell

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

Oh my lanta this book! I adore the point of view changes and seeing into the minds of both Nathan and Holly. I love Holly’s personality – a little shy, a little sass, and a hint of fire – and the way she will stand up for her friends, even when she’s scared. I enjoy the complexity of Nathan – even as he surrounds himself with people who seem to lack that same complexity – and his relationship with his family. Most of all though, I really like the realistic way that high school is represented. This book brings to mind those by Sarah Dessen with a relatable high school or college age person, the real problems they face, and their relationships that are built on truth even when it hurts. So if you enjoy reading Sarah Dessen, I absolutely recommend this book!

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No Pistol Tastes the Same (PTSD Disaster Book 1) by Jacob Paul Patchen – Review by Jo Frizzell

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No Pistol Tastes the SameNo Pistol Tastes the Same by Jacob Paul Patchen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an excellent book! It was one I’d definitely read again, although I had a hard time with it. The realistic portrayal of mental health and the true experiences shared are so enlightening. It’s such an important topic to understand and yet there’s such a strong stigma against discussing it. I truly adore that this author sat down and decided this story was the one to be told. I will absolutely be looking up his other books! If you’re looking for a story that will teach you something, or let you understand someone else’s experiences in a way that lets you walk beside them and just listen – even if they may not have all the words – I would definitely recommend this one.

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Romance under Aquarius (Stargazing Series Book 1) by Danielle Jacks – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Romance Under AquariusRomance Under Aquarius by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was absolutely gorgeous! I loved seeing how the characters grew and changed, taking risks and doing what they felt they needed to do to save each other and their community. Pasha and Ryn were such fun characters to see build their relationship and grow to understand each other more. Kasper and Owen’s brotherly love and Kasper’s perseverance in trying to save Owen was beautiful. When the author added Maris into that mix, it was amazing to see the bonds she had with all of the characters, but especially with Kasper. I adored the fantasy and it was just altogether an amazing journey to take with all of these characters.

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The Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie – Review by Jo Frizzell

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The Happily Ever After BookstoreThe Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I adore everything about this book! The characters were beautifully written and their relationships were so unique and genuine! Leona is such a beautiful soul and Sadie is a complete sweetheart. Fiona is also so realistically cautious but also brave. Charlie is such a great grandson and I love Ellen too! I want to go to The Happily Ever After Bookstore and meet all of them, and lose myself in the books! I simply love how all their stories tie together and will definitely be looking up other books by this author because I am a sucker for a happy ending, and this book had them in spades! If you’re looking for a book full of love, a hint of whimsy, books, and happy endings, this should definitely be your pick!

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Distant Heart Sounds (Nurse Morgan Series Book 1) by Kate MacInnis – Review by Jo Frizzell

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Distant Heart Sounds (Nurse Morgan #1)Distant Heart Sounds by Kate MacInnis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed reading this book! I always like stories with a hint of the paranormal and this definitely counts! I also have a lot of respect for people in the medical profession, fictional or not, so the main character Morgan is no exception. Morgan is strong and intuitive with an unfailing curiosity about her world and the way it changes, or at least the way she perceives changes. The characters are all so well-written with distinct personalities, especially in the way they interact with each other. This was truly an excellent story and I’m excited to read what’s next!

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Caging Grace (Grace Series Book 1) by Carsen Lane – Review by Jo Frizzell

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

This book was beautifully written! I always enjoy books with strong female leads, and this story was no exception to that. Grace’s strength, tenacity, and strong familial bonds – both chosen and blood – were illustrated wonderfully in every bit of her journey. I adore that she holds herself to high standards and isn’t afraid of hard work; I truly just adore everything about her as a character and wish I could meet her. I also really enjoyed the way the story is told, truly showing her, in every facet of herself. The way that Dar, Johnny, Mason, and Carl rally around her is just amazing. If I could change anything about this story, I absolutely wouldn’t. The emphasis she places on choosing herself for the first time after spending her entire life as a caretaker is just perfect; she says it best when she says that she couldn’t be someone else’s half when she’s never even been whole. So, if you’re looking for a strong female lead that never quits, who has a strong moral code, so much compassion, and the kahones to take the world by storm, this is definitely a story you shouldn’t miss!

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