Streets of Shadow by Rebecca Bischoff
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
When Kenna’s sister is murdered, all eyes are searching for Kenna. With thoughts that her brother in law killed her sister, she is on the run though the people believe her to be the murderer. In this story, Kenna learns what it is like to be your own person living with not a lot. Throughout the tale there are many twists and turns to get her there. A good read, with an easy to follow plot.
The Empty Box by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is an adorable story about a kid who receives a magical unbirthday present. The illustrations are engaging and the story line keeps you wondering what trick Caspian is going to try next with his gift.
I enjoyed how much the author left the gifts to the imagination- things that may be possible, but haven’t been invented yet, which stretches mine (and any young reader)’s imagination.
From a social emotional stand point, the book offers readers a chance to discuss delayed gratification and disappointment at an age-appropriate level. The story line is realistic with a touch of magic.
Doctor Frank Enstein by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A hot and heavy rollercoaster with a bad first impression, a doctor dealing with some skeletons in his proverbial closet and a woman who makes him face it all. A great addition to C.A’s series. Works as a standalone and is well written with a great build up. The character progression was excellent and I had a heck of a time putting it down! Really enjoyable read!
A Dress To Remember: A Fairy Tale by K.L. Small
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Fun, fast paced fantasy story filled with drama and magic. I really enjoyed this story and I am really hoping for more in the future :).
Princess Zarina wants the most beautiful dress for her upcoming Royal Advancement Ceremony and be the center of attention, spoiled and all. When Zarina’s aunt suggests a dressmaker in the forest to make her own unique dress, Zarina jumps at the chance to meet this mysterious dressmaker. When Zarina picks up her dress at first she was stunned and unhappy. This dress that was made especially for her is unique and magical. Once this dress is put on by Zarina, this leads to so many events that she ends up learning not be the spoiled princess she is entitled to but fighting for her kingdom, especially after the deaths of her parents, the King and Queen.
The magical dress has some instructions on the magic and its use, will Zarina use this to her advantage and help take back her kingdom that belongs to her family, when it boils down to someone close to her family is a traitor?
Wonderful story and recommended to young and old! Enjoyable!
Taming Brooklyn by Charlotte St. Pierre
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Why choose, multiple POV, with 4 super HOT protective men. Absolutely. Brooklyn had a past that has caused her a lot of trauma. On a night out with her BFF she finds her catching the attention of the Club Kings. They end up figuring out things about her past and don’t go running away. Each man bring something different to the table. This book is steamy, suspenseful and sweet all at the same time.
The Summer I Went Crazy by Laura Koerber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
It all starts in high school, the last year of high school to be exact and the unforgettable summer which came along with it. The first thing you need to know is that I liked to party, get drunk, get high and forget the trials and tribulations which went along with a prep school education, summers in Europe, hobnobbing with the elite, a future in an IVY league college and following in your families footsteps, being a high flyer and successful.
One party in particular that summer stands out, well two in all honesty, the first where I got way too wasted and witnessed a rape, albeit at the time, I wasn’t sure that it even was, the second was where I was abandoned by a friend in the middle of nowhere, at night and off my head, but those two parties changed everything and not in the same ways.
They both led me to girls, the first one I wanted to help and protect and the second led me to a girl I fell head over heels in love with, we broke laws, spent time in nature and she taught me why I needed to change my direction in life, it began with a phone call and it ended in a promise, now, the time has come to make another a phone call, a phone call to someone I haven’t spoken to in years and who were close, but now are strangers, but will they answer and listen to what I have to say, only time will tell? This is a story of summer love, transition, responsibility and growth, which is told through the eyes of a teenager whose expectations do not equal reality, but told with a supernatural tint which engages you with the story even more.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
His Protector by Sara Vinduska
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story is written just right. It starts out slow but not too slow and then just continues to build. It has emotions, love, action. A lot of suspense with a happily ever after ending.
Emissary: An MM Forbidden Romance by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Kai is struggling with the age asked question, follow the values of your beliefs or follow orders you don’t believe are correct.
He is an Emissary of the Celestial beings. His job is to kill demons but not every demon is what they appear. For the first time Kai could remember he is seeing a demon to have emotions of caring, loving, protectiveness. Kai isn’t sure what to do with these feelings. He is ordered to kill Byron even as he knows it is not his time. The story of Kai and Byron will take you on a journey that will keep you reading.
Emissary: An MM Forbidden Romance by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Kai is an emissary and this means that he is quite literally an Angel of Death, but instead of a scythe and a cloak, he has black feathered wings and a celestial steel sword, plus the ability to see when it is someone’s time to die, but none of that matters when it is the person you love who died and you who was responsible for it, or at least that is how Kai feels. When he is afforded a chance for redemption, he takes it, he is given the opportunity to rid the mortals of the demons plaguing them, so he takes a chance and goes to work with a Messenger, another who deals out death, but in many ways, is completely the opposite of Kai.
Byron Black is a demon and has fought to survive his whole life, but being the Demonic Martial Arts expert that he is, at least now he can use these skills to do it to support his family at the same time, it has not been an easy road, hiding from those trying to wipe his kind out, but at least for now, he has a roof over his head and his latest winnings can put some food on the table. That is until all hell breaks and his home becomes one of the latest victims of the Messengers feud against demons, he has to run and protect his family again at all costs, so when he gets the chance to give his life for theirs, he does it willingly.
Unbeknownst to either Kai or Byron, they are about to meet in an encounter which will change both their lives forever when Kai save Byron from what he feels will be his demise, but it is not yet his time and Kai will not see another innocent slaughtered of he can help it. As Byron flees, Kai believes that it will be the last time he will see the beautiful Demon, however, fate has other plans and the two meet again under similar circumstances, but will Kai be able to find out why this particular demon is such a high priority target and overcome his own demons in order to save the one he is now fighting for, or will his angelic family rip them part before they have a chance to begin? This is a steamy MM romance with a supernatural element as the battle between angels and demons rages, while love tries to find a way to being secrets out of the dark and turn darkness into light, in this high octane story which will hook you in from the very start and leave you wanting more.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
Exposed by Lea Cherry
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Amy is a Pure. A witch with magical powers of pure light. She is the only one left. Amy is on a mission to bring her mother back from limbo.
Her evil uncle has taken her mothers soul and is trying for hers as well. With so much going on. Amy, Mae, Dakin and Maveena pull together as a team to try and save the day. Hold on tight. This is going to be a bumpy ride.
The YA book was entertaining and full of action. I was brought into the story right away. The author has a wonderful and easy writing style.
Doctor Frank Enstein by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I am definitely a fan of this wonderful author and this book did not disappoint in any way. Dr Frank and Barbara are wonderful characters and the author created a fantastic storyline for them. Both dealing with very real life issues which I believe make them even more relatable to the reader. If reading a wonderful book with “real” characters and a HEA is what you’re after then this is the book for you!
Emissary: An MM Forbidden Romance by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Emissary gripped me from the very first page and never let go. Kai is an angel of death and from the moment we begin learning about him, I couldn’t get enough. He despises demons until he meets Byron. Kai couldn’t believe his eyes when he saw what he thought to be an innocent demon…because those don’t exist in his dark life. Byron has had a hard enough life, so to be spared by death was a miracle all in itself. They find an unusual match in each other, and the chemistry comes to life in this beautiful story. The author did an amazing job weaving suspense, forbidden love, and adventure all into one. I highly recommend it especially if you love MM paranormal romance! I can’t wait to see what this author has in store for us next!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
The Summer I Went Crazy by Laura Koerber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Summer I Went Crazy
By: Laura Koerber
Let me start out by stating that this book contains a trigger warning as it contains and focuses on rape. I have to say that this is a very well written book and it tackles the subject of guilt very well. This book definitely made me feel so many emotions, to the point where I was crying at various points throughout. This is something that I think is a very well written mark. I think it took a good look at how the choices we make can live with us for years past when we make the choice. I definitely recommend this, especially for those who love books that feature growth in their characters!
His Protector by Sara Vinduska
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed reading this book filled with great characters who have loads of heart and integrity that just shines through in their every action. There is just enough suspense and intrigue to keep you hooked and engaged the entire time. It is written by a simply wonderful author who apart from creating the wonderful characters I previously mentioned also weaved a creative storyline and vivid imagery that put you right into the story. I am looking forward to reading more from this author who definitely has a new fan in me!
Doctor Frank Enstein by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Doctor Frank Enstein
C.A. King
As a Grey’s Anatomy Fan, I truly had high expectations for this novella. As I do with just about every contemporary romance I read that takes place in the medical field. This one definitely rose to that expectation. In this book we meet Dr. Enstein who wants to use his abilities in plastic surgery to help the world. He wants to help those who are disfigured build their confidence. When Dr. Enstein meets Barbara he gets way more than he was expecting. Their chemistry sizzles for sure and they have a banter between them that is definitely unmatched. I definitely recommend this!
This is the second book in the Buckeye Falls Series and it was just as good as the first one! After reading the first book I was definitely intrigued by the chemistry between Cece and Evan so I was stoked to find out about this book. This book follows Evan, a few years younger than Cece, try to prove that he is worth dating and not the kid everyone treats him like. This was a nice age gap in the sense that it was not creepy and both partners discussed the way it made them feel…eventually. I think it was about 5 years and he is in his mid 20s so her turning 30 that year was not too much of a gape for it to be gross. Evan was a sweet little golden retriever and Cece was fierce and i loved it. I adored the small town setting and diner vibes. The tight knit community in Buckeye Falls is really charming in this book. I am falling for the entire town. This book is fun and light and falling for these characters was so easy. I liked the setting and the communication that went on between the two. It was pretty realistic i think to how this would play out in real life and I am glad Eric got what he deserved and Dale had his behind handed to him too. Yay for men being put in their place! I hope if there is a third book it is about Natalie.
How To Write A Historical Novel And Love It by T.L. Clark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
How to Write a Historical Novel and Love It: A Beginner’s Guide to Researching, Writing, and Publishing a Historical Book is a well-rounded how-to book. I have read several novels by this author and always enjoy attention to detail. Here all of the pieces are broken down into easy to understand bits. Clark asks questions the author should’ve thought about before delving too far into writing their novel. The different parts include thinking about what period, location, weather, clothing, who is in power, and more. On top of giving sections to think about before moving too far into the writing process, Clark also gives examples for the writer to think about. This is written in a conversational form and allows one to read quickly. Also, because of the setup, it would be easy to go back and reference specific sections while writing. I thought this is a well-thought out handy book to keep if I ever start to write my historical novel.
The Summer I Went Crazy by Laura Koerber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Summer I Went Crazy by Laura Koerber
3.5 out of 5 Stars
The first thing I have to say is The Summer I Went Crazy is not for everyone. There are some situations and topics that can be triggering for some readers. Now that we covered that part I have to say that this is a well written story. This is a book full of twists that will keep you on your toes. It was almost impossible to put down. The story is so well written that many times I was so angry at situations and wanted to throw something at the characters because of how real it felt. I think this is definitely a great story if you are able to handle the hard topics at hand.
Doctor Frank Enstein by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Doctor Frank Enstein by CA King is one of 13 new contemporary romance books in the second season of Doctors of Eastport General Series where each book is written by different authors. They are all standalones books but you may see some characters from some of your old favourites from the first season.
Dip your toes into the happenings of the Eastport General Rhode Island where a veritable smorgasbord of HOT new naughty ER Physicians, Surgeons, Specialists, Residents, and patients shenanigans. The characters are passionate about their jobs and fun loving and full of charm.
Doctor Frank Enstein got into his job to make a difference but will he be derailed by one busty woman? Want a story that is sexy and full of desire? A story that is entertaining, flirty, and where sparks fly? Let’s not forget it also comes with a little drama, some steam and fun.
I recommend you settle in for some me time and read this short story to find out what happens.
As I said before think McDreamy and McSteamy from Grey’s Anatomy…… This is one series I intend to devour. I am off to see what the other books have to offer.
Reviewed by @jennadb
His Protector by Sara Vinduska
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this entertaining and engaging romantic suspense, which kept me hooked throughout. President Jack Amborn is left grieving the death of his wife and unborn child, following a botched assassination attempt. Although the assassin is still at large, he’s determined to carryout his Presidential duties, after all that’s what his expert security detail is for, to keep him from harm. That job goes to Secret Service agent Ginger Carver who has literally spent her life preparing for this job. She has put in endless hours, and meticulous planning and constant vigilance are second nature to her. However, she never planned for falling in love with the man that she’s duty-bound to protect! This is an action packed story, with great characters and a refreshing storyline, having a female protector for a change. I loved the chemistry between Jack and Ginger, and how their slow burn romance developed. Meanwhile, the plot twists kept me guessing as to the outcome of the story.
Ale’s Fair in Love and War by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a laugh-out-loud story of 2 business owners who are enemies who use pranks to war with each other. The chemistry between Cash and Hollis is off the charts, and the level of sass and snark between Cash and Hollis is amazing! I very much enjoyed this story and cannot wait for Carter’s story!
His Protector by Sara Vinduska
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a good story that was definitely all about the characters. They had a great connection right from the start that really draws the reader in. The book is action packed and, even though it is spread over the course of 5 years, it is pretty fast paced. I enjoyed watching the relationship between the characters develop over time. This is a new author to me and I liked the flow of the book and the style of writing she used. I enjoyed this book and will be sure to read more from her in the future.
Doctor Frank Enstein by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
It seems not matter what this author turns her hand to it is a complete success. This book is the second one she has written as part of these collaborations and it is just as good as her other one. Part of what I like about this book so much is that it is so different from other books that this author has written. I connected with the story so easily and, as usual, I couldn’t stop reading until I had finished the book. The story was well thought out with some brilliant characters. There was so much more to this story than you would think initially and it was created with such ease from the author. This is a fantastic book that I would highly recommend to anyone.
Creatures of the Night by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is one of my favourite genres, so I went in already expecting to enjoy it, but I didn’t realise how much I’d love it! It has everything I love – romance, magic, supernatural creatures, danger and mystery.
There were many unique elements to the story and the author was able to create a vivid world with characters that felt real. When reading numerous scenes, I almost felt like I had stepped into the book to journey alongside the main character Zoe. In addition to the great world building, the writing flowed well which made reading this even more enjoyable.
Zoe is an intelligent and strong woman who has great character progression as she begins to question what she was taught to believe. She grows into her own person, and I was emotionally investing in her journey and how the relationships with her family and newer connections she made evolve over time.
If dark paranormal stories are your thing, I would certainly recommend this book.
Spirit Guide by Byrd Nash
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is not my typical genre. This is a historical mystery/mystical fantasy kind of thing.The plot keeps you hooked and wanting more. The characters are well developed. It’s the third book in the series, so I recommend starting from the beginning but that’s just me. I normally would start with book one and now I must go read the other two. This turned out to be a pretty good book.
Emissary by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this mm romance. It has all the elements I love for a paranormal romance. The danger and the secrets and lies to be uncovered. The author does an amazing job of bringing the characters and the story to life and I love the play on angels and demons. Sworn enemies so we are always told.
Kai and Byron story is a very deep and emotional journey. Both of them have had troubled pasts and both are struggling to find their way in the world. The one thing that makes them the same is the attraction they feel towards each other even though one is an angel and one a demon.
Kai is the angel of death. He has been sent to earth the keep the humans safe by getting the demons under control. Kai also has his own demons to fight. After losing his true love he is finding it hard to carry on and struggling to get through day by day. That is until he meets Byron.
Byron is a demon fighter. He’s had a tough upbringing too and has struggled to make it where he is today. When Kai and Byron meet the connection is instant but there is one problem Byron is the demon that Kai is supposed to destroy.
Who wants Byron killed? Is it someone from his past or present? Can Kai destroy the only other person he has feelings for since he lost his true love. And what would the consequences be if he let his heart decide?
This story is action packed, full of twists and secrets that I just didn’t see coming.
His Protector by Sara Vinduska
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
His Protector is a wonderful, romance full of suspense, courage, and strength. Jack Amborn has lost everything he loves. Ginger Carver has taken an oath to protect, Jack.
The characters are well-written and the tension between the two is palpable. While I won’t give away any details of the story, I will say that it is a must read, and kept me hooked from the first sentence to the last. I’m looking forward to reading more by Sara Vinduska.
His Protector by Sara Vinduska
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is great! I was hooked reading from the first chapter. The roles are reversed in this book, which I really liked. President Jack Amborn has recently lost everything, when there is a threat on his life. S.S. agent Ginger has to protect the president before he gets taken out. Along the way she falls for him. This books spans across a few years. It shows their ups/downs and their relationship blooming. Can she save him while keeping her feelings from getting in the way?
Mission 3047 by Stuart Ledwith PhD
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
First of all, let me start by saying this is not usually the type of genre that I am into, with that being said, I will say that this book was an interesting read. It had a weird vibe to it, but like weird in a good way. I found the story had a fun vibe to it in regard to the storyline of June and Sarge going on missions to help the aliens. I mean…come on…it has aliens, what’s not interesting about aliens! It was nice to see that June’s kids, Cora and Liv were involved in the story and weren’t just introduced and then not really mentioned again. The girls both seemed like great girls, who were very intelligent, especially when it came to the work Liv was doing to help her dad. I did find that the relationship June had was odd and did find myself thinking it was weird that she was with Sarge, they came off as having more than just a partner relationship and friendship. All in all, I found that it was a fun story with adventures they all have, the research that was done, and the unique characters that are introduced along the way.
Mary Espinoza, March 2023
