Healing Hearts by C.R. Alam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This short novella is a prequel to the Echo Series. This read finds you with romance and a little bit of mystery, as you follow along with Gene and Amanda’s story. This is my first read by this author and I’m excited to read the additional books in this series
Under the Bandage by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book has the perfect blend of education and entertainment. You have a great story but it also has wonderful rid bits about the scientific side of things but in a way the kids will understand and enjoy. This author always knows how to keep people enthralled in the book.
Sure As Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
My own fault I didn’t realize it was part of a series and I wish I would of read the others first but that’s okay! That did not take away from the fact that I still loved this story. I love everything that I have read from this author so far and this was no different. Also, paranormal romance sign me up.
Can I Keep Her? by Lois Wickstrom
This is such a great kids book to learn about compassion. It is very imaginative and inspiring. I love the way the author relates to real world problems but in a way that a kid will enjoy and understand.
Erica has a lot going on, and I was invested in all of it. Between her husband, her aunts and her childhood best friend, it seems like she has things coming at her from all sides. Throw in the fact that she is extremely close to getting an inheritance that she didn’t actually know much about, and you can see how any nearly 25 year old might be overwhelmed, guarded and questioning everything.
I definitely felt Erica’s concerns and confusion when each one person that it seemed like she should be able to trust, there was something that made that person not seem quite as trustworthy. For each wonderful thing that was going on in her life, it seemed like there was something that cancelled it out and made it not so amazing.
I truly enjoyed this book and would read more from this author.
Master Oradea by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Natalia’s parents are dead and the brothers are taking control of the mafia. Micheal is the head of the family and apparent ruler over what Natalia does and who she sees. She is having none of this big brother over handedness. She fights him every step of the way. At a boring business meeting, Natalia sees Master Oradea across the room and sparks fly for her but her brother warns her to stay away from him and never talk to him.
Lucas the traitor shows up and all warning goes to the wayside in a hurry. Master Oradea is charged with the safety of Natalia. Can he keep her safe? Can he not touch her? The fates have their own ideas.
Lucas is on the hunt and is scheming to get at Natalia. He wants to take down the pure bloods. Is Embry lying and on his side or is she being kept in the dungeon for no reason. The women are up in arms and giving the Master a hard time for not trusting her.
This was a great book and I enjoyed the telling of Master Oradea and Natalia. The story is slowly coming to a conclusion after 10 books. Here’s to reading book 11 and getting more answers.
Healing Hearts by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I’ve really grown to love books by this author, and this was no exception. This is the prequel to the Echo series which I absolutely adored. If you haven’t read any of them yet, this is the perfect place to start! Amanda and Gene are one of my favorite characters I have found. Something about the way their chemistry tugs at your emotions. It’s amazing when an author can evoke those feelings through words on a page. Their meet-cute happens when Amanda is in a car accident and Gene is the hunky doctor that comes to her rescue. Although he helps her heal physically, Amanda is the one to help him mend his heart. If you enjoy contemporary romances with a dash of drama and a bit of steam, this should be your next pick!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Toasted by Isobel Reed
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
A cute engaging read. Libby has just moved into a new town and she is already having to call the fire department. Yet her perceived bad luck may end up being good luck when firefighter Zach shows up on the call. I enjoyed the banter between these two. Watching their relationship take shape made for a nice story. It was nice to see that Libby is a strong woman and she is a good match for Zach. Their story is a sweet and fun read.
Kris & The Cowboys: The Adventures of Kris by Art Blegen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Kris & The Cowboys (The Adventures of Kris) by Art Blegen. This is such a fun series and your young chapter readers will love it. They are geared toward 6 to 10 year old and they make great gifts. In this story Kris visits her Uncle on his cattle ranch and when he won’t allow her to go along with them on a real cattle drive she invents one in her imagination and what an imagination she has. On her cattle drive a cow and cowboy turn up missing making them think he is a rustler and must be hunted down. There are mountain lions, thievery and more in this fun story. Your young new chapter readers will love it. It would also make a great family gift or teacher gift to read to the classroom!
Healing Hearts by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story (The Echo Series) by C.R. Alam. This is the prequel to The Echo series and its the story of Gene and how he finds the love of his life. Gene is a ER DR and has got a bad case of burn out. He has lost his passion and decides to head back home for a slower pace and friendly familiar faces. When he is thrown into a crazy accident scene as soon as he arrives he finds himself attached in more ways than one to the patient. Amanda is a baker and has been in a freak accident. She doesn’t know what happened or why and while recovering Dr. Gene is taking care of her and helping her remember what happened. While Amanda may think she saw something on the road Gene is wondering if her mind is playing tricks on her but he’s going to believe her until proven differently. While they spend time together their chemistry is off the charts and while Dr. Gene realizes he can’t spend another day without Amanda does she feel the same. Read this awesome romance to find out!
Productivity is Power 2: For Creative, Business, and Other Professionals by Hillary Rettig
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Productivity is Power 2: For Creative, Business, and Other Professionals is just what you need to get out of a funk, or unglue yourself from that rut you are stuck in. What may work for some; may not work for you but there is always something that will resonate with someone. It has some good ideologies and methodologies that are easy to enact.
Being a leader in a workplace I am always looking for material to help my staff feel empowered. To help them want to be involved in what they do and how to do it better. I have always believed that it all starts with how your staff feel about themselves and the workplace.
Hillary Rettig’s Productivity is Power 2: For Creative, Business, and Other Professionals goes into that and more. A lot of what I bring to the workplace is covered in this book, so it was good to feel validated. But there is always something to learn, and there were somethings I did after reading this.
No matter what you do or where you work or do not work and want something to help overcome the “oh I will do that tomorrow” feeling, or “I’ll get to that later” then stop and take the time to sit and read Hillary’s book.
Reviewed by @jennadb
One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Clear your schedules ladies because putting this book down will not be an option. A twist of fairy tales and reverse perceptions. One Quarter Villain is an interesting concept and a unique tale. I mean who can have a DNA test to find out what percentage of villain they are. When I read this, I knew I had to read this book.
It is definitely a thought-provoking tale. That’s what I like about Cori’s stories is that you never quite know what you are going to get, and she surprises me each time.
Cori has done it again with quirky characters as well as being fast paced and action filled tale with a fantastical world of magic and beasts.
This YA tale is fun and can be enjoyed by all.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Toasted by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Oh my! Toasted had me falling in love. It is the first book in the Love Burns series. I love a good Rom Com and Isobel delivers. I really enjoyed the Bluestone series, so it was a no brainer when I saw Isobel had this book out. Being the first book in the series I am not sure how it can get better, but I am sure it will.
I was laughing at the wittiness and easy banter; next I wanted a long drink to cool me down. Talk about chemistry and sparks flying in more ways than one. I fell in love with the characters and the small town of Woodvalley Pines, but Libby cracked me up the woman is hilarious.
It is just what is needed a small-town romance for everyone who loves a romance with sexy firefighters, and sassy leading ladies.
What does Disney jammies and a toaster have to do with anything, have a read to find out.
I can’t wait to get my hot little hands on the other books. Bring. It. On!
Reviewed by @jennadb
Healing Hearts by C.R. Alam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
An enjoyable and engaging novella which is the prequel to the ‘Echo Series’. The story focuses on ER Doctor Gene Rowland and how he met his wife Amanda. Gene has returned to his childhood home looking to rekindle his love for medicine. He wasn’t expecting a dramatic home coming, but ends up rescuing the towns baker Amanda following a bizarre accident. Gene then helps Amanda figure out what happened and also nurses her himself. He must then juggle his role as the town’s new doctor with the growing attachment he feels for Amanda, his patient. Their developing relationship soon becomes the local gossip, however he quickly realises that he can’t deny his feelings for Amanda. It’s obvious that she’s the love of his life and will be the mother of his children. Having read the books in the series it was nice to discover how Dr Gene Rowland, who is Dean Rowland’s (from another story) big brother and Amanda met. This is a heartwarming romance with just enough drama and mystery to keep me hooked and happily turning the pages.
Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues… by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is the second in the series, although I did not realise this when I started reading. Thankfully, it can be read as a standalone as the author has done a great job of including enough information so you can understand what is going on. This book is a great story that portrays the highs and lows of family life and the sacrifices that must be made.
The story is well developed and I thought you could feel the emotions of the characters as they go on their journey. They had so much to contend with and I was fully invested in how things would turn out. Although I did not read the first book prior to reading this one, I will definitely be going back to see the start of their story.
Come Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
When you get married you don’t fully know the other person. You have to get to know them and grow with them. Right? Well Erica definitely doesn’t know enough. Her husband Terry has disappeared, AGAIN, on one of his “business” trips. She doesn’t even know what he does for work! Well she’s set to find out real fast what his life is really about. Face to face with two thugs has her spiraling down quick in this book. Turns out that he has a HUGE gambling debt. As she returns home to borrow the money she keeps noticing a blue car, but she isn’t sure who owns it. Does everyone own a blue car now?? Was it chasing her. Was that a gun shot? What the heck is going on?! Are the thugs messing with her? And if so, why?!! This book is so good. It’s pretty fast paced too, so you get caught into it well while you try to figure out what the heck is going on. Right along side Erica! It seems she has a target on her back. Things keep happening to her and around her. Will what started as a simple debt, turn into her death? She gets run off the road, her husband is killed in a hit in run, she gets pushed into traffic, and the hits just keep coming in this thriller. You will be wondering up until the end with this one!! You will not be disappointed at all! SO SO GOOD!!!!
Master Oradea by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Let me start off by saying that when I grabbed this book I didn’t at all realize it was the 10th book in the series! BUT BUT BUT…. it didn’t matter!! It was wonderful!! And now I MUST read the rest!! So you can TOTALLY read each as stand alone. BUT really just get them all! I know I can’t wait to read the rest. So in this 10th book your already in the heat of an on-going battle. So you get HOOKED right away!! You meet people fast and the story develops pretty quick as well. Master Oradea is hunting down a traitor Lucas. He was the right hand man of the Overmaster and because of this all the masters are weary of everyone around them. Lucas’s mate (Embry) being a huge debate among them all. It has all the vampires and their mates on edge. While a Syndicate family is making a deal with the Vampires, Lucas shows up and even threatens their sister Natalia. They didn’t want involved in the war before, but now that their sister’s life is on the line they have no choice but to trust Oradea to protect her. To do so, Oradea takes Natalia to his place. He puts her in a room right next to his. The two of them have an instant attraction. But can he keep her safe while hunting down Lucas? She can’t leave his side, but brining her into a war could get her killed! And what about Natalia’s family and her secrets? If he ever finds out will he leave her? Kill her even? Will she end up like Embry? Boy oh boy! You have to read this book! This set!! If you like vampires, witches, shifters, fated mates, passion, tension, suspense, war, magic, and just an over all good series where characters have their love stories develop around it all, this is the set for you! Paranormal series you don’t want to put down!!
Italian American by Luigina Vecchione
5 Stars
This book pulled at my heart strings, which hasn’t been done in a while. This is a sequel but can be read as a standalone. (I didn’t read the first one but want to now) This is the story of Mariella and Jack and her going to America to live her life with her husband, the book starts out with Elisa and Olivia their daughters visiting Mariella in her home and recording her story. Mariella tells how she left her family in Italy and how they came to America in a boat, how she met his family and lived. I was sad for her because of the homesickness, but also for how her mother-in-law treated her, how the ladies she was introduced to be her friends treated her and how lonely she was.<br /><br /> Mary started making her own friends and even stood up to the doctors when her daughter was sick. She also started sticking up for herself. I was very proud of her and the way she made her life. <br />Mary’s father became ill and she took the girls back to Italy to see him and stayed several weeks. Jack her husband was fearful they weren’t going to return because of what people were saying to him. More his mom who never seemed to like his wife and also his ex fiance who was trying to wedge her way back in. <br />I absolutely loved this book, although I did feel like towards the end it was a tad bit rushed but ended in a very nice way (won’t spoil it for ya lol)
Toasted by Isobel Reed
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
My first book by Isobel Reed, and I devoured it! I would say a 5⭐️ and 2🔥 book! The story was great, but it definitely could have been spicier! (In my humble opinion!) 😅😅🤷🏼♀️
With moving to a new town, an incredibly small one at that, what could possibly go wrong? Libby’s first night, that’s what!
As Libby is getting settled into her new home, all she wanted to do is make some toast and chill. However, things do not always go as planned. Libby quickly learned that when her toaster caught on fire! Who knew an older toaster and crumb build up could cause a fire!? Certainly, not Libby!
As the firefighters begin to show up, Libby is still standing in her home, staring in disbelief. She finally comes to when the hottie fireman is coaxing her to leave the house for safety reasons. Abruptly, she realizes not only does she feel an instant spark with this firefighter who is trying to help her, but she is also wearing some of her favorite, comfy Disney pajamas. How embarrassing!
As the book continues, we realize we have one who wants an immediate commitment because the energy between them is palpable; while the other is afraid of commitment because Disney’s Princess stories are only for the films, not real life. As a pact is made to be friends, can they stay fully committed to this agreement, or will they let the heat come between them? Or, will they have to call it quits all together?
This book is a great story about resisting love because the thought of a broken heart is earth-shattering enough. To actually have to go through it? Impossible! Read to find out what happens between Libby and Zach!
This is the first book in the “Love Burns” series, and I already cannot wait for the second book to be released!
As always,
Happy Reading! 🩷
Can I Keep Her? by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wynnie and Lem find an unusual egg on the wall. After it hatched she not only discovered it was a dragon she also had to train it. As she promised the king she would, he gave her 1 day to do just that. Such a fun story to read. Watching the smiles on the children’s faces was well worth the time to read this book. Learning to love, to train and treat others with love is a big lesson to learn. So is keeping promises. This author laid it out plain and clear so the children could understand the story. They could also ask questions and feel free to go further in discovering the world of Dragons. Another must have in every child’s library.
Review@cinful
Come Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story follows Erica on her escape from some bad people that are after her husband. Her husband left for a “business trip” and these men show up claiming he owes their boss money. Scared for her life, she flees to her childhood home. Once there, she thought she would be able to dip into her trust fund. The lawyer does not want her to do that and says she will inherit millions when she turns 25. The only problem is, she thinks these bad people will try to kill her.
Toasted by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
To be honest, Ms. Reed had me at hunky fireman- the rest was really just a bonus.
Toasted is the first book in the Love Burns series by Isobel Reed. As expected from this talented storyteller, it is a fun, yet touching, contemporary romance with a small-town setting, emotion, humour, endearing characters, chemistry, sparks, and just enough tension to keep things interesting.
When her toaster goes up in flames, Libby’s world gets much ‘hotter’ in more ways than one. Zack is there to put out that fire, while igniting a different kind of flame in Libby. She is the sassy damsel in distress, and he is the protective hero who swoops in to save the day. Add in some fun, banter, heartwarming romance, friendship, sass, snark, and emotion- and their story takes life.
Can’t wait for Book #2, ‘Cop-Off’, which is Cat and Cody’s story (whom we meet in this instalment as they are Libby, and Zack’s, best friends).
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Isobel Reed!
Reviewed By @angelahayes
Unrequited Love by E.L. Roux
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3.5 Stars
Unrequited Love is the first book in the Magic and Heartache series by E.L. Roux. This book captured my attention from the moment I laid eyes on the cover- and then the blurb sealed the deal for me. I could do with a charmed coffee or 100 in my life right about now…
Jordan and her friend and business partner, Perri, operate The Top Up coffee shop and café, providing delicious morsels and charmed beverages to humans and paranormals alike. Business is booming and everything should be coming up roses, except that her ex, Nathan and his new fiancée Tiffany, seem to pop up everywhere. Urghh, can’t a girl get a break. Cane is one of her most frequent customers, so when he makes a strange request, begging for her help to do a vision quest, Jordan can’t help but say yes…. Even though it will benefit her ex and his fiancée. But the promise of ‘seeing more’ of Cane is simply too irresistible to refuse. What happens once the ritual starts? Will the simmering embers between Jordan and Cane ignite, or will they fizzle and burn out? No spoilers from me, so you will just have to read the story for yourself to discover how everything plays out in the end…
This is a short, sweet, novella length (96pages) romantasy/paranormal romance- with charms, magic, paranormal beings, chemistry, spice, humour, and fun.
A cute story, but I wish it had been a little longer, and more ‘fleshed out’ so we got more of the characters background info, magic lore, world-building, and tension. As it was things did seem a little rushed towards the end- but overall it was sweet…
The next book ‘Unrewarded Love’ (Book #2) is Perri and Kyla’s story (whom we both meet here)- and from what we get to know of them here, the sparks are set to fly.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, E.L. Roux!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Healing Hearts by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Healing Hearts is the prequel to the Echo Series, focusing on how Gene and Amanda’s story began. I have read the entirety of the echo series, and loved and hated finishing that final book. I was ecstatic to see this available, and dove right in immediately. I adored these two in the series and definitely wanted to know the beginning of their story, and was truly obsessed from the first page as I dove back into this authors incredible work. I have come to absolutely adore C.R. Alam’s mix of mystery, twists and spice, and wholeheartedly recommend her entire Echo series!
Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
So when I saw that this one story was written by so many different authors I was equally intrigued and a little scared. How could all these people make one cohesive and enjoyable story? Well I was pleasantly surprised to see how well they did. I loved the characters. Aeris the fae that addicted to human romance novels. I love it! and Callum the human who can see through her glamour. Is he even human though? It’s forbidden, but that makes everything that much better in my opinion. ai would totally recommend this book and hope to read more from all these talented authors!
The Strategist by Nadia Han
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Arrow Holt is a retired Navy Seal and is a part of the billionaire set but he has worked hard to get where he is. His childhood was not good and his escape into the Navy gave him a sense of purpose and instant family but the things he has seen has left a big mark on his life.
So, when he meets her, he has this overwhelming protection of her when Vivian gets into some trouble, but will she let him help her and can the attraction he feels be put aside.
Vivian has been through the ringer in life and does not trust very easily, when Arrow becomes part of her life, she at first tries hard to reject his advances but there is just something about him that she wants to trust. Vivian has spent her whole life being just her can she let this man into her world and open her heart to him.
This is the fifth book in the series and with every book I say it’s my favourite and this book does not disappoint. As always, the characters are rich and well developed with their backgrounds that you fall straight in love with them along the way. Although this is part of a series you can read as a standalone story but there is a story arc which runs through the books, but I feel this would not distract from the story.
Arrow has always been one of those characters mentioned in the other stories that I was intrigued to know his story and here it is, this character is an alpha male, but you see the vulnerable side to him which is always great to read in such alpha characters. Vivian was the perfect equal to him as she was fiercely independent and had a fire inside her which was just brilliant to read and see in her character.
The story is full of twist and turns and I was fully engaged with the story. Having these two characters the chemistry was off the page and I enjoyed as previously said the vulnerability they were prepared to show to each, and the slow burn of the trust and relationship had me on the edge of my seat.
Another great addition to the series and can’t wait to read more by this great author.
Master Oradea by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was right up my alley! If you are like me and are a sucker for a dark vampire romance, you should check out this series Masters Of The Consulate by Sylvia Black! It will check every box for you as well and the best part is each book can be read as a stand alone! It’s the perfect mix between sexy and supernatural. I absolutely loved it! I know I will be picking up all the other books in this series and binge reading away! Absolutely recommend!
Just Ducky by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
If the cover didn’t catch my eye the plot definitely did! Wonderfully unique and a breath of fresh air! I absolutely love C.A. King and everything she creates is a masterpiece in my eyes! Just Ducky is another amazing and unexpected creation that has everything you’re looking for wrapped up with a fair amount of humor! Such a fun read, I will definitely be looking out for the next books in her Weird Shifters series! I highly recommend this book and many others by C.A. King!
Troy by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
This story is an engrossing fantasy that pulls you into a vividly crafted world, brimming with intrigue and magic. The characters are richly developed, making it easy to invest emotionally in their journeys. The plot twists kept me guessing, and the writing style is both clear and captivating, perfect for those who love a good narrative drive. While at times the pacing felt a bit uneven, the overall story was thoroughly enjoyable. A solid read for any fantasy enthusiast!
Healing Hearts by C.R. Alam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is book 0.5 in The Echo series and where the incredible series all began. This is a novella which makes it a quick read but it is still filled with everything I have come to love from this series. There is chemistry, angst, drama, mystery and of course romance.
This is Gene and Amanda’s story.
Gene is a ER doctor who after years of helping patients has lost his passion for the job he once loved. Needing a break he decides to return home. Little did he realise that decision would change his life and rekindle his passion in a way he never expected.
Amanda is a baker and when she is caught in a strange accident Gene helps her recover. Along the way he also decides to help her figure out what actually happened that day.
As the couple spend time together their chemistry grows and what Gene realises he can’t be without her, could it be possible that Amanda may feel the same?
And what could possible come of this attraction? Amanda is ready to settle down but with Gene not even knowing where he will be from one minute to the next do they stand any chance of making it work?
This is another great read in the series. I promise you after reading this you will want to read the whole series
