Posts

Texas Winds by Dana Wayne – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

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

Sometimes second chance loves are often better than the first. Texas Winds totally blew me away (pun intended)! Dana Wayne is a first time author for me so I was unsure what to expect. But, the amazing attraction and slow-burn romance to an all-out inferno between Jake and Lexie was just what I needed! The beautiful Texas ranch, complete with wooded land and cabins on the lake create a breathtaking backdrop to this well-written story. Jake, Lexie, Katie and many other characters are realistic, flawed, believable, and oh-so-lovable. I couldn’t help but feel connected to the characters and found myself cheering for the romance between Lexie and Jake. And Biscuit just makes the whole book that much better! The city dog who loves being a ranch dog! There is love, romance, drama, heartache, loss, guilt, and so much more in this book that it kept me on my toes and reading well past bedtime. This is definitely not the last time I pick up a book by Dana Wayne!

View all my reviews

Finders Keepers, Cowboy (Match Made in Montana Series) by Rachelle Paige Campbell – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Finders Keepers, Cowboy (Match Made in Montana #1)Finders Keepers, Cowboy by Rachelle Paige Campbell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Finders Keepers, Cowboy is a sweet, clean, slow-build romance that finds Meg and Ryan at the center of Ryan’s grandfather (Hank’s) romantic meddling. All of the characters are realistic, relatable, believable, and lovable; but Hank is my favorite. He’s the quintessential cowboy: rough and tough, but with a heart of gold (and a soft spot for animals). Ryan and Meg have always shared a rocky friendship, but Hank’s meddling throws them closer to one another than either is comfortable with. The world building is amazing; I felt like I was right there on the Montana grasslands. However, the inner monologue of both Meg and Ryan was a little tedious and often circled back multiple times throughout the story. It almost felt like a filler. It also felt like it took a long time to get to the good parts of the story, only for the story to end rather quickly. Overall, a good, quick read recommended for those looking for a sweet, family driven romance. Rachelle Paige Campbell is definitely an author to add to my list.

View all my reviews

Charlotte’s Control (The Control Series) by Maggie Sims – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Charlotte's Control (The Control Series)Charlotte’s Control by Maggie Sims
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Charlotte’s Control took me by complete surprise! Not having read anything by Maggie Sims previously, I wasn’t sure what to expect. This historical romance is centered around William and Charlotte and has just the right amount of spice! Set in a time where women had very little control over their own lives, Charlotte shows William how freeing relinquishing control to another can actually be. Their relationship is so much more than physical. Despite their age difference, William and Charlotte exchange ideas, have intelligent discussions, and revel in the other’s company. There is so much more emotion in this book than I was expecting. Maggie Sims’s characters are so unique and realistic while the world building made me feel like I was riding along in the carriage with them, attending balls, and helping manage the estates. What a great, unexpected read by a “new-to-me” author I can’t wait to read more from.

View all my reviews

Secrets of the Moon (Chronicles of the Lost Child Series) by Kristy Centeno – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Secrets of the MoonSecrets of the Moon by Kristy Centeno
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Secrets of the Moon was definitely an interesting read. Filled with drama, suspense, and a touch of romance. The overall storyline I found intriguing, while the actual delivery was a bit disjointed. I found some parts of the story to be fast-paced and full of information while other parts were disconnected and felt like it just reiterated what had already been told. I felt like Marjorie and her friends were portrayed more like high school age rather than early 20s. This was also the case for the community college setting; I felt like it was more like a high school rather than a college. The small-town setting, however, was perfect for this story. The world building of Kristy Centeno was pretty good though. I could see the shadows of the trees, feel the breeze on my face, and hear the sounds of the forest while reading. I felt that this book had a lot of potential, but fell just a little bit short of what I was hoping for. However, I would be willing to read more by Kristy Centeno.

View all my reviews

The Archcrusade: Tome One (The Archcrusade Series) by K. M. Hogenson – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

The Archcrusade: Tome One: The Archspawn - Pilgrimage & PropheciesThe Archcrusade: Tome One: The Archspawn – Pilgrimage & Prophecies by K.M. Hogenson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you are looking for a short, quick read, The Archcrusade is not for you. But, if you are in the mood for amazing characters and fantastic world building, K. M. Hogenson’s book is for you! This fantasy book is full of angels, demons, humans, and many forms of otherworldly creatures. Although the creatures do not exist in the world, the descriptive writing made it so I could see them in my mind while reading. The characters are so well-developed, each with their own story, but each inexplicably connected to one another. K. M. Hogenson beautifully weaves a tale of adventure, drama, danger, destiny, and magic. There are many character points-of-view so it did get confusing, at times, keeping all of the characters strait. But, I was so lost in the descriptive writing that I was not put off by the changes. Overall, an epic, well-written tale of adventure and fantasy. I would happily pick up another book by K. M. Hogenson.

View all my reviews

Sugar & Spice (Spicetopia Series) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Sugar & Spice (Spicetopia Book 1)Sugar & Spice by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sugar and Spice is the first book I’ve read by Phoebe Alexander and I cannot wait to read more! Sugar and Spice is the first book in the Spicetopia series and it was a great way to start. The characters are fabulously flawed and realistic. The growth of the two main characters, Jolie and Cy, is refreshing in a spicy romance. There is drama, romance, connection, and just the right amount of spice. It makes you think twice about what happens behind the scenes at family-friendly parks! While the majority of the story takes place within the park limits of Sweetopia, I felt the world building was spot on! I could see the distinct difference between the regular employee areas and the opulence of the management areas. Overall, this book exceeded my expectations and the ending made me anxious for the next in the series!

View all my reviews

Family Ties Family Lies by Jacqueline Boulden – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Family Ties Family LiesFamily Ties Family Lies by Jacqueline Boulden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jacqueline Boulden is a first time author for me so I wasn’t really sure what to expect. Family Ties Family Lies is a suspenseful, family drama with lots of twists to keep you on your toes. Starting with Rose’s possible career ending injury, leading into her mother’s cancer diagnosis, and moving into the exposure of a life altering family secret, there is so much information to absorb. Boulden does a great job world building, from the hustle of city life to the slow, small town living. The characters are so perfectly imperfect that I couldn’t help but become invested in them. Overall, the story was great but I felt like the pace was a little slower than I would have liked. I felt myself drifting away from the story a time or two. I will definitely be looking into other titles by Jacqueline Boulden.

View all my reviews

Basil (Silver Springs Pets Series) by K. Rose – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

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

I was not prepared for the story that is Basil! The curvy biochemist, Basil, becomes a sparkly, vegan vampire. Once she figures out how to survive with her dietary restrictions, a whole new adventure begins. Basil’s mates (yes, plural) are supernatural beings that I honestly never would have thought of, but am completely on board for. K. Rose delivers romance, drama, humor, a little suspense, and a whole lot of entertainment! The characters are so unique and delightful and I couldn’t help but fall in love with them! With plenty of steamy moments between Basil and her 3 men, there was still a plot involved as well. The world building was fun and colorful and transported the reader to the supernatural community of Silver Springs. Basil is part of the multi-author series, Silver Springs Pets. I haven’t read any of the other books, but may have to check them out. And I will definitely be looking for more books by K. Rose.

View all my reviews

Dark Sky at Dawn (Free Men and Dreamers Book 1) by L.C. Lewis – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Dark Sky at Dawn (Free Men and Dreamers, #1)Dark Sky at Dawn by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dark Sky at Dawn is the first Volume in a 5-book historical fiction series, Free Men and Dreamers. This is an amazing start to the series. L. C. Lewis uses vibrant world building to show the reader what life would have been like in America leading up to the War of 1812. I was transported to America in the early 1800s, rode along with Jed tasked with the difficult duty of purchasing slaves off the boat from Africa in order to build up the Willows Estate, and overheard corrupt conversation in England between those interested in taking back America. Lewis’s writing drew me in from the start and had me reading until the wee hours of the morning. Her characters are so strikingly realistic that it seems as if she must have time traveled to create such characters. As with other books by this author, it feels as though L. C. Lewis has done countless research into the time period. From romance to slavery, secrets to spirituality, corruption, greed, and war; Dark Sky at Dawn has it all! This book created such powerful emotions within me that it was difficult to conceal my thoughts while reading. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series!

View all my reviews

Curse of the Forbidden Island by C.A. King – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Curse of Forbidden IslandCurse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have become such a fan of C. A. King so I was excited for this one; Curse of the Forbidden Island did not disappoint. Although it is a very quick, short read, there is still the same great world building I have come to expect from C. A. King. I could see the waves breaking on the sand, feel the heat from the sun, and felt the cool night breeze on my face. This paranormal romance is different from others I have read, but it’s precisely why it stands out to me. There was mystery, hints of ancient curses, steamy interludes, and a touch of the paranormal. I was kept guessing to the very end, which came way too soon for me, but enjoyed it nonetheless. Selene was a character I connected with from the start. Her luck is nothing but bad until she takes the job on the mysterious, yet intriguing, Forbidden Island. Great read by C. A. King!

View all my reviews

Cutter: Devils’ Spawn Daddies (Book 1) by Victoria Sanccenti — Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Cutter: Devils' Spawn DaddiesCutter: Devils’ Spawn Daddies by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Victoria Sanccenti is a first time author for me so I didn’t know what to expect from Cutter. I was pleasantly surprised by the fluidity of the story. Everything flowed really well together and the story didn’t feel slow or repetitive. I was a little taken aback with the whole Daddy Dominant/Little (Middle) Girl dynamic as I’ve never read anything dealing with it. The steamy scenes between Emily’s Middle and Cutter’s Daddy had me feeling a bit unpleasant, but the other spicy scenes were okay. I felt the author did a pretty good job explaining some of the dynamic between the two characters. I felt there was a lot more of the relationship in the story and not as much of the MC side that I was expecting. But, there was still drama, twists and turns, danger, and romance. While the spicy dynamic wasn’t quite my thing, the story was well-written with great world building and amazing characters. I would definitely read more by Victoria Sanccenti.

View all my reviews

Fashionably Fake (Kings of Screen Series) by Morgana Bevan – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Fashionably FakeFashionably Fake by Morgana Bevan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fashionably Fake is the 4th book in the Kings of Screen Series. They can all be read as a standalone and I really don’t think the reader misses anything reading them out of order. Morgana Bevan does an amazing job connecting the stories together and giving important information without making it seem like the reader has missed something. I have read another book in this series so I was really looking forward to this one. I was not disappointed. There is so much in this quick, fun, easy read; there is romance, intense chemistry, and tons of drama. The characters are fun, flirty, and sassy and fairly believable. There were a few instances throughout the book where Ros and Jackson seemed to be thinking in circles and it felt like the momentum of the story stalls briefly, but otherwise, the story had a nice flow and lots of good world building. I love the dual point of views through the eyes of both Ros and Jackson. It’s always nice to see things from another’s perspective. I look forward to reading more books by Morgana Bevan.

View all my reviews

Group Hug by Ariella Talix – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

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

In this MMF romance, three is not a crowd, it’s just right! Ariella Talix is a first time author for me, but I was intrigued by the synopsis. I jumped head first into Group Hug and I’m really glad I did. Fate and a touch of desperation bring the main characters together as roommates. Weston, Callum, and Petra, along with their lovable canine companions are pleasantly thrust together. This book has just the right amount of spice along with romance, humor, and a touch of fear, heartache, and loss. There were moments that shocked me, moments that angered me, and moments where I had to pick my jaw up off the floor. The characters were pretty realistic, believable, and definitely lovable and I found myself fully invested in their relationship and happiness with one another. Ariella Talix’s world building was spot on. I could see the layout of Weston’s house in Carmel in my mind, picture the Chicago landscape, and feel the love and affection between the main characters. I can’t wait to read more books by Ariella Talix!

View all my reviews

Shifter Shorts by TK Lawyer – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Shifter ShortsShifter Shorts by T.K. Lawyer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

T. K. Lawyer is a first time author for me so I was excited to read something new. I loved the fact there were 6 very different short shifter stories; it wasn’t just normal shifter stories. There is a big cat, a gargoyle, a Hellhound, a dragon/vampire hybrid, a wolf, and a great white shifter. All very different, and several I’ve never even thought of or seen in other stories. The characters were a little underdeveloped, but that could just be because they were all sort sorry stories. The world building was pretty good, even with the shortened length. The reader is transported into forests, cities, the ocean, and even the underworld itself all through the storytelling of T. K. Lawyer. Some of the stories I would love to see as full length books and a couple are definitely better left as short stories. Overall, a quick, interesting read by an author I wouldn’t mind checking out more from.

View all my reviews

Savage Start: A High School Bully Romance Prequel (Hidden Valley Elite Series) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Savage Start (Hidden Valley Elite #0.5)Savage Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I did things kind of backwards and read the entire Hidden Valley Elite Series before I read Savage Start, the prequel to them all. However, knowing the rest of the stories did not take away from the excitement and thrills of this one. Isla Vaughn starts this series off right with the introduction of some amazing characters. From the first page, the characters come to life; their struggles, emotions, and passion capture the reader’s attention. The world building of Isla Vaughn is spectacular! The reader is transported through the pages into the world of the Elite; the California coastline, beachside mansions, and parties at those mansions all come to life with her words! This book definitely gave me more insight into the timeline and background of Cole and Riley’s tumultuous relationship. Overall, another great read by Isla Vaughn! I can’t recommend this series enough, but definitely start with this one before moving on to the rest.

View all my reviews

The Marcy Series Box Set: Books 1-3 by Linda J. Burson – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

The Marcy Series Box Set: Books 1-3The Marcy Series Box Set: Books 1-3 by Linda Burson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This box set contains Books 1-3 in The Marcy Series. Book One is Rage, Book Two is Confusion, and Book Three is Agony and Ecstasy. I was very excited to read this box set, but found myself not interested in it in the long run. While the characters are fairly realistic and the world building is pretty good, I felt the story itself and the dialog between characters were often repetitive and fluffy. I feel like the story in all three books were lacking depth and grit. It also seemed like a very slow read; not what I was expecting in a suspense story. I found the dreams Marcy has been having to be fairly interesting, and the premise that our subconscious has a profound impact on our waking, conscious world. In Marcy’s case, she becomes very short tempered and irritable with those around her. Who wouldn’t be irritated with very little sleep? But, it begins to affect all of her relationships, including the almost too perfect relationship between her and Brad. Their break up and make up roller coaster just made the irritation in me surface. Things seem to be overly dramatic when they didn’t need to be. Overall, a decently written book with okay characters and a lengthy storyline.

View all my reviews

The Uncrowned King (The Blood Prince Series) by Ayla Marie – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

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

The Uncrowned King is the second book in The Blood Prince Series by Ayla Marie and it is just as exciting and emotional as the first! This book continues where the first left off and finds Leo and his family in Arkezo, the home of his father and other blood relatives. Leo, Cael, and the others are trying to navigate a new city, lots of new information regarding Leo’s lineage and the history between the different people, as well as dealing with more loss. At times, I almost felt overwhelmed with emotion myself. There are just as many twists and turns in this story as the first and it kept me on the edge of my seat the entire book! Ayla Marie’s world building is spectacular! The sights, sounds, and smells of the city permeate off the page to transport the reader into the story. Not to give too much away, but it seems as though Leo’s story will continue and I am anxiously awaiting when it does!

View all my reviews

The Blood Prince by Ayla Marie – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

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

Ayla Marie is a new author for me, and definitely one I will read again! The Blood Prince is the first of two books focused on Leo and his family. There is so much more emotion in this book than I was suspecting. Leo’s bond with his siblings is so pure and they are all so protective of one another; it’s amazing to feel through the pages of a book. The characters are so realistically flawed and believable that I couldn’t help but feel connected to them somehow. This young adult fantasy was not a quick read, but rather, one to curl up with and immerse yourself in. The world building of Ayla Marie is as fantastical as the content of the story! I found myself walking through the woods with the Hael family, wandering the filthy streets of Somereil, and exploring the wonder of the city of Wate. There were so many twists to this adventure that I was kept on my toes throughout the entirety of the book. I cannot wait to read the next book!

View all my reviews

Recipe For Revenge (An April May Cozy Mystery Book 2) by Hazel Smith – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery (An April May Cozy Mystery Book Book 2)Recipe For Revenge: An Unputdownable Small Town Cozy Murder Mystery by Hazel Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hazel Smith is a first time author for me, and I was unsure what to expect. I love a good mystery but haven’t read many cozy mysteries, so was anxious to read a new author and rarely read genre. I was pleasantly surprised to find out how much I enjoyed Recipe for Revenge. The world building is well written and descriptive enough that I found myself wandering the forest with April, searching for clues to solve her next mystery. The characters were realistic, believable, and easy to connect with. I did not realize until over halfway through this book that it was the second in a series, so it can certainly be read as a standalone. This book has a little bit of everything; romance, suspense, small town life, yummy baked goods, and a fearlessly independent heroine. While there are many facets to this story, none detract from the others. Overall, this was a quick, entertaining read that I would definitely recommend.

View all my reviews

Wicked Ends: A Dark College Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Series, Book 8 ) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Wicked Ends (Hidden Valley Elite #8)Wicked Ends by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh my gosh! What an ending! Not only was Wicked Ends the conclusion to Shane and Winter’s story, but the entire Hidden Valley Elite Series. What a bittersweet moment reading the last few pages of this one. Isla Vaughn draws the reader in with superb world building; I could feel what the characters were feeling, I could see the world around them, and I connected with the characters. There is so much drama, suspense, passion, hate, and love in this book and it kept me on my toes! To say I was invested in not only this book, but the entire series, would be a supreme understatement. I was so worried and anxious for Winter not only being kidnapped, but dealing with the events of her past. There was so much growth in this whole series, and I love it! The Elite boys learn, grow, and become men and it is so wholesome and satisfying. Despite all the struggles throughout the books, this series ends in happiness! I can’t wait to see what Isla Vaughn delivers after this!

View all my reviews

Grave Digger Academy IV (Grave Digger Academy Series) by C.A. King – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

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

C. A. King delivers a great, quick read in Grave Digger Academy IV. Makayla returns to an even more changed Academy than before; one run by someone other than Mary Meet. There are lots of new faces as well as old ones, but none Makayla can truly trust. Yet, she pushes on to find answers. Information comes to light about Makayla’s family as well as the history behind the banishing of necromancy. This information links well with information from previous books and it is fascinating to see how those connections tie everything together. The detail in this book is amazing, even with being such a fast read. I felt like I was right there with Makayla on her journey. I feel like I’ve become connected to the characters in this series, especially Makayla, and I’m anxiously awaiting the continuation of this story in the next book!

View all my reviews

Orenda (The Latitude Series) by T.S. Simons – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

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

If you haven’t read The Antipodes Series or the first book in The Latitude Series I highly recommend you do so. It has been a little while since I read the other books so I had to skim through to brush up on some information. The books all follow the events of the previous books and skipping them means missing important information. The same wonderfully realistic and believable characters return. I could feel the love between Caitlin and Gio, the emotions tangible throughout the entirety of Orenda. T. S. Simons uses the same amazing, descriptive writing I’ve come to expect from her. The whole dystopian world is almost eerily realistic in the fact that challenges, drama, and tragedy mimic our own. I also love how Simons incorporates different beliefs into her writing. I cannot wait to read more!

View all my reviews

Grave Digger Academy III (Grave Digger Academy Series) by C.A. King – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

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

I was very excited to continue the Grave Digger Academy series by C. A. King! The third installment did not disappoint. Many of the same characters return, but things are very different at the Academy with many students and faculty leaving. This book started out a little slower but I believe all of the information learned will be beneficial in the long run. We are introduced to more helpers and find out Makayla may be much more than she seems. The Crones have Makayla and the Academy in their sites and seem determined to bring both down. But, with many of her old friends missing this year, Makayla finds her own strengths and magic within her isolation. The same great world building is used and I’ve become so invested in the characters. I cannot wait for the fourth book!

View all my reviews

Quick Affirmations for Children (Quick Affirmations Series) by Kim Ann & Yobe Qiu – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Quick Affirmations for Children: A to Z of Easy Motivations for Creating Better days - Positive Affirmations for Happy ChildrenQuick Affirmations for Children: A to Z of Easy Motivations for Creating Better days – Positive Affirmations for Happy Children by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Quick Affirmations for Children is such a wonderful book by Kim Ann! Not only are the affirmations easy enough for small children to understand, the illustrations are vivid and appealing for children and adults alike. The contrast between the affirmations and the other words helps bring focus to the important words. As a mother and preschool teacher, I love how positive and upbeat this book is. Not only can this book help teach confidence and self-love but kindness and empathy. It is also helpful in teaching the alphabet! The target audience for Quick Affirmations for Children is 3-6 year olds, but I believe that children and adults of all ages can benefit from this book!

View all my reviews

The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 2) by K. L. Small – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series, Book 2)The Christmas Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Christmas Carousel by K. L. Small was just as exciting and adventurous as the first book in The Brass Ring Series! This carousel adventure finds Rusty getting ready for the holiday season several months after the ending of The Magic Carousel. Grandpa’s health has slowly declined and Rusty searches for the perfect gift for him. The Christmas Carousel is set up at the local mall and more exciting, magical things happen when Rusty begins to ride. This book is so heartfelt, sweet, and touches, again, on some tough topics such as Alzheimer’s Disease. It also explores the true meaning of the Christmas season. The same realistic, believable characters return in this book and I found myself connecting with Rusty and his family as if they were my own. Such a wonderful, quick read by K. L. Small!

View all my reviews

Themes of Kismet by A. Akinosho – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Themes OF Kismet: A Multicultural Meet Cute RomanceThemes OF Kismet: A Multicultural Meet Cute Romance by A Akinosho
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Themes of Kismet was not quite what I expected. I had high hopes due to the intriguing premise of it being about kismet. The story was there but I felt like it didn’t flow very smoothly. It was very disjointed and I felt like the author repeated many things over and over. The characters were very lovable and realistic, but seemed almost larger than life. Not many individuals can travel the globe as frequently as these characters nor find themselves in the midst of receiving death threats. Overall, I did like the book, but I wish it had more substance and more to the ending, as I felt like the conclusion came rather quickly in relation to the rest of the book. I would definitely like to see more books with this kind of story line though.

View all my reviews

Wicked Games (Hidden Valley Elite Book 7) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Wicked Games (Hidden Valley Elite #7)Wicked Games by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book 7 in the Hidden Valley Elite Series, Wicked Games exceeded my expectations. After reading the first 6 books in the series, I had high hopes for this one, since it seems to be coming up on the end of the series. Isla Vaughn did not disappoint. Excellent world building and solid, fluid writing, coupled with suspense, drama, and so many twists and turns make the world of Thane University come to life. The same great characters return and are, once again, thrown into some heavy stuff. Shane and Winter not only have a wicked history with one another, but seem destined to be torn apart before truths can be revealed. The cliffhanger at the end of Wicked Games took me by surprise and left me biting my nails until the 8th book is released!

View all my reviews

Necromancy the Musical by Debbie Hibbert – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Necromancy the MusicalNecromancy the Musical by Debbie Hibbert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an amazing young adult thriller! Debbie Hibbert delivers humor, suspense, drama, romance, necromancy, and dark magic all in one book! Necromancy the Musical had me on the edge of my seat from the very beginning and held me in its icy grasp the whole way through. The characters were relatable, believable, lovable, and realistic. The close relationship between CeCe and Portia is so amazing; every girl needs a friend soul mate like that. And the little added romantic elements between Portia and Devin and CeCe and Zach are just so pure and sweet. Even if Zach and CeCe must contend with their added magical elements. The world building was spot on; I mean, it’s not easy to “show” the reader what it’s like to be pulled into a “black magic ocean.” But I could feel the waves lapping at my feet. This book is great for any young adult or adult alike who enjoys magic, fun, and mystery! I really hope there is more to come from Debbie Hibbert!

View all my reviews

Whisper Creek (Logan McKenna Mystery Book 7) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

Whisper Creek (A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 7)Whisper Creek by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Valerie Davisson delivers another great Logan McKenna thriller. Back in Oregon at The New School, Logan discovers a dead body. This woman keeps finding herself in the middle of the flames! This book has the same believable, realistic, perfectly imperfect characters from the previous books and you can’t help but feel connected to them. The Oregon forest comes to life with the vivid world building Davisson brings to the table. I could almost smell the pine needles and hear the owl calling. Whisper Creek was full of the same twists and turns I have come to expect from Valerie Davisson, and I absolutely love it! This book kept me second-guessing myself about who I thought the murderer was. I can’t wait to read more!

View all my reviews

My Big Red Monster (Giants and Monsters) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Mandy Ott

/0 Comments/in /by

My Big Red MonsterMy Big Red Monster by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My Big Red Monster was an easy to read, colorfully illustrated adventure into the nightmares and fears of children. Lois Wickstrom creates an imaginative take on the fear many children have of a monster hiding under the bed. The little girl in the story has a strong, red monster under her bed but her brother doesn’t believe her. She finally confronts the monster, asking, “What do you want?” The monster tells her she can tell him what to do, but if she doesn’t, he’ll eat her. The little girl gives him various chores to do, and adds one very funny twist at the end! Cleverly written and beautifully illustrated, My Big Red Monster is a must read for any little one’s bed time!

View all my reviews