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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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Scoring Chance: A Mile High Miners Novella by Lane Martin – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Scoring Chance : A Mile High Miners NovellaScoring Chance : A Mile High Miners Novella by Lane Martin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Scoring Chance is a Mile High Miners Novella. I haven’t read any other books by this author so this was a new reading experience for me.

The characters draw you into the story right away. There are so many emotions pack into this book that it feels like a full-length novel. One of the great things about this story is that there isn’t a bunch of extraneous detail to sift through. The story moves quickly and keeps the focus where it needs to be. It is a quick, easy, and entertaining read.

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Jake Wolfe Series Bundle Box Set: (Books 1-2-3) Vigilante Justice Thriller Series by Mark Nolan – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Jake Wolfe Series Bundle Box Set (Jake Wolfe #1-3)Jake Wolfe Series Bundle Box Set by Mark Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This Vigilante Justice box set contains the first three books from this series. Reading these was my first experience with this author. I was not disappointed. This box set is a great way to spend a day binge reading.

Jake Wolfe is a multi-layered character that keeps you guessing. His knack for attracting trouble leads you on great adventures as you turn the pages. These stories are full of danger, intrigue, suspense, and even some emotional moments. The cemetery scene with Cody in the first book gets you right in the feels. To keep things from getting too serious, there are also some humorous moments played out through banter dialog between Jake and his friends.

The stories approach things from several viewpoints, which gives you a great overall picture of how the characters connect together and their motivations. I liked how even the dog got a viewpoint. You don’t see that often.

If you love action-packed, edge-of-your-seat thrillers, this is the series for you.

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A Sun So Bright (Reigning Hearts Book Three) by KG Fletcher – Review by Naomi McDonald

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A Sun So Bright (Reigning Hearts, #3)A Sun So Bright by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Sun So Bright is the third book in the Reigning Hearts series. This is the first book I’ve read in this series and I had no trouble following the story.

This is a reverse millionaire arrangement/fake relationship type of tale. Most of the time you see men in the wealthy position, but this time it’s Fiona. She’s a character you love to hate, at first. Thankfully, Chris (who is freaking hot) can look past appearances. As you follow their journey, you’re going to be taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. You’ll probably want the tissues close by, lol.

Definitely worth the read. (Just not in public if you don’t want to have to explain why you’re crying, lol).

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Covert Threat (A Gray Ghost Novel, book 5) by Amy McKinley – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Covert Threat (Gray Ghost #5)Covert Threat by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Covert Threat is the fifth book in the Gray Ghost series. It mentions characters from previous books, but you can follow the story line without having to read them.

I think this is probably one of my favorites in this series. I loved the suspense build up. I enjoyed the equality of the mystery and romance. The romance part didn’t overtake the main story like in so many novels. Jules’ character was well written and I enjoyed following her story throughout the book.

I can’t write too much more without giving away the mystery. But, this book made a great rainy day read!

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REBOUND (REWIND BOOK 4) By Rowan Shaw – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Rebound (Rewind #4)Rebound by Rowan Shaw
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Rebound is the fourth book in the Rewind series. Even though you can pick up on what is going on in this book pretty easily, I’d recommend reading the previous books in order to get a better feel for all of the characters.

I absolutely loved every one of the Rewind books. I’ve been waiting for Noah’s story since he was first mentioned in the series. Rebound has a bit of a different feel than the previous three books, but it was still excellent. I enjoyed the polyamorous aspect of the characters. I also liked the portrayal of Charlotte’s self-realization. I think it is important to show the concerns that come up when you are finding out new things about your self-identity. It was very well done in this story.

I highly recommend the Rewind series. I’ll probably binge read them all again soon!

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Ink’s Devil (Satan’s Devils MC Colorado Chapter #5) by Manda Mellett – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Ink's Devil: Satan's Devils MC (Colorado Chapter) #5Ink’s Devil: Satan’s Devils MC (Colorado Chapter) #5 by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ink’s Devil is the fifth book in the Satan’s Devils MC Colorado Chapter series. You can read it as a standalone, but you relate better to the side characters if you know their stories from previous books.

I could relate to Beth’s character in this story. She’s different and she’s introverted. Those things can give you a different way of viewing life than most other people.

As always, the author has done a great job of weaving an amazing story. It is full of suspense as you follow the challenges placed in the path of Ink and Beth’s budding relationship. It’s also got some witty humor; and of course, there are steamy bedroom scenes sprinkled throughout.

Another superb read from a talented author.

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Set it Free (Fallen Eagles MC Book 3) by T. Birmingham – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Set it Free (Fallen Eagles MC Book 3)Set it Free by T. Birmingham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Set It Free is the third book in the Fallen Eagles MC series. In order to enjoy this story to the fullest, you should read the first two books.

This story has a little bit of a different feel that the first two. I found that it was harder to get into it, but once I got toward the middle it was good. I can identify somewhat with Spring’s feelings about not being great at life, always waiting for the next shoe to drop. I think that made this story more emotional for me. You’ll definitely want the tissues handy.

There isn’t too much more I can say without ruining the reading experience. This series is definitely worth binge reading.

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Recall: An Ash Park Novel (Volume 6) by Meghan O’Flynn – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Recall: An Ash Park Novel (Volume 6)Recall: An Ash Park Novel by Meghan O’Flynn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Recall is the sixth book in the Ash Park series. I was able to pick it up and keep up with the story without having to read the previous ones.

The author does a great job making the story come alive. It feels like you are right there with the characters. The story is dark. You are not going to get a light, fluffy mystery here. As you read, you are taken on a thrill ride of adventure, with twists and turns that make the book impossible to put down.
The characters are well-written. I particularly like Petrosky’s partner. She’s snarky and deals with his gruff exterior expertly.

I can’t say too much more without jeopardizing the reading experience for everyone. Just know that you won’t be disappointed when you go on this reading adventure.

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Rule (The Larussio Legacy Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Rule The Larussio Legacy (#1)Rule The Larussio Legacy by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rule is the first book in the Larussio Legacy series. While this book is the beginning of a new series, it does mention characters from related series. You don’t have to read the others to pick up on what is going on, but it would be helpful to so that you get a better foundation for the characters that are carrying over.

Rule is full of suspense, intrigue, danger, and of course, steamy romance. I don’t want to give away the story so I won’t say too much more, only that you need to read it to find out how the twists and turns play out! This book makes for a great break from reality for a bit.

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Amy’s Santa (Satan’s Devils MC Second Generation #1) by Manda Mellett – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Amy's Santa (Satan's Devils MC Second Generation #1)Amy’s Santa by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Amy’s Santa is the first book in the Satan’s Devils MC Second Generation series. You can read this story as a standalone, however you’ll feel more connected to the characters if you’ve read books in the previous Satan’s Devils series.

If you are sensitive to descriptions of violence in general, and/or violence against women, you’ll want to read with caution.

I always love to see what this author is going to do with the characters. She tells a great story with real-to-life elements, which make you feel like you are immersed in their experience. I won’t give away the story too much. I’ll say that I felt for Amy. It’s devastating when your trust is violated. I also felt bad for Xander. I mean, I get it, but also……sad. On a lighter note, the Santa hat cracked me up.

Overall, this was a great read. There were light and dark elements that kept the story balanced and entertaining. I’m not big on holiday themed books, but this one was an excellent choice.

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Misplaced (Joined Book Two) by Mara Gan – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Misplaced: Joined: Book TwoMisplaced: Joined: Book Two by Mara Gan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Misplaced is the second book in the Joined series. At first it doesn’t seem like you’d need to read the first one in order to really keep up with this book. It’s like a standalone through most of it. I’d read the first one just to be safe though.

I liked the world building and there are a lot of colorful characters. There are places where the story is slow moving, but overall it is a pretty smooth read. I also liked that, while this is fiction, there are some historical elements mixed in. I can’t put my finger on it, but the whole time I was reading the story I kept feeling like something was missing. Still, the overall reading experience was good.

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The Crown of Stones: Magic-Scars (Book 2) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Magic-Scars (The Crown of Stones, #2)Magic-Scars by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Scars is the second book in The Crown of Stones series. It picks up two years after the events of book one.

I have to say that I have loved every book I’ve read by this author and this one holds up to the rest of them. The world building is superb. And, while it can slow the story down a bit sometimes, I love the attention to detail. When you are reading this story, you get lost in the adventure and feel like you are living alongside the characters.

This is definitely a page turner. You will find yourself losing sleep just to find out what happens next as the story takes you on an emotional roller coaster full of twists and turns.

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A Song to Remember: A Crescent City Wolf Pack Novella (Mystifying Music Book 3) by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Naomi McDonald

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A Song to Remember: A Crescent City Wolf Pack Novella (Mystifying Music Book 3)A Song to Remember: A Crescent City Wolf Pack Novella by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Song to Remember is a novella set in the Crescent City Wolf Pack series but you can read it as a standalone. It is a quick but enjoyable read.
This story gets straight to the action and doesn’t stop. I love how this author can tell such a vivid story even with this not being a full-length novel. A Song to Remember gives you some emotional moments mixed in with the danger and suspense.
Overall, a fun, romantic read. This novella is a great supplement to the series. If you haven’t read the other books, you really should!

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Testament of Feats: Book of Judgement Book One by K.H. Jones – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Testament of Feats: Book of Judgment,Testament of Feats: Book of Judgment, by K.H. Jones
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book I have read by this author so I had no idea what to expect. I found this book to be a bit dense. In other words, this isn’t something you can pick up to read on a 30-minute lunch break. There is a lot to unpack so you want to take your time to absorb it. It definitely isn’t your typical Fantasy novel. I’d say it has a LOTR feel in the attention to detail and sense of adventure.

The world building in this book is excellent. You feel like you are in the story with the characters. And the characters have a lot of depth to explore. My advice is to take your time with this story so you can fully appreciate the artistry of the work. You aren’t going to want to put it down. EPIC READ!

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