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Can I Keep Her? (Kingdom of Mir Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ayla Phipps

Can I Keep Her?: 2nd book in the Kingdom of Mir seriesCan I Keep Her?: 2nd book in the Kingdom of Mir series by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Once again, the beautiful classic golden book type illustrations bring this unique story to life. Lois Wickstrom’s main theme to this book is just because something has always been perceived as bad doesn’t mean they are born that way; love can change everything and everyone. Wynnie continues to prove why she is the wisest adviser the king has ever had and that thinking differently than others is a great reward.

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A Cold Day in Hell (Life is Hell Series Book 5) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Melissa Saxton

A Cold Day in Hell (Life is Hell #5)A Cold Day in Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hadassah, a angel made a choice to help her brother save a demon but it had consequences. She was made a fallen angel and sent to earth to await her judgement. She struggles though as shes living with her brother and he lives with demons and she finds herself judging all of them as bad people before she even gets to know them and hides in her room and doesn’t interact anymore than necessary which breeds discontent by all the others at the house.
Someone however goes missing and she has a choice to make. Does she stay out of it and just await heavens decision on her behavior and angel status but disappoint her bother in the process, or does she choose to again help her brother but take the risk that she will never enter the world she loved to help her brother who’s helped her the entire time she was on earth awaiting her fate?

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Under the Bandage by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ayla Phipps

Under the BandageUnder the Bandage by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Information on the science of the human body is told in a way to help younger minds understand. Lois Wickstrom astonishes me once again in the way she gives information to young minds. Her creative easy to understand comparisons of how a wound is healed related to war and rebuilding is wonderful. With the extra big words in boxes along the way this book helps have informative moments with your little one in a fun educational way.

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Ghost Talker (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 1) by Byrd Nash – Review by Lisa Helmick

Ghost Talker (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries #1)Ghost Talker by Byrd Nash
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The way this story is told is so different. I kept waiting for the “story” to start but little did I know the author smoothly snuck the story in while I was waiting. Next thing I knew I was half way through the book. I became so interested in what Madame Chalamet was doing and how she does what she does. I enjoyed the secondary characters especially that Archambeau.

This has a really nice flow to the story making it easy to read. I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this one and look forward to the next one. I am curious what other powers she has as well as how and why she is doing this for a living.

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The Handshake Agreement (Book 1) by A. Akinosho – Review by Kerry Baker

The Handshake AgreementThe Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book isn’t quite what I expected it would be when I first started reading. I thought it would be the typical second chance romance and yet this story seemed to have so much more about it. the age gap also wasn’t quite the gap I was expecting and I actually think that made it better for me overall. I connected with the characters more and felt like I really became invested in their story.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I enjoyed the writing style used. It had a natural and easy flow about it that just pulls you in slowly. I found the story to be engaging and I thought it was one of those that is easy to read as it flowed so naturally. This is a great story that I thoroughly enjoyed.

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Purrfectly Framed (A Mobile Cat Groomer Mystery Book 2) by Ruth J. Hartman – Review by Kerry Baker

Purrfectly Framed: A Mobile Cat Groomer MysteryPurrfectly Framed: A Mobile Cat Groomer Mystery by Ruth J. Hartman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having just read the first book, I was excited to see what book two would hold for Molly and her feline companions. This book is just as good as the first one and I loved Molly possibly even more. I couldn’t wait to see how she would navigate her way through this new mystery and I was not disappointed at all.
Books like this are definitely becoming more common and yet this author has created a series that will definitely stand out from the market. They are funny, entertaining and hold enough twists and turns to keep you engaged and wondering what might happen. This book was thoroughly enjoyable and I can’t wait to see what is next in Molly’s adventures.

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Brushed up on Murder (A Mobile Cat Groomer Mystery Book 1) by Ruth J. Hartman – Review by Kerry Baker

Brushed Up on Murder (A Mobile Cat Groomer Mystery, Book #1Brushed Up on Murder (A Mobile Cat Groomer Mystery, Book #1 by Ruth J. Hartman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a fun and entertaining murder mystery story that is definitely made even better by the feline help the main character receives. Molly was brilliant to read about. She was the perfect lead for this kind of story.
I enjoyed how the author introduced enough characters who could be the suspect to keep it interesting. This kind of story I usually find quite predictable when it comes to guessing who is responsible but there was enough mystery involved, with a few twists and turns. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I am going to read the next book straight away.

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Alison Risher

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The main character is a detective in Italy who struggles to find a healthy work to life ratio. This is an issue with which many people of today certainly struggle.He loves his family and he excels at his job. This could be considered a cautionary tale, as he learns that the choices he makes in his professional life could have unpleasant win his personal life. Will he solve the crime? Will he still still have a family when he does so? Read on to find out.

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Finding Love (The Oath Series) by Lacey Furr – Review by Kerry Baker

Finding Love (The Oath Series)Finding Love by Lacey Furr
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a great story about two characters who are emotionally broken due to their past and the connection they forge. I felt the chemistry between them immediately and it only grew as the book went on. I found myself really becoming invested in their story and looking forward to seeing how they would work things out.
This book is well written and has a great pace. The author knew exactly how to develop it and which direction the story needed to go in. I enjoyed everything about this story and would definitely recommend it.

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A Patriot’s Tale by Nicole Pierman – Review by Kerry Baker

A Patriot's TaleA Patriot’s Tale by Nicole Pierman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is an interesting tale set in US revolutionary war. The main character is the one who makes this story. Despite everything she goes through, she shows strength and has so much about her. For me, she is what pulled me into this story. I connected with her before the main storyline and wanted to see the kind of journey she would go on.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and it has certainly left me intrigued. Overall I think the story would have benefitted from extra development but I enjoyed what the author had created.

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Under Jackson Bridge by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Jessie Hopkins

Holy Cow, Susan has done it again. I had the hardest time putting this book down. If it weren’t for other life commitments, I would have read it in one sitting.

I was so invested in Kelly finding out what happened to her dad, Jack, and cheering her on as she stood up to her Mom, Irena, and her Mom’s boyfriend, Buzz, when they would try to hide things from her. She had a few moments where she did act her age, but through the majority of the book she really showed how mature and wise beyond her years that she really was.
Irena and Kelly really deal with a group of men that think that they are females that need to be protected and sheltered from things, however they ontinue to show how strong they both are.

After 3 books, I am absolutely invested in Millersville and want to read more about every person that lives in the town.

The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Alison Risher

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The main character is a detective in Italy who struggles to find a healthy work to life ratio. This is an issue with which many people of today certainly struggle.He loves his family and he excels at his job. This could be considered a cautionary tale, as he learns that the choices he makes in his professional life could have unpleasant win his personal life. Will he solve the crime? Will he still still have a family when he does so? Read on to find out.

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Moonlight Drive by A.R. Hadley – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Moonlight DriveMoonlight Drive by A.R. Hadley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
Moonlight Drive by A.R. Hadley

Moonlight Drive is wonderfully written story that I absolutely loved reading. From the first page I was hooked and couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. I will say parts of this story wrecked my emotions and boy were they all over the place. My heartstrings were pulled in every direction and I loved every minute of it. This author puts her heart and soul into every book she writes. This one is definitely my favorite yet. The characters are complex, raw yet fully developed and relatable. They made the story come to life and their growth throughout the story was epic. This is a story about finding yourself when you believe you’re lost and the struggles of making it in the music industry. I’m not going to give anything away but I do highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I’m looking forward to reading more from this Author.

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Under the Bandage by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Stephanie Robb

Under the BandageUnder the Bandage by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a fantastic way to teach children about the battle between germs and our antibodies when we have cuts or grazes. I absolutely loved the rhyming prose and colorful illustrations that accompanied this fun story. A fantastic book by Lois and highly recommended for all ages.

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Marshmallow Rabbit by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Stephanie Robb

Marshmallow RabbitMarshmallow Rabbit by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mr Bonbon wants to catch Annabelle stealing sweets from him so he makes a tempting giant rabbit for her take. I loved this modern alternative take on the old tar baby story. Its a fun story for the young and old alike with bright and colourful illustrations.

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Unicorn, Don’t Do That! by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Stephanie Robb

Unicorn, Don't Do That!: It's okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstepUnicorn, Don’t Do That!: It’s okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstep by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a funny tale for all ages with an unusual storyline. As always Lois engages the reader with incredible writing and beautiful images. Highly recommended as always with another book from Lois.

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Unicorn, Don’t Do That! by Lois Wickstrom – Review by

Touched: Elemental Passions Book One by Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon – Review by Stephanie Robb

Touched (Elemental Passions #1)Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have never read a book like this! These authors have come together to co-write this amazing story. It is a story of epic proportions where the cast must come together to save the world.

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Secrets, Lies and Betrayals: A Maxwell Cole Novel (Protect and Honor Series Book #1) by Lynn Wood – Review by Angela Hayes

Secrets, Lies and Betrayals (Protect and Honor Series Book 1)Secrets, Lies and Betrayals by Lynn Wood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 – 4.5 Stars

 

Secrets, Lies, and Betrayals: A Maxwell Cole Novel is the first book in the Protect and Honor Series by Lynn Wood. This is the first book that I have read by Ms. Wood, so I really didn’t know what I could expect from one of her stories- but as I love a great romantic suspense, I took a chance that this would live up to my expectations and one-clicked a copy to explore.
The story snared my attention right from the beginning, and held me tightly in its grip, right through till the end. It proved to be a tense and engaging romantic suspense with political conspiracies, intrigue, agendas, secrets, betrayals, lies, tragedy, grief, heartache, loss, mystery, danger, dramatic developments, action, emotion, and more. The story is told from multiple points of view, which gives us, the readers, a very in-depth perspective of all the developments.
Lea (Michaela) has experienced much trauma and grief in her short life, surviving against the odds. But her survival has come at a cost- having to live her life in secret, behind an assumed identity. So, what happens when her father’s political aspirations thrust her into the crosshairs of danger once again? Maxwell Cole managed to save her once, many years ago- but things have gotten much more complicated since then, so there’s no guarantee he will be able to save her again this time. So strap yourselves in for a bit of a gripping ride, as Lea faces secrets, lies, betrayals…. And danger- but discovers much along the way.
I really enjoyed this story and am looking forward to reading Book #2. I will say though, as this is supposed to be a ‘Maxwell Cole’ novel, and while he did play a major role in the story, there were only a few chapters from his perspective- and being the first book in the series, I would have liked to have gotten to know him better. But this is just my personal preference and didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment of the story. Maybe we will get to ‘hear’ more from him over the course of the series.
Well worth the read.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Lynn Wood!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Productivity is Power II: For Creative, Business, and Other Professionals by Hillary Rettig – Review by Brandy Vaughn

Productivity is Power 2: For Creative, Business, and Other ProfessionalsProductivity is Power 2: For Creative, Business, and Other Professionals by Hillary Rettig
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a must have book for people who want to be more productive in their lives. The author gives realistic examples and how the reader can bust through what’s blocking productivity. The exercises were easy to do and were designed to make you think. This book is a great addition to the self-help genre.

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One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper – Review by Shelby Wilson

One Quarter VillainOne Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A marvelous book! Truly a unique story. I loved the character development the author greatly displayed. Full of twist and turns with a fantastic ending. Definitely worth the read!

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Under Jackson Bridge by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Beverly Finnie

Under Jackson Bridge: A thriller (Beyond the Bridge Book 1)Under Jackson Bridge: A thriller by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love that this is a spinoff of one of my favorite series. If you’re looking for a good suspenseful thriller, Under Jackson Bridge is great. It’s a great beginning to a new series. Any book I’ve read by this author series or not reads extremely well as a standalone novel. Trust me when I say if you haven’t read this author before, once you do you’ll want more.
Irena and Jack share a daughter and a group of friends despite being divorced. Though their marriage didn’t work they still remained good friends. A group of friends that were going to celebrate a mutual friend’s promotion on his boat. It was meant to be a great celebration and turned into a tragedy.
Jack was acting strangely yet was still there for his friends. He was in trouble and decided to do something about it. Yet he didn’t let anyone into what was going on. Though right before the accident happened he let his Irena know he owes someone a lot of money, a bad investment. Next thing they knew they were tossed overboard and Jack was gone. But is he really?
While Irena and her daughter enlist plenty of people to try and find Jack. They begin to unravel a dangerous second life Jack was living. Putting them in danger.
Will they find Jack alive?
Will Irena and Kelly be able to stay safe?
This author keeps you on the edge of your seat. Keeps the reader turning the page. And I personally can’t wait for more!

@placexba
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A Cold Day in Hell (Life is Hell Series Book 5) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Hannah Porter

A Cold Day in Hell (Life is Hell #5)A Cold Day in Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ohhh nooo this is the fifth and last book of the Life is Hell Series, now i gotta find another book by her lol. It’s very bittersweet. I’ve really enjoyed reading this whole series and I’m not ready for the end, but I couldn’t wait to read Jezebel and Hadassah’s story. Love coming back to Juniper lakes and all its paranormal goodness or badness they’d say lol. This is a f/f enemies to lovers trope with fallen angels, necromancer ,demons and much more. It’s funny and action packed with a kidnapping. I think it became my favorite one. If you have read this or the other, I highly suggest you go and read the whole series. It’s that good. Thank you for another great series, Naomi Valkyrie!

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Dinopotamus Goes to School (Dinopotamus Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Julie Johnson

Dinopotamus Goes to SchoolDinopotamus Goes to School by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4.5 stars

Dinopotamus just wants to fit in with the kids and go to school and learn. He follows them to school one day and participates in the class learning sessions. Some things he has to do a little differently because he is different, but he learns new things and looks forward to going to school again tomorrow.

This book subtly focuses on celebrating differences in people. Dinopotamus isn’t able to do things in the same way the school children do but he adapts and finds a way to still participate. The illustrations show a child in a wheelchair, who also has to learn to adapt.

This is a great way to teach children that sometimes learning in different ways is necessary and that it’s also ok! I love how the illustrations look very child-like in terms of the drawings and the crayon colorings.

Another win for this author in my book!

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Master Oradea (Masters of the Consulate Book 10) by Sylvia Black – Review by Kassandra

Master Oradea (Masters of the Consulate #10)Master Oradea by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Like the other books in this series, this book was really well done. I enjoyed the duel POV. The chemistry between Oradea and Natalia was sizzling. It’s a good read and I suggest reading the entire series.

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Moonlight Drive by A.R. Hadley – Review by Rosanna Ingram

Moonlight DriveMoonlight Drive by A.R. Hadley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The premise pulled me in…and the story kept me turning the pages!

Dani and Nick were childhood sweethearts. Nick moved away and that was the end of what they had. Now Nick is “Nicki Quick”, the bassist for Moonlight Drive. He is the epitome of an 80’s rockstar…he loves music, drugs, sex, and the groupies. So, when Dani runs away from home and decides to join Moonlight Drive on tour, Nick confuses Dani for another groupie and doesn’t recognize the girl he was in love with years ago. But, Nick isn’t the boy Dani remembers either. Over the course of the story, these two try to reconcile the person they see in front of them with the memories of the past (although it takes a while for Nick to figure it all out).

This story has it all…love, loss, drama, addiction, angst, and healing. If you ever wanted a story with a backstage pass to the world of 80’s rock bands…this is it. I enjoyed the story, even while being frustrated with the main characters. However, the author has the reader feeling like they are right beside the characters…feeling what they are feeling and dealing with what they are dealing with. I enjoyed it!

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Amanda Swindle

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Boss of Centocelle is book six in the Detective Scala Murder Mystery series, but can be read as a standalone. If you have read any of the previous books, you know that Det.Scala has a knack for finding trouble, and finding answers. This time around, he is investigating the murders of two cousins who were involved in illegal activities. Will he find the answers he seeks, before the person(s) involved gets to him, or worse, his loved ones? I love how the main character has a relatable vibe to him; he is gritty and raw but also exposes his doubts and insecurities. As with the other books in the series, the plot is well written with twists and turns, lots of action and adventure, and many questions to be answered. I enjoy this author’s writing style and stories as you can breeze through it without even realizing you have. I would recommend reading the previous books as well, even if you read them out of order.

Reviewed by @zoltrixes
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Meal Time at the Zoo: PB&J Café by James Williamson – Review by La Toya Lewis

Mealtime at the Zoo: PB&J CaféMealtime at the Zoo: PB&J Café by James Williamson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Meal Time at the Zoo: PB&J Cafe’ is a fun kids book by James Williamson. We follow James the monkey butler at the zoo, as he delivers an array of peanut butter sandwiches to the zoo’s residents. Who knew there were so many ways to have a peanut butter sandwich? This book helps children to see the variety in life. All the characters enjoy variations of peanut butter sandwiches with various characters. It is fun to see the types of sandwiches different animals would probably have. This is a fun and original story that small children will enjoy.

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Meal Time at the Zoo: PB&J Café by James Williamson – Review by Natalia Gonzales Castrejon

Mealtime at the Zoo: PB&J CaféMealtime at the Zoo: PB&J Café by James Williamson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book! It’s super nice thinking animals could also have sandwiches just like us! I love how inclusive of each animal this book was! And I can’t wait to see more from this author! It was a super fun book for kids!

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Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story by C. L. Schneider – Review by Rose McCaskey

Troy (The Crown of Stones)Troy by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Magic. Suppressed powers. War. Troy is Shinree, a slave. The Shinree are forced from birth to take a potion that inhibits their magic. Magic is considered an addiction and Shinree are told they are addicts. From birth Troy was given reprieve from Magic binding potions. Raised as a soldier trained for battle and educated he is sent to the battle lines with the Queen.

This story followed Troy as he was sent on a special mission by the Queen into enemy lines. Troy just wants acceptance and to feel like he belongs in a world that fears his powers. He finds a lot more than he thought he would on his expedition with a group of soldiers who have their own thoughts about him.

I enjoyed reading about Troy and some of his exploits. I recommend giving it a chance and maybe reading the other books with Troy. This is an extension of The Crown of Stones Trilogy so check them out. Troy’s story reminded me of the persecution people face all the time for their differences. It’s a story of finding who you are, your true purpose, and finding your place with people who fear and hate who you are.

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A Cold Day in Hell (Life is Hell Series Book 5) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Jamie Truex

A Cold Day in Hell (Life is Hell #5)A Cold Day in Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the 5th book in the Life is Hell series by Naomi Valkyrie. We finally get to learn more about Jezebel and Hadassah, Malakhi’s angel sister. After helping her brother save a demon, she get exiled to Earth and has to put up with his new family. Trying not to upset her brother, she attempts to make friends. Thinking Jezebel is the least annoying, she settles for her. Only she gets more than she bargained for! Now they are on the run from Jezebel’s past together and Hadassah is starting to have feelings. I loved this whole series and probably this book the most. I really hope she writes yet another book about Juniper Lake and all our friends there. You can read this story alone, but I highly recommend you read them in order and learn to love each character as I have.

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