Posts

Concert Hall Hit (A Darcy Gaughan Mystery) by J.C. Kenney – Review by Christine Baranek

Concert Hall Hit: A Darcy Gaughan MysteryConcert Hall Hit: A Darcy Gaughan Mystery by J.C. Kenney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Concert Hall Hit
By: J.C. Kenney

This is such a fun small town mystery. I definitely enjoyed every second of reading it. In this mystery Darcy must work to clear her good name. She has been falsely accused of the murder of a famous musician. I loved all the music references found throughout the book. I definitely recommend reading this one as it was definitely enjoyable!

View all my reviews

Three Women in November by Jim Shomos – Review by Julie Johnson

Three Women in NovemberThree Women in November by Jim Shomos
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a based-on-a-true-story of the author’s quest to find love. He’s a divorced dad of boys who lives in Austrailia and he’s ready to move on with his life.

He first meets Zoya, who is a super ambitious business woman. She’s a bit crazy though and has bouts of anger and lashes out at the weirdest of times. Zoya and Leo have good chemistry, until everything blows up and Zoya admits a huge goal that does not interest Leo.

Next is Aysha. She’s a therapist and there is an ethical dilemma with them forming a relationship. However, after the pre-determined time passes, they are free to do whatever they wish.

Last is Jade. She’s still trying to recover from a failed marriage and treading a new pathway for herself. Her kids need to come first and then there’s the semi-ex-husband, who seems to keep popping up.

This book just wasn’t for me. I felt this was really superficial and almost like a bad high school play. I think Leo’s only redeeming grace in this story is his love for music and poetry. He seems like a real romantic but it had a feel to it that just didn’t attract me to this story at all.

View all my reviews

Savage Truth (Hidden Valley Elite Book 2) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tausha Treadway

Savage Truth: A High School Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 2)Savage Truth: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Savage Truth (Hidden Valley Elite Book 2) by Isla Vaughn. This is the second book in the Hidden Valley Elite Series and its so good. Its the continuation of Riley & Cole’s story and its intense. Its the conclusion of their story and boy is it good. Riley has ever only known running and hiding and she’s always tried to stick to the rules. Cole just wants Riley and her mom out of his life but he’s blinded by the emotions he has for Riley. He doesn’t understand them and wants them gone. Cole has never felt anything more than physical but with Riley its totally different. When Riley finds out who Cole’s dad is and the fact that he has plans for Riley she immediately wants to run but her mom says no. They are finally going to stay and live their lives. Can Cole and Riley get over their hate for each other to work together and maybe even find out they like each other….a lot? Read this amazing book to find out what happens!

View all my reviews

Punk (Popov Boys Book 6) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by Christine Baranek

Punk (Popov Bratva #6)Punk by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Punk
By: Leslie Georgeson

This is the newest book in the Popov Boys Series. Once again I have no complaints about this book other than I wasn’t ready for it to be over. I love this series and I truly love how well written these characters are and how detailed the plot lines get into the mafia life. Efrem’s goes out as Punk at night and hunts criminals to turn them over to the police. Miranda is definitely a strong female character. She has gone through so much. The last thing she expects is to fall for PUNK, but here she is. Can they get past their age differences to make things work?
Once again this is a fantastic book in the series. I definitely have enjoyed each and every one and recommend reading them!

View all my reviews

Beast (Popov Bratva Book 5) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by Christine Baranek

Beast (Popov Boys #5)Beast by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beast
By: Leslie Georgeson

Andrik is such an amazing character. He has definitely been dealt a hard hand and he is very judged by his looks. He has lived a very hard life and has not had anything handed to him. He joined the Popov Bravata and works his way very hard to earn his way up the ranks. In the earns himself a very special assignment, guarding the boss’ daughter. Who also happens to be the girl he has had a crush on in nearly forever. Annika is not a normal Bravata princess, she loves her piano more than people and is confined to a wheelchair. The two develop feelings for each other, however, Andrik fails at his duty to protect her. This turns their lives on their heads again.
Once again this mafia story is fantastic. I cannot recommend this series enough. It is filled with steam, suspense and twists and turns!

View all my reviews

Thief (Popov Bratva Book 4) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by Christine Baranek

Thief (Popov Boys #4)Thief by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Thief
By: Leslie Georgeson

This is the first book of the Popov Boys series that I have read. But I can definitely promise you it will not be the last. I will be reading each and every one to learn more of each of the boys. This book goes between the perspectives of Dominick and Leah. Sometimes I can find this dual perspective storytelling to be jarring. However, if it is done well, it can be one of the most enjoyable forms of storytelling. In this case, this is what I enjoyed about this story. Dominick is part of the famed Popov family and he has always prided himself on never getting attached to anyone. Leah is a country music star. Their paths cross and from there the book becomes impossible to put down. I definitely recommend reading this story and I will be reading all the rest of the Popov Boys Series in the future!

View all my reviews

I’ll Love You Tomorrow (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 3) by Julie Navickas – Review by Shannon Fowler

I'll Love You Tomorrow (The Trading Heartbeats Trilogy #3)I’ll Love You Tomorrow by Julie Navickas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another sweet story by this author. However, it does not start out sweet. In fact it reeks of divorce and sadness. This story is a little heartbreaking but so very true showing us the trials of married life and letting “life” just pass on by.

Mitch and Lauren have been together for YEARS. And their story shows how those closest to us can be the first ones to be neglected. Relationships take work, marriages take work. Mitch said “But I don’t think either of us can deny that we’ve been together for so long, we’ve lost ourselves along the way.”

This story tears Mitch and Lauren down and then builds them right back up. It’s not easy. But man is it so worth it. “People grow and people change. But in the end, our soulmates are the ones who help us find our own souls.”

This is the third story in this trilogy and should be read in order as each story refers to characters from the other books.

Looking forward to what else this author gives us!

View all my reviews

 

Reviewed by @shannonlovesbooks

Consigliere’s Revenge (Sicilian Gods Book 3) by Via Mari – Review by Anna Hirsch

Consigliere's Revenge: Dark Mafia Romance (Sicilian Gods Book 3)Consigliere’s Revenge: Dark Mafia Romance by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Consigliere’s Revenge (Sicilian Gods Book 3) by Via Mari
5 Stars

This series is amazing! This is book three and although it can be read as a stand-alone, I suggest reading them all. Not only will you get a better understanding of the back story but they are so good.

This book centres on Lorenzo and Isabella. She is a head strong, driven journalist who through her stories hopes to bring down the family. Yet she is a reporter with integrity, only wanting to reveal the truth. With some personal issues behind what she does, she walks courageously into dangerous situations.

Lorenzo, being the consigliere, is always watching to protect the family. Getting rid of this nosy reporter is top on his list. She already knows too much and is smart enough to uncover more. Although he knows he should bury her, he can’t fight the attraction.

This is another book filled with danger, secrets, action and passion. It will keep you on the edge of your seat. The chemistry between the two main characters is off the charts. I loved them both. This is a fantastic addition to the series that I highly recommend.

Review by @Anna Hirsch
View all my reviews

Where Fire Meets Flame (Yours From The Ashes Book 1) by Elena Kincaid – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Where Fire Meets Flame (Yours From the Ashes, #1)Where Fire Meets Flame by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was an easy to read, short romance which focused on Tristan the firefighter and Riley the private detective.

I thought the characters were well-written, especially as the story is told from both perspectives, and felt that the tougher subjects in the plot were approached respectfully; however, I felt that there were parts which appeared to be a little underdeveloped.

I enjoyed the plot, it was a unique idea and considering the length of the book and the events which take place, the author did a great job. I strongly believe that had the story been a little longer, the author would have been able to provide the depth necessary to take this from a good read, to an incredible one.

I absolutely loved the characters. Tristan’s strength and protectiveness whilst also being sensitive and unafraid to display emotions won me over. I also loved Riley’s strength and independence, but mostly I loved that her career was one that is usually reserved for the men in these types of books. The chemistry between the pair kept me rooting for the couple in the face of the dangers they faced. That paired with the steam, great!

Overall, I enjoyed reading this and would consider reading it again in future, but I feel that an increase in length would have allowed for further development which would have made all the difference.

View all my reviews

The Vassal of Magic (The Virus of Beauty Book 3) by C.B. Lyall – Review by Kerry Baker

The Vassal of Magic (Virus of Beauty, #3)The Vassal of Magic by C.B. Lyall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is the continuation of great series and I was excited to pick up this latest instalment. I wanted to see how things would turn out for the characters and become involved in their adventures again. This book was just as exciting as the others and I reconnected with the characters without issue. I was pulled along on their journey.
As the final book in the trilogy it was a great way to end it all. Although I can definitely say I hope the author will produce more within this series as it really was so good.

View all my reviews

The First Sin ( South of Eden ) Audiobook by Lisa Beth Darling – Review by Caralee Loonat

I love finding new authors and new sort of twists on old tales. This was exactly the audiobook I needed. I love how the author is able to twist the tale of creation. The author brings the characters to life and brings the twist and turns along for the ride. I really could not stop listening to this book. The narrator brought so much to the characters and story. I really love how the story unfolds. Just when you thought you knew how creation started this book really adds a spice and flavour to the story bringing the listener along for the ride. I thoroughly got lost in this audiobook and cannot wait to hear more from this author.

Reviewed by @caraleeloonat

Small Fry by Stephenie Wilson Peterson – Review by Kerry Baker

Small FrySmall Fry by Stephenie Wilson Peterson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When I first started reading this book I thought it was going to be a fairy light hearted and feel good story of a young boy overcoming challenges and “defeating” a bully. This book was so much more than that, and so much more emotional than I thought it would be. It was the relationship between Silas and his grandfather that stood out to me the most. It was beautiful and heart breaking at the same time and I loved everything about it.
I have only read a few books by this author so far but this one is definitely my favourite. I am hard pushed to see how another will beat this. I would urge everyone to read this book.

View all my reviews

Where Fire Meets Flame (Yours From The Ashes Book 1) by Elena Kincaid – Review by Katie Matthews

Where Fire Meets Flame (Yours From the Ashes, #1)Where Fire Meets Flame by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I think it’s safe to say that this story definitely lives up to its title! This might have been a short read but it was jam packed full of action from the very first page. Riley and Tristan had so much chemistry and I loved Riley so much! She was a brilliant female lead. Tristan had the sexy firefighter vibe going on so I was swooning over him from the moment I met him! Both characters had their past issues – some a little crazier than others. I would definitely have loved this book to have been longer, the characters were great and the potential for their story to be longer and a bit more detailed was definitely there. I am really looking forward to reading more from this author in the future!

@katiem
View all my reviews

Euphoric Wonderland by Ryan M. Becker-Reviewed by May Leadstone

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: 4 of 5 stars

It has been a while since I’ve poetry, but the experience that I had with this collection was entertaining. The journey the author gives of their experiences( the good, tragic, and kaleidoscopic) is definitely present, and I literally felt the journey inside my soul. The biography poem that he wrote certainly had me grabbing a dictionary to try and experience the poem as he worded it! I always love discovering new words. As I encountered his first round of poems I definitely connected with the different ties of within ourselves and not that all is good and grand. The flow had me up and down, as well as reflecting on my own things that hide in the shadow, or that I have divided into more than myself. The graphics within the books do the poems justice and allow for you to peek in the author’s headspace a little more, but also allowed me to see myself in the pieces, or possibly could see. Some of my favorite pieces are the Beatle’s Connections! I don’t particularly like the Beatles, but you can see how it brings out the best in the author! The happy and uplifting tones and descriptions, along with the bright colors and graphics REALLY allow the reader to enjoy them! Read the collection and allow yourself to have an open mind!

View all my reviews

Small Fry by Stephenie Wilson Peterson – Review by Katie Matthews

Small FrySmall Fry by Stephenie Wilson Peterson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was such a sweet read, even though it’s a children’s book I loved it so much. Silas was such an adorable character and I just loved his attitude towards everything. I can see how passionate the author was about this book when she wrote it, it shines through on every single page and through the characters. I loved the email part to the story between Silas and his Grandfather, for some reason it felt so personal and made everything seem so much more relatable. I love how many talking points this book has for children.
This really was a lovely read and I would highly recommend it.

@katiem
View all my reviews

Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Katie Matthews

Raising ElleRaising Elle by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love a Western Romance read and I’m so glad I stumbled across this one! It was a great read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The emotions of the characters just poured off the pages and I could really feel what they were feeling at times. Elle was such an inspirational character to read about, I really feel like the author took her time when planning and writing about Elle, she took a very sensitive and triggering issue and really wrote about it well and with respect. Elle wasn’t the only character with past demons that she had to face we also had Blake as well with everything he was dealing with. Both characters had an inner strength and I loved seeing how they supported each other throughout the story.
This really was a wonderful, yet hard to read at times, story however the author did an amazing job with handling everything sensitively and I would absolutely recommend this book to other readers.

@katiem
View all my reviews

Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Trish Ann

Raising ElleRaising Elle by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I thought this was a good read. I was biased about the character Blake because that name is very special to me. I loved that his character was working hard to better himself and I thought Elle was a good counterpart for him. I love books that are about people finding there way back home. I look forward to book 2.

View all my reviews

Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Bethany Rollins

Raising ElleRaising Elle by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Elle returns to Sweet Valley a bruised, yet willful woman. Blake has been living his life in a bottle since Elle left town and broke his heart. Elle, deciding to take over her Grandmother’s property, offers Blake a chance of redemption and healing by hiring him on. While these two reconnect, they both realize their attraction to the other never disappeared.

This was a quick and enjoyable read. I appreciate the level of suspense the author was going for but it was a highly predictable ending. The characters were mostly great although my favorite character was a goat name Frankie. I like the simmering anger you felt Elle fighting throughout the story and her finding life after trauma. Although Blake was a tough character to enjoy early on, he does become more tolerable, although still not a likeable main character for me. Good read and looking forward to the next in this series.

View all my reviews

Foxy Tails by Natalina Reis – Review by Naomi McDonald

Foxy TailsFoxy Tails by Natalina Reis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a fun read. I enjoyed the characters’ interactions with each other. The worldbuilding was good. I liked the build up to the relationship between Huli and Xiao Ying. Ling Ling’s character was superb.
The story starts right in the middle of the action and keeps you reading with suspense and bit of mystery as the characters discover who they truly are.

View all my reviews

The Serpent and the Firefly by Courtney Davis – Review by Amber Howard

The Serpent and the FireflyThe Serpent and the Firefly by Courtney Davis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Serpent and the firefly was everything that I want in a fantasy novel. Honestly it would also make a fantastic movie or show.

Jade has always been into the dangerous life. She’s attracted to bad guys and trouble always seems to follow her. She has no family of her own and when her ex puts a hit out on her head she enters witness protection and starts over in a new town. Little did she know it was the start of life changing events for her.

Baal is the ultimate bad guy. Literally a demon. He seeks out Jades help but does he have ulterior motives? The prophecy speaks of a woman that could be his undoing. But will be risk it all for love?

This story was full of suspense, thrills, romance and a bit of action. I smiled and gasped while reading. I really hope there’s a follow up story maybe featuring one of the other associates of Baal? Who knows. But please give this story a chance and start reading!

View all my reviews

The Vassal of Magic (The Virus of Beauty Book 3) by C.B. Lyall – Review by Tausha Treadway

The Vassal of Magic: The Virus of Beauty Book 3The Vassal of Magic: The Virus of Beauty Book 3 by C.B. Lyall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Vassal of Magic (The Virus of Beauty Book 3) by C.B. Lyall. This has been such a wonderful series. This book was a great addition. Its the continuing story of Wilf who is trying to learn how to use his magic and control it. Wilf is conflicted because he doesn’t want to give up his life as a regular teenager but he also doesn’t want to miss out on using his powers. If he refuses to use his magic the world in which he exists will end and he has to do everything he can save his love Katryna. Will Wilf learn how to trust his friends and family and use the information and knowledge they give him to control his magic and save their world or will everything end. This final book is such a great ending to this series. I highly recommend reading the first 2 books to get a better overall view of the story. Such a good young adult paranormal series.

View all my reviews

Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Kristin Boutele

Raising ElleRaising Elle by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Raising Elle is a very fun and easy read. The author has done an amazing job in creating the story and the characters. All of the characters are very relatable from the minor characters to the main characters. The story does flow well from beginning to end. The character development was very well done.

View all my reviews

Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Anantha Rusum

Raising ElleRaising Elle by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the story about Elle Sullivan who returns back to her home town trying to put away a traumatic past behind her. She is relieved when her family welcomes her with open arms, but equally nervous to begin her life afresh. When she meets her childhood sweet heart Blake, who has still not gotten over her and is facing issues of his own, she offers to help. Together they try to erase each other’s demons.
However romantic the storyline might seem, this book is not for the faint hearted. The book does have a graphical version of domestic violence and the language is profane.
Once you are aware of the context, the book is an emotional rollercoaster and very inspirational, a story of second chances and healing. After all that’s what we look for is’nt it? A beautiful book.

View all my reviews

Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Kerry Carr

Raising ElleRaising Elle by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a second chance romance and a very emotional one at that. This is not your standard second chance romance. This deals with some subjects that maybe a trigger for some people. As a survivor of domestic violence reading parts of this story was hard but the author deals with the topic in a way that is respectful but also paints a very realistic picture of what it is like to be in that position.
I love the main characters of Elle and Blake. Both characters have so much depth that it is hard not to feel invested in their stories. Blake has also had a hard time in his past and when he reunites with Elle you just want to make everything better for them so they don’t have to deal with anymore heartache.

This is a very moving emotional story about heartache and heartbreak, losing and forgiving and finally healing.
Can Elle and Blake heal each other from their past so that they have a future together?

View all my reviews

Aliens on Earth Anthology (Limited Edition Romance Collections) by Various Authors – Review by Maikalani Alexander

Aliens on EarthAliens on Earth by Mandy Melanson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A composition of many stories, intriguing, mysterious, and romance. Some stories do contain triggers of abuse ( SA & PA). Stories containing such detail to elicit emotions from you; fear, intrigue, wonder. It’s all here.
Each story varying with its own telling keeps your captivated for days. Ready for a new one ? Keep scrolling. Determine your day by which book you’ll adventure through next

View all my reviews

Concert Hall Hit (Darcy Gaughan Mystery Series Book #2) by J.C. Kenney – Review by Angela Hayes

Concert Hall Hit: A Darcy Gaughan MysteryConcert Hall Hit: A Darcy Gaughan Mystery by J.C. Kenney
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

Concert Hall Hit is the second book in the Darcy Gaughan Mystery series by J.C. Kenney. This is the first book that I have read by Mr. Kenney, so I was curious to see what he could do. I love a great cozy mystery, so I happily snapped up a copy and dove right in.
What I discovered was an intriguing whodunit with a murder mystery to solve. Full of suspense, tension, drama, sleuthing, crime & investigation, music metaphors, and interesting characters- this small-town cozy mystery held my attention right through till the end.
Darcy Gaughan owns a music store and is also a talented musician/drummer. When a legendary blues guitarist comes to town, only to be found murdered shortly after, Darcy finds herself falling under suspicion. She has no choice but to start her own investigation to find the real murderer so she can clear her name. What ensues makes for a fun read.
I enjoyed following along on Darcy’s adventure, uncovering clues, and looking at suspects. I like Mr. Kenney’s writing style, and the clever little touches he added to his story to add that extra element of interest. I will definitely be going back to explore more of his books now that I have had a taste of what he can do. Looking forward to a bit of a J.C. Kenney book binge- coming soon.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, J.C. Kenney!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

View all my reviews

What Loretta’s Katydid Did (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Cindy Rushin

What Loretta's Katydid didWhat Loretta’s Katydid did by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This author writes really cute stories for children. Every book includes some fun facts that teach children about the world around them. This series is about bugs and each one provides some knowledge and insight into whatever bug the book is about. I enjoyed finding out about katydids and how beneficial they are to plants. I recommend this book and author to any parent who has kids that love to read and learn.

View all my reviews

What Loretta’s Katydid Did (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Heather Goodman

What Loretta's Katydid didWhat Loretta’s Katydid did by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was such a fun and interesting book. My 8 year old loved it and it kept her attention the whole time. It was also educational in a fun way. I love these kind of books that give you a little information but in a fun and interesting way.

View all my reviews

Savage Truth (Hidden Valley Elite Book 2) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Lyndsey Fairley

Savage Truth: A Dark High School Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 2)Savage Truth: A Dark High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have really enjoyed getting to know a little more on Cole and Riley and the suspenseful conclusion (at least for now I hope) .
I highly suggest reading the first 2 books before this, the prequel and book 1, as it’s all needed to understand the dynamic and what’s going on in this story.

This like the previous brought the drama, the chemistry and the unexpected. I will not be giving many details as it’s best to read for yourself and I will not be responsible for giving even a tiny spoiler even by accident.

I cannot wait to read about the rest of this bunch (I hope they all get a story) as I would love to see things from others perspective but also how their stories go.

View all my reviews

What Loretta’s Katydid Did (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shannen Kern

What Loretta's Katydid didWhat Loretta’s Katydid did by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lois Wickstrom has done it again! My kiddos and I love her books, and we get so excited anytime she releases a new one. Bugs are especially popular in my house, so this was such a huge hit from the get-go! Both of my kids relate to Loretta as neither one ever wants to hurt insects. I think this was a great way to teach others how to problem solve without doing it the way it’s always been done. The illustrations are also so beautiful and really add to the story. Somehow we always walk away with valuable lessons as well as a great story time book. I highly recommend picking this up and sharing it with the kiddos in your life!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

View all my reviews