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The Podcast Chronicles by Kathryn Dodson – Review by Megan Conley

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The Podcast ChroniclesThe Podcast Chronicles by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

While this is outside of my usual genre choice, I was not disappointed! This was a great “coming-of-age” story…for a woman who’s children are on the cusp of becoming grown and now she is left wondering where she fits in in the world. Sue is such a relatable character that I think many, many readers will be able to understand and empathize with her on some level. This is a clean, refreshing read where you root for the main character the entire time…because you see some of yourself in her. I thoroughly enjoyed Dodson’s character development of Sue and how well her plot was paced and planned out. This book has a more modern Erin Brockovich vibe and I’m here for it.
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Necromancy the Musical by Debbie Hibbert – Review by Megan Conley

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

This book is so truly engaging and enthralling that you will be hooked from the first page. The characters are well-developed, the plot line is driven and thorough, and the overall feeling of the book is just creepily fantastic! I just loved the whole vibe of the book. It’s definitely a YA novel but anyone can enjoy it! CeCe and her best friend are off to drama camp for the week where she meets the devastatingly handsome Zach, who also seems to have a bit of a magical touch. CeCe wants to put her magic on the back burner and focus on drama camp but we don’t always get what we want, do we? Like I said, this book is so well-written and fast-paced that you will fly right through it.

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Saint Con by Seelie Kay – Review by Megan Conley

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Saint ConSaint Con by Seelie Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a super quick read but is packed to the brim with action, romance, danger, and so much more! This was my first time reading Seelie Kay but it definitely won’t be my last! I loved the witty banter between Jessica and Connor and the way Kay writes just kept me hooked and turning the pages! I highly recommend picking this up if you are looking for a quick read that will have your heart racing…in more ways than one 😉

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My Murder Year by Kate Larkindale – Review by Megan Conley

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My Murder YearMy Murder Year by Kate Larkindale
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great YA mystery that will keep you on your toes and turning the pages. We follow Stas, who has help from her friend Jonny, as she tries to solve a string of murders that have taken place over that past year. Stas is a high school student who is going to be a bridesmaid in her mother’s upcoming wedding…that is until she finds her mother dead. We follow her journey of not only trying to find who has done this to her mother (as well as trying prove that Mama K…her mother’s long-time partner…didn’t do it) but also Stas finding herself along the way. This is really fast-paced, keeps your attention, and the characters are so well-developed (I love that!) and relatable. YA or not, this is a great read!

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My Big Red Monster (Giants and Monsters) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Megan Conley

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My Big Red Monster (Giants and Monsters)My Big Red Monster by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the story of a girl and the big, red monster that lives under her bed. Her brother doesn’t believe that there’s a monster under her bed, but there is! She finally gains the courage to face the monster and she has to give his tasks in order for him not to eat her. She makes him do all of her chores and then when there’s nothing left for him to do; she stands up to the monster and sends him over to her brothers room. I really love the illustrations in this book…they are bright and funny. This is an adaptation of a Hindu teaching tale and I think that Wickstrom does a nice job. I always love how Wickstrom is able to weave lessons into her children’s books in ways that kids are going to be able to grasp and understand. This is a great addition to any bookshelf!

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Hot Flashes and Hockey Slashes (Hot Flash Hookups Book 1) by Marika Ray and Sylvie Stewart – Review by Megan Conley

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Hot Flashes and Hockey SlashesHot Flashes and Hockey Slashes by Marika Ray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a very cute romantic comedy that will have you swooning for the MMC and commiserating with the FMC all while laughing out loud. Olivia has been invited to her ex-husband’s wedding (to a much younger woman) and her kids decide to set her up on a fake date with aging hockey star, Roman, so that she doesn’t have to attend the event (in Belize, no less) alone. We get to follow along between Olivia and Roman (it’s a dual perspective…YAY!) from beginning, middle, and end as the adventure happens. It’s a super cute story and I love the way the authors work together to create a seamless tale of life, love, and happily-ever-after.

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The Man in Black by L.R. Liverpool – Review by Megan Conley

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The Man In BlackThe Man In Black by L.R. Liverpool
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is book is so many things…historical fiction, romance, western, LGBT+, thriller, mystery…I feel like it has it all! And it’s not a small undertaking either…this is a big ole book. But don’t let that deter you from picking it up. Liverpool has built this fantastical world for her characters and she takes her time really getting into her characters and developing them and letting them figure out who they are and what they want. I thoroughly enjoyed this book WAAAYYYY more than I even anticipated it would. It did take me a little while to get into, but once I did, I had a hard time putting it down. It’s a great coming-of-age saga, but it’s also so much more. I really can’t recommend this book enough. Pick it up for yourself…just allow yourself time to really get into to it and appreciate it.
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Porter and Midge (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Megan Conley

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Porter and Midge: Paws for Safety: A Kid's Guide to Safe Dog Interactions (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series)Porter and Midge: Paws for Safety: A Kid’s Guide to Safe Dog Interactions by Giselle Nevada

This is a fantastic children’s book explaining the importance of dog safety and it does it in such a way that children will be able to easily understand it. We follow Lora and CJ and their doggie companions, Porter and Midge throughout the story as we learn about dog safety through various scenarios. The story is well done and the illustrations that accompany it follow along with the story fantastically. I love the sing-songy rhymes of the story because children are able to follow along so much better. This is definitely a story you will want to read your littles if they are going to be around any type of animal, but especially dogs.

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Mystical Midlife Mate (Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo Series) by Reggi Dupree – Review by Megan Conley

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Mystical Midlife Mate: A Paranormal Women's Fiction Novel (Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo Book 2)Mystical Midlife Mate: A Paranormal Women’s Fiction Novel by Reggi Dupree
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The is book 2 of 2 in the Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo series by Reggi Dupree and she did not disappoint. I absolutely loved the first one (and you need to go read it before you pick this one up) and all of the characters are back at it again (well…for the most part) but some have newfound powers and others are coming to terms with things. I absolutely love Dupree’s character development and her plot line is action packed! I would classify this as a paranormal mystery but there is plenty of humor and wit to lighten it up. Definitely give this book a go!
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Sarge by Stuart Ledwith – Review by Megan Conley

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SargeSarge by Stuart Ledwith
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

While this book is part of the Mission 3047 universe, it can definitely be read as a standalone because in this book we get to delve into the character of Sarge. I enjoyed Ledwith’s development of this character and the fact that we get to have Sarge tell his story. This story isn’t my typical read and it is a little different, but it was enjoyable, the writing is superb and very imaginative, and it does engage you. Overall, I would recommend if you were into sci-fi and adventure.

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House of Blood and Whispers by Natalina Reis – Review by Megan Conley

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House of Blood and WhispersHouse of Blood and Whispers by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a fast-paced, engaging story that you don’t want to miss out on. Reis’s storyline is perfection and the character development is sublime. I love well-developed characters and both Sung-jin and Cahki grow independently and together nicely. I would classify this as a fantasy, enemies-to-lovers, action novel and it’s done so well. There are so many twists and turns throughout that I was on the edge of my seat and one more chapter turned in to five. It was really hard to put this book down! Definitely a must read!

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Mr. Wimp (The Human Mating Site Book 1) by B.L. Wilde – Review by Megan Conley

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Mr Wimp (The Human Mating Site #1)Mr Wimp by B.L. Wilde
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Even though this is a super quick read, Wilde packs a lot into her novella. Bella’s venture into self-discovery after her divorce is extremely relatable and I think many a reader will relate to her adventures after becoming single in her thirties. The spice, the wit, the humor, the relatability all leads to a fantastic read. This is the first of 13 novellas in this series and I can’t wait to devour them!

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Zibs for Sale (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Megan Conley

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Zibs for Sale: a retelling of Beauty and the Beast (I am an Alien)Zibs for Sale: a retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The adventures of Shirl and Eee-ahh continue as they fly off into outer space looking for delicious Zibs. Unfortunately, they run into some problems with Ba-Kerr (the owner) and are forced to work for him. I love how Wickstrom always finds a way to incorporate a strong message into her writing and this time it’s teamwork and sticking together. The illustrations are bright and colorful. Another great read for your littles.

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Ignite My Heart (North Fork Series Book 2) by Alicia Street – Review by Megan Conley

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Ignite My Heart (North Fork Series Book 2)Ignite My Heart by Alicia Street
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the North Fork series but it reads fantastically as a standalone. This is the first I’ve read of this author but I can promise you it will not be the last. Street’s plot lines are driven and her character development is on point. I fell hard and fast for Morgan and Blake and was rooting for them throughout the entire book and I had a soft spot for Ciara, Morgan’s nine-year-old sweet and sassy daughter. This is a contemporary romance but there is still angst, trepidation, and a few moments I was waiting with baited breath. I am definitely going to be reading the first installment and have added the third installment to my TBR. This is a quick read if you are looking for something short and sweet!
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ALTERATIONS TRILOGY: Alterations, Game Changer, Primal Will by Jane Suen – Review by Megan Conley

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Alterations / Game Changer / Primal Will (Alterations #1-3)Alterations / Game Changer / Primal Will by Jane Suen
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This set includes all three books in the trilogy: Alteration, Game Changer, and Primal Will. I liked the concept of this dystopian, sci-fi series; however, there were times where I found myself lost and having to go back and re-read. I also felt like Suen jumped around sometimes causing the reader to question themselves. But overall I enjoyed the suspense and mystery of the books and I would recommend them. I would suggest reading them in order and going ahead and getting the set because you are going to want to start the next book as soon as you finish.
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Gumshoe Goes To A Quinceanera (Gumshoe Mysteries Book 2) by Laura Hawks – Review by Megan Conley

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Gumshoe Goes To A Quinceanera (Gumshoe Mysteries Book 2)Gumshoe Goes To A Quinceanera by Laura Hawks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the really cute story of Mia and her familiar, Gumshoe, and they are trying to find a murderer before Mia’s friend has her Quinceanera ruined. This story is very entertaining and Gumshoe had my giggling the whole way through. This would be a cute read-aloud for families as well as a good chapter book for readers venturing into reading on their own. It’s filled with mystery and humor and a quick read.
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The Hand of God: From Oppenheimer to Hypersonics by Paul McCarthy – Review by Megan Conley

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The Hand of God: From Oppenheimer to Hypersonics - A Crash Course on Nuclear Weapons and Humankind's Most Dangerous GameThe Hand of God: From Oppenheimer to Hypersonics – A Crash Course on Nuclear Weapons and Humankind’s Most Dangerous Game by Paul McCarthy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was completely out of my norm; however, I really did enjoy it. McCarthy is NOT KIDDING when he says it’s a “crash course on nuclear weapons.” But don’t let that intimidate you…this was very easy to read and understand and it moves fairly quickly so you don’t lose interest. On a deeper level, the book does look at moral issues and there is some discussion there. If you are interested in nuclear history, politics, war, etc. I would definitely recommend this book.

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A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Megan Conley

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A Forever Kind of ThingA Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great YA Romance. I really enjoyed Wes and Mina’s story and how you can’t always control what happens to you and when, but sometimes things works out how and when they are supposed to. Thomas and Harris did a fantastic job not only with the character development, but also with the plot line. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this novel and I actively try to avoid high school drama ;). This was well done and a super cute and quick read and I look forward to more from these authors.

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Rocketship Made of Stars (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Megan Conley

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Rocketship Made of Stars: Naming Constellations (I am an Alien)Rocketship Made of Stars: Naming Constellations by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wickstrom has done it again! She has taken a unique twist to teaching kids about constellations using Shirl and Eee-ahh’s friendship and adventures. I love how she always integrates cool stories with scientific based facts into her books. She also throughs in acceptance and tolerance as well. At the end of the book, she has great information about constellations as well. I highly recommend this book for your star and space loving littles!

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The Guardsman (The Olympic Peninsula Series Book 2) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Megan Conley

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The Guardsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 2)The Guardsman by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the series and you don’t necessarily have to read the first to understand what’s going on. I would recommend it just to have a better grasp on *some* of the characters but it’s not necessary. I really enjoy Treadgold’s writing style and the way she writes and develops her characters. They are very realistic and relatable. I am really digging the thriller/suspense with a little bit of romance and spice thrown in there…two of my favorite genres 🙂 I thoroughly loved Liam and Teresa’s story, both individually and together and I can’t wait to see what else Cat Treadgold has in store.

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Amaleigha Makes a New Friend by Janice Pratt – Review by Megan Conley

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Amaleigha Makes a New FriendAmaleigha Makes a New Friend by Janice Pratt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A really informational way of discussing the changing world climate with children. This is the story of Amaleigha, an American 3rd grader, who gets a Ukrainian pen pal, Vova, through her teacher. During the course of the relationship, they learn about each other and their cultures; however, during this time the Russia-Ukraine war breaks out and suddenly Amaleigha is worried about her friend. Through this picture book, we see how differences can be made and we are given the opportunity to see these types of situations through the eyes of children…which is something we sometimes need to be reminded of. This was well done and the topic matter was handled delicately and very well. This is a great book to read to your littles (or students) to show them that differences can be made, no matter how small.

 

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Vampires of Atlantis by Courtney Davis – Review by Megan Conley

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Vampires of AtlantisVampires of Atlantis by Courtney Davis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed the concepts that this author introduced in this novel. The unique story of Atlantis and the different origins of vampires and werewolves was fascinating and definitely kept my attention. I loved Davis’s worldbuilding and descriptions; however, there were times I wished she had spent a little more time on her character development. I liked the characters (they are very unique) and I sort of connected with them, but, overall, I found them shallow and lacking depth and background. I really enjoyed the premise of this book and I felt like the plot line moved along at a fairly decent pace. There were a few times I felt rushed but overall I think it was well done. I’m definitely looking forward to reading another of Ms. Davis’s books.

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Dead Keen (Things Unseen Book 2) by Anise Eden – Review by Megan Conley

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Dead Keen (Things Unseen #2)Dead Keen by Anise Eden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second (and final) book in the Things Unseen series. I highly recommend reading the first book prior to reading this one simply so you have a better understanding of the characters and the trials and tribulations they’ve been through. It will definitely give you a better understanding of them. I found Eden’s writing style to be very addicting. I was pulled in from the beginning and she didn’t let me go until the very last page. This is a romantic suspense, psychological thriller that has drama, twists, turns, emotion, action…you name it…it’s in here. I can’t really say enough good things about this book. It’s fantastic and well written…I couldn’t put it down and I look forward to my next read by Anise Eden.

 

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Conversations with the Tarot by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Megan Conley

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Conversations with the Tarot: Bewitching Meditations on Reading the CardsConversations with the Tarot: Bewitching Meditations on Reading the Cards by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was inspired by DeBlassie’s writings to not only continue my journey with the Tarot, but to pick it back up. I’ve always been interested in what many consider to be the “occult” or “dark” or “magical” and I’ve always viewed those interests as just part of my world and who I am. When I was first introduced to DeBlassie’s writings, I was so comforted because I finally felt like I found someone who thought very similarly to me and felt the way I did about things. I really love the way DeBlassie writes…I always feel as those she can sense what I’m needing to hear and is able to effectively communicate that and put it to paper. I enjoy her prose and poetry as well as her straightforwardness and realness. I love her unique take on various aspects and the Tarot is no different. If you are at all interested in the Tarot, please pick up this book and just have a looksee. It’s easy to read and extremely informative.

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Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend (Oscarand Emmy Series) by Terri Sabol – Review by Megan Conley

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Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend: A story about pet loss and saying goodbye to a furry friend. Ages 5-11 and kindergarten through grade 5.Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend: A story about pet loss and saying goodbye to a furry friend. Ages 5-11 and kindergarten through grade 5. by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This children’s book deals with the hard truth of losing a pet and the even harder truth of having to make the decision to euthanize the pet. It was fabulously done. Sabol handles the topic with a delicacy that speaks of experience and wisdom. This is a fantastic book filled with information if you have children and are having to go through this experience. The illustrations are very well done and, again, the topic is treated with dignity and respect.

 

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Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers Book 2) by Toya Richardson – Review by Megan Conley

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Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers #2)Mesmerised by Toya Richardson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book and while it is the second in the series, you can definitely read it as a standalone. Antoine (Hybrid) and Donna (Human) are fated mates (swoon) and their meeting is D-R-A-M-A-T-I-C! I really like the intensity of Antoine and the relatability of Donna. Richardson does a good job with character development (especially the main characters) and I enjoyed the dual POV so we get insight from both of them. The concept of the plot was really interesting and for the most part it flowed really well; however, there were some parts where it felt rushed, but overall, I really enjoyed the book and I look forward to reading more of this author.

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Xenia Navarro and the Magic Ants by Lois Wickstrom and Milagros Darling – Review by Megan Conley

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Xenia Navarro and the Magic AntsXenia Navarro and the Magic Ants by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An absolutely fascinating read for children and adults alike! This is a chapter book for those of you who are used to Wickstrom’s picture books, but don’t despair…her wit and storytelling is just as present here. I will say that Xenia Navarro and the Magic Ants does have political undertones and Wickstrom and Darling handle them wonderfully so that children can understand right from wrong. I really enjoyed this read and was emotionally invested in Xenia’s journey and the twists and turns it takes. There is magic, politics (wonderfully done), Mexican culture, and so much more weaved throughout this story.

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Saved by the Everyday Hero (Limited Edition Romance Collections) by Naomi Valkyrie & Various Authors – Review by Megan Conley

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Saved by the Everyday HeroSaved by the Everyday Hero by Amelia Hayden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’m a sucker for anthologies because you get to sample a bunch of awesome authors. This collection focuses on your everyday heroes (DUH) and they are some mighty fine heroes. I really like how this anthology is broken up by spice level (the second one I’ve read to do this and it is *chef’s kiss*). And once I saw that Naomi Valkyrie had a story in this anthology, I was game! I absolutely love her writing style and she didn’t disappoint with “Unexpected Heroes.” This is a MM, small-town romance filled with suspense. Valkyrie packs romance, suspense, angst, and spice into Jude and Elijah’s story and does it really well. I really like how she developed these characters as well as the plot line.
The next story that caught my eye was “Into the Flames” by Dawn Luedecke. Looking for a hot fireman and a photojournalist (who happens to be working for the fire department) who can’t cook AND who happen to live in the same apartment complex? Well, this is the story for you! This is also a second chance romance (which I’m quickly becoming a sucker for) and it’s just really cute. Dalton and Sadie’s story is funny and sweet with a little bit (OK…maybe a lot) of spice and an HEA.
Another story that had me on the edge of my seat was Heroes & Hurricanes by TK Eldridge. I’d classify this as more of a romantic thriller because it was definitely suspenseful at times but don’t let that put you off…the romance and spice were there as well. I really loved the plot line of this one. It really kept me on edge and turning the pages. Definitely a must read out of this anthology!
Grab a copy of this anthology now! All of these stories are beginners for series and they will hook you right in so if you are looking for a new series…check some of these out!

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A Rainbow Like You by Andréa Fehsenfeld – Review by Megan Conley

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A Rainbow Like YouA Rainbow Like You by Andréa Fehsenfeld
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

While this novel isn’t my typical jam, I really enjoyed the characters, the storyline, and the author’s writing style. I was fascinated by synesthesia and I think Fehsenfeld did a wonderful job of realistically incorporating that into her character. I think my favorite thing about the novel is the way the author developed her characters. I’m a sucker for good character development and Fehsenfeld didn’t disappoint. The characters were well rounded and believable. I loved the bond that Adrian and Hastings form even though there are those who try to distort what their relationship actually is. Overall, I just really connected with the characters. They were realistic and believable and just really well done. Great read.

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The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Megan Conley

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The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1)The Silent Woodsman by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this sweet, HEA from Cat Treadgold. JJ is a country music star who is under strict doctor’s order not to utter a word in order to heal so he heads to the woods, away from society, to heal and figure some things out. Ali is trying to figure out if her twin is still alive and gets caught in the woods during a storm and has to seek shelter in JJ’s cabin. Here’s the kicker…Ali has no idea who JJ is and he can’t speak so they ride out the storm together. But alas, they are from two different worlds and eventually reality hits and they have to return to them…but can they keep their flame alive? I really enjoyed Treadgold’s writing; however, there were times where it was a little slow and I wished the story would just move along. There are many twists and turns in The Silent Woodsman so there’s really something for every romance lover. I can’t wait to see what Treadgold has in store for the second book in the Olympic Peninsula series.

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