Posts

Death & Mirrors (All Things Dark & Deadly Book 1) by SF Benson – Review by Amy Brennan

/0 Comments/in /by

Death & Mirrors: All Things Dark & Deadly, Book OneDeath & Mirrors: All Things Dark & Deadly, Book One by S.F. Benson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I do enjoy a good mystery novel, and I thoroughly enjoyed the paranormal and magical aspect that this one introduced. The beginning of the novel, we learn of Evaline is a necromancer, and the daughter of an important man, one who only wants to keep him and his daughter safe, and ensure that she will be taken care of in the manner she has become used to. Little does he know, she has ore of an interest in making a difference and helping people, than she does staying safe and being a ‘proper’ lady.

This rabbit hole was one that brought great entertainment to this reader, the character development and world building was extremely well done, and there were a few different side story lines to the main plot that brought on laughter, gasps, and applause for how strong a female lead she is. Of course, being the first installment, the end of this leaves many questions, and I for one, am very excited to follow Evaline and Del wherever their narrative may take them. Don’t hesitate to pick this gem up!

View all my reviews

Saved by Love (Bellevue Bullies Book 7) by Toni Aleo – Review by Michelle Mulvey

/0 Comments/in /by

Saved by Love (Bellevue Bullies #7)Saved by Love by Toni Aleo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have never read any work by this author but that will change soon. I have to say, this book was a breath of fresh air. This book touches on lots of subjects. Crazy college kids, pro hockey players making tough decisions affecting their career, young love, family, mental health…you name it.
Evan is a pro hockey player with his twin brother. However, Evan doesn’t love it like everyone thinks he does. He has severe anxiety and after consideration he decides to retire and that’s when he spots Callie. He is now working close with the gymnastics team and Callie calls dibs on him before any of her teammates can. Callie knows who Evan is because he’s on the team with her brother in law. Evan is basically just a shell of himself until he meets Callie and begins to get close to her. Callie has been crushing on Evan and ever since their literal run in, Evan want seem to get her off his mind. It’s not as easy as two strangers meeting, Callie’s brother in law has warned all his teammates away from Callie for many years. Does that mean she’s off limits to
Evan or does it not matter since Evan is no longer part of the team?
I really enjoyed reading this hidden gem and was pleasantly surprised with this book. I look forward to more by this author.

review by @xchellex

View all my reviews

Enemies of Doves by Shanessa Gluhm – Review by Cheyenne Huffman

/0 Comments/in /by

Enemies of DovesEnemies of Doves by Shanessa Gluhm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Enemies of Doves by Shanessa Gluhm Review

4 out of 5 stars

Told in alternating timelines from World War II to 1992, Enemies of Doves is a tale of family secrets, jealousy and deception.

It wasn’t how we were born or raised that made us the men we are today. It was what happened that day that set the rest of our lives in motion

****

Shanessa Gluhm delivers a powerhouse of a novel! Spanning over the course of 60 years and divided into two timelines you follow the story of two brothers, Clancy and Joel, harboring a deep secret. One that changes the course of their lives forever.

This book is packed with action, family drama, and lots of unexpected twists. With fleshed out characters and a plot line that will leave you flipping pages (and ignoring life until it’s done) this book easily gets 4/5 stars from me.

It was a quick paced read and the way the characters were developed made the story that much more interesting to read. I really enjoyed the many twists and the alternate timelines it added such depth to the story and kept me interested in knowing what happens.

If you’re a fan of historical fiction, thrillers and drama this will be your kind of book. I highly recommend giving this author a try!

View all my reviews

Someone Exactly Like Me (Wounded Hearts Series Book 1) by Debbie Cromack – Review by Tracy Greenhalgh

/0 Comments/in /by

Someone Exactly Like Me (Wounded Hearts, #1)Someone Exactly Like Me by Debbie Cromack
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really, really loved this book, the slow burn, between Destiny and Nicco is thoroughly engaging. This is truly a heart-warming, slow burn friends to lovers, a great book to read.
Coming from a bad relationship, finding her fiancé with his best friend obviously makes Destiny
Helping her best friend Candi who is a photographer out with a lighting check romance author Destiny is put literally in front of her celebrity crush Nicco.
She does not trust his playboy persona, he cannot get her out of his mind, and she cannot forget him. They make an agreement to help each other out, her to help him move his career forward and him to allow her access to his daily life and some of his past to help her writing. We follow them in their cat and mouse relationship. And watch as their characters grow and develop.
Nicco goes all out to prove he is more than the Italian playboy actor he shows the world. And Destiny needs to overcome her self-image to feel settled in their friendship and allow herself to move on.
They both need to open themselves to love and live life to the fullest. Again I cannot say enough how much I loved this book.

View all my reviews

The Vilification of Aqua Marine by Megan Mackie – Review by Shannen Kern

/0 Comments/in /by

The Vilification of Aqua Marine (Working Mask, #1)The Vilification of Aqua Marine by Megan Mackie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this author or this genre, but I am far beyond surprised. How have I not read any of her other books?! I was sucked into the superhero (or supervillain?) story from the beginning, and it never had the over-the-top feel that I anticipated. Instead, I found myself laughing and gasping with each humorous yet dramatic turn.
Rhainnon/Aqua Marine is the daughter of a superhero and a supervillain, which leaves her wondering where her place is in this labeled world. I find that terribly relatable as we all try to find our own way even if our parents are well-known and/or polar opposites. Rhainnon feels like she is stumbling about as an imposter because her superpowers aren’t good enough in her eyes. How can she truly leave a mark on this world if her power is as effective as a splash in the face?
From great character building to a captivatingly written world, I can’t think of any possible way this could have been a more enjoyable read! I will absolutely be picking up more of Megan Mackie’s books and looking forward to the rest of the Working Mask series!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

View all my reviews

Mermaid and the Water Magnifying Glass (Mermaid Science Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Anantha Alagappan

/0 Comments/in /by

The Mermaid and the Water Magnifying Glass (Mermaid Science, #3)The Mermaid and the Water Magnifying Glass by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is my third book from this author. I like her concepts, introduce science to little children her books. The illustrations are bright and neat, and it helps both children and adults realize that science exists in the nature and you can do experiments with very simple tools and you do not need a laboratory.
Trezzie, the mermaid, collects trash which people leave on the shore. When she meets Maia and Fig this time, she is interested to know more about the rocks which has some unusual markings on them. Maia and Fig ,use a plastic fruit box and help make a magnifying glass for Trezzie. Trezzie uses the glass and together they find out that the rocks are actually fossils. The discussion then leads to what Fossils are.

It is a very interesting book to read for both children and adults. I am enjoying reading the books with my boys. I would recommend it to everyone.

View all my reviews

Love in the Roses (Love Through the Ages Book 1) by TL Clark – Review by Piper Foster

/0 Comments/in /by

Love in the RosesLove in the Roses by T.L. Clark
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Love in Roses i like Isabella characters. Been shocked at her arranged marriage to Sir William as he’s OK the opposite house they are in whom they support. Been a dutiful daughter whom has no choice she bound to the choice made for her. There a great description of this time and how people were during the war of the Roses

View all my reviews

The Vilification of Aqua Marine by Megan Mackie – Review by Piper Foster

/0 Comments/in /by

The Vilification of Aqua Marine (Working Mask, #1)The Vilification of Aqua Marine by Megan Mackie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Aqua Marine is a quirky novel about the superhero. The writer does a good job for this young adult book. Aqua is going on a discovery of herself she is on a journey to figure out who she wants to be. Great for anyone who likes superheroes and villans a must-have for any marvel of the fan. I enjoyed seeing the development of the characters through the story.

View all my reviews

Enemies of Doves by Shanessa Gluhm – Review by Stephanie Robb

/0 Comments/in /by

Enemies of DovesEnemies of Doves by Shanessa Gluhm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This dual timeline mystery thriller was immersive, atmospheric and suspenseful. I would highly recommend this historical fiction, the characters were well developed and I could not guess what was going to happen. I would highly recommend this novel.

View all my reviews

Death & Mirrors (All Things Dark & Deadly Book 1) by SF Benson – Review by Piper Foster

/0 Comments/in /by

Death & Mirrors (All Things Dark & Deadly Book 1)Death & Mirrors by SF Benson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dealing with a loss of a friend can be hard but what happens when you are magical. Not being trained correctly can lead to consequences. Mother was going to help but she can’t now and father’s denied me that chance. What happens when a spectre comes to light. What happens when two worlds collide. Fergus is described in the mirror but Delbert. Legends, magic and mirrors to another world what more can you want. I can’t wait to read the next instalment of this series.

View all my reviews

Castor’s Kiss (Soul Bonded in the Stars Book 2) by Tai James – Review by Helen Dawkins

/0 Comments/in /by

Castor's Kiss (Soul Bonded in the Stars # 2)Castor’s Kiss by Tai James
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Castor’s Kiss is book two in the Soul Bonded in the Stars Series. It is packed full of action and emotions that you simply cannot put the book down. The relationship between Castor and Mia is truly breathtaking and are a perfect match. Everything about the book will leave you on the edge of your seat and wanting more. Mia is a complete badass and Castor is a fighter, and both would protect each other to the death. The author did an amazing job at describing the scenery and the other-worldly creatures. Ends with a slight cliffhanger and I cannot wait until book 3.

View all my reviews

Death & Mirrors (All Things Dark & Deadly Book 1) by SF Benson – Review by Helen Dawkins

/0 Comments/in /by

Death & Mirrors: All Things Dark & Deadly, Book OneDeath & Mirrors: All Things Dark & Deadly, Book One by S.F. Benson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first book that was written by the author S.F. Benson, and I cannot wait to read more of her writing! The book is definitely a unique and peculiar twist/retelling of Alice in Wonderland, just with witches, magic, and necromancy with hint of Sherlock Holmes! Who would not love fantasy, magic and detective work all in one book?! Death & Mirrors is a fascinating story with paranormal elements, magic, family issues, mysteries that need a detective, and also some romance. Setting takes place in the late 1800s in London, as well as the corresponding mirror world Londinium (which is also known as ancient London roughly 40AD). The main character Evaline is a necromancer and an aspired detective who wishes to apprentice under the great Sherlock Holmes. She is whisked away to help solve a mystery about a creature/person who was given the name Doctor Death as well as the task of finding a myth of a gem called the Firestone, which she will need in order to defeat this monster. I love the litter easter eggs from Alice in Wonderland, for example, Evaline falls through to a mirror world that is very different but also very much alike her world, just like Alice fell down a rabbit hole to Wonderland. I thoroughly enjoyed Evaline’s character dynamics as she is headstrong, outspoken and very curious. The book does end on a cliffhanger, so I cannot wait until book two is released!

View all my reviews

The Liminal Space (Antipodes Book #2) by T.S. Simons – Review by Angela Hayes

/0 Comments/in /by

The Liminal Space (Antipodes #2)The Liminal Space by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3 ½ Stars

 

The Liminal Space is the second book in the Antipodes series by T.S Simons. It is a YA, post-apocalyptic, dystopian story; with some science fiction elements, drama, and tension.
All in all, an intriguing and thought-provoking read.
Having read the first book, I was curious to see what would happen in this book- so grabbed a copy and dove in. Again, as with he first book, there is quite a lot going on, but I seemed to ‘settle’ into this story easier than the first book- which made for a more enjoyable read. That’s not to say that I didn’t have a few issues with the story/developments- but thankfully they didn’t detract too much from my overall enjoyment of the story.

Thank you, T.S. Simons!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

View all my reviews

Levi (The Brothers of Creekside Ranch Book 1) by Edith Mackenzie Review by Ashly Renner

/0 Comments/in /by

LeviLevi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book. Levi comes off as a huge jerk, and Bella appears to be very snobbish, but you quickly learn these are protective mechanisms for both characters. It is very evident from the beginning that they each have feelings for the other that they are denying and fighting all the way. I look forward to reading more in this series!

View all my reviews

Key to His Heart by Kristina Beck – Review by katie stapleton

/0 Comments/in /by

Key To His HeartKey To His Heart by Kristina Beck
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love a romance between two characters that is entwined from the very start. This book had me smiling at how perfect Katrina and TJ for each other!! All of the characters the author created have great depth and connection. Overall the main characters have family/friends who are so realistic they could walk off the page and engage in the real world with no one the wiser.

This book was so fun. It was warm and happy and at times nerve wracking. The author expertly ties all the details together with a writing style that is bar none. I also like that Daisy makes an appearance from her other series – so now I can go read more and already have a bit of an idea of this world Kristina has so expertly created. So excited to read more from this author!

View all my reviews

Tale of a Body Thief (Rovena Silvex Book 1) by Kristy Centeno – Review by Ashley Sugar

/0 Comments/in /by

Tale of a Body Thief (Rovena Silvex chronicles Book 1)Tale of a Body Thief by Kristy Centeno
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book I’ve read of Kristy’s and I wasn’t disappointed in the slightest. I don’t typically read this genre but I’m so glad I gave it a shot. Don’t get me wrong, I love paranormal and supernatural plots. Just never read a book that was like THIS. This book seriously has all the emotions and that’s what I love! I love when a book grabs my attention from the very first page, and that’s exactly what this book did!! I need the second book, ASAP lol. Waiting for books in a series is such torture but I’ll know the next book will be just as awesome. Highly recommend this!! Go check it out!! You’ll be missing out if you don’t!

View all my reviews

Murder Most Pemberley (Eliza Darcy Mysteries Book 1) by Jessica Berg – Review by Shelly Kittell

/0 Comments/in /by

Murder Most Pemberley (Eliza Darcy Mysteries Book 1)Murder Most Pemberley by Jessica Berg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a clever murder mystery! Eliza is heading to a family reunion in jolly ole- England, a Darcy/Bennet one. She meets Heath at the airport. Could it be fate that brought them together? I loved watching the chemistry with these two. What an entertaining tale told with a taste of snippets of Jane Austen at the beginning of each chapter. A tale of murder and romance. Eliza can’t resist helping Scotland Yard when drama happens at the reunion. I can’t blame her. Wouldn’t you like to make sure it isn’t you next? Humor, mystery, characters that will entertain you as you try to figure out who did it (No, I own’t tell you who, tsk!) The plot is smooth, twits abound, with characters galore. The older characters will have you laughing out loud as you read. This is a wonderful book. I look forward to more from this author. What a delight to read with your tea and crumpets.

View all my reviews

Levi (The Brothers of Creekside Ranch Book 1) by Edith Mackenzie Review by Kayla Octaviano

/0 Comments/in /by

LeviLevi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow. Best romance/action novel I’ve ever read! This book makes you fall in love, become a part of a family, and fight off your demons. Levi is an ex-SEAL who returned home because his parents died. His two triplet brothers, Elijah and Amos, and his little sister Allie with him as they mourn the loss of their family. The ex-SEAL agrees to take in a witness protection program participant, Bella, change her name, and have her live on the farm with them while he trial date awaits. However, it’s hard for everyone to not love this British ball of strength and power. In this book, you will find longing looks, action packed rescues, and emotional pain that everyone can relate too. Read this book. It will be one of your favorites too.

View all my reviews

The Blood Prince by Ayla Marie – Review by Jennifer Reimer

/0 Comments/in /by

The Blood PrinceThe Blood Prince by Ayla Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book so much. The character development was amazing, how the author developed Leo into the boy he is was phenomenal. This book held a very interesting and entertaining story and is very well written. This book kept me wanting to read more and not stop. I was hooked from the first chapter and couldn’t wait to see how the story played out for these characters. This book held danger, drama, power, fight with demons, being haunted, twists and turns, and so much more, it was very enjoyable. I very much enjoyed it, for sure one to pick up and rad if you enjoy YA fantasy stories. This well worth the read.

View all my reviews

Key to His Heart by Kristina Beck – Review by Kay Stritesky

/0 Comments/in /by

Key To His HeartKey To His Heart by Kristina Beck
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was able to deliver in all the right places! I know romance is romance, but this one is felt deep down into the core! The author does a wonderful job of make sure each character is unique and felt throughout the entire book. I will for sure be looking for more by this author!

View all my reviews

Levi (The Brothers of Creekside Ranch Book 1) by Edith Mackenzie Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

LeviLevi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A lovely story of family, new love, ranch life, finding your true home, danger, suspense, and so much more. I love how the brothers came together to all be at the ranch to help their little sister. When Levi is asked to help hide Bella who is testifying against her Russian mafia ex-boyfriend, he has to keep Bella’s true identity a secret and he tells his brothers and sister that Bella is a nanny. Bella is a strong willed woman who has suffered from abuse from her ex boyfriend. Bella and Levi find that they are attracted to each other. Will Bella be able to testify or will something happen?
The characters are well written, you can feel their personalities and connect with them easily. The book was easy to read and follow and I enjoyed reading about them. I’m looking forward to more stories that bring the brothers of Creekside Ranch together.

View all my reviews

Key to His Heart by Kristina Beck – Review by Lynnea Eng

/0 Comments/in /by

Key To His HeartKey To His Heart by Kristina Beck
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was one of the best books I have read in a very long time. However, I gave it 4 out of 5 stars due to the overwhelming amount of detail. It was too much for me to keep up with – however, I acknowledge that many people enjoy the extra detail!

We consistently hear about how babies change our lives, but what happens when fate is also intertwined?! Kat and TJ unexpectedly meet under the craziest circumstances. Next thing you know, they are going through life head first navigating a new baby, a new relationship, injuries, and their pasts. Find out how they navigate such a crazy life by following their love story!

View all my reviews

Levi (The Brothers of Creekside Ranch Book 1) by Edith Mackenzie Review by Rebecca Hill

/0 Comments/in /by

LeviLevi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a fantastic book! I loved the suspense yet still being clean. It was a romance while still being clean. My only complaint was that it was too short! This story is about Bella who goes undercover to help the FBI and take down her abusive ex boyfriend. She is placed as a nanny with the Delaney brothers. Levi knows the truth about her, but he is happy to have help caring for his new orphaned 9 year old sister. His identical triplets brother, Amos and Elijah, live on the ranch too but don’t know the truth about Bella. Bella quickly becomes part of the family. But will they still feel that way when they find out the truth about who she is? Will Levi be able to let down his guard to love Bella? Find out and don’t miss this one!

View all my reviews

Watcher (Star-Crossed Celestials Book 1) by A.L. Morrow – Review by Alisa Boomer

/0 Comments/in /by

Watcher (Star-Crossed Celestials Duet #1)Watcher by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have never been a fan of Romeo and Juliet. Forbidden love is sexy but for it to end in tragedy? Not my cup of tea. But this novel was FANTASTIC! Forbidden love and enemies-to-lovers all in one package! Banter, wit, fun, high stakes, and did I mention the sexy men with celestial powers that fall in love?! You HAVE to read this one!

View all my reviews

@vetforchrist

Murder Most Pemberley (Eliza Darcy Mysteries Book 1) by Jessica Berg – Review by Jenni Bishop

/0 Comments/in /by

Murder Most Pemberley (Eliza Darcy Mysteries Book 1)Murder Most Pemberley by Jessica Berg
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Murder Most Pemberley is an interesting story. It is the first book in the series and held a lot of promise. Unfortunately some of the characters frustrated me making it difficult to connect with them which in turn, made it hard to connect with the storyline. The premise is predictable but it did have some fun qualities. For me the story didn’t flow easily it felt a little stilted at times. Sometimes less is more as there are a lot of English colloquialisms/slang/ phrases and it felt like too much. This story reads as though aimed at a younger reader as in it is a YA cozy mystery than for an older audience.

Eliza Darcy is visiting England and her relatives. She and her friends and crazy Great Aunt decide to do some super sleuthing. Whilst there they soon find themselves embroiled in murder and mayhem.

If you love Jane Austen and/or Agatha Christie then this maybe right up your alley.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Mermaid and the Water Magnifying Glass (Mermaid Science Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Melissa Saxton

/0 Comments/in /by

The Mermaid and the Water Magnifying Glass (Mermaid Science, #3)The Mermaid and the Water Magnifying Glass by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tezzie the mermaid collects trash from the shore and with the help of her friend makes a magnifying glass. They want to take a closer look at a rock they found that has cool markings!

Come to find out it’s a fossil!

These books are so cute science and fantasy and children’s level understanding combine in a way that enraptured my 4 year old. Will be on the look out for more!

View all my reviews

Levi (The Brothers of Creekside Ranch Book 1) by Edith Mackenzie Review by Tori Werkheiser

/0 Comments/in /by

LeviLevi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I was very intrigued by this book from the start. I was immediately curious about Bella’s past and who Levi is underneath the cranky exterior. This was a delight to read although relatively short. I do wish there had been more to this book I wanted to see more romance and I would’ve loved to read more details about the dramatics of the fight scene at the end but overall this was well done and a nice quick read. I quickly grew to love Bella and Allie was just the sweetest little girl ever. I enjoyed seeing all the boy’s different personalities but they had one thing in common…they love their family and would do anything for each other and that is one of my favorite qualities in male characters. This is worth the read if you have a couple hours to spare but don’t want anything too intense.

View all my reviews

Key to His Heart by Kristina Beck – Review by Faith Jackson

/0 Comments/in /by

Key To His HeartKey To His Heart by Kristina Beck
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As a single mom, I became enamored in this book and the direction it went. I fell instantly in love with both characters. The way their inner thoughts were explored to their interactions and once they finally collided easily where we, as the reader, thought they should be all along, really made it worth the read! Check it out — you’re gonna love this as much as I did.

View all my reviews

Antipodes (Antipodes Book 1) by T.S. Simons – Review by Jenni Bishop

/0 Comments/in /by

The Liminal Space (Antipodes #2)The Liminal Space by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Liminal Space (Antipodes #2) by T.S. Simons is a YA, Dystopian post-apocalyptic, story. But it is anything but your typical dystopian tale. This uniquely unpredictable story will hold you on an emotional journey. The story makes you think, if this happened what would I do in the same circumstances? What am I willing to risk? Would I have done it differently?

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews

Taylor’s Law by Jennifer Raines – Review by Jenni Bishop

/0 Comments/in /by

Taylor's LawTaylor’s Law by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars

Taylor’s Law is a fresh idea and a good read for fans of contemporary romance stories. This is the first book I have read by this author and I was pleasantly surprised. It’s good to see a new Aussie author writing stories within Australia. Jennifer has cleverly woven the threads together with complex layers that leaves you with an intriguing and compelling tale.

This story has a bit of everything to keep the pages turning with power and greed, secrets and lies, wealth and envy, passion and compassion, love and loyalty, angst and fear, humour and more.

Ella has done the ultimate sacrifice but with it comes and unexpected legal problem. But she will fight with everything she has to hold on to the one thing that means more to her than life itself.

Jake is wary and isn’t sure what to think but will he have to choose between family and the woman who needs help.

Reviewed by @jennadb

View all my reviews