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Vampire State by Alexander Charalambides – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Vampire StateVampire State by Alexander Charalambides
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I decided to read this book based on the synopsis. I had no idea what to expect as I have never read a book by this author before. I enjoyed the more unique portrayal of vampires, and the world building is excellent. There is a bit of mystery as Rowena tries to learn more about the Sanguinians and their city, Sanguinia. There are some great twists and turns that keep the story moving so you can’t put it down.

Overall, I enjoyed this story. It’s a quick read that takes you on a great adventure of political intrigue as well as a bit of romance. ?

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Love & Omens (Crescent City Ghost Tours Book 2) by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Love & Omens (Crescent City Ghost Tours, #2)Love & Omens by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love & Omens is the second book in the Crescent City Ghost Tours series. It can be read as a standalone, but I think the best enjoyment would come after reading the first book. You’ll get a better feel for the characters from the first book that are mentioned in this one. Plus, the first book was awesome!

Dealing with a psychic gift can be tricky. Syd makes a judgment call but it turns out to be a big mistake. When she gets a second chance at making it right, will she take it? I love second chance stories because it brings up a feeling of hope.

As always, I love this author’s ability to paint vivid pictures and develop intriguing characters. I also loved the use of psychometry in this story. It isn’t a gift a lot of authors write about when choosing the powers their character has.

I hope there are more books planned for this series!

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Revive (Rewind Book 3) by Rowan Shaw – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Revive (Rewind #3)Revive by Rowan Shaw
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Revive is the third book in the Rewind series. It can be read as a standalone. I highly recommend this entire series. I love it so much!

When Patrick was first introduced in a previous book, I was curious about his character. I loved learning more about him in this story, and watching his personal growth. Not going to lie, around chapter 34/35 I started tearing up because of the way things were shaping up. I love a book that will get me so invested in the characters.

I’m super excited for the next book!

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Love & Ghosts (Crescent City Ghost Tours Book 1) by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Love & Ghosts (Crescent City Ghost Tours, #1)Love & Ghosts by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love & Ghosts is the first book in the Crescent City Ghost Tours series.

I loved Carrie’s Crescent City Wolf Pack series so I had to check this one out. This book did not disappoint. I’d give it more than five stars if I could. It does have a different feel than the Wolf Pack series, but the characters are just as entertaining and the story is expertly woven. I jumped into this book and couldn’t put it down. You can’t help but keep reading to find out what is up with the box!

One of my favorite things about this book was the costume that Sean wore to the ball and the running theme with it throughout the story.

Perfect Halloween season read! I look forward to reading the next book in the series!

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Hope (Feisty Lawyers Series Book 4) by Seelie Kay – Review by Naomi McDonald

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HopeHope by Seelie Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hope is the fourth book in the Feisty Lawyers series. There are characters and situations from the previous books mentioned in this story, so it would be a good idea to read the other books first.

Out of all of the books I’ve read in this series, this one is my favorite in regard to writing style. It flowed nicely and it kept a consistent pace for the most part. The first part of the book focuses more on Hope’s development as an agent, whereas the latter part of the book focuses on her in the field. I think the one part that I didn’t care for so much was the catty way the women came across in the Epilogue. The way the story is left it seems like the series might be taking on a new dimension. It will be interesting to see how it develops.

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From The Ashes: a gripping psychological thriller (Ashes to Ashes Book 3) by Rowena Holloway – Review by Naomi McDonald

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From The Ashes (Ashes to Ashes, #3)From The Ashes by Rowena Holloway
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

From the Ashes is the third book in the Ashes to Ashes series. I recommend reading the previous books before this one.

This story starts off with a bang. It’s intense right from the beginning and you just can’t stop reading. Part of what makes this book so suspenseful is the back and forth of the timeline. It keeps the answers just out of reach and creates the drive to keep focused so you can figure it all out.

I won’t get into details, because I don’t want to give away any of the plot turns. Suffice it to say, this book is spectacularly suspenseful, marvelously mysterious, and a dangerously delicious read.

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Supernatural Love Stories in the Absurd: Four Book Collection by Gwyn McNamee writing as D.P. Payne – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Supernatural Love Stories in the Absurd: Four Book CollectionSupernatural Love Stories in the Absurd: Four Book Collection by D.P. Payne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This collection of stories is a good way to pass a couple of hours. The first three felt more like short stories, but the last one is a bit longer. I like the use of a wendigo as a character because you don’t see that very often. The spin on the mummy’s curse is a bit different as well.

The title is apt, because you will have to suspend belief for some of it, lol. But, since I read it during Halloween season, it seems right in the spirit of things. Also know that there are plenty of steamy scenes. ? The only thing I had a difficult time with was the collection that Chastity had. The bottles…Gag! That does not belong in the refrigerator beside the food. LOL!

Overall, I’d say this collection is a fun little reading jaunt to spice up your Halloween…or any day, really.

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The Crown of Stones: Magic-Price by C. L. Schneider – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Magic-Price (The Crown of Stones, #1)Magic-Price by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this book so much! I read her Nite Fire series and loved it, so I was pretty sure this book would be excellent. I was not disappointed. The world and character building are superb. You feel like you are right there in the story. I was hooked from the beginning. It has so many layers to it that you can’t help but keep reading.
I liked the different perspective on magic, making it both a strength and a weakness. This story is dark, action-packed, gritty, and intense. I’m looking forward to the next one!

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Higher Elevation Series: Books 1-3 by Renee Regent – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Higher Elevation Series : Books 1-3Higher Elevation Series : Books 1-3 by Renee Regent
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Higher Elevation Box Set includes books one through three of this series.

I will be honest; I had a difficult time with the first part of book one. It felt like it moved slowly and I had a challenge getting into the story. I stuck it out though, and it turned out to be a great read. I loved the period references of the VW and the eight track tapes, lol.

A plus for getting this box set is that you get to binge read it! This series contains all of the things that make a story great-mystery, suspense, danger, romance, and a little sci-fi. It is a great escape for a few hours.

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Hitting The High Note (A Four Horsemen Novel Book 3) by C A King – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Hitting The High Note (A Four Horsemen Novel Book 3)Hitting The High Note by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hitting the High Note is the third book in the Four Horsemen series. Read the previous books in order to get a good grasp on the story thus far.

I enjoyed this story so much. I can totally relate to the part of Bekka that, in her words, “shouldn’t be allowed in public.” I’ve said that about myself so many times. Up until now, we haven’t heard much from Uriel, so it was good to see what he’s really like. Who doesn’t like a man who can use a lasso???

Be prepared for some interesting twists. Everything may not be what it seems.

As with the previous books, the story held my attention and I read it all in one night. I appreciate the thought that went into creating the unique aspects of the powers and the creation myth.

I highly recommend this series. I’m looking forward to the next book so I can find out how it all ends!

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Journeys Through SpaceTime (Journeys Through Book 1) by James Talisman – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Journeys Through SpaceTimeJourneys Through SpaceTime by James Talisman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you love time travel, flexible reality, multiverse theory, and sci-fi/fantasy, this is a great read. If you have difficulty following multiple story lines in a book, this is probably not going to be a fun read for you. Personally, I like a complex story to keep my brain engaged.

One of the things I resonated with were the Seven Principles that were introduced toward the beginning of the story. It reminded me so much of the principles I learned on my personal journey as a Priestess. It’s hard to find stories that convey these principles in mainstream books.

Journeys Through SpaceTime has a wide variety of interesting characters. I liked that diversity because it added depth to the reading experience.

I appreciate the amount of thought that went into creating this adventure!

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Devil’s Dilemma: Satan’s Devils MC (Colorado Chapter #4) by Manda Mellett – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Devil's Dilemma (Satan's Devils MC Colorado Chapter #4)Devil’s Dilemma by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Devil’s Dilemma is the fourth book in the Satan’s Devils MC Colorado Chapter series. It can be read as a standalone, although this story does mention events from previous books.

Just from the synopsis, I was pretty sure I knew how this story was going to go. I WAS RIGHT! I have to say that this story is expertly told. Even though I already had an idea of how it would play out, it still kept me hooked all the way to the end.

Be prepared to be pissed at a certain character. I won’t name names because I don’t want to ruin it. I wanted to reach through the pages and slap a person! I mean, how low can you go??? I felt so bad for Melissa. What she ended up going through nearly tore my heart out. I did appreciate her backbone when she was finally able to have her confrontation of closure.

Superb storytelling, as always.

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Evil Sushi (Evil Sushi Series Book 1) by C.A. King – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Evil SushiEvil Sushi by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Evil Sushi is the first book in the Evil Sushi series. The ending leaves it open for the next book.

I loved the creativity of this story. This book encompasses several genres which makes for an entertaining read. I wasn’t sure what to expect because the blurb was a bit vague, but the intrigue of it all kept me reading. I finished the book in just a few hours because I couldn’t put it down.

I will say that I had a challenge liking the Sally character. I’m not sure what it was about her that gave me difficulty, but it didn’t affect the overall story enough for me to stop reading.

I’m definitely looking forward to the second book!!!!

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SECRETS NEVER DIE by Laurie Lewis – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Secrets Never DieSecrets Never Die by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Secrets Never Die is a well-written tale full of suspense. There is a lot of detail and a lot of twists and turns to keep up with, but the mystery of it all keeps you hooked. The characters are full of depth and complexity. If you want a rollercoaster ride of danger and intrigue, this is the book for you. Just be prepared to be in it for the long-haul. You won’t sleep until you’ve read the last word!
Brilliant work!

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The Time Traveler’s Magic (Magic Bound Saga Book 1) by Anna Applegate – Review by Naomi McDonald

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The Time Traveler's Magic (The Magic Bound Saga #1)The Time Traveler’s Magic by Anna Applegate
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Time Traveler’s Magic is the first book in the Magic Bound Saga.

This story is full of action that keeps you hooked. The characters are intriguing. I mean, a vampire pirate, what’s not to love!!! Writing time travel can be iffy, but this book pulls it off pretty well. Ember has a bit of personal growth to do, but then again, don’t we all. I think maybe the character flaws she has are what make her more relatable. Overall, I found the plot interesting. It made for an entertaining read. There are some things that in the book that brought up questions, but they will probably be answered in subsequent books.

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Forbidden (Tales of Passion, Lust & Betrayal Vol. 1) by Autumn Sand – Review by Naomi McDonald

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ForbiddenForbidden by Autumn Sand
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Forbidden is the first volume of the Tales of Passion, Lust, & Betrayal series. It is a collection of steamy short stories. I will be honest, the tone of the narrator in the hostess sections was not my favorite. I love the idea of the club and the doorways, but the narration really didn’t fit. I will give kudos for creativity though. The short stories are entertaining and cover a variety of scenarios to keep you entertained until the last page. I found this book to be a quick and easy read. It makes for a great bedtime reading experience.

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Truck Stopped (Satan’s Devils MC #11) by Manda Mellett – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Truck StoppedTruck Stopped by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Truck Stopped is the eleventh book in the Satan’s Devils MC series. Even though this story can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading other books in the series. They are excellent.

I was waiting for this book. After being mentioned in other books, there wasn’t a lot of detail about what was happening with Truck. I really wanted to see how things played out. I don’t know what I was expecting, but this book got me right in the feels. It was an intensely emotional story. The author is extremely good at making the characters come to life and you feel what they feel as you read. And, as with the other stories in this series, the author has tackled some real life struggles that brings a new awareness to the life experiences of others and what they might be struggling with.

Superb storytelling!

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The Traitor (An Underground Bad Boys Romance Book 2) by India Kells – Review by Naomi McDonald

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The Traitor, An Underground Bad Boys SeriesThe Traitor, An Underground Bad Boys Series by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Traitor is the second book in the Underground Bad Boys series. It can be read as a standalone.

I enjoyed the characters in this book. It can be difficult to find romance novels with strong female leads, but I found Josie to be a well-written character. Even though Josie was in a bad situation, she was making an effort on her own to take care of her problems before Knox showed up in her life. It didn’t have that whole damsel-in-distress feel. I did feel bad for Gage at the end. Poor guy. Third time will be the charm? One can hope at least. I love his character.

The Traitor has plenty of steamy scenes to keep you entertained. I’m glad the author is writing bisexual characters. It gives more complexity to the story. One of the other things I love about this book is that it isn’t all light and fluffy. It’s got grit yet still manages to pull on your emotions.

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Guilty Pleasures Volume 3: Guilty Pleasures by Joyce McCarthy – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Guilty Pleasures Volume 3Guilty Pleasures Volume 3 by Joyce McCarthy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a collection of short stories (around 20 pages or so each) that follow the sexual encounters of Brad. In this volume he has experiences with several people, including his boss and a woman on a train. These stories are not deep with story line and are designed for a quick read. Great for when you don’t have a lot of time but need a reading fix. I prefer much more story development, so this was a little less entertaining for me. But if you are just looking for the steamy bits, this would be a great read for you.

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Legacy of Luck (The Druid’s Brooch Series Book 3) by Christy Nicholas – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Legacy of Luck (Druid's Brooch #3)Legacy of Luck by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Legacy of Luck is the third book in the Druid’s Brooch series. It can be read as a standalone. Having read previous books in this series I can say that this one is just as awesome. The author has a great eye for detail and weaves the story in a way that makes you feel like you are right there with the characters. There are fantasy elements blended with realistic ones and it makes for a believable tale. Despite a few slow places in the story, the overall adventure, drama, and plot twists keep you hooked.

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The Season Finale (Paranormal Talent Agency Book 6) by Heather Silvio – Review by Naomi McDonald

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The Season Finale (Paranormal Talent Agency, #6)The Season Finale by Heather Silvio
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Season Finale is the sixth book in the Paranormal Talent Agency series. In order to fully appreciate this story, it helps to have read the first five book in this series.
Everything comes together spectacularly in this story as the conclusion to the series. Well done! I will say that it feels like it could have kept going, not because the story is incomplete, but because there are so many more things that could be explored in this setting.
I enjoyed this entire series immensely and loved this finale chapter. The Season Finale really keeps you engaged with the mystery surrounding Catherine and how things are going to play out with Rowan.
If you just came across this book and haven’t read the others yet, I suggest a binge read session because it’ll keep you entertained ?

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Undercover (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 2) by Via Mari – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Undercover (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 2)Undercover by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Undercover is the second book in the Billionaire Bodyguards series. You can read it as a standalone, but it makes a better read if you’ve read other books in the Prestian series and the Torzial Affair series.

Overall this is a good read. There were a couple of parts toward the beginning that grated on me a little, but it wasn’t enough to ruin the whole story. Undercover starts off with a bang and maintains a good pace throughout. There are plenty of steamy scenes and suspenseful moments to keep your attention to the very end. It took me a little bit to warm up to Matt…that Princess bit just was not working for me. I enjoyed Marenah’s feistiness, and how many layers there are to her character.

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Proper Impulse (Jaded Lily Book 4) by Zeia Jameson – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Proper ImpulseProper Impulse by Zeia Jameson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Proper Impulse is the fourth book in the Jaded Lily series. It can be read as a standalone. You don’t have to read the previous books in the series to appreciate this one, but they are awesome so do it anyway. ?
I loved this story. I seriously loved Juniper. She is so feisty and compassionate. She might have a less-than-legal way of going about doing what she does, but her heart is in the right place. Of course, this is what makes the friction between her and Milo so delicious. And Milo, god, sometimes you just want to strangle him!!! Rule breaker meets the law…It. Is. Epic.
Proper Impulse is engaging, funny, sweet, and full of fireworks. You won’t be disappointed.

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Joined: Book One by Mara Gan – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Joined (Joined #1)Joined by Mara Gan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Superb read!
I loved the plot and character development. The female lead is strong, intelligent, compassionate, and a bit stubborn, which makes her immediately attractive. This book captures your attention from the beginning and holds it through the entire adventure. One of the great things about this story is that you feel like you are IN the story, not just reading it. Joined has a little bit of everything from mystery to action to romance. Never a dull moment!

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Orion’s Kiss by Claire Luana – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Orion's KissOrion’s Kiss by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The premise of this story attracted me to it and I’d say overall it is a great read. It is a standalone story so you don’t have to worry about any cliffhangers, which is always nice.

I love mythology (and Orion is my favorite constellation) so I was very interested to see how the author wove the tale of the Pleiades sisters and Orion. Orion’s Kiss kept me intrigued throughout the entire story. It did not disappoint.

Even with the overall story being fabulous, I think there would have been more believability if the main character, Merope/Meriah would have been slightly older, HS Senior or even college Freshman. But I guess if you’ve been reincarnated over and over, you probably have a better grasp on reality at a younger age. Regardless, the story is still a definite must read! Great characters and plot development, a bit of dark and a bit of sweetness.

Pour yourself some tea and prepare for a reading adventure. ?

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Two Hearts Under Fire (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 8) By Tamara Ferguson – Review by Naomi McDonald

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TWO HEARTS UNDER FIRE (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 8)TWO HEARTS UNDER FIRE by Tamara Ferguson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Two Hearts Under Fire is the eighth book in the Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance series. It can be read as a standalone.

This story starts off at a quick pace and doesn’t slow down. It is full of suspense and mystery as Russ and Claire try to stay one step ahead of the people pursuing them. I enjoyed the way the Claire character was written. Even though she is on the run from an abusive ex, she is strong, resourceful, and can hold her own pretty well.

Two Hearts Under Fire is an entertaining read that will keep you hooked from the beginning.

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Michael’s Heart by Lori Thomas Harrington – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Michael's HeartMichael’s Heart by Lori Thomas Harrington
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Michael’s Heart is an emotional story. You are going to cry at least once so have the tissues nearby. There isn’t too much to say regarding story line or it will ruin the outcome for you. I will say that the pertinent characters are memorable and are drawn together by the common thread of music as a soul language. I wasn’t really sure what to feel when I finished the book. Part of me recognizes the bright part of the ending, but it has an overtone of sadness as well. I suppose that makes the story more like real life when it comes down to it. Regardless, if you are in the mood to feel a myriad of emotions in a short period of time, check out this story.

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Jumping the Shark (Paranormal Talent Agency, #5) by Heather Silvio – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Jumping the Shark (Paranormal Talent Agency, #5)Jumping the Shark by Heather Silvio
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jumping the Shark is the fifth book in the Paranormal Talent Agency series. It can be read as a standalone story, however if you really want to get the full impact of why Barbara’s story is important, I recommend reading the previous books.

Finally! I’ve been waiting to see what was really up with Barbara. You knew it was going to be something good after the build up from the previous books. I can’t really get into specifics or it’ll ruin the story, but let’s just say this book is not to be missed, especially if you are a fan of the rest of the series.

Murder. Demons. Angels. Hidden agendas…just a few things to keep you entertained in this action-packed adventure. ?

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A Deal with Death (Crescent City Wolf Pack Book 4) by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Naomi McDonald

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A Deal with Death (Crescent City Wolf Pack, #4)A Deal with Death by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Deal With Death is the fourth book in the Crescent City Wolf Pack series. You can read this as a standalone, but all of the books in this series have been stellar so you’ll probably want to read them anyway.

I have always loved a story with Voodoo components, and this one has a great foundation. I also loved the way the reincarnation aspect is woven in. This story caught my attention from the beginning and held it all the way through. The characters are vibrant and come alive on the page making you feel like you are in the story.

Murder. Romance. Spirits. Destiny. It’s a wonderfully written tale of the paranormal variety! ?

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Wayward (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by Naomi McDonald

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Wayward (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 1)Wayward by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wayward is the first book in the Billionaire Bodyguards series. You can read this story without having to read the other series associated with it, but if you want to know more about the characters you should read the Prestian series and Torzial Affair series to get more background on them.

When I first ran across the Sasha character (in a previous series), I didn’t like her very much. She was creating a lot of drama. In Wayward, you get a better understanding of why she is the way she is. I changed the way I felt about her in this book.

As you read this story you are likely to feel a wide range of emotions. The story keeps up a good pace and has characters you can connect to. Suspense, steamy scenes, danger…overall a great read.

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