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The Wandering Isles: A Crown of Stones Novella (The Crown of Stones Novella Series Book 1) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Naomi McDonald

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The Wandering Isles, A Crown of Stones Novella (Novella Series #1)The Wandering Isles, A Crown of Stones Novella by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Wandering Isles is a novella that follows the Crown of Stones trilogy. Even though you can read this story as a standalone, I highly recommend reading The Crown of Stones books. They are amazing!

As with The Crown of Stones, The Wandering Isles is expertly written. I was sucked into the story within the first paragraph and felt like I was living in the book with the characters. The world building in all of the books I’ve read by this author is excellent, and this book is no exception. I can see it like a movie in my mind as I read.

You really get to know the characters on a deeper level in this book as it’s a novella focused on a specific event. Even though it’s a shorter story, you don’t feel like you are missing anything.

I thoroughly enjoyed this dark fantasy adventure!

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The Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Naomi McDonald

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The Slaughter of Leith HallThe Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Historical fiction is not my usual read, but sometimes I like to try out new things. I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this book after I read a few chapters. I found the period speak cumbersome and it was a bit slow moving. Once the true mystery of it all started, though, I found myself turning the pages to find out how the whole thing played out. The characters and world building were excellent and really brought the story to life. Despite the slow start, and a couple of slow-moving pieces elsewhere in the book, overall, it was a good read.

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Being Lost (Satan’s Devils MC San Diego #1) by Manda Mellett – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Being Lost (Satan's Devils MC San Diego #1)Being Lost by Manda Mellett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Being Lost is the first book in the Satan’s Devils MC San Diego series. While you can read this as a standalone, you will have a better reading experience if you’ve read Ink’s Devil (Satan’s Devils MC Colorado Chapter #5) to get some foundation for the characters in Being Lost.

I have read many of the Satan’s Devils books and have really enjoyed the author’s ability to weave real life issues into her writing in a way that engages your emotions. That being said, this book did not grab me as much as the others. Don’t get me wrong, it was a great read, it just didn’t have the same intensity as the other books.

I did enjoy the fact that the characters in this book are older and that the author addresses finding love in later adulthood. That’s something you don’t see too often. I’m also enjoying the bit of mystery that has started around who is shadowing the MC.

Overall, great read!

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Heart of Malice (Alice Worth Book 1) by Lisa Edmonds – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Heart of Malice (Alice Worth #1)Heart of Malice by Lisa Edmonds
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Heart of Malice is the first book in the Alice Worth series. And, I have to say that the series is off to a great start!

The first chapter starts out with action which sucks you right into the story. I liked the unique way the ghost is portrayed in chapter two. I also found the interaction between the ghost and Alice amusing. Alice sort of reminds me of Jessica Jones.

Something I’m wondering about is how the author decided on what is in the Supernatural and Paranormal Entity Registration Act. I’d be interested to know what went into that process. It’s a good detail that adds a more realistic feel to the story.

All of that rambling to say, this is a good read. The only thing I wish had been different is that Alice demonstrated more of her power. And, maybe that changes in subsequent books as the character grows. I’ll have to read and see.

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Ashes To Ashes Boxset (books 1-3) by Rowena Holloway – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Ashes To Ashes Boxset (books 1-3)Ashes To Ashes Boxset by Rowena Holloway
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I highly recommend getting this set so you can binge read this entire series. The Ashes to Ashes series is an intense, edge-of-your-seat thriller that will keep you up at night turning the pages.

The characters in these books are complex. The world building is amazing! And, the story line is a winding road of mystery, suspense, danger, drama, and intrigue. There are many layers to uncover along with the characters as you read.

This series is a non-stop roller coaster ride you won’t want to get off of.

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Martimus (Feisty Lawyers Book 5) by Seelie Kay – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Martimus (Feisty Lawyers Book 5)Martimus by Seelie Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Martimus is the fifth book in the Feisty Lawyer’s series. You can read this as a standalone, but you’ll probably have a better experience if you read the previous ones to get the background on the other characters.

I like the premise of this book. I had a difficult time getting past the way the main character, Cate, was written when she has to slip into her undercover role. There is something about intelligent women acting less than their smarts that just grates on me when it is written in certain ways. Now, on the flip side of that, I did feel an emotion when I read those parts, so the author has definitely given you an emotional connection. In that respect, it is written in a way that does engage you.

Martimus is full of action, suspense, and mystery as the characters are searching for missing socialites. It also has some steamy romance to spice things up. The use of the underwater habitat was interesting and gives added dimension to the story.

Overall, once I got past my initial aversion to the previously mentioned aspect, it was an entertaining read and kept me turning the pages.

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Dead Magic (The Sanctuary Chronicles, Book 3) by India Kells – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Dead Magic (The Sanctuary Chronicles #3)Dead Magic by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dead Magic is the third book in the Sanctuary Chronicles series. It can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend the previous books because they are awesome!

This book grabbed a hold of me in the first chapter and didn’t let go. The action starts almost right away and it leads you on a journey with Finn to find Violet and save her.

I love the characters in this book. Who doesn’t love a brooding vampire and witches, right??? Especially when they are drawn together but don’t want to be. You connect to the characters right away, which keeps you invested in their story and the outcome.

Superb read! Get this book! You will not be disappointed.

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Summer’s Stolen (Seasons of Magic Book 2) by Sarah Biglow – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Summer's Stolen (A Seasons of Magic urban Fantasy Novel)Summer’s Stolen by Sarah Biglow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Summer’s Stolen is the second book in the Seasons of Magic series. You’ll appreciate this story more if you’ve read book one as there are references to things that happened in the previous story.

This is a fabulous series. I fell in love with book one and book two is a fantastic story as well. In the second book we see Ezri’s growth as a person.

Summer’s Stolen sucks you in from the very beginning and doesn’t let go. (Maybe the book itself is infused with magic? LOL) When reading this story, I felt like I was right there with the characters. There is action, danger, intrigue, suspense, and of course, magic.

Definitely a must read!

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The Labyrinthine Journey (Servant of the Gods Book 2) by Luciana Cavallaro – Review by Naomi McDonald

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The Labyrinthine Journey (Servant of the Gods, #2)The Labyrinthine Journey by Luciana Cavallaro
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Labyrinthine Journey is book two in the Servant of the Gods series. It could stand on its own as the author does a good job of giving you tie-ins to book one. Although, this story is so good, who wouldn’t want to read the first book???

As a person who loves mythology, this book captured and held my interest. I felt like I was right there in the story with the characters. The world building is fantastic and the descriptions in the book bring everything to life. The Labyrinthine Journey is a colorful adventure that you will not want to put down!

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Winter’s Wolf (The Cursed Series Book 1) by Lou Grimes – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Winter's Wolf (The Cursed, #1)Winter’s Wolf by Lou Grimes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Winter’s Wolf is the first book in The Cursed series.

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I got this book, but it turned out to be pretty good. The story concept is interesting and I enjoyed the characters. The author does a good job of building suspense so it keeps you reading. There are a few places where the story breaks down a bit, but I think this series has promise.

One of the things that caught me in this book are the names of the characters. I don’t know why it stood out, but the names really fit this book well.

Overall, a good read!

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Deleted by Ruth Mitchell – Review by Naomi McDonald

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DeletedDeleted by Ruth Mitchell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I had no idea what to expect from this book. It isn’t my usual read so it could have gone either way. To be honest, I wasn’t really into it at first. However, I stuck with it and it turned out to be a interesting story on the moral dilemma of how far to go when technology gives you access to people’s memories. With some suspense, philosophical deliberations, and a bit of romance, this is a great book for the YA genre.

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Spring’s Calling: A Seasons of Magic Urban Fantasy Novel by Sarah Biglow – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Spring's Calling (Seasons of Magic, #1)Spring’s Calling by Sarah Biglow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Spring’s Calling is the first book in the Seasons of Magic series.

I was sucked into this story from the first chapter. Spring’s Calling has wonderfully written characters and superb world building. Ezri is a strong female lead, which I truly appreciated.

This story has mystery, suspense, drama, and of course, magic and evil forces for our heroine to fight against.

Seasons of Magic is a promising series and I look forward to reading the next book!

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Eat Me (Mayim Merman Book 1) by Amber Dark – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Eat Me (Mayim Merman series Book 1)Eat Me by Amber Dark
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Eat Me is the first book in the Mayim Merman series. It’s a quick read, great for when you only have a short break but want to pack everything you can into it.

I honestly had no idea what to expect when I got this book. It was the cover that caught my eye.

First, I wish the story had been a little longer because I felt like the physical part was played up but the message that was important in this book – that we shouldn’t let a failed relationship make us doubt ourselves – gets a little watered down.

Now, in saying that, I do love the way this book shows this casual encounter in a positive light. The male lead, while enjoying the physical experience, actually does have an underlying drive to show these women that they are worth being loved by the right person.

Overall, I’d say if you are looking for a ton of intricate story line, this book is not going to scratch that itch. However, if you are looking for a short, steamy read with a positive affirmation of casual physical encounters that ultimately lead to an HEA, I’d say this would be a good choice.

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Night Justice (A Chicago Vigilantes Novel Book 1) by India Kells – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Night JusticeNight Justice by India Kells
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Night Justice is the first book in the Chicago Vigilantes series. It leaves things in a bit of a cliffhanger so be prepared for that.

I liked this book a lot. The characters are well written. I appreciated the female lead, Orla. Her character is strong, yet feminine, very well balanced. I also loved that the male lead is an anti-hero. The fact that he is attracted to Orla because she’s strong and not because she needs to be “saved” is a plus too.

This story has romance, of course, but it is also full of intrigue and danger as Orla and her masked vigilante try to keep the city safe from a new drug. Overall, a great read.

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Saint Code: The Lost (Saint Code Book 1) by Megan Mackie – Review by Naomi McDonald

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The Lost (Saint Code Book 1)The Lost by Megan Mackie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Lost is the first book in the Saint Code series. Even though this is listed as the first book in a series, I highly recommend reading The Finder of the Lucky Devil (Lucky Devil series) before you read this book. You will have a better grasp of certain events mentioned in The Lost if you read that book first.

I loved this book! The world building is superb and I love the unique characters. The Lost is a twisty adventure that keeps you guessing. I’d love to say more about specific details, but I don’t want to spoil the intrigue.

A definite must read!!!! Seriously, read it!!!

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Humiliating Revenge: Contemporary Young Adult Romance by T. Christensen – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Humiliating RevengeHumiliating Revenge by T. Christensen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It took me a few chapters to get into this book, but once I did, it hooked me. The one thing that could have been different is that, while I love a good sex scene, the ones in this book seemed to go on for too long. Or, maybe it was just the timing or the way they are written that throws you out of the moment. I think this particular story could have carried itself without the extended physical interaction.

The characters and the plot are great. You get emotionally invested in the push and pull between Olivia and Calum as they start unraveling the past. The villain character is disturbing and is part of what truly makes this story so intense.

Overall, good read.

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Arrows Tipped with Honey (Natural Forces Book 2) by Jean Gill – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Arrows Tipped with Honey (Natural Forces #2)Arrows Tipped with Honey by Jean Gill
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Arrows Tipped With Honey is the second book in the Natural Forces series. I was captured by the title and blurb and didn’t realize that this was part of a series at first. You will definitely want to read the first book before you read this one!

This story has a solid blend of fantasy, action, intrigue, danger, and romance. It also has a bit of a dystopian feel to it with the nature vs. civilization components. I enjoyed the unique characters and the amazing world that the author built for them.

Arrows Tipped With Honey was not a “quick” read for me. It has a lot of layers so you will want to take your time with it. You definitely don’t want to pass up a chance to read this series!

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Torch (Lovelock Book 2) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Naomi McDonald

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TorchTorch by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Torch is the second book in the Lovelock series. I recommend reading the first book to get the background.

This is a fast-paced dystopian novel with a lot of twists and turns. It will keep you engaged as you follow Jema and Troy in the next phase of their journey. Torch is full of adventure as the kids do their best to figure out who they can trust as they try to save the world. This story is a great sequel to the first book and has left things with room for more stories to develop.

The one thing I will say is that if you are struggling with news overload about what is happening with COVID-19 right now, you may not be able to enjoy this as much as it deserves. I think I would have been able to appreciate this even more if I had waited to read it when I’m not inundated with IRL news.

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Baba Ali and the Clockwork Djinn: A Steampunk Faerie Tale by Danielle Ackley-McPhail and Day Al-Mohamed – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Baba Ali and the Clockwork Djinn: A Steampunk Faerie TaleBaba Ali and the Clockwork Djinn: A Steampunk Faerie Tale by Danielle Ackley-McPhail
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

These are new authors to me so I wasn’t sure what to expect. This story is a retelling of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves, but with a steampunk twist. I felt like it started off a bit slow. Once it picked up, I enjoyed the adventure. I loved the way the Djinn elements were re-imagined, and the mix of mechanics and magic. It’s a slow burn story, but definitely a good read.

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Hawk’s Cry (Satan’s Devils MC Second Generation #2) by Manda Mellett – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Hawk's Cry (Satan's Devils MC Second Generation #2)Hawk’s Cry by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hawk’s Cry is the second book in the Satan’s Devils MC Second Generation series. It can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading the other Satan’s Devils series to get a good feel for the supporting characters. Plus, all of the Satan’s Devils series are excellent reads!

While this book wasn’t as action heavy as some of the previous books, it deals with an issue that many people experience. I don’t want to go into specifics because I don’t want to ruin the impact of the story, but Hawk’s experience is very relatable on many levels.

I am glad that Liv’s character was a strong support character because in so many cases IRL things are not that way. From an emotional standpoint, she is a strong female lead in this story.

This book is a superb read and I can’t wait to see what issue this author tackles in the next book!

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Rise (The Larussio Legacy Book 2) by Via Mari – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Rise (The Larussio Legacy, #2)Rise by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Rise is the second book in the Larussio Legacy series. I’d recommend reading the first book to get context, even though you can pick this one up and catch on to what is happening.

The action starts off right away and pulls you into the story. Rise has suspense and danger throughout as well as steamy romance. The characters are strong and resourceful as they navigate the twists and turns of secrets and betrayal.

If you enjoy mafia romances, this needs to be on your TBR list!

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Midnight in the House of Lang by Bree M. Lewandowski – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Midnight in the House of LangMidnight in the House of Lang by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I wasn’t certain what to expect with this book. Dystopian novels are not my usual read. This book was pleasantly surprising. While it did take me a couple of chapters to get into it, when I did, I couldn’t put it down. I loved the world this author created. You feel as if you are right there in it as you follow Thea on her journey as a refugee. There are emotional moments in the book, as well as suspense, danger, and romance.
Overall, a great read. 😊

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Testament of Feats: Book of Sorrows Book Two by K.H. Jones – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Testament of Feats: Book of Sorrows (Book Two 2)Testament of Feats: Book of Sorrows by Kimm Jones
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is the second in the Testament of Feats series. In order to get the most of out of your reading experience, I recommend reading the first book in the series before you read this one.
Book of Sorrows is an epic fantasy adventure. The world building is superb and the story line has multiple layers. I loved the depth of the characters. This book is intense and spellbinding. You feel like you are in the story right along side of the characters as they face many dangers and unexpected events.
Anyone who is a true fan of fantasy will fall in love with this series.

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P.A.W.S. (The P.A.W.S. Saga, Book 1) by Debbie Manber Kupfer – Review by Naomi McDonald

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P.A.W.S.P.A.W.S. by Debbie Manber Kupfer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

P. A. W. S. is the first book in the P. A. W. S. Saga series.
This is my first read by this author and it was a good experience. While I don’t usually read YA, this book was entertaining. There were a couple of references that would make this book questionable for anyone under the age of 16. I enjoyed the author’s unique touches on the supernatural and the world building was excellent. Overall, while this book was fairly tame for me, I think it would be a good read for the younger crowd. A teen would most likely relate well to the main character who feels out of place in the world and who is learning about who she is.

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Of Magic & Scales by Natalina Reis – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Of Magic and ScalesOf Magic and Scales by Natalina Reis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Initially I found the writing style a little challenging to get into, however after the first couple of chapters I caught the flow. Of course, then I couldn’t put it down. Of Magic and Scales is a meandering mystery story It takes it’s time and introduces several magical creatures along the way. Aiden trying to come to terms with himself added dimension to the story. And, Naël is someone you kind of love to hate. He is irritating and rude, but he also cares about Aiden in his own way. I could really identify with Aiden’s desire to just live a low-key life without drama. Unfortunately, as in real life, you don’t always get what you wish for.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. I’m wondering if there will be another book because I would definitely read more!

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Imposter: An Ash Park Novel (Volume 7) by Meghan O’Flynn – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Imposter: An Ash Park Novel (Volume 7)Imposter: An Ash Park Novel by Meghan O’Flynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Imposter is volume seven in the Ash Park series.

Suspense. Intrigue. Mystery. A roller coaster of twists and turns. It’s everything you would expect from a book by Meghan O’Flynn. Imposter is a stay-up-all-night, unputdownable reading adventure. I mean, who can sleep when there is a mystery to solve??? (Seriously, this is not a book you can read in short spurts – make sure you have a good chunk of time available).

Great world building, and characters with depth bring this story to life.

Definitely a spectacular read!!!!

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Moonlit Mirage: A Cook Islands Romance (Moonlit Destination Series) by Amy McKinley – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Moonlit Mirage - A Cook Islands Romance (Moonlit Destination Series)Moonlit Mirage – A Cook Islands Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Moonlit Mirage is a novella in the Moonlit Destination series. It can be read as a standalone.

This story starts off with an action sequence and doesn’t slow down. Since it’s a novella, the details aren’t as fleshed out, but you still feel like you got a great tale out of it when you’re done. I enjoyed the set up to the romance. It gives you a fast, but solid, connection point so that it doesn’t feel rushed.

Overall, a fun reading adventure!

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TWO HEARTS UNLIKELY HEROES (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 9) by Tamara Ferguson – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Two Hearts Unlikely Heroes (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance #9)Two Hearts Unlikely Heroes by Tamara Ferguson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Two Hearts Unlikely Heroes is the ninth book in the Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance series. It can be read as a standalone. The prologue sets up the story, so make sure you don’t skip it.

This story is full of drama, action, intrigue, and all the feels. The author does a wonderful job of creating characters with depth and interesting personalities. And, you can tell that a lot of heart has gone into writing this adventure.

Two Hearts Unlikely Heroes is definitely a book you won’t want to put down once you get started! The slow-build romance is definitely worth your time.

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King & Hunt: A Lust / Hate Story By Brienne Dubh – Review by Naomi McDonald

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King & Hunt: A Lust / Hate StoryKing & Hunt: A Lust / Hate Story by Brienne Dubh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was my first experience with this author. I wasn’t sure what to expect. Overall, it was a decent read. I was a bit disappointed that the initial heated friction between the two main characters was over fairly quickly. However, the way the last part of the story played out kind of made up for it. This is definitely set up as more of a short story feel. I finished it fairly quickly. This book would be a great read if you are waiting somewhere and need a distraction. It’s just entertaining enough to keep you from getting bored, but no so deep in story line that you’ll miss something if you have to stop reading. A solid 4 stars.

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REWIND Boxed set (Rewind Series Books 1-4) By Rowan Shaw – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Rewind Boxed SetRewind Boxed Set by Rowan Shaw
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In one sentence, this series is phenomenal.

I loved every story in this series. The characters are wonderfully written. Each story digs deep into a well of emotions that make everything real. My favorite books overall are Rewind and Return. I absolutely fell in love with the Noah character though, so his book was a fantastic way to round out the series.

This is definitely a must-read series, and the box set makes it easy to binge it. The only thing I was disappointed with was that the series was over too soon. I felt like I could have stayed immersed in the Rewind world for much, much longer.

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