Mealtime at the Zoo: PB&J Café by James Williamson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love the way this story is written and told. I read it with my friend’s five-year-old son and he loved it as well, the thought of all the animals loving PB&J is too cute for words.
Master Oradea by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the 10th book in the Master of Consulate series. This is a great series with a paranormal romance element as well as the underlaying story of the war between the Masters and the rouges which runs through each of the books.
Each book focuses on a different couple, however I personally recommend reading them in order so you get a complete sense of the story, why the war is happening and how each person fits into it.
This is a story of danger, romance, fated mates, vampires, warewolves, witches and a fight that seems like it is never going to end.
In this story we meet Master Oradea and Natalia Benzini’s story.
The war on the rouges has entered the territory of Master Oradea, who will stop at nothing to stop the rouges from wreaking havoc in his territory. He has never thought of meeting a mate before and has no plans to now until Natalia Benzini shows up.
Natalia Benzini is the daughter of a crime family, when she is kidnapped and told to pass on a message from the rogue vampires her brothers know she needs to be protected. So they reach out to the only person capable from protecting her Master Oradea
As the story progresses their simmering attraction becomes harder to deny can they resist the pull they feel towards each other? After all Natalia is off limits.
But with danger around every turn, could the distraction caused by Natalia be the cause of Master Oradea not capturing Lucus and the rogues? Can he protect her from all the dangers surrounding her including himself?
Mealtime at the Zoo: PB&J Café by James Williamson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
New children’s author to me and LOVE his work already. Fun beautiful illustrations and fun rhymes make this James Williamson an instant hit for the whole family. My seven-year-old loved the unique ways everyone loves the same food but in their own way. He likes his PB & J by itself, but I like mine with Doritos, but only the original nacho cheese ones. How do you like your PB & J? I can’t wait to read more of this talented author’s other books with my son.
Toasted by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Toasted is the first book in a new series and if they are all as hot as this one then you can sign me up for the rest. The book is entertaining and so amusing. I loved the characters. For me, they absolutely made this whole book. I loved their chemistry, which was evident immediately and only grew stronger as the book went on.
The story is well written and enjoyable. It is a great contemporary romance story that I easily became invested in. This is an author I am becoming more familiar with and I will definitely be reading the rest of this series.
Secrets, Lies and Betrayals by Lynn Wood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is the kind of thriller that has you on the edge of your seat the whole way through. The story felt explosive and it pulled me in from the moment I started reading. I loved how the author weaved in the political aspect to the story, it made it so much more relatable in today’s world.
I really connected with the main character. She has already preserved through so much in her life and suffers through so much more during this book. I wanted her to find happiness so much and yet the whole way through this book I wasn’t sure how things would work out. The author has created a gripping story that I could not put down until I had finished it.
Dinopotamus Goes to School by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Even before we started reading I knew this book was going to be a hit in my house simply because it involved a dinosaur going to school. They both absolutely loved the idea of a dinosaur joining in with classes like all the children. I think they were both a little disappointed the next day when once didn’t turn up in their class.
This author has created yet another brilliant and engaging story that captured the attention of all of us. Although her books are not aimed at my age range I definitely get just as much joy from watching how much my kids love them. I think this one has to be their favourite so far and I might just have to agree with them.
One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
From the moment I started reading I found this book to be original, fun and such a refreshing read. The idea that our blood can be used to detect whether or not we are a villain is a fascinating idea and this author has created a brilliant story from that.
I thought the characters matched the premise of the story really well too. I became invested in their story and found them to be engaging and relatable. I have read other books by this author and I can safely say this one is my favourite so far!
Moonlight Drive by A.R. Hadley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is not at all what I expected when I started reading it. As this author is one that I tend just one click now, I didn’t read the description or the reviews before diving in. What I expected to be a famous musician romance actually turned out to be an angsty, rollercoaster of emotions set in the 80’s rock scene.
The author has really managed to capture the hardships of the industry and that era, combining that with some flawed but intriguing characters. I wasn’t sure the entire way through how things might turn out in the end but I definitely enjoyed the journey I was taken on. This is a great book by a brilliant author.
Mealtime at the Zoo: PB&J Café by James Williamson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Mealtime at the Zoo: PB&J Cafe by James Williamson is a delightful read aloud interactive children’s book. Illustrated by Ayesha Masood, this book is intended for ages 3-8, with amazing illustrations and lots of cute rhymes. An adorable way to showcase and teach how different animals eat and their different individual quirks. Overall a great children’s book, easy to follow, and informative all in one.
Summer of Mud by Rebecca Bischoff
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a really great YA read. It’s about Scoob and her brother, RC, who isn’t being honest with her as they set out for Montana one morning right after Scoob lands the job of her dreams…playing trumpet for a local band. This book is a coming-of-age story that will take you on an emotional rollercoaster ride all while keeping you on the edge of your seat and up way past your bedtime. I really couldn’t put this down…Bischoff kept me wanting to know what was going to happen. This is fast-paced and will make you feel all of the emotions so make sure you have a box of tissues close by.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
Dinopotamus Goes to School by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the cute story of Dinopotamus going to school. He follows the children around and copies what they do until he comes to a couple of activities he’s not sure of. But the children and the teacher encourage Dinopotamus and he tries his best. I love how Wickstrom is always sprinkling lessons throughout her picture books. This is a really quick reader for your younger littles and a great lesson in kindness and perseverance. I really enjoyed the illustrations as well…they looked drawn in crayon and went right along with the story. This really is another great addition to your kiddos library.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
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Make Me Want To Love You: Love in Emerald Creek by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
Make Me Want to Love You (Love in Emerald Creek) by N.D. Jackson
Make Me Want to Love You is the second book in the Love in Emerald Creek Series. This is a Contemporary Romance that once you start reading there’s no stopping until you’ve finished. I was very excited to dive right into this book as this author is one of my favorites. Her style of writing and attention to detail pulls you into their world and the characters are developed, relatable and complex. This is Burke and Shayna’s story. She’s a small town girl who is a single mom and she got away from her ex-husband who was abusive. I love Emerald Creek and can picture myself living there. Burke wants to show her she can be loved by a good man. These two are great. They both are guarding there Hearts but for different reasons. I don’t want to give to much away. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. Be prepared to be taken on quite the emotional journey throughout this book. I’m looking forward to reading more from this Author.
Dinopotamus Goes to School by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3 Stars
Dinopotamus Goes to School is the first book in the Dinopotamus series by Lois Wickstrom. It is a interesting children’s storybook, with cute (naïve style) illustrations which accompany the story.
Dinopotamus wants to be like all the other children- but has trouble fitting in due to his differences. The children help him to become included. The story is sweet, with lessons on learning to count, communication, accepting differences, kindness, friendship, determination, and wanting to learn/the joy that can come from learning.
This is a very quick and easy read, my grandson enjoyed the story.
Happy reading.
Reviewed by @angelahayes
One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
‘ Villainy shows up in the blood ’
Maddy set the genealogy kit next to the computer and dug deep for some real sincerity this time.
“Thanks for always remembering my birthday, Grams. You’re the best.”
“Oh!” Grams placed a hand over her heart. “You sweet, sweet thing. Please make sure you call me as soon as you get those results back. I want to see what you are made of.” Her laugh sounded like fairy bells.
“I will…”
Out of the corner of her eye, Maddy noticed Leo start to squirm. He was probably questioning his life decisions right about now. Instead of a gift, Leo always gave Maddy a day to do whatever she wanted. This was bold because the things Maddy liked and the things that Leo liked rarely ever matched up.
Time screeched to a halt. Maddy’s heartbeat slammed against her ribs so hard it was painful to breathe. “Mom?”
“Yes?” Her mom was focused on wiping counters, so she didn’t look at Maddy.
Pounding filled Maddy’s ears as her knees began knocking together. “Mom?”
“Yes, Maddy? I answered you the first time.”
“Yeah, but you won’t look at me.” Her voice sounded shrill. “Mom!”
Maddy’s mom finally stopped what she was doing and placed one fist on her hip. “You have my full, undivided attention. What is it?”
Words rushed up Maddy’s throat and got stuck there. She swallowed and tried again. “Am I adopted? Is that why Grams gave me this DNA test?”
Maddy—you have…. the blood of a villain.”
If Elle had stood up and dropped the mic, those words could not have packed a harder punch. Maddy’s mind was officially blown. She knew it was happening because her thoughts went completely blank. All gone. This was something that had never actually happened to her before, and she wasn’t quite sure how to handle it. She couldn’t form words. She couldn’t move. She couldn’t blink.
One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper is such a fun YA fantasy, winning the way to my favourite of her books, so far. There was so much to love about this clever and imaginative fantasy- so much going on, but in a really great way- with adventure, action, wonderfully quirky & endearing characters, fantastic worldbuilding & fantasy lore, a cute fairytale vibe, magic, teenage drama/angst, friendship, family, 2nd chances, humour, banter, quips, antics, gaffs/blunders, (family) secrets, family dynamics, trials, challenges, emotion, mystery, intrigue, suspense, romance, lessons (in consequences of actions~reprocussions~not giving in to anger and hate~taking responsibility for your actions~making amends~forgiveness), danger, different realms, a journey of discovery/coming of age story, and much more.
I loved the references to the various fairytales we all know and love, and love how Ms. Cooper weaved those elements into her storyline in such a creative and original way. It certainly added extra interest to the overall storyline. Very clever.
Maddy Hutton isn’t particularly thrilled when she receives a DNA test from her beloved Grams for her 17th birthday, and even though she loves her Grams dearly, Maddy procrastinates instead of just getting the test done- and it takes her mother blackmailing her sometime later, into finally doing it. When the results come back- Maddy’s world turns upside down. She’s One Quarter Villain. What does that even mean? Well, Maddy finds out when she is thrust into an adventure to save her best friend who has been mistakenly banished to another realm. Maddy sets off on a quest to rescue him- but fate throws her a bit of a curveball along the way. Things go awry and Maddy can’t help but wonder if she really is a true villain at heart? What happens makes for a very cute, sweet, fun, and entirely enchanting read.
I have loved all of Ms. Cooper’s books, so far- but this one IMO is the best yet!!! I am excited to see that she plans on this being part of a new 5 book series- so colour me one happy little book worm. I can’t wait to see what Maddy and Leo get up to next.
Highly recommended to all YA Fantasy readers, or anyone who loves a great little adventure with a touch of magic…… definitely worth the read!
Bring on the next instalment!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Cori Cooper!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Five Tries to Get It Right by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5/5 stars
This book is an absolute gem! This heartfelt and inspiring story is beautifully written, capturing the essence of perseverance and the human spirit. The characters are richly developed, and her narrative is both engaging and thought-provoking. I couldn’t put it down and was moved by the journey each character takes. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking an uplifting and meaningful story. Highly recommended!
Just Ducky by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really liked this Paranormal/fantasy romance! It was a cute ya romance that kept me interested from page 1. The story is about the humans and paranormal being at war but they’re hoping to end the to suffering by making a new treaty work so the violence on both sides can stop. It the interesting storyline with funny/quirky characters. I am looking forward to reading more by this author in the future!
Finding Love by Lacey Furr
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Finding Love was tragically beautiful. It’s the beauty of romance/healing born out of a tragedy. The author wrote a story that pulls at the heartstrings. About two characters who have lost people close to them they love. They just happen to be at different stages of the healing process. Yet through that process came love.
Loch hasn’t been the same since his sister died. Needing to get his life back on track his band manager contacts Hailey, a B&B owner, to give him some time away. Some time to find himself. Not only did he start to find himself again, but so much more.
Hailey didn’t know what to expect. What she knew was her high profile guest rented out her entire B&B for 4 weeks. An opportunity she couldn’t pass up. However, being around Loch she saw a lot of herself. The part of herself that suffered when she lost her parents and her best friend helped her pick up the pieces. So she vows to do the same thing for him.
What neither one of them expected was this connection pulling them together. With so many uncertainties because of their separate lives, how they could weather the storm. Was this forever? Or savor the moment while it lasts?
He doesn’t want to let go but is it plausible?
She knows he’s leaving yet giving him her heart, knowing it’s going to be shattered.
What will happen?
Do they survive the differences in their lives?
So many questions and all of which do get answered. However to find those answers you need to jump in head first. Take the ride the author takes the reader on. Enjoy it for all that it’s worth.
The happiness, sadness, love, laughter, all of it is worth it. I look forward to digging more into this series, I think you could too!
Dinopotamus Goes to School by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is an amazing story of being different and wanting to fit in. Love how the author opens your imagination on how it would be for a dinosaur to be in school. This book touches on some counting and understanding how to communicate in different ways. Recommend for all readers.
The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I love how this author writes in a such a way that you sit down to read “a chapter or two” and before you know it, you’ve finished the book in one setting. This book is full of twists and turns, some you see coming, others unexpected.
Detective Scala loves the job but it’s really starting to take it’s toll. Work/life balance is in jeopardy and he’s got to find a way to figure it out in the midst of another big crime mystery. Is he going to be able to figure it all out before he burns out?
This book can be read as a standalone, even though it is part of a series. I’ve read one other book in this series and was not disappointed. I look forward to going back and reading the other ones that I have not yet been able to get to!
Secrets, Lies and Betrayals by Lynn Wood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Michaela Manning has been living under an assumed name for 20 years. At 3 years old her life is forever changed by a moment of violence. Maxwell Cole, a special forces operative, rushed in to save a young Michaela. Building a life after the tragedy, Lea Milan finds solace and herself in Europe. Away from the political landscape and limelight she finds her art and love. A political decision by her father sets in motion the destruction of her carefully created life. Maxwell Cole has been a constant in Lea’s life. In charge of her personal security for years and part of Leah’s chosen family. Will he be able to help guide Lea through this terrible journey once again? Will Lea be able to resurrect herself once again? Will her family and chosen loved ones be able to help her through another tragedy?
I really enjoyed this political thriller. With so much political unrest in the USA this really hits home about the secrets and lies that politicians tell their public and themselves. Lea’s story contains great tragedies but also her perseverance and strength which helps her regain her life and herself.
I can’t wait to jump into the next book in the Protect and Honor Series. So glad we get to see more of Maxwell Cole!
Reviewed by @aliciaknoke
Dinopotamus Goes to School by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The author’s use of simple, clear language makes the story accessible to young readers, while the illustrations bring the characters to life (and very charming child-like drawings). The story’s themes of inclusivity, empathy, and friendship are valuable lessons for children of all ages.
The character of Dinopotamus is particularly well-developed, conveying a sense of wonder and curiosity that is relatable to young readers. His enthusiasm for learning is contagious, inspiring the children to be more open-minded and accepting.
Five Tries to Get It Right by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Five Tries To Get It Right by Kathryn Dodson. This is such a good family, drama, romance. Its the story of Lydia & Kate and they are both going thru a rough time in their lives. Lydia’s husband has passed away and her daughter has left to go on a trip so she feels all alone and lost. Kate has gone thru a divorce and finding out her husband’s new girlfriend is pregnant is the icing on the cake. Lydia & Kate have been friends for a long time so when Kate decides to end her life Lydia is by her side every step of the way. Once Kate is back on her feet they decide they need to go on a trip and get away for a while. While on their trip they have all kinds of adventure and fun. The friendship they share is truly beautiful and this story will stick with you for a long time.
A Cold Day in Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A Cold Day In Hell (Life Is Hell Book 5) by Naomi Valkyrie. This is the 5th book in this series and its amazing. I have really enjoyed this series even though they can be read as standalone its been great reading them in order. This is a supernatural read which is not my favorite but I’ve come to really enjoy this series. Its the story of Hadassah Engel who is an Angel and Malakhi’s sister and Jezebel the shifter. Hadassah is in trouble for sharing her power with her brother because he has been banished from Heaven. While waiting for her trouble to end she goes on the run with Jezebel because of Jezebel’s past. While on the run Hadassah learns more and more about Jezebel’s past and how being family means so much to her. This is such a good continuation of the past books and I love all of the characters. Do yourself a favor and read this series today!
Secrets, Lies and Betrayals by Lynn Wood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Secrets, Lies and Betrayals is set in a political arena which has brought nothing but pain, loss and deceit. This is the first engrossing book in the Protect and Honor Series and the first book I have read by this author.
Maxwell Cole ex special forces operative saved her life and watched over her. With her life in jeopardy once again can he find the threat before it gets to her. He will do anything to keep her safe and expose the truth of the person behind it all. Can he save her twice?
She has been in hiding since she was shot as a little girl but someone is gunning for her again. Someone has exposed her and she is in just as much danger as she once was. Who was it that revealed her secrets?
It is fast paced, action packed, intense & suspenseful. It is an engaging read with a cleverly crafted plot keeping you on your toes. It certainly lives up to its name with plenty of secrets, lies and betrayals. Sometimes its better the devil you know or is it?
I look forward to reading more of Max Cole.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Moonlight Drive by A.R. Hadley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 stars
Moonlight Drive, OMG. I feel like I have been put through an emotional wringer with this one. I was up and down and twisted around. The story is told between the present and the past and is set in the 80’s & 90’s.
Nick & Dani were once sweethearts with promises only he broke those promises. He followed his dream, and she followed his dream, but she also has her dream. But the lifestyle he leads music, sex, drugs, groupies, and rock ‘n’ roll, he is in a fantastical place, and one he doesn’t want to give up. Love was not supposed to hurt but it does. Now it was time for her to move on even though she was irreversibly broken.
It brings back memories of times with friends just starting out wanting to make it big.
It’s a raw and exposed look at the fame, the music and behind the scenes darker side of being a rock star. Whilst I enjoyed the story Nick is the one character that I could not get fully behind. Frustration overload with this man.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Dinopotamus Goes to School by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I have been slowly working my way through Loi’s books and enjoying my time reading them with my grandbabies who enjoy them.
Dinopotamus Goes to School is not only a story but this book teaches some counting and differences between each other. It teaches kids to be inclusive with one another, doesn’t matter how many toes or what colour you are. Kids don’t have preconceived ideas at this young age and reinforcement like the messages in Loi’s stories are sorely needed in this day and age.
The colourful illustrations bring this picture book story to life.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Unrequited Love by E.L. Roux
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a cool story. It’s supernatural and a coffee shop. That makes it fun for me. It’s a short novella that is fast, romantic and exciting. It’s the first of the series and I enjoyed. It’s a quick read with unique characters that really come out in the story. I can’t wait to see what book 2 brings. I couldn’t book this book down. I’m glad it was short because I devoured it quickly. It’s a must read!
Toasted by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I loved this. Who doesn’t love a fireman? A fun and entertaining rom-com. The characters had a lot of chemistry. I found it was fun to read and watch them come together. A well-developed story that kept me engaged from the start. I didn’t want to put it down. I read it straight through. A fun romp. I can’t wait to see what’s next in book 2
Under Jackson Bridge: A thriller by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What a thriller this is. I loved it. Irena has some crazy people surrounding her. Jack is a shoe addict behind on child support. He’s up to no good and disappears. The story revolves around that. Oh my, the secrets, the twists and turns. I couldn’t put it down. I love this author. Her books are intense, exciting and get you on the edge-of-your-seat with adrenaline flowing. I can’t wait for the next one to see where we are going.
Purrfectly Framed: A Mobile Cat Groomer Mystery by Ruth J. Hartman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I love cat cozies, from Lilian Jackson Braun to Ruth Harman. These stories are funny as you are trying to figure out who the murderer is. The author doesn’t make it quite so easy but it is still an enjoyable story to laught and try to solve. I love the cat hijinx. I’m looking forward to reading more in this series.
