The Chaos Clock: Tales of Cosmic Aether by Danielle Ackley-McPhail
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This novel is a steampunk anthology with a variety of authors focusing on the theme of time and clocks. Each of these stories were unique and interesting to read. The authors did a great job of capturing the steampunk aesthetic and creating stories that were both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a powerful read this book was, it had me feeling so many different emotions, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to laugh or cry or yell at Declan, our main character as I saw the way he interacted with Anne. These characters have so much dimension to them, you feel like you understand everything about them, and then the author throws you a curve ball and introduces new characters who jumble up everything. When Anne and Declan met for the first time, I figured she would be a small character in the book, but boy was I way wrong! She will surprise you through every experience she goes through, and then some. Do not underestimate the power of this woman, because she really does give Declan a run for his money, and then some more besides.
This book was amazing, it has everything you could ever want in a romance book, from intriguing characters to characters that care nothing about anyone but themselves. Do not let the cover fool you, this is no ordinary romance novel, it’s got mystery, thrilling action, and family feuds to boot. I could not put this book down once I got started, there were several late nights of reading because just one more chapter…which continued to yet another, I couldn’t put it down.
@Brandy Rymer
07/2024
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/212981201-the-handshake-agreement” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”The Handshake Agreement” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1715055491l/212981201._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/212981201-the-handshake-agreement”>The Handshake Agreement</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15266964.A_Akinosho”>A. Akinosho</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6659931388″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Declan and Anne put us through a ringer trying to figure out whether or not they would be together. Anne is his younger sisters friend and he tried his best to steer clear of them. When these two met though there was something about Anne that was different than all the others. Anne doesn’t believe in love so when their relationship goes from platonic to more intimate, she proposes that they have a no strings attached arrangement. It worked until she caught feelings. Left at the alter by Declan she is heartbroken but moves on. Several years later Declan needs to make good on the agreement he made with his father. He has the perfect bride in mind however she is engaged to another. He will stop at nothing to make sure he’s the one exchanging “I do” with Anne but will she take him back? This is the first book I have read by this author but I enjoyed her style. This story flowed nicely and kept me on the edge of my seat. Just when I thought I had it figured out I was thrown for a loop. I have some books by this author on my TBR list that I will now definitely need to get to.
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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/106111308-charlisa-wahtomy-alba”>View all my reviews</a>
This Time Around by Kimberly Packard
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
4.5 Stars
Ok- right off the bat, this story would make a great movie. It gave me ‘Peggy Sue Got Married’ vibes, which I love- but with its own unique spin on the whole time travel/do-over theme.
“Would you take a second chance for love… even if it meant losing everything?” Ms. Packard certainly packs a punch with some emotional and thought-provoking points. Depth and character ooze off the pages here, with plenty of life-lessons and meaningful content.
It’s a bit of a ‘journey of discovery/rediscovery’ of self and of life, second chances, and finding purpose- with family, friendship, emotion, fate/destiny, adventure, drama, angst, and much more.
Another superb read from Ms. Packard. Can’t wait to see what she delivers next.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Kimberly Packard!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Red by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is my first time reading a story by M.K parking. This author’s Storytelling is truly one of a kind. With their unique new takes on some old classics. This is the second book of the modern day fairy tale series, Which loosely follows Red Riding Hood and her journey. But not only Red’s but Also another side character gets their love match. I really enjoyed the modern day setting, which made me want to read it all the more. I definitely have to go back and read the Cinderella version. I can’t wait to see what more this author has in-store for us. Or who to see what Fairy Tale character The author does next. fingers crossed its Belle and the beast!! I’d run to buy it lol 🥰
The Amanda Mini-Mysteries by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This Lois Wickstrom book is super perfect if your little ones are Some curious little bumblebees. If they are always asking, why does this happen?What happens if you do this? I would highly recommend you get and read this book with them. This has several different fun facts/ what happens when short stories. It’ll also be fun to ask your little one what they thought like I did. I’d say it was a hit in our house. Always a great time reading this author. Can’t wait for more 🥰
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho was surprisingly a decent book. There were a few parts in the beginning where I found myself not enjoying it and feeling as if what was happening was a little cringy. I also found that there were a lot of grammar errors. And while I typically am okay with that, it did make parts difficult to read. I felt as though parts of the relationship between Anne and Declan were fast and awkward but I did find myself enjoying the story overall. Declan is known as a womanizer and one week and done with them type of guy. Anne is his younger sisters friend. She’s awkward and new to the country but she is bold and sticks up for herself. I quite enjoyed her character as she took no crap from anyone. Declan is a little pushy and controlling and at times felt like too much. But their attraction and desire was hot and heavy. There were a lot of things I was not expecting and that’s why I found myself really enjoying the story overall. The only thing I’d wish is that it not be as long and have been edited a bit better simply for ease of reading.
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Two very different outlooks on what “love” is. Every time I read one of A. Akinosho’s books I am in a trance until I read The End. Dual perspectives Declan and Anne.
Declan had it all, or at least was ready to step into his “rightful” place to get it all. He had just graduated from college, top of his class and accepted the idea of an arranged marriage. He only had one rule, give him ten years to enjoy his life on his own. Eight years later and he knows big changes will be coming but he isn’t sure yet. Anne, Sara, Declan’s younger sister, is her only friend. Growing up in London she may have imitated some American things and loved watching movies with her friends but to be shipped off to American to live permanently was never on her to do list in life. Unfortunately, life had other plans for her. She has no time or need for love. Declan doesn’t even believe in the idea of love or that it’s even possible for him until the day their eyes met. The day before Sara’s eighteenth birthday there was a chance encounter when Declan picked Sara up from school and Anne was with her. When their eyes met in the rearview mirror, he didn’t even understand the sudden rush he felt but he was determined to “kill” it before it could inevitably fall apart. Years later and suddenly the agreement is a bigger problem than he ever could have imagined.
Is it possible to truly find love when you’re not looking for it? Will Declan and Anne find a way to overcome all and find a way to make it work? This world pulls you in the characters worm into your soul and holds you prisoner until you truly know their story. Declan stands up to his father and Anne accepts the beauty in finding someone. Pain is inevitable in life, but to love and be loved gives it true meaning. This love story is full of twists and turns that leave you rushing through in prayer for a happy ending they both deserve.
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story, right from the start, is a rollercoaster, a page-turner that you will not be able to put down.
Delcon was the playboy type who made a deal with the devil. Never thinking he was the marrying type, he promised to allow his dad to choose his wife when the time came. Little did Delcon know that with one single look, he would fall head over heels in love with his baby sister´s new best friend. Anne moved from the UK and became best friends with Sara. Anne has heard all the stories about Sara´s much older brother Delcon, but it isn´t until their eyes lock that she realizes why all the girls swoon over him. However, the timing isn´t right; he can´t portray his little sister that way. A few years pass, and Delcon and Anne´s paths cross again. The older and wiser Anne is only willing to allow Delcon to hit it and move on. But the universe would not allow that. The two keep their relationship a secret and are madly in love. Delcon forgot about the deal he made with the devil (Delcon´s dad). Anne, Sara, and Delcon will never forgive each other, but Delcon has to break his promise to keep Anne alive. Even if it means breaking his own heart in the process.
Reviewed by @alape
Puzzleman: A Novel by Christopher Alan Broadstone
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
In a world of Grumemonsters – or basically zombies – there is a lot of twisted horrors. There are times it felt like I was forcing myself through it, but only because the descriptions were so well done and the story drew me in so much. The world building is phenomenal, the thrills are consistent, the tension runs high.
I had no problem imagining the horrors of pipeland or the Grumemonsters, or Puzzleman himself. If you are fond of intense reads with plenty of scares, definitely read this book.
Discovering Desire by Alyndra Quinn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Justine is a student researching for her dissertation on authenticity. Shattered Embrace is a local club that proves to be a perfect arena for her to learn about what is involved within the community, and learn a lot about herself in the process.
Jordan is an event planner who frequents Shattered Embrace to enjoy herself with whomever she chooses, no strings attached. She finds herself interested in having more with Derek than what she has craved in the past.
Derek is a former SEAL, current security expert, and a Dom within Shattered Embrace and his personal life. He finds himself having a lot of fun with Jordan, but when it comes to teaching Justine about herself, he can’t choose between them.
This book has it all – mafia, military, romance, protecting those you love…recommend!
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was the first book I had read by this author, so I wasn’t sure what to expect going in. The cover stole my attention and after reading the synopsis, I thought I’d give it a go. The first chapter pulled me in quite easily and before I knew it, I had read the entire book in one day! The author has such a unique way of crafting the story that makes you lose all sense of time, so I hope you have finished your errands before you pick it up. The chemistry is easily felt between the characters, and they definitely were thrown on an emotional rollercoaster of twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. I am a sucker for a possessive MMC, so Declan was right up my alley. I am absolutely looking forward to picking up many more books by this author. I highly recommend giving this one a chance if you enjoy age-gap, second-chance romances!
Love Rinkside by G.K. Brady
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have read some of the Playmaker Series and always enjoy them. This book didn’t disappoint! What a fun “Halloween Costume Requirement” having everyone dress up as a mascot! The story starts with Drew kind of hiding away during the Halloween party and Katie finding a quiet moment away from the party. They soon realize that they not only have friends in common but also really “click” with each other. These two are super like able! I loved this novella that included family members of the Hockey players connect.
Finding Love by Julie Navickas
Finding Love is the 2nd book in the Clumsy Little Hearts trilogy. I read the 1st book, but it’s been a bit, and I don’t fully remember all the details. That being said, this book can (and was) enjoyed as a standalone. There are overlapping characters, but is a solid story with enough details of the backstory to fill in the reader. This book was a little… Spicy… so mature audiences only. Rachel and Miguel are both single, with different circumstances. They meet when Rachel is stood up by her blind date at the restaurant Miguel recently came to own. As they start talking, they realize they have actually met before. They have some mutual friends which makes things a little interesting… and both have trust and jealousy issues. But, if they can work through those, it seems like a match made in Heaven. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I enjoyed this book from start to finish. It is full of twists and turns that keep you glued to the pages. One of those reads that is hard to put down. It follows main characters Anne and Declan in their love story. After abandoning her at the alter the two don’t see each other again for awhile. But then Declan is back and demanding another chance. Pick up the book to find out how their second chance at love goes!
The Orange Forest Rabbit Mysteries by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
The Orange Forest Rabbit Mysteries is a fun book with 3 little mysteries that can is for around ages 7-12 but can be enjoyed for the young at heart as well. Mysteries to solve and using sleuth skills come along with Gregory and his trusted pup companion, Robes Pierre.
Story 1 – The Mystery of the Missing Meteor Fields Carrots — Gregory, his wife along with pup Robes Pierre see a blue fireball that comes down onto the field. What comes out of this since it hits his fields of carrots….extra yummy carrots….
Story 2 – The Mystery of the Haunted Amusement Park — In Carrot World, the amusement park, there is something funny is going on with Gregory’s business and only he and his pup Robes Pierre can solve..
Story 3 – The Clue in the Airwhale Art – Gregory builds his own Orange Carrot Ship but there can be spies in the ship with Gregory…..is Gregory alone on his quest…or is there other beings too….
These are fun mystery stories. I really enjoyed them and highly recommend for anyone to give this book a whirl!
The Handshake Agreement: An Age Gap, Second Chance Romance by A Akinosho
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
With just a look, Declan falls in love with his little sister’s friend, Anne. Declan is a bachelor and plays that role well. However, when he meets Anne, something changes in him. Declan is 10 years older than Anne so when they first meet he puts his unexplained feelings on hold for quite some time until he feels she is ready. As a college student, Declan now approaches Anne about the chemistry they have and wants to explore. The problem is Anne knows too much info about Delcan and doesn’t know how to always respond to his advances but promises to give it a shot. However, there is a lot of interference that is happening in the relationship. Will Declan stay true to his words and promise her a relationship she never wanted? Will he fight for her?
I enjoyed their story. There were a lot of twists and turns that occurred throughout their journey. At the beginning, I thought the relationship was weird and Declan was a little bit of an ass. However, the relationship they develop grew on me, as well as, the characters. The story moves pretty quickly along and becomes a quick read.
Love Rinkside by G.K. Brady
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was such a fun read and makes me want to read The Playmakers Series for sure! I loved reading about Drew and Katie and following their fun storyline as they fell for each other. I absolutely LOVED their story start which had me laughing so many times!! This book just had me smiling pretty much the whole time! I’m loving this authors style and will definitely be checking out the entire series.
Productivity is Power 2: For Creative, Business, and Other Professionals by Hillary Rettig
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Being an entrepreneur, I always try to find books to help improve myself and my business. I came across this one and I must say it was good! There is a lot of information to digest in this book so take it slow and read it again if you have to. The exercises were great mental challenges and I must say it was refreshing to read some of the things so I can allow a little more grace in my life.
Discovering Desire by Alyndra Quinn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Book 3 in the Shattered Embrace series is yet another fantastic book from this truly talented author. Derek features along with Justine and Jordan in this wonderful storyline that will have to held captive and keep you turning page after page. Connections grow, danger rises and Derek proves he will do anything needed to protect those he loves. This series is truly fantastic so do yourself a favour and grab the entire series!
Raccoon Reunion by Terri Sabol
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was adorable. Rocky the raccoon is nervous about going to the family reunion. He’s afraid he’s not going to be able to find something in common with them.
Love that this book teaches kids to face their fears because sometimes things end up better than we ever think they could be.
The Amanda Mini-Mysteries by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Amanda Mini-Mysteries by Lois Wickstrom is a book that teaches children in an age-appropriate way about different scientific processes. The lessons are tried out and pondered upon by Amanda and her friend Elaine. Children then get an explanation of what went wrong and what would help. There are a variety of lessons and kids can try them out or learn why they would not be able to do them. The illustrations are fun, they remind me of illustrations from older books and newspapers. This is a good way to get children excited about science.
https://www.amazon.com/review/R3HL9Z27TTT9WY/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_SRTC0204BT_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv
Red by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was my first book by this author and I truly love the writing style. This was like a supernatural twist with second chance romance read. This is a page turner for me. The world building was great. The detailing was well thought of. If you love supernatural romance books, I highly recommend you reading this series.
View all my reviews
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/1486125258
The Amanda Mini-Mysteries by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Amanda Mini-Mysteries is a good idea, but not well delivered in my opinion. There are two girls, Amanda and Elaine, who discuss various “mysteries” and try to understand the science behind them. The situations are each too short and abrupt to really be stories at all. Then after each story is laid out, there is a page that explains the science behind it. I think the stories needed to be each their own book within a collection, or written in more of a non-fiction type way. With the situations being Did you every wonder why …..? Well, this is why….. As is, its a little choppy and doesn’t flow well. It also seems to be geared toward young children, but has a lot of words the readers likely wouldn’t understand- tincture, iodine, magnetic field, molecules, etc. The stories need to be spread out, and with more pictures to appeal to younger audiences. My 8 year old had very little interest- some of the experiments/mysteries he liked more than others.
Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy
https://www.amazon.com/review/R3KPREGSG99YG0/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_SRTC0204BT_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv
Finding Love by Julie Navickas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Finding Love was beautifully written by Julie Navickas. She never disappoints when I read her books. I have read several and every time I read a new one, I love them even more. Finding Love was such a fast short read. I was able to read this one in one day. The character and world building was well thought of. The details in the story was great. Finding Love was definitely a page turner for me.
View all my reviews
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/566321064
The Music That Ties Us: A Rockstar Romance by Nicolette Terry
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
In this heartwarming tale of love, forgiveness, and redemption, Cadence is stuck in a relationship that makes her miserable. Cadence realizes that after years of trying to be what her boyfriend’s family thinks she should be, Cadence will never fit into their box. It is not who she is. When her boyfriend guilts Cadence into not going to a friend’s funeral by threatening her job, Cadence discovers that she doesn’t like the person she has allowed herself to get whittled into.
Cadence’s stepsister, Jade, convinces Cadence to accompany her to a live music show one night. Cadence feels an immediate connection with the lead singer, Damien. Since Cadence is still in a relationship, she and Damien become friends. Damien is happy to have any part of her since he can’t have it all.
Damien has ghosts and scars of his own. One is that he is caring for his sister who is currently undergoing cancer treatments and her children. The fear of losing his sister is a weight that Damien can’t escape. Damien is fighting for his dream of becoming a rockstar while the responsibility of family pulls him in a different direction.
Once Cadence breaks away from her jerk boyfriend, she follows her heart to Damien. Then it all falls apart. He stops calling, texting, and communicating. She doesn’t know why. When Damien finally tries to explain, Cadence doesn’t want to hear his excuses. Damien fights his way back to Cadence. At a surprise concert, Damien puts everything on the line for Cadence.
Although we find out what happens with Cadence and Damien, this book ends on a small cliffy. Find the rhythm of this series and join in!
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Great story about finding love when you least expect it then fighting for that love through a lot of difficulties. It reminded me of the After series a little bit due to the main male character and his actions. It does bounce around a lot but it was a cute romance.
Red by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a cute book that I really enjoyed. It’s a fantasy romance with some mystery elements, too. Take a modern day cinderella and little red riding hood and add fairies and guardian angels. Such an interesting twist that made for a fun read. I enjoyed the story of Lily and George, along with the many other key characters – Ashley, Harry, Hunter, Merilee, Fannetta and Zuriel. This is book two in the Modern-Day Fairy Tale series. I think reading book one would’ve added some background info, but I did not read book 1 and had no problem understanding the story. I did enjoy this book a lot and would read other books in this series based on reading this one.
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a second chance contemporary romance. It is full of emotions, turmoil, broken promises, family dynamics and finding and losing love.
Declan decided he doesn’t need or want to marry for love. He’s sees women as just things to use including his future wife. He doesn’t care about loving her as life my as she increases his status. That is until he meets Anne.
Finally he finds someone he could truly love but when a past agreement with his dad returns to haunt him he loses her.
Anne didn’t believe in love and fairytales. She doesn’t want to think about love until she meets Declan. He sweeps into her life and promises her the world but eventually he breaks her heart making her realise that love isn’t worth the pain.
Fast forward and Declan and Anne meet again. Declan wants her back and is prepared to do anything to get her but will Anne fall for him again.
This is a emotional rollercoaster of a read. This author always puts her characters through everything possible before they stand a chance at the HEA.
The Orange Forest Rabbit Mysteries by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a great chapter book for 8-11 year olds. It is a collectionof short stories that give you everything from humor, suspense, and adventure. It will keep your childs attention with all the plot twists an turns.
