Claiming My Mate by Nicole Howl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Wow! To say I love the heroes and hate the villians would be an understatement. Great characters and an even better plot! A warning – there is a sexual assault. It doesn’t go into detail , but the aftermath is still difficult to read. The author isn’t scared of putting her characters in difficult circumstances. I look forward to reading more in this series!
Shamrock & Clover: Fields Apart by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
For a super short book, this one sure packs it all in!! I laughed, I cried, I smiled, and I wanted to smack someone all in the 30 minutes or so it took me to read this lil gem!
Shamrock, aka Patrick, is the town’s playboy. He loves to go out drinking with his buddies but soon realizes that he’s tired of the single life. He is ready to final settle down with “the one” instead of a one night stand.
Clover, who’s one of the unluckiest people ever, is having a hard time. Her job’s not great, grandma’s not well, and life isn’t treating her kindly.
What’s the odds that these two meet up looking for a change?
It’s a super cute rom-com that can be read in a short span of time. This is my first read by this author but I’ll be looking for more of her books.
Reviewed by: @faithfulgirl4
The Hunted by S.B. Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A team of vampires is waiting in the dark, watching for their target, Roman Brown. Sam waits patiently as he watches the establishment run by vampires. To his astonishment, three women enter the bar, and he wonders why humans would choose this particular bar. Then Roman, the rogue vampire, arrives with a Shifter at his side. Sam makes his move only to find vampires racing out of the bar. Entering the building, he sees the three women were shooting darts into the vampires, which caused them to fall unconscious. One of them is holding a gun against one of his team members, Ben, who is half human. Another has shot Roman several times, but the rogue remains awake without the ability to move.
Rianne threatens to shoot Sam with a dart, but the vampire is too fast and manages to invoke a spell on the girl. Layla, her sister, comes to her aid, but Sam has already freed Ben. Before the two flee, he warns her to leave before Roman can move. Jordyn and Layla carry their sister to a car and drive out of the city to their house backing up to the woods. Sam’s spell on Rianne has made her unable to speak, and she seems to have lost any cognitive ability. Layla debates with Jordyn on how to help their sister. Unfortunately, the decision ends up forced upon Layla when Roman arrives and snatches Jordyn. To save Jordyn, she has to seek help from the vampire that cast a spell on Rianne. Sam, her intended target, is the only one that can help her sister. Seeking him out goes against everything she has ever known. A vampire hunter pairing up with a vampire? Would he help her before Roman decides to kill Jordyn?
A romantic vampire fantasy story, this is the first book of a Vampire Navy SEAL series. The characters are well-developed, and the tension is boiling. Throw in several outside stories that imply secrets that could be Earth shattering, and this book will captivate your attention.
the mermaid and the rainbow by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I enjoyed reading this to my son. It is a sweet story with an educational element as well. The illustrations were beautifully done and really add to the enjoyment of the story itself. I loved the little characters and how they interacted with one another. If your child loves bright pictures and science, they will love this one!
Slash & Burn by C.L. Schneider
Dahlia is back… trying to fight the blight before it destroys everything everyone knows. Her trusty sidekick is back along with her 3 lovers which makes an unusual but interesting team dynamic
Cue drama, betrayals and so many secrets!
Finding out if Dahlia can save everyone from the blight, find her own happiness and fight off the collectors and solve Murders will keep you on the edge of your seat the entire story.
The narrator in this book is also great. the characters become engaging due to the different tones of her voice while she reads. Truly enjoyed this!
The Know-It-All Pencil by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a cute story and my kids enjoyed it. As with her other books they have read, this one also contained a story. This time a life lesson on sharing and giving to others through a magic pencil. I also love how she incorporates characters that are so diverse in each of her books. This was so enjoyable to read even as a parent.. I love how the illustrations fit perfectly with the story being told. The colors are outstanding. They truly pop of the page. Just as with her previous books, this one would also make a great gift to a child that you know. Or also to a school library or elementary teacher. Another hit for this writer and the illustrator as well.
Ruthless Heir: An Enemies to Lovers Mafia Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ruthless Heir is the 5th book in the Mafia Elite series by Amy McKinley, I think this was one of my favourites in the series so far. Each book in the series follows a member of one of the main 5 Chicago Mafia families and the nice difference in this book is that Luc doesn’t know he is part of the elite, through the mother he never knew he is the rightful heir to one of the 5 families. A successful businessman in his own right, he is surprised when he is forced to go to Chicago to discover his true heritage, taking his reluctant assistant Summer along with him. Summer is on the run from her past and doesn’t want to get involved with anything to do with the mafia but finds protection in the strangest of situations. I really liked this book, I have been enjoying all the books in the series, there is lots of actions, strong female characters and interesting storylines. Highly recommend, looking forward to book 6!
Deacon by CJ Warrant
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is the first in a series and I can say that it starts off with a bang! This book was so good. I read it in one setting. It’s also pretty cool that it takes place about an hour from where I live. I live in the middle of nowhere, so it’s pretty cool that small towns get their own little world. I am excited for book 2!
The Hunted by S.B. Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Sam is a vampire who is part of an elite team of vampire Navy SEALS. Each vampire of this team is strong in their own way but especially Sam and his family the Masons.
Another vampire by the name of Roman is known for selling vampire DNA to the highest bidder. Sam and his team go to a nightclub on a mission to scout Roman but all hell breaks loose when 3 beautiful women show up and vampires start to drop all around them.
Layla and her two sisters are struggling vampire hunters. They were hired to do one simple job. Get a vampire by the name of Sam Mason. The “easy” job was anything but. Sam was stronger than they were prepared for.
Instantly Sam and Layla have a connection, unsure if it is love, lust or even blood thirst. All Layla knows is she should get away from this man before anything happens but destiny has other plans for this couple. Things happen causing Layla to get closer to Sam for help.
This book was sexy and steamy. Both characters were lovable bad asses. I loved how they interacted with each other, constantly teasing and tormenting. Layla is snarky and brave while Sam is cocky with a big ego. I would highly recommend reading this sexy romance story unfold.
Ruthless Heir: An Enemies to Lovers Mafia Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ruthless Heir: An Enemies to Lovers Mafia Romance (Mafia Elite Book 5)
Once again she delivered a great book. She has become one of the authors I will read without reading the synopsis and not be disappointed.
Luc and Summer are a great addition to this series. I loved them both instantly and looking forward to their story to continue in the next book.
Luc is a self made successful man and oozes confidence and success. He takes care of his family and will stop at nothing to do that.
Summer has potential but bad luck. She thinks she was able to start over far from home but ghosts from her old life have the potential of messing all of that up.
I enjoyed every minute of this book and was a little sad to see it end. I really fell in love with these characters and of course love all of the couples from the previous books.
I hope Nicole is able to find happiness in the future, she deserves it.
Slash & Burn by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the fourth book in the series and you definitely need to read the others before this one.
The story opens with action and keeps you turning the pages. Excellent worldbuilding, as always. Wonderfully original characters that you continue getting to know on a deeper level. Complex story line. There’s so much in this story to love. The entire series is a must read!
Dahlia’s world is turned on its head, but she’s still fighting for what’s right. Despite her whole life getting flipped from the last book, Dahlia has managed to struggle to remain in the place she loves, trying to help stave off the impending apocalypse. The blight is coming, and with it, more problems and mysteries than Dahlia can handle alone. No worries, as usual, her trusty sidekick is there to help her along, and so are her three lovers. With this lovely team of faithful allies, can Dahlia continue her mission of saving the human world and the others that aren’t yet destroyed by the blight? And what of the mystery of the Chandler murders? The tensions between Dahlia and her past? The issues with her mentor? One thing is certain: everything is connected.
From the ending of the last book, I’ve been riveted to the edge of my seat, waiting impatiently for this story to come out so I could devour it. And just like with the last three books in the series, all promises of adventure, intrigue, and incredible fantasy were sated…mostly. Now I’m back to waiting, excitedly and impatiently, for the final book – but I’ll happily wait the next year if I must for the ending. I couldn’t have asked for a better series where every moment and detail blooms so brilliantly in my mind, and I can barely restrain the rollercoaster of emotions this series has pulled from me.
Until there was you by G. Colgrove
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is the first I’ve read by this author. I absolutely loved the characters and everything about them.
Regan is just a good girl in a horrible situation trying to get by. She’s working at a diner about to graduate. Her home life is horrible. Her mom is useless and only cares about one thing.
Jeremy is in town doing business with his company he hopes to own one day soon when him and his clients stop at the diner for lunch. He immediately spots Regan and she is aware of him too. I love how Regan has her best friend Phillip who will always be in her corner cheering her on and trying to help her even if she doesn’t want him to.
He keeps asking her for a date which she doesn’t really want to give in to because they are totally different people from totally different worlds but she finally agrees. They end up running into each other the night before their “date” at a club and the fireworks are lit! Regan may be from the south side but she knows how to handle people especially when they see her as anything less then themselves.
She handles herself amazing when she is talked down to because people think she is much less then them.
Jeremy and Regan have perfect chemistry and are perfect together no matter what his family or
friends think. When Regan is given a choice her family or her happiness ( which may not be good for someone close to her ) which does she choose?
A love a book that has a great story but also has some steam and packs a good punch. This book has you going thru different emotions. One minute I’m sad for the character and the next I’m literally laughing out loud.
“Whatever, fine. There’s a hump. I’ll just stay close in the case the floor decides to attack you again.”
Cannot wait to read more by this author
review by @xchellex
The Know-It-All Pencil by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Know It All Pencil is one of the cutest children’s books I have ever read. Caspian is an adventurous young man that receives the Know It All pencil from his grandfather for his UnBirthday. The pencil then leads him on an adventure. I really love how sweet and caring Caspian is. Also, the African American representation in the book is a definite plus. I cannot wait to read this book to my children again. It was absolutely adorable.
Checking Boxes by Magdoline Ward
Checking Boxes
By: Magdoline Ward
Grace is a young adult who is trying to find herself in this world after she’s been thru some of her own personal Hell. Ian is the hot, young neighbor that lives in the same building. Fate would have them living together after Grace had enough with her roommate. The intensity, ferocity, and force of this story will be sure to keep you up turning the pages. You won’t be able to put down this story because you’ll want to keep with the pace that the author wrote.
Grace and Ian both have their own demons to work thru but doing that together may leave them broken. If you love love and if you love steamy romance, this is the book for you!
A Tormented Man’s Soul by D.M. Earl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the fifth book in this series which I have loved reading from the first. I highly suggest reading all of this series to help your enhancement of this author’s writing skills as well as her characters. This is a series that just keeps getting better and better with every book. This is an author that I never hesitate to pick up. I love being pulled into the story from the beginning by the characters. They are connectable, strong and supportive to each other. I enjoyed how the author brought them to life which just added to the story. This is a well written story that will take you on an emotional roller coaster as well as a dark romance journey. I loved Chains and he is my favorite of the story. He is hot, steamy and I really felt for him as he is so tormented. The growth of the characters as well as the plot is great throughout the story which made it easy and entertaining to read. This is a hard to put down story that is fast paced and engaging. I loved reading this book and I highly recommend it. You don’t want to miss what happens in this story.
Review by @bjwagner
the mermaid and the rainbow by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Mermaid and the Rainbow: Mermaid science is a really fun, cute read. This book brings science to everyday things allowing kids of all ages to see just how much science is truly around them. The bright colors of the illustrations really brought the story and characters to life. It is a fast read that can lead to a fun learning experience by recreating the science experiments from the book. I can’t wait to read this to the kids in my family the next time they visit.
Reunion in the Outback by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Wraps up the series brilliantly
Loved being back in Bunya Junction and back amongst friends. I did not want this book to end as it is last book in the series. I fell in love with the Carruthers clan and the town of Bunya Junction from book 1 and have loved watching them all get their HEA. This is Yolanda and Michael’s story. It’s all about the volatility of keeping secrets and working through the hard times that can happen even in the strongest relationships. This can be read as a stand-alone but I highly recommend reading the series from start to finish. Going to miss Bunya Junction.
Claiming My Mate by Nicole Howl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Lily and Jason have a dramatic, suspenseful yet romantic story on their journey to a happy ending. True to the wolf world Jason finds Lily to be his mate and the possessive/protective nature come out full force for his newfound love. Lily being a human and servant has the odds against her but as her she adjusts to her new life with her new love she finds her voice and her strength. This was a good read that is a very fun play into the paranormal wolf world and I look forward to book 2.
Forbidden Love – Book 1 of The Forbidden Duet by K.M. Lowe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Absolute nail biter! Begs the question can love really conquer all? This book was thrilling, truly something you couldn’t stop once you started! A first for me from K.M Lowe but definitely won’t be the last! Love the chemistry, the passion, and the suspense! Was a great read with good flow and attention grabbing storyline. Characters were easy to fall in love with and have you rooting for them to get a happily ever after!
Forbidden Love – Book 1 of The Forbidden Duet by K.M. Lowe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
First, if you get triggered by talk of miscarriage, rape, or any kind if abuse you will want to fund another book.
This is the first book I have read by this author and I was hooked! Poor Kally was forced to marry the brother of the man that she loved. Should Clark have made his feelings known sooner? Yes! Would it have made a difference? Probably not, but we may never know. His father knew exactly how much it would hurt Clark to have his brother marry the woman who held his heart. It was cold and heartless, but neither Kally or Clark had any power to stop the wedding since she signed a legally binding contract. Will they be able to get their happily ever after? Or will Kally be trapped in a loveless marriage?
Reunion in the Outback by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Michael and Yolanda Watson are high school sweethearts. They are very much in love still years later. They have an adorable toddler named Jayne and Yolanda wants another baby. Michael is very much against the idea because Yolanda had a miscarriage previously and almost dies as a result. Drs advised to be very cautious if they decide to have another baby and that she would definitely be high risk. She can’t get over the fact that he doesn’t want another baby and she feels like he puts his chef job before his family. Because of these feelings she leaves to go back to her hometown to stay with family and get away for a while. Michael is completely distraught over losing his family even for a week (so he thinks). He tries to give her her space until a week turns into two, then three and he wonders if she will ever come home. Then Michael loses his beloved chefs position because the owner unexpectedly sales the restaurant. He needs/wants Yolanda more than ever. He decides to go back to his hometown and get his family back. Yolanda is very surprised and distant when he shows up. She finds out she IS pregnant again and doesn’t tell Michael. Michael doesn’t tell Yolanda he has lost his job. They are both keeping secrets. Yolanda very much still loves and misses her husband but she is pregnant and Michael has already said he doesn’t want another baby. She doesn’t know what to do. Throw in Yolandas very protective family and it is a very stressful situation. Do they work it out? Do they decide to stay separated? What will happen to Yolanda and the baby? This book is so good and there are so many great characters. I love Yolanda’s close knit family. They love fierce and are protective of their baby sister but they do also care for Michael. He is a good man and she hasn’t told anyone why she left him so they are left speculate what has happened. The author did an amazing job of showcasing the love of siblings and true love between a husband and wife.
Reunion in the Outback by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A realistic story of a couple working through the ups and downs of marriage. The wife working toward resolution with her husband at times felt a little forced and repetitive but not so much I wasn’t able to enjoy the story. Once the secrets were finally revealed the couple was able to have their happily ever after.
Shamrock & Clover: Fields Apart by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I don’t think I have ever seen so much packed into a short story before. This highly creative author manages to take her readers on such an emotional ride with characters who have so much more depth to them than you would first expect. Shamrock and Clover grab hold of your heart and they just don’t let go.
Forbidden Love – Book 1 of The Forbidden Duet by K.M. Lowe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story takes on the dark side of love. Heartfelt, heartbreaking, and heinous sides of love are shown in this tale. You will experience an emotional roller coaster as you watch what our characters endure and experience the light slowly start to dim within them. Kally and Clark tell a story of a love that was meant to be until it wasn’t. A future planned for their life together is ripped away when Kally is forced to marry Clark’s brother Colton. Her sacrifice becomes a life of horrific abuse from Colton who is more monster than man. As Kally becomes a shell of who she use to be its Clark who is planning in the shadows to get his girl back. The evil that has taken place, the hurt that cannot be undone, and the difficult fight for a forbidden love all come out within this book. You question if these 2 can ever find a HEA when they get their second chance, or was their love never meant to be.
The Know-It-All Pencil by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A sweet story about being willing to go on an adventure. Caspian received a special gift from his grandpa for his Unbirthday. The gift was a pad of paper and The Know-It-All pencil. Caspian had to take the chance and follow the Know-It-All pencil. His morning was filled with meeting new people and finding fun. Throughout his journey the Know-It-All pencil guided him. The beauty of the story comes in Caspian’s willingness to trust and believe in his grandpa and the Know-It-All pencil.
The Hunted by S.B. Alexander
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I adored Sam and Layla. The chemistry and connection despite the differences really brought the story to life for me. This author is new to me and this was a great first time read. The story itself kept me fully engaged and the characters were lovable and relatable.
The Vampire Navy SEAL and his Vampire Hunter are drawn together even though their families are enemies. Sam is meant to be Layla’s prey but they come together for a common good that turns to much more along the way. However when tough decisions must be made you are not sure where things will go.. Their story of angst, drama, and forbidden love will definitely keep you on your toes.
Claiming My Mate by Nicole Howl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What a series opener!! Treachery, scheming, infighting, and deceit….and that is just with one family!! A kickass heroine that is only getting badder! I was so happy to see that Jason didn’t fight or deny the mate bond. I am enjoying the way that Lily is coming into herself, getting stronger, willing to be strong for others, and not willing to take crap from others especially the King. I can’t wait for the next books as there are so many promises that Jason has to keep, so many changes he wants to make!
This story is about learning your value and discovering the inner strength we all possess. The romance is just a bonus. Lily’s evolution, even Jason’s, is one from which we all can learn.
the mermaid and the rainbow by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Adorable tale of how sharing knowledge amongst your friends not only strengthens the friendship but is fun! Trezzie and her friends use items Trezzie has found in the sea to create a rainbow and other fun science experiments! It was fun watching the friends learn from each other and enjoying science while thinking it was tricks and magic!! Each friend learns something. Great for younger children!!
Deacon by CJ Warrant
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What a way to open a series! Intrigue, friends, frenemies, enemies, lies, new lovers, old lovers, wannabe lovers, secrets and family. Strong women supporting each other is great to see.
So much going on and with questions left unanswered, it will be hard to wait for the next one.
When Deacon Saint comes home for a funeral he doesn’t want to attend, his old life slaps him in the face and makes him take notice of what is important. Between rekindling old friendships and finding out what happened to his best friend, Deacon must make a decision between his career and his loved ones. The right decisions never felt so wrong.
