Posts

Sanctuary by Bree M. Lewandowski – Review by Lucy Machard

SanctuarySanctuary by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

So, I did like this book. I liked that it had a high fantasy feel to it, and I liked the tenacity of the characters. I did feel like it dragged a bit- it took me about 25% of the way in through the book before I could actually get into it. Which I get, because it’s world building. It wasn’t really my speed, but it might be yours, so please don’t let my review deter you. We all have different tastes, and this might be right up your alley!

View all my reviews

Reunion (The Hellgate Chronicles) by Jocelyn Lindsay – Review by Lucy Machard

Reunion (The Hellgate Chronicles, #1)Reunion by Jocelyn Lindsay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The amount of books that I’ve read with a hero over 25 is ridiculously low. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I absolutely will be coming back for more. I loved the humor of the FMC; and the whole “Seriously? Again?” attitude was perfection. I highly recommend this series, and can’t wait for book 2!

View all my reviews

Forbiddenly Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review Lucy Machard

Forbiddenly Yours (Titans of Chicago #2)Forbiddenly Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely loved this book! I think Cal might be my favorite MMC that Anise has written this far. Her books never seem to miss! These books are stand alone books, and not required to read in a series, however I do recommend reading all of them since they tie together. They also tie together with the Titan of Manhattan series! Can’t wait for book three!!

View all my reviews

The Crown of Stones Trilogy Box Set (The Crown of Stones Series) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Lucy Machard

The Crown of Stones Complete TrilogyThe Crown of Stones Complete Trilogy by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This box set is absolutely amazing! Everything is so well thought out with the world building, the writing, the characters, everything! the MMC reminds me of Geralt of Rivia at times, and I was absolutely addicted to every word! It’s a fantastic high fantasy trilogy that will absolutely keep you on your toes! I highly recommend!

View all my reviews

Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Lucy Machard

Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy RomanceDark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This author definitely knows how to pull the reader in! I was hooked on the first page as the world building started to take off. Kinda started to go more to a hover between 3.5/4 stars towards about 30% of the book- it’s a nuanced thing, but I felt like there was both too much detail, and not enough detail. We were getting a lot of important details about the emotions, thoughts, and feelings of the characters, but I personally didn’t feel like we were getting enough detail about the world around us and around them. It felt very show-but-don’t-tell. I personally feel that with a little extra editing and pizazz, this would have made an amazing high fantasy-esque novel. I still really really enjoyed it, and I can’t wait to see what book two is going to hold!

View all my reviews

Blurring the Lines & Extras (The Blind Rebels Series) by Amy Kaybach – Review by Lucy Machard

Blurring the Lines & Extras (The Blind Rebels)Blurring the Lines & Extras by Amy Kaybach
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book did have me from the get go- the opening is filled with a flurry of events. I haven’t read any of the other books in the series. I’m not sure if this would work better fit in under publication order, or if it would work better in a timeline order. I liked it, and I’m intrigued enough that I’ll look into the other books in the series when I get time. I’m not much for rockstar romances; but so far so good.

View all my reviews

Red (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 2) by MK Harkins – Review by Lucy Machard

Red (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #2)Red by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Honestly, this was a really cute romance read. It sucked me in right from the get go, and I absolutely loved reading it. I wasn’t the biggest fan of switching POVs- and by switching POVs, I mean the author switched from third to first person, depending on the character in the book. I can understand switching POVs occasionally, but in this instance it just really wasn’t for me. However, I did really like the plot and everything else; so if you’re looking for something sweet and short, I’d give this a try!

View all my reviews

In the Midst of Omens (The Legacy of Gilgamesh Series) by Nicole Bailey – Review by Lucy Machard

In the Midst of Omens (The Legacy of Gilgamesh Book 1)In the Midst of Omens by Nicole Bailey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I freaking LOVED this book from page one. From all the re-written myths and stories that we see, Gilgamesh is NEVER even thought of! I thought the entire idea was genius, and I loved the writing style of the author. I couldn’t put it down! My inner historian heart is so happy from this!! Can’t wait for book two!!!

View all my reviews

The Silent Forest (The House on the Hill Book 2) by David Kummer – Review by Lucy Machard

The Silent Forest (The House on the Hill, #2)The Silent Forest by David Duane Kummer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m not much of a horror reader, but I freaking love this series. I love the writing, the story, the characters, everything about it. I love that it’s more thriller than horror, but it still just keeps you thrown on your toes while you’re reading. Of course, read the first books in the series before you read this one! I actually had to jump into a re-read of so i could keep everything straight. Fantastic books. Highly recommend!

View all my reviews

One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper – Review by Lucy Machard

One-Quarter VillainOne-Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Honestly, this book took me a second to get into. I found it hard to connect with the FMC, but I was solidly invested into the plot. It’s a pretty solid YA read, and I found myself laughing along with the characters as they navigated through the story. I did enjoy it, and I would 100% recommend it to others!

View all my reviews

Come Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson – Review by Lucy Machard

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

I absolutely loved this book. It took a bit for me to get into it, but once I was, I loved it. I’m not normally a mystery type person, but this book is so good at sucking the reader in while the FMC tries to navigate the hand she’s been dealt. Absolute 10/10- and I highly recommend!! I‘ll be sure to check out other books by the author as well!

View all my reviews

Master Oradea (Masters of the Consulate Book 10) by Sylvia Black – Review by Lucy Machard

Master Oradea (Masters of the Consulate #10)Master Oradea by Sylvia Black
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and while it is a short, simple read, I did have a lot of moments where I was confused and unsure of the plot. While it is the 10th book in the series, it is marketed as a stand alone novel, but if you’re going to get started in this series, the I would suggest starting at book one, since it’s across the same universe. It personally isn’t something that I was absolutely 100% enthralled with. I liked the book, I like vampire and mafia novels, but this one just wasn’t something I loved a whole lot. I struggled to get into the story, and it just seemed to drag for me. However, that shouldn’t stop you from trying it out, because you might enjoy it more than I did. It just wasn’t for me.

View all my reviews

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

Touched (Elemental Passions #1)Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

So, it was definitely an interesting read. To me, it felt more YA, which isn’t a bad thing. I did think the FMC was a little naive, which is a nuanced peeve for me as a reader. I really liked the MMC, and thought he was absolutely hilarious. I understand the book is fated mates; but it felt a little too quick for me. But, that might also be because I’ve been reading a lot of slow-burn.

It’s a light hearted, fantasy romance that was well done. I did enjoy the book, and will most likely pick up book two when I get time. Happy reading!

View all my reviews

Hood of Sedna (Stevie Capot Chronicles) by Mina Skye – Review by Lucy Machard

Hood of Sedna (Stevie Capot Chronicles Book 1)Hood of Sedna by Mina Skye
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book was definitely interesting; but it wasn’t really my favorite type of fantasy. The FMC is a quick-witted total bad***, who doesn’t take crap from anyone. The MMCs in the book were funny and fun to read about, with a plot full of fae, shifters, and just all around magical things. If you like quirky fantasies that are a little more lighthearted, then this would be the one for you!

View all my reviews

Critical Care (Chase Care Series Book 6) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Lucy Machard

Critical Care (Chase Care Book 6)Critical Care by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A quick, short read full of adventure! I liked the romance and how the characters interact with each other. The book was easy to get through in one sitting. The story and controversy around the chemo and cancer treatments really hit home for me, but also added to the value of the book. If you think it’s your speed, give it a try!

View all my reviews

Basil (Silver Springs Pets Series) by K. Rose – Review by Lucy Machard

Basil (Silver Springs Pets, #7)Basil by K. Rose
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

So this book was definitely a whirlwind. I will say, the plot itself was interesting- with a vegan turned vampire who comes up with a serum as an alternative to regular vampire sustenance. It was a light, humorous book, as well as a quick read. It’s not something I typically read; and while I did enjoy it, it just wasn’t something that sparked as an all time favorite. However, if you’re interested, pick it up and try it! It might be your next best read!

View all my reviews

Fearless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls, Book 5) by KG Fletcher – Review by Lucy Machard

Fearless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls, #5)Fearless Love by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What a sweet romance! This is the second one in the series I’ve read, and as always the dad is my favorite. This one definitely tugged at my hearstrings a little bit, and I loved how the FMC was an absolute spitfire who took no one’s BS. The MMC was a sweetheart, even if a little dense sometimes. Pretty much fade to black/closed door for spice levels, but sometimes that can be a bit refreshing. Still recommend, as well as the other books in the series.

View all my reviews

Group Hug by Ariella Talix – Review by Lucy Machard

Group HugGroup Hug by Ariella Talix
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What a cute little why choose romcom! I loved the chemistry between the characters and it was just the pick me up I needed after the really crappy week I had. It was super fast paced, and I finished it pretty fast. If you like love, dogs, and a little spice, then you’ll enjoy this book!

View all my reviews

Dirty Heartbreaker (Hamilton Steelhawks Series) by A. C. Sheppard – Review by Lucy Machard

Dirty Heartbreaker: Hamilton Steelhawks Book 3Dirty Heartbreaker: Hamilton Steelhawks Book 3 by A C Sheppard
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

So I LOVE hockey, which means as a reader I also really love my hockey romances. This one was definitely one of my favorites. I loved the chemistry between the characters, and I’m a sucker for people who fight their feelings and then give in at the end. The whole book was just fantastic, and I highly recommend!

View all my reviews

Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Lucy Machard

Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago, #1)Deceptively Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’ve been a die hard fan of this author since the first titan series that they did, so when I saw this had released i was right there ready to get it. I loved the trope in this book; lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers. It is an HEA, but PLEASE read the content warnings before you jump in to the book. I made the mistake of not paying attention was quite thrown off by some of the things that happened in this book. That being said, I think the author did a beautiful job of managing the trauma that comes with some of the events of the books, and I look forward to the next!

View all my reviews

Good Enough (The Deadman’s Tribe Series Book 1) by Nicole Craig – Review by The Scent of Snow (The Winemakers Series) by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Lucy Machard

Good Enough -- The Deadman's Tribe Book 1: A Protector Romance / Romantic SuspenseGood Enough — The Deadman’s Tribe Book 1: A Protector Romance / Romantic Suspense by Nicole Craig
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was absolutely in love with this book from page one. I thought it was well written, had a great story flow, and was all around a well done book. I loved the FMC from the start of it; her tenacity and sass making me laugh often throughout the book. Th MMC was just the right amount of broody, and I loved watching their romance develop through the action. Highly recommend!

View all my reviews

The Scent of Snow (The Winemakers Series) by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Lucy Machard

The Scent of SnowThe Scent of Snow by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book was short and easy to read, with a fast paced romance plot. It definitely threw some curveballs at the reader as well. It was really my speed, but I have been in a bit of a reading slump for the past little bit. I did like it, but for those who are searching for a good historical fiction romance, then try out this series!

View all my reviews

Elusive Surrender (Sinful Duets Book 3) by Via Mari – Review by Lucy Machard

Elusive Surrender (Sinful Duets #3)Elusive Surrender by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What a whirlwind! I will say in the first part of the book, the way the relationship between the characters progressed, I would have liked to see a little more depth between the characters as they delved into their BD$M relationship. Practically speaking, it sets an unrealistic portrayal of how a safe relationship should be. I did like the book and both romances, and I do like this author. I do recommend this series, but please just remember to do your research.

View all my reviews

Whispered Surrender (Sinful Duets Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by Lucy Machard

Whispered Surrender (Sinful Duets #1)Whispered Surrender by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was definitely a unique way of having a book set up. It’s been a while since I’ve read a book that’s purposely set up to have two books inside of it that weren’t originally published on their own. (Unless they were, and I missed the memo on it). That being said, I highly enjoyed the(se) book(s), and I absolutely adored the chemistry between the characters that. I love this author’s works, and every time I see a new release for their books, I always make sure to snatch it up and recommend it to everyone.

View all my reviews

Auctioned Surrender (Sinful Duets Book 2) by Via Mari – Review by Lucy Machard

Auctioned Surrender (Sinful Duets #2)Auctioned Surrender by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Just like with every book I’ve read by this author, I found myself absolutely GLUED to my kindle with both this one and the first one. Both sets of the character romances we get to watch unfold are top tier. Just like with most books I’ve read by this author, I highly recommend, especially if you’re a mafia fan. These are some of the best mafia romances I’ve read in a while.

View all my reviews

A Heart So Savage (The Savage Duet Book 2) by April Moran – Review by Lucy Machard

A Heart So Savage (The Savage Duet #2)A Heart So Savage by April Moran
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

So I absolutely loved the first book. I thought it was a great enemies to lovers vibe, forced proximity, full of denial for what the characters felt for each other. But good lord, was this book an action and smut filled absolute BANGER of a sequel! I felt myself falling for Kingston a little more and more as the book progressed, and the incredibly sweet ending had me tearing up a little. I absolutely loved and adored this duet. Please, read it! The author is phenomenal and I can’t wait to see what she does next!!

View all my reviews

The Blood Prince (The Blood Prince Series) by Ayla Marie – Review by Lucy Machard

The Blood PrinceThe Blood Prince by Ayla Marie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Definitely lots of world building! I had to slow down and take my time with it, and the beginning was a little confusing, but i definitely enjoyed it! It’s a great action fantasy novel, and I highly recommend!!

View all my reviews

The Uncrowned King (The Blood Prince Series) by Ayla Marie – Review by Lucy Machard

The Uncrowned King (The Blood Prince, #2)The Uncrowned King by Ayla Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved the first book, and the second is just as good! We follow Leo as he is thrust into a kingdom he never thought of having. It’s a fantastic fantasy read full of growth, tribulation, and action. I really hope we get more of Leo’s story, because I honestly couldn’t put the book down!

View all my reviews

Unclutter (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora – Review by Lucy Machard

Unclutter: A Survivor's Story (Inner Voice, #1)Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story by Winnie D. Pagora
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was absolutely amazing. I took my time reading it, and it was honestly a hard book to read. Surviving through abuse is such a hard thing to manage, and from personal experience, I want to give major props to the author for how well this was done. I’m so proud of the main character’s fight and resiliency; and I can’t wait to see more from her.

View all my reviews

Orenda (The Latitude Series) by T.S. Simons – Review by Lucy Machard

Orenda (The Latitude)Orenda by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely enjoyed this book! I’ve read the entire series so far, and I’m 100% enthralled with the story. I will say, it’s a bit of a slower paced book, but it’s absolutely fantastic. If you’re someone who enjoys sci fi, action, and romance, check out this series and the other series by the author!

View all my reviews