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Tempting Fate (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book 1) by Bella Faust – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Tempting Fate: a dark and angsty love triangle romance (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book 1)Tempting Fate: a dark and angsty love triangle romance by Bella Faust
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Duplicity Trilogy, but not the first in the overall series. There is so much in this book: secrets, betrayal, action, twists and more.

This book is very dark, so I would highly recommend checking the trigger warnings before reading!

The characters are complex, well-written and believable. They tug on the heartstrings, playing on your emotions and occasionally leave you stunned. I really felt for Lily, she’d already been through so much that no one should ever go through, only to have more awfulness thrown at her.

I haven’t read the previous books in the full series but will do now as I feel I would get so much more out of this one if I had. I look forward to reading more from this author!

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Shadowed Obsession (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1) by Mavery Ellscott – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1)Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first in the Shadow Defense Security series, this instalment focuses on Keira and Cade. This Romantic Suspense story hooks you from the beginning and surprises you with twists and turns. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, another twist is thrown in.

I loved the characters in this book, Keira was a strong independent professional woman who was able to be open and Cade was strong, protective without being overbearing and skilled. The increasing danger to Keira increases the tension as Cade tries to save her before it’s too late but also increases the chemistry between the pair.

I couldn’t put this book down and can’t wait for the next in the series!

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Murder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Murder in a Gated CommunityMurder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect before reading this, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. It had me hooked from the start and the premise was brilliant, leading you one way before revealing its true nature.

I loved the humour sprinkled in, it had me smiling like an idiot while reading thankfully my only audience consisted of a cat and dog.
The scenes and characters were well-written and made believable. The issues they each face made it truly feel like a small community, each with their own contributions and life stories.

I enjoyed the story the author told and look forward to reading more from this author.

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The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Duology Book 2) Audiobook by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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This is the second book in the Coins/Hours duology. I do wish I had listened to the first book prior to this one to learn more about the characters and previous events, but it did not detract from my enjoyment of this one. 

I thoroughly enjoyed this audiobook, a possibility for romance containing action, suspense and twists! I enjoyed this story, it was different to most I’ve read, making it unique and more enjoyable. 

I felt the characters were well developed, and well-written. I admired Gabriela’s strength and dedication and felt the narrator did a particularly good job in bringing her to life. 

I’ll be getting the first book to start the duology over, and looking for more from this author! 

The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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

This is the first in the Olympic Peninsula series focusing on Ali and Joe.

The beginning chapters were very sweet and started the story well. The writing was very descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the rainforest and log cabins. The chemistry builds between Ali and Joe quite well and I began rooting for the couple.

My heart went out to Ali and what she was going through (and what she previously went through) but admired the strength she displayed in surviving and moving forward.

Following the initial chapters, we are shown the pair separately which started well, however I personally felt this went on a little longer than necessary and slowed the pace of the book right down. This did then pick up again in part 2 but then there were a couple of things thrown in which felt a little random. Despite this, the story was still very interesting, and I enjoyed reading.

I look forward to reading more in the series.

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A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley Book 1) by Theresa Paolo – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley, #1)A Toast for Laurent by Theresa Paolo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Vine Valley series and it’s a great introduction to the Grasso family. This book has 2 romance tropes a second chance as well as one of my favourites, a fake relationship.

The story was well constructed and the author’s descriptive language painted vivid images of the characters and the surrounding scenery.
The characters were also written well, their emotions were evident, especially those of Laurent towards Phoebe. I admit, to begin with I wasn’t Phoebe’s biggest fan and thought Laurent deserved better, but as the story unfolded, I came to understand the reasons behind he actions a little better and she grew on me.

I enjoyed this and I look forward to the next in the series.

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Tequila Midnight (Southwest Suspense Novels Book 1) by Kathryn Dodson – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Tequila MidnightTequila Midnight by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Southwest Suspense novels series, and I look forward to reading the next one.

I really felt for the character of Jessica, she’s had it rough and is just trying to survive/cope as best she can. I was emotionally invested in her from the beginning and there were moments I wanted to scream at her and get her to stop or reconsider because I cared for her. A well-written character in my opinion.

The author created an action-packed story with twists and betrayal which I did not want to put down. The descriptions of the settings/scenery made me feel as if I had been there while it was happening, and the characters felt real.

I really enjoyed this book, and I can’t wait for the next one.

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Broken. (Green St. Girls Series) by N.D. Jackson – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Broken.: A Green St. Girls RomanceBroken.: A Green St. Girls Romance by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Green Street Girls series, and I love it as much as the first! This time we follow Indigo and Gideon.

Once again, I feel the need to rave about the author’s writing style. Vivid pictures are painted of the scene and characters without being overly descriptive and the character are made to feel real. I was emotionally invested from the beginning and loved every second of it. It’s a heartwarming read, but there are some parts which are heartbreaking.

I loved Indigo, her growth as the story unfolded was brilliant and she deserves every happiness. Gideon is such a lovable character, you can’t help but love the pair and despite all obstacles, root for them start to finish.

I really enjoyed witnessing Indigo’s story and can’t wait for more in this series!

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Bared. (A Green St. Girls Romance) by N.D. Jackson – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Bared. (Green St. Girls #1)Bared. by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first of the A Green St. Girls Romance series. I loved this book, it got me emotionally invested from the first page.

There are plenty of heartbreaking parts to this story and I think that these aspects are written well – respectfully and feeling real.

I loved the characters and friendships within the story, but my favourite thing about this book was the author’s writing style. It’s clear, descriptive and flows so well. The author paints vivid images without over-describing the scenes, the character’s voices are distinct, and their thoughts and emotions feel real. While I absolutely love the story, I don’t think I’ve come across an author who’s actual writing is my favourite aspect. It’s almost as if I’m not reading it but living it through the character’s eyes.

I truly felt for Athena and her past; her experience and her development felt so real and relatable to my own experiences.

This is the first book I’ve read by the author, but I look forward to bingeing on the rest of their work!

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Planting Hope by Jennifer Raines – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Planting HopePlanting Hope by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I fell in love with this book almost immediately. I’m not sure what it was that captured my attention so close to the start when the plot was being set up, but it was there, and it only got better.

The way the difficult issues and emotions were handled felt respectful and genuine. I felt for Holly and Kit given what the pair faced in their pasts, but most of all for the children. Their pain felt real. The care Holly, Mona and Kit had for them felt real.

I don’t want to give away spoilers, but it really throws into light how important and different the healing process is and having people around who understand that and value their safety. One careless slip up could destroy that and this book captured that.

I will be reading more from this author!

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Parisian Intrigue (Notebook Mysteries Book 6) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Parisian IntrigueParisian Intrigue by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 6th book in the series and it’s still going strong. Once again there are mysteries which the group help to investigate, this time in Paris.

Once again, the author’s writing style makes the experience so much more enjoyable. On top of the great plot, the descriptive language paints vivid pictures of both scenery and the characters. The writing flows well making it easier to follow and research was clearly conducted into the era.

There are twists and turns to leave you guessing and you can’t help but try to piece everything together with the characters.

I look forward to the next book in the series.

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Taz (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter Book 3) by D.M. Earl – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Taz: (Devil's Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter)Taz: by D.M. Earl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the third book in the Devil’s Handmaidens MC series. Although this can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the first two books in the series. This book focuses on Taz and Enforcer but previous characters make appearances.

Once again, I loved being thrown into the brilliantly created world with the amazingly strong women and the people who support them. Taz is remarkable, having a difficult past and working hard to make a new life for herself and her son. When her past comes forth bringing danger, she is fierce in the face of her fears and Enforcer (as well as the rest of the MCs) support her like the family they are.

Not only are Taz and Enforcer holding a special place in my heart, so is her son. The inclusion of this new dynamic brings an extra element of emotion to everything they go through. I was incredibly emotionally invested, beginning to end, and still am.

Cannot wait for the next instalment to be released!

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Grand Slam (Ground Rule Book 3) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Grand Slam (Ground Rule Book 3)Grand Slam by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the third book in the Ground Rule series and it’s another great one! As always, the author’s writing is easy to follow, flowing nicely and descriptive. The chemistry between Heath and Grace jumps off the page, and you can’t help but love them together.

I enjoyed seeing the ‘typical arrogant jock’ have more to him than meets the eye, and when you get past the initial exterior, there’s more to him than expected. Heath and Grace pair up nicely and you can’t help but root for them.

I can’t believe I’ve caught up on the series and am left wanting more yet again.

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The Misery House (The House on the Hill Book 1) by David Kummer – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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The Misery House (The House on the Hill #1)The Misery House by David Duane Kummer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the House on the Hill series. The concept of this book appealed to me, put psychological thriller and haunted house in the same blurb and I’m in.

The writing was descriptive, painting a vivid picture of both the scenery and the characters. The tension built throughout as more and more occurs to unsettle the residents and us as readers. I felt this was done very well, especially with the twists in place, throwing you and what you thought you knew.

I thought telling the story through differing points of view was interesting, it’s not something I’ve come across too often in this genre, but it’s not a bad thing. I think it worked well for this story.

This book ends on a cliffhanger which is frustrating, but only because I am now desperately waiting for the next book to be released to find out what happens and I’m very impatient!

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When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy TalesWhen Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a unique collection of stories with a creative twist on the classic fairy tales. Trying to decipher which fairy tale inspired each story was an additional layer to my enjoyment while reading.

I think what I loved most was how the stories weren’t just modern retellings, some ‘origins’ were very difficult to decipher. By the author’s own admission in the beginning of the book, the stories went through many iterations of change to become what they are now, and I think it’s amazing what they were able to achieve.

Another thing I found impressive was the author’s ability to switch between different styles in writing. Each story was unique not only in storyline, but in the way it was written. Timelines were different, 1st person/3rd person narratives were used, some written as letters and so on. The author clearly has a lot of range and it’s brilliant.

I hope to read more from this author in future as I absolutely loved this display of the author’s talents!

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Forbidden Blood (The Shadow Chronicles Book 4) by CR Robertson – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Forbidden Blood (The Shadow Chronicles Book 4)Forbidden Blood by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the fourth book in the Shadow Chronicles series and focuses on Kimber’s story. I’m so glad we get to see things from Kimber’s perspective as I was always so curious about her and the true extent of what she went through.

Kimber and Fabian are great. Kimber really comes into her own with Fabian’s help and I couldn’t be happier to watch her develop!

As usual I love the author’s way of writing, it flows well and is easy to follow. In addition to this, the descriptive writing allows you to step into the world they inhabit to join Kimber and Fabian in their journey.

I can’t wait for the next book to be released, it’s going to be great!

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Forbidden Moon (The Shadow Chronicles Book 3) by CR Robertson – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Forbidden MoonForbidden Moon by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the third in the Shadow Chronicles series and I never want it to end. I just can’t get enough of Tasha and Levi!

I love their chemistry the believability of their actions and thoughts and their character development beginning to end. They face more obstacles in their battle against the hellspawn and I enjoyed being on their journey with them.

As per usual the author’s writing style is great as it flows well and is easy to follow. The descriptive language creates vivid imagery of the surroundings so you’re never far off stepping into the story yourself.

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Forbidden Mate (The Shadow Chronicles Book 2) by CR Robertson – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Forbidden MateForbidden Mate by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Great continuation from Forbidden Wolf! This is the second in the Shadow Chronicles series and it’s just as good as the first.

Loved being there with Tasha and Levi as they face not only the old obstacles but the new ones. They still have the chemistry I love and the development as they continue to find out secrets and discover more of the enemy.

Again, I enjoyed the style the author uses in writing. It flows well, is easy to follow and is descriptive so I feel like I could step into the world.

Onto book three!

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Forbidden Wolf (The Shadow Chronicles Book 1) by CR Robertson – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Forbidden WolfForbidden Wolf by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Shadow Chronicles series, and it was great. I was hooked from the beginning.

The characters are well-written and they their development as they are hardened by their experiences is believable. I really love Tasha and Levi together; they have chemistry, they’re sweet and it’s forbidden which makes it even more exciting.

I enjoyed the way the book was written, the writing flows well, things are clear and described well. I could envision clear pictures of the scenery from the author’s words.

Straight onto book 2!

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The Finding (Berrycreek Heights Series Book 1) by A. M. Porto – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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The Finding (Berrycreek Heights, #1)The Finding by A.M. Porto
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Berrycreek Heights series and the first I know of from this author. Please be aware of the triggers before reading this book as there are themes present which may not be suitable for everyone.

This book is dark, but I loved it. It was written well, and the plot is different from anything I’ve read recently. It has stayed with me even after finishing it and I’m sure it will be that way for a while.
It’s suspenseful and has you unable to tear your eyes away with the need to know what happens next. There were points I genuinely didn’t know what the outcome would be and I was so emotionally invested, I wasn’t sure I could handle it.
This book was able to play on my emotions more than I initially expected and I’m so impressed by that as although I get emotionally invested, I don’t usually get physically emotional in the way this book affected me.

I can’t wait for the second book of the series is it’s going to be even half as good as this one.

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny Book 5) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny #5)Soul Redeemed by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the fifth book in the War of Destiny series. You should read the previous books in the series before starting this one.

Yet again the author has been able to create wonderful characters and scenes to draw you into their world easily. Again, the characters are met with danger and twists/turns as they make their journey.

Throughout the series I have really loved Julia and really felt for her as she never seems to catch a break, no matter how much she deserves it. The author portrays her character so well I can feel her emotions as she tries to prove herself. Her strength is admirable as she continues, and I love her all the more for it as she perseveres.

It’s a shame there isn’t another book into the series for me to jump straight into, but I’ll be keeping an eye out for more from this author now that I have discovered them.

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny Book 4) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny #4)Fallen Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 4th book in the War of Destiny series. You should read the previous books before starting this one to get a greater sense of the characters, events and setting of the book.

The author’s writing flows well and creates vivid imagery and great characters as usual. This story is a little different from the previous ones but it’s not bad, it’s executed well. This time we get to experience Lane’s adventure as he attempts to make his way to his homeland safely.

It was great to be able to follow Lane’s journey while facing familiar foes and getting a different perspective. Although it may be different, it’s not any less gripping or dangerous.

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Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny Book 3) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny #3)Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the third book in the War of Destiny series, the previous books should be read before this one.

Once again, the author has created great characters and scenery that you feel you’ve stepped into their world. This book is darker that the other two, exploring some darker elements, and the emotions behind it can be felt so clearly as you read.

More danger arises, as well as the consequences of the last book make for an extremely emotional and perilous experience for Julia as she seeks to take steps to make things right. I really felt more Julia in this book, more so than the others as you can feel the guilt and exclusion so clearly. She remains strong as she makes her journey and I admire the strength she displays.

So glad I was able to jump straight into the next book as I currently cannot get enough of this world.

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny Book 2) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny #2)Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the War of Destiny series and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Just as with the first book, the world build and character creation were done very well and you can almost feel yourself step into the book. You will need to read the first book to understand what is happening.

This book jumps ahead a little (70 years) and new trouble arises, danger around every corner. This will keep you as gripped as the first book as you want to find out what happens next and how they will escape the current danger.

While the first book is the better of the two, this is still a great read, I don’t regret it.

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny Book 1) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny # 1)Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was much better than I imagined it would be. I absolutely loved the plot, it was historical whilst also being paranormal – 2 of my favourite genres rolled into one!

The characters were well-written, especially Julia. It starts so young with Julia being 15 when we begin to experience her struggles and grief with her as the story progresses. But we also get to see her strength and the start of her development.

The story is unique, and the plot is put together well. The author’s written was easy to follow and I moved straight onto the next book as I couldn’t wait to continue Julia’s story.

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Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood Book 1) by A. S. Roberts – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood #1)Twisted Oath by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a great introduction into the Bound by Blood series, I’m certainly hooked!

To start with, the author has a way of writing that flows so smoothly and captures the depth of emotion the characters have, so that you feel it as your own. They paint a vivid picture that you feel you could easily step into and live the ‘adventure’ alongside the characters.

The characters were written incredibly well. Salvatore and Serafina both have pasts and how they became who they are and how they respond to things is very well reflected in the book. I was rooting for them from start to finish, they captivated me, and I grew emotionally attached – definite book hangover because of them!

The twists and turns had me guessing (and not always correctly which I loved), I couldn’t put this book down. It had everything I wanted, strong characters, suspense, secrets, romance and more! I’m sad this book is over but I’m excited for the next!

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A Match Made in Montana (The Millers of Marietta Book 2) by Elsa Winckler – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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A Match Made in Montana (The Millers of Marietta, #2)A Match Made in Montana by Elsa Winckler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Millers of Marietta series. The fact that I dind’t realise until half way through the book that this was likely not the first goes to show that this can be read as a standalone. I will be going back to read the first book though. There is background that is missed but not reading the first book for example the previous couple’s story but overall, this doen’t impact the current story line as all vital information is given.

This has quickly become one of my favourite romances. It’s fun, easy to read and sweet. I enjoyed the humour from page 1, it was brilliant. Annie and Craig are perfect. I love them! They’re fun characters and relatable. Annie was my favourite by far. Her comments and actions are unintentionally funny and she reminds me of a couple of friends in that way.

The author’s writing is descriptive without being too much and simple without being patronising. It’s easy to follow and a great read for when I was feeling down.

I loved this book and look forward to discovering more from this author!

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Shalom Israel by Melissa Lavi – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Shalom Israel: A place like no otherShalom Israel: A place like no other by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a lovely and informative book aimed at kids. Saying that, there were things I learnt from reading this book, even before reaching the facts page.

The images were colourful and fun with a mi of photo and cartoon. I personally liked how many places within Israel were shown in the images and text.

This is another great kids book which combines fun and education, keeping kids engaged while they learn.

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Twisted Eros (Modern Mythica Book 1) by Aria Skylar – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Twisted Eros (Modern Mythica Book 1)Twisted Eros by Aria Skylar
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When I started reading this, I didn’t realise it was the start of a series with modern tellings of ‘myths’. Now I know, I’ll be keeping my eye out for the others, I love a good retelling.

This follows Kay’s journey of learning to let go and betrayal and Erik coming to terms with who he is. I enjoyed how their chosen names reflected the Greek ‘myths,’ it was a nice touch for the modern aspect.

I enjoyed the author’s writing style; it was easy to follow and clear. The dialogue was believable, and I felt for the turmoil Kay and Erik must have been feeling.

I look forward to more works by this author.

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Holding Up the Sky (Giants and Monsters) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Holding Up the SkyHolding Up the Sky by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another lovely book from the author. The story line was engaging, and the illustrations were colourful and bright.

As usual there is a lesson to be learned from this author’s stories and this one is an important one. Treating people with kindness no matter what they look like.

The story is fun and easy as well as being educational/thought provoking for children.

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