This is the first book in the Buckeye Falls series. It’s a sweet holiday romance, perfect for curling up by the fire for an easy read. It’s written nicely, flowing well making for an easy read. The characters are written well and each have their own personalities. I really enjoy characters which show development as the story progresses, and this book has them. Ginny for example, beginning by trying to avoid all things Christmas, but finding herself getting more and more involved and developing as a person as it happens. Her and Max share a past and they get the chance (with a little help from the Christmas spirit) to rekindle their relationship. You can’t help but get involved in their lives and wanting the happily ever after that often comes with the season. A sweet romance which would be quick and easy to read around the holidays.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-30 19:54:502023-11-11 19:41:06Falling Home (Buckeye Falls Book 1) by Libby Kay – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is the second book in the Boudin Barbecue, and Hoodoo series. As this book follows on from the first, I would recommend reading the first book prior to this one. I loved the premise for the book, it was brilliant – the average woman’s struggles mixed in with the paranormal elements. It was written so well; you truly feel as though the story is real. It flows nicely and makes for fun, easy reading. The author’s descriptions create vivid imagery of both the scenery and the characters. The characters are well-constructed and believable, and you can’t help but love Gwen! She’s fun, independent and has great rapport with other characters. The entertainment you get from following her story is incredible and you want to be able to jump into the narrative yourself to follow along the adventure with her. I think this book is even better than the first and I am anxious for more!
This is the fourth book in the Philly Heat series, focussing on Hannah and Doyle. I really do enjoy how different each story is in the series, it keeps the series engaging and fresh. I liked how this one was written. I enjoyed the others too, but it was the way the stalker was written and revealed which makes this one stand out to me. The twist was very well written. Both Hannah and Doyle have faced their share of trauma and Hannah’s stalker situation is still ongoing, worsening even. This shapes their views, actions and development well as the story progresses. As characters they were both likable and relatable, and I couldn’t help but root for a happily ever after for the pair. Given everything that happens both prior to and during the story just go to show how strong these characters are and determined to reach the other end of this awful situation. My heart really went out to Hannah given everything she’d been through already with her brother’s murder, to experience a stalker who only worsens must be so distressing and difficult. I really admired her strength. Unfortunately, I’ll all caught up with the series now even though I desperately want more. I can’t wait for another to be released so I can get my hands on it. In the meantime, I will be looking out for more from the author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-25 10:11:372023-10-30 06:42:35Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat Series Book 4) by Becky Flade – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is the third book in the Philly Heat series, focusing on Ben and Trudy. I enjoyed the move from focusing on police officers to medical examiners/anthropologists, it was a refreshing addition to the series as the investigation elements are still there. Trudy and Ben are great characters, my favourite of the two being Trudy. She’s strong and determined to get to the bottom of the mystery behind the bones which have been uncovered. She’s willing to take the risk to ensure the truth is uncovered and I admire that about her. I do like Ben; he grew on me as the story progressed and I got to know him better. I could start to see why he was acting in the way he was and admired his want to protect Trudy. This was another engaging read in the series and I can’t believe I’m almost caught up already. I can’t wait for more!
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This is the second book in the Philly Heat series, this time following detective Alexandra and Detective Xavier’s story. This is a darker book than the first so if darker themes e.g., suicide, child murder, abuse etc is not something you are comfortable reading about, I would advise you not to read this book. The plot was interesting, I found that I was unable to put the book down as I became immersed. The way things unfolded, I couldn’t get enough, I thought this one was even better than the first. Both Alex and Xavier each have their own traumas in their pasts and it creates well-rounded, complex characters. Their development is clear as the narrative unfolds, as does their relationship. The characters are believable in their priorities and how they respond to events (and each other) to bring the killer to justice. This was a great addition to the series and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Moving straight onto the next book!
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This is the first book in the Philly Heat series. In this book we follow the story of police officer Kaylee and criminal Jayson. I enjoyed the plot of this book, it had me engaged and invested. The twists were great and fit so well into the story. I enjoyed the characters of Kaylee and Jayson in particular; both are strong and determined characters and their chemistry leaps off the page. They were well developed with their shared past and the complex emotions that arise from that and the way they attempt to navigate these feelings and obstacles felt believable. There were moments were I just wanted to knock some sense into them, but the way I came to care for them both goes to show the author’s skill at created great characters that you can’t help but become emotionally invested in. This was an enjoyable start to the series and I can’t wait to read the rest!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-25 05:16:542023-10-30 06:49:45A Love Restrained by Becky Flade – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is the second book in the Gumshoe Mysteries series. I would recommend reading the first book prior to this one, it’s a great introduction to the characters and their ‘circumstances’. Short but not lacking, this fun young adult mystery is engaging and an easy read. I love the well-written characters, their relationships and the banter is fun and light and Gumshoe is a particular favourite of mine. The plot is unique and interesting and even though it’s geared towards younger readers, it’s still entertaining for older adults. The writing flows nicely and is easy to follow making it an easy read. I can’t wait to meet Mia and Gumshoe again!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-23 12:56:212023-10-23 13:25:14Gumshoe Goes To A Quinceanera (Gumshoe Mysteries Book 2) by Laura Hawks – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is the first book in the Gumshoe Mysteries series, a wonderful young adult book. I do enjoy a good young adult story, and this one surpassed my expectations. I was expecting a fun easy read and it delivered. But in addition, I also got and engaging story with a unique plot and a familiar which partially reminded me of Salem from my favourite childhood tv show! The characters are well-written, and entertaining making them completely lovable. Mia and Gumshoe were brilliant characters working towards their goal, and I was glad to have been along for the ride! I cannot wait to get my hands on more from the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-23 12:37:342023-10-26 14:41:18Gumshoe and the Mysterious Mushrooms (Gumshoe Mysteries Book 1) by Laura Hawks – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
The is another book in the Long Claw Pride series, this time following Laramie and Trigger’s story. Once again, another unique element is added to the series in the form of the mating haze. It put blinders on making Laramie act out of character. Laramie is usually sensible but currently isn’t and Trigger has blind faith in his family, both of which could lead to disaster. I enjoyed how it was Trigger who was the one who had mainly grown up in the human world, this was a different take as many of the books I have read, it is the female character which takes this role. The characters are likeable and you can’t help but root for them, wanting a happily ever after. Once again, the author’s writing flows well and the descriptive narrative paints vivid imagery of both characters and scenery. I felt like I could step into the story following the twists alongside the characters. Another enjoyable book in the series, I can’t wait for more!
This is book 1 in the Long Claw Pride series following mountain lion shifters. I enjoyed the difference to the usual wolf shifters, it was refreshing and written well. Another unique element was the way that finding your mates works. I thought this was unique and a lovely way of doing it. The author’s writing flowed well, and the descriptions created vivid imagery of both scenery and characters. The characters are likeable, both with a past which affects their outlook on their mating situation and the character development as the book progresses (and the romance) was great to see. You can’t help but root for the couple every step of the way. This was an enjoyable book with many unique elements and written well. I look forward to the reading the rest of the series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-21 01:23:242023-10-26 14:22:21The Mating Call (Long Claw Pride Book 1) by Brooke May – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is the fourth book in the Central Florida Stories series. These books can be read as standalones, but I do recommend reading the entire series as there are characters which interconnect. The author was able to portray the emotions of the characters very well, to the point you can’t help but get emotionally invested in them. The trauma that Hadley has experienced (as an example) and how this has affected her, changed her and the danger she’s in tugs at your heartstrings, you want to jump in and take the pain away. The descriptive narrative paints vivid imagery that makes you feel you could step into the world alongside the characters and experience what they do. I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Hadley and Ross, the chemistry was evident, and the progression was believable. The character development was also enjoyable and believable. This is was enjoyable read and contains doms and subs and BDSM so if this is not for you be aware of this. I’m hoping for more soon!
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This is the fourth book in the McIntire County series. It can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading the others first. As usual the author’s writing style is great, flowing well and descriptive, creating vivid imagery of characters and scenery. There were plenty of twists and secrets in this book and I think the plot has a lot of potential to be incredible, but this was my least favourite of the series so far. This was an enjoyable story overall, but the characters are what tampered my enjoyment in this one. I really enjoy the series, but there was something about the characters that didn’t have the same realism for me. I felt for them both, and it was great that the emotion was there with their difficult pasts but as the story progressed the character interactions became less believable. Overall this was enjoyable and I look forward to more.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-18 12:22:542023-10-19 14:02:58Liar, Liar (The McIntire County Series Book 4) by Winter Austin – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
Killer Smile is the sequel to Killer Blonde, and I loved the premise of this one. I do think it’s best to read the first book as there are references to the events which took place. You’ll also get an introduction to the character of Cade. The writing was easy to follow and well-paced, but this one is darker than the first and more graphic. This isn’t a bad thing for me, I enjoy dark thrillers, but it is something to note if you aren’t okay with that. I loved the idea of killers competing, that part really drew me in. Another thing I enjoyed in this book was that the character of Cade felt a little more flushed out than in the last book. The events of the last past have affected Cade and that gives the character a little more depth. Overall, an enjoyable read and it was great to see more depth.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-17 13:27:332023-10-19 13:59:38Killer Smile by Allan Evans – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is an entertaining crime novel following the pursuit of an interesting serial killer by Cade. I thought it was different the way the story was told through multiple points of view, including the killer. This was an element I wasn’t sure of at first but the thrill of when and how they’d be caught was engaging. There were moments of frustration when you want to knock some sense into some characters and some elements did break the realism of the story for me procedurally, however when looking at it as a purely fictional case, this was still an enjoyable case to be ‘involved’ in. The writing style was simple and easy to follow. The pacing felt right for the story, there wasn’t any rushing to get to the end as can sometimes be seen in mystery thrillers. I very much liked the author’s style of writing. I did enjoy the characters however, I felt that there could have been a little more complexity to them, some back story which shaped them and developed over time. I may a little bias in this as I really enjoy character development in my reading. Overall, this was an entertaining read, it wasn’t as dark as I was initially expecting so it was an easy pleasant read.
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This is the third book in the Millers of Marietta series following Riley and Mitch. The series can be read as standalones but I highly recommend reading the series in order to gain a better understand of the characters, past events and the relationships between them. Both Riley and Mitch have their share of trauma which shapes them into who they are, and they still experience issues related to this. Riley, a determined single mother, and Mitch a very protective but sweet teacher. Their paths collide and you can’t help but root for them as they both evolve and grow as the story progresses. I love good character development and this book certainly had that and add in the magical holidays and this is a sweet enjoyable read, perfect for Christmas. The writing style was simple and easy to follow and flowed nicely. This added to my enjoyment of the story, especially when wrapped up in front of the fireplace. I want more from the beautiful world the author has created so I think I’ll be doing a re-read of the series closer to Christmas to immerse myself once again.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-16 18:38:512023-10-19 13:50:03Merry Christmas, Montana (The Millers of Marietta Book 3) by Elsa Winckler – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is the sixth book in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries series. The books can be read as standalones, but I would recommend reading them in order to understand the characters better. This is once again a fun mystery with great characters which sucked me in so well! The author’s writing style flowed well and was easy to follow while the plot was unique, fun and engaging. We even get a bit of spook in perfect timing to read for Halloween. The lovable Karina is back, still strong, independent and determined, just some of the many things that make me fall in love with her in every book. As usual, trouble seems to find Karina all too easily; when something isn’t right, she can’t help but investigate. The large group dynamic is different with everyone involved, but still great fun and in a way better as the relationships and interactions are more entertaining. This one is definitely one of my favourites of the series, and I’m really hoping for more book in the series soon to feed my obsession!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-16 18:19:592023-10-19 13:49:22Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is the fifth book in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries series. These books can be read as standalones, but I highly recommend reading them to get a better understand of the characters, their relationships and backgrounds. As per usual in this series, I was gripped beginning to end. I was immersed in the story, living the adventures alongside Karina as the story progressed. The writing flowed nicely and was easy to follow, increasing the enjoyment for me. Once again the lovable Karina put herself in harms way to solve the case, especially now her ex is being accused of something she can’t believe. She’s strong and determined and I love that about her. I adore this series, it’s especially perfect for this time of year, curling up in front of the fire!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-16 18:04:372023-10-19 13:49:08Swindler’s Revenge (Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 5) by Ellen Butler – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is the fourth book in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries series. These books can be read as standalones, but I recommend reading the books in order so you can understand the characters better, their backgrounds and relationships. I enjoy the author’s writing style; it flows well and is easy to follow. The story points come together really well, and you can tell things are thought through. Karina continues to be her lovable self; she gets into trouble/danger and must investigate. Her strength and determination shine through and I can’t help but love her. The plot is fun and entertaining, keeping me gripped throughout. There were moments I was left guessing and not trusting anyone, and it was great! I am still so obsessed with this series and swiftly moved onto the next book!
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This is the third book in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries series. The books in this series can be read as standalones, but I recommend reading all the books to get a better understanding of the characters. I enjoy the flow of the author’s writing, it’s easy to follow and moves the story along nicely. It’s easy to step into the world the author creates and live the mystery alongside the characters. Karina and her sister, Jillian, join forces in this instalment which was a fresh dynamic to the series. Karina remains my favourite character in the series, strong independent and determined. Getting herself into trouble in her investigations seems to come so naturally to her and I love it. The twists and turns are great, gripping you further and further as the story progresses. I was sad to be getting through the books as quickly as I was as the series quickly joined my favourites.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-16 17:33:012023-10-19 13:48:19Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is the second book in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries series. This can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading the first book to get a deeper understanding of the characters. The plot is once again engaging and gripping, this time Karina finds herself a person of interest in a murder. We’re also reintroduced to FBI agent Mike who is put on the case. There were so many twists, I loved it. The strong and independent Karina decides to start investigating herself before she becomes an official suspect. I fell even more in love with Karina in this book, she’s strong, determined and lovable. When you think about someone in politics, you don’t normally picture the lovable Karina. I love this series, I’m obsessed! Onto the next!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-16 17:04:552023-10-19 13:47:53Fatal Legislation: A Novel: Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 2 by Ellen Butler – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is the first book in what has begun as a great series, the Karina Cardinal Mysteries series. I loved this introduction to Karina and the storyline was brilliant! It doesn’t hurt that this is a cosy mystery which is one of my absolute favourite types of books (perfect for a autumn night by the fire). I enjoyed the writing style of the author; it flowed well and was easy to follow and the links to true events made it feel even more real. I was lost in the storyline almost instantly – it felt unique, and I couldn’t bring myself to put it down. I also liked the section which explained more about the actual crime which this book includes, I find true crime fascinating and having this insight was a brilliant addition. The characters were great, fun and interesting. I loved Karina, she felt so real, and lovable and strong. Despite the danger, she was determined and came out the other side stronger than ever. I loved this book so much and had to move onto the next immediately!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-16 16:35:092023-10-19 13:47:14Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist Mystery (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is another fun children’s story from this author. This is a retelling of Beauty and the Beast with a fun alien twist. As usual, the kids loved the colourful pictures and the aliens! The story was interactive and kept the kids engaged. There are always learning opportunities in the author’s books, and this is no different. Topics are covered in a fun wat for the kids to understand and enjoy.
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This is the third book in the McIntire County series, this can be read as a standalone but to get a deeper understand of the characters and past events which link them, I would recommend reading from book 1. In this instalment we followed Jolie and Xavier. As with the previous books in the series, the writing style is easy to follow and the descriptive language pulls you into the story, allowing you to picture both characters and scenery. I found the characters of Jolie and Xavier particularly interesting; their pasts were what interested me most and how this affected them. Jolie, a new deputy in charge of finding a missing girl, faces the pressure from her family and what makes her different and intriguing to me. It’s not just the usual pressures, her brother is a killer and the effect of this on her was shown quite well, I think. She’s determined and continues looking into the case and the new elements despite being given the ‘easy’ answers. I enjoyed her character development as she reminded me a little of myself in being unsure of herself, but her confidence grows, and you can see her really coming into her own. She’s one of my favourites so far. I look forward to the next one!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-16 14:39:512023-10-19 13:09:37Sins of the Father (The McIntire County Series Book 3) by Winter Austin – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is the first book in the Wolfbane series. I don’t normally enjoy love triangle books but picked this one up and wow. There were so many things I loved about this book (Blake!), and there were some things that frustrated me, but I think it’s a good sign that I was able to get so passionate about the characters and events taking place. The premise was great, and while I wish some things had played out differently and more focus on some characters than others, I found it entertaining and engaging. It was well-written, flowing nicely and the descriptions conjured clear and vivid imagery of both the scenery and the characters. I really enjoyed most characters, but my absolute favourite was Blake. I won’t allow anyone to say anything against him, he is precious and must be protected (not that he needs protection)! He’s so sweet and understanding of Jasmine’s beliefs and needs and I honestly wanted to stop reading at points where I felt he was not receiving the attention he deserved. He is perfection and no one will convince me otherwise. I also loved the effect he had on others for example, despite being the future alpha, he elicits a fun and more carefree side to Jasmine. He has such goodness in him, even with the darker parts and the terrible things he has experienced, that really show his true character and I can’t get enough of him. Another thing that I absolutely loved about this book was the character development. Anyone who knows me know that I adore books with brilliant character development, and this one certainly provided me with plenty. Not only do we see the how and why characters start the way they did, we see the events and people which guide and shape them as the story progresses. I enjoyed the refreshing take on the mate bond and chosen mates. The way the story played out in the end made me happy and the fact that there was no cliffhanger – bonus! The bit I didn’t like was how drawn out the love triangles went on for and the way some characters were seemingly forgotten at times. I understood the need for it to play out that way to show the development of the characters and the events which unfolded but the amount of focus on it did cause me to take a break and come back to it. I also felt the development could have been even greater if some of the important/defining moments were given to alternative characters.
Overall, this is a very enjoyable read and I would happily reread. I can’t wait to fall back into the world with book 2!
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I was obsessed with this book from the blurb alone and this only intensified when reading. The plot was brilliant and the way it was written, I have no words. I was drawn in immediately and the wonderful way the author narrated this, created a brilliant atmosphere and I could not put this down. I loved the way Cahki and Sung-jin created an uneasy alliance and learnt to work together, the journey as they found their footing felt believable and realistic. While I enjoyed both characters immensely, Cahki stood out to me. She’s fierce. A strong and fearless character willing to do what’s needed for those she loves. I love a character with good development, so I enjoyed seeing other sides to her as the story progressed, she’s not just a warrior quick to resort to violence, there’s more depth there and I loved it. I was rooting for the pair almost immediately, not only romantically but also in achieving their goals and this had me on the edge of my seat on multiple occasions, hoping for their success. This is the first book I’ve read from this author, but it certainly won’t be the last, if their other books are even remotely as enjoyable as this one, I’ve found my next fixation!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-08 17:19:212023-10-10 08:57:46House of Blood and Whispers by Natalina Reis – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is the first book in the Heart and Hand series and what a start, I could not put this book down! Even at almost 450 pages, it was too short I needed more, especially being part of one of my favourite genres – historical fantasy romance. I enjoyed the way in which the book was written; I found it easy to follow and flowed well. The descriptive world creation allowed me to feel immersed in the book, stepping into the pages alongside the characters easily. I absolutely loved Anna, she’s so strong in the face of her arranged marriage and the secrets and ‘unpleasantries’ (to put it nicely) surrounding her husband. She’s capable, gifted and ahead of her time in many ways, becoming more determined at every instance of cruelty from Roger. I felt so bad for her, she had such hope only for it to be dashed away, but I was so happy to see how she rose above and was rooting for her possible second chance with Larkin. I loved this book, but I will state that it is not for everyone. Trigger warning – Do not read this if you are not able to read about sexual sadism and just straight up violent cruelty. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-06 17:42:502023-10-10 08:49:16Wild Lavender (Heart & Hand Series Book 1) by Nicole E. Kelleher – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is the first book in the Modern Midwife Mysteries series. I absolutely love cozy mysteries so was looking forward to this one. It was enjoyable and a great introduction to the characters. The writing style flowed nicely and was easy to follow making for a nice quick read. The writing was descriptive so I could picture is all clearly as I tried to solve the case alongside Maeve. To start with I was unsure whether Maeve’s determination and strength came from wanted to clear Will’s name, but as we got to know her character she definitely seems like my kind of person. I also liked the mix of real information, cosy mystery and humour, it was balanced well and worked (and the fudge cake doesn’t hurt). I loved Maeve, her family and the interactions between the characters and I look forward to catching up with them again!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-05 17:06:352023-10-10 08:31:21Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is the first fantasy/paranormal romance book in the series. In this book we follow the story of Arryn and Rowan. As one of my favourite genres, I was looking forward to getting into this one and I’m glad I did, it was great. There are some mature scenes so I would not recommend for younger readers. I enjoyed the world that the author created, and the descriptive writing made it feel like I could step into it to join the characters in their adventures. I can’t wait to get my hands on another book in the series just to continue exploring the worlds, so much potential for more great plots – the below and the above! The plot was incredibly interesting, the above and the below created an intriguing element that had me wanting to know more, there’s so much more to be explored there. The characters were also well-written, described well so I could picture their mannerisms and features, and believable. I loved both Arryn and Rowan, especially given how they started out. Enemies from different worlds, I enjoyed how they gradually got to know one another and sparks flew. It was a believable and enjoyable transition, and I was rooting for them to the very end. They’re both determined and strong characters, and even with magic, they felt real for me. I look forward to seeing what the next book will bring!
This contains all three books in the sci-fi thriller Alterations trilogy. The trilogy follows Gigi, Ellen and Lilly in the aftermath of the implantation of a mind-control chip to alter something about themselves. The premise of the storyline was great, I was intrigued and was hooked wanting to see the 3 face the consequences of the chip and whether they would achieve their happily ever afters. The idea behind the chips and how far people would go to change things about themselves was interesting to me. I do think reading the trilogy in this set is the best way to go about it as there were moments (particularly within the second book) which slowed down considerably. I don’t think this was a problem when reading it all together, but don’t think this would have the same impact if reading separately. The author was descriptive, paining vivid imagery of scenes and characters allowing you to step into the story. The writing flowed well, but there were frequent point of view changes. This wasn’t an issue for me as I quite enjoyed seeing things from multiple perspectives and getting to know the characters more, but it is not for everyone. Overall I enjoyed this trilogy, it had a brilliant premise and was engaging and thought-provoking. My main issue would be the pacing previously mentioned, but as a whole this doesn’t detract from my enjoyment reading these books.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-03 16:55:532023-10-10 07:54:21ALTERATIONS TRILOGY: Alterations, Game Changer, Primal Will by Jane Suen – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
This is another lovely children’s book by this author. Nothing is what it seems when it comes to Mr Barsin’s toy store, which makes this a very interesting and fun story for kids whilst also giving lessons here and there (e.g. the rules about wishing/bargaining statements). The story line was fun and placed a lot of focus on imagination, full of fantasy creatures and adventure. The characters each had their own stories leading them to the store and reflecting their reactions to the unfolding events. The writing style was great and flowed very well for the most part. The descriptions made it easy to picture the scenes unfolding and feel involved. Overall, this was an enjoyable story as an adult, an even better for the kids. A lovely story to read together and a reminder not to let the imagination fade.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-01 16:59:582023-10-10 07:30:58Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
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Falling Home by Libby Kay
