Texas Winds by Dana Wayne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story was awesome. Lexie and Jake’s story is so compelling. They were both lost in their own ways from their past relationship. There is drama and twists in this story that keep the pages turning. I could not put this one down.
Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the second book in the Hot Flash Hookups Series. This book was just as good as the first one. A chance meeting in an airport bar finds Kaitlyn and Ben attracted and flirting with each other. Until she finds out he is on the team with her newest client. That is when the drama starts and the love hate relationship starts. This is a great enemies to lovers story. The characters are all so fantastic.
Charlotte’s Control by Maggie Sims
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I absolutely love historical romances, especially regency. This was unlike any I have ever read. This is a reverse age gap. Charlotte is a strong and vibrant widow that like to be dominant in the bedroom. William is young and determined to get what he wants, which is Charlotte. The dynamic between these two is great and the chemistry is hot.
Before You Say I Do by Marina Hanna
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Emma does not want a relationship after what her ex did to her. She is all about the one night stands. That is until Liam, a playboy who has no desire to get married after watching his parent’s relationship. The chemistry between Emma and Liam practically set my kindle on fire. I loved how these two characters developed and had to deal with their own issues if they were ever going to make it work.
Charming Chapter : A Later-in-Life Just Kisses Romance by Lori Haas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this story. Laura is older and dealing with life after losing her husband. The characters are wonderful and the way the author develops their growth throughout the book is great. The book club ladies are so fun to read. Hugh and Laura made me swoon a little. I definitely can’t wait for the next book in the series.
Unicorn, Don’t Do That!: It’s okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstep by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Unicorn Don’t Do That is a children’s book told in rhymes about a half unicorn named Stega that gets invited to her friend Benny’s housewarming party. She is worried that she does not have a gift for him, so she fills a bowl full of berries. Stega gets hungry on the way to the party and eats the berries. Now she is feeling bad, but matters get worse when she gets close to Benny’s house and gets a tummy ache. A whimsical story full of bright, colorful illustrations that will certainly make both adults and children alike giggle out loud. The overall moral of the story is about friendship and acceptance.
What Eyes Can’t See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging by Paulette Stout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
By far one of the best books I have ever read! The writing style, the story, her character development.
It was all so phenomenal!! I highly recommend this to everyone!
Seeing her self realization and her growth, alone this made an amazing story. Adding in the love story and happily ever after was gravy!
It was also a huge reminder how racism and other forms of discrimination are still so alive and present in America and Canada at least.
Just read ! I don’t think anyone would be disappointed !!
Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Amazing!!! I couldn’t stop once I got into it. It was so “real” and represented a lot of today’s issues in relationships, our past experiences still haunting us! The character development along with relationship dynamics and growth were fun to read, and kept you reading intrigued to see how it plays out. Hoping she writes about other characters love stories now… especially Niko & Chloe… highly recommend this
4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced by Julie Castle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
“Julie Castle’s ‘4 R’s Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romance Series’ is a captivating journey through love, redemption, and second chances. With each installment brimming with heartwarming reunions, sizzling chemistry, and gripping suspense, Castle skillfully weaves together the tales of Sarah and Rafe, Samantha and Jake, Serena and Mark, and Candy and Greg. From the rugged landscapes of Wyoming to the cozy cabins and bustling towns, the series immerses readers in a world where love conquers all, even against the backdrop of danger and deceit. With its blend of tropes including marriage pacts, runaway brides, and protective heroes, ‘4 R’s’ offers a perfect escape into the realms of romance and adventure. Castle’s storytelling prowess shines bright, making this series a must-read for fans of heartwarming romance with a hint of danger.”
Finding Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Finding Cheer is the second book in the Magical Emerald Hollow series. It has a bit of magic, mystery, and romance. I started and read book 2 before I knew it was a sequel so I plan to go read book 1. I enjoyed it. It was cute and a fun read.
The Rake by Ava Bond
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Though I normally don’t read this genre, I found this one quite enjoyable. There was a little of everything: steamy romance, murder mystery, etc. This story had me hooked right off the bat. These two characters felt so opposite that I had to read to see what happened. The writing was good. The characters had such unique personalities. Lots of drama and action make this a romance mystery that I would recommend.
4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced by Julie Castle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced by Julie Castle is actually 4 stories in one book! Each story focuses on a different couple, we are introduced to Sarah and Rafe in the first story, in the next we find out about Samantha and Jake, the third story brings us Serena and Mark, then in the final story we learn about Candy and Greg. Each couple has their ups and downs, and each couple has to figure out how they are going to handle the situations that have come to light. I enjoyed each of the stories, they are all quick reads that keep you entertained. Thankfully Julie didn’t “copy and paste” each story, she put a lot of work into making each story unique. We are given strong females who aren’t going to take any crap, and the men in the stories have to learn that they can’t take charge the way that they are used to doing. I don’t think that you will be disappointed by picking up a copy of this book and reading it for yourself! Great job Julie on writing such an entertaining book!
Mary Espinoza, April 2024
Come Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was an outstanding thriller. Erica found herself in a bind when she learns her husband isn’t who she thinks she is. Then a bunch of shady characters pop into the picture. Erica goes home to Marondale and learns that she can trust no one because she will be coming into a large inheritance for her 25th birthday. This has someone trying to kill her to keep their deception secret. Can Erica survive this? This book left me feeling like I should be looking over my shoulder and I don’t have any riches to protect. I absolutely loved the writing. It felt thrilling. You felt your pulse reacting to every emotion. You’ll have fun trying to figure out what’s going on. Yes, I’m a bit twisted because I enjoy reading psychological thrillers. In the end, everything might come together or might not. You will have to find out. Are you up to it?
The School of Nine by Amanda Marin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a really cool story. I loved how it was about Muses-in-training. There was a mystery to be solved. The urban and paranormal mixed into the writing quite nicely. I enjoyed the writing and the characters. I find that when you have characters who are deceitful, that tends to catch and keep my attention. It’s a wonderful short read with lots of drama and action. A quick, fast-paced read.
Unicorn, Don’t Do That!: It’s okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstep by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Stega is a half unicorn, she lives with her Mum and Dad and she has been invited to a housewarming party by her friend Ben, so on the way she decides to get him a present, so she gets a coconut and fills it with berries, but unfortunately, she is hungry, so she eats them all on the way to Benny’s.
When she arrives with the empty coconut bowl, she unfortunately feels her tummy rumbling and she cannot hold it! What will she do now and what will Benny think of her when she turns up without a present?
This is a funny tale with an unusual storyline which will give anyone who reads it a smile, no matter how old they are.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
What Eyes Can’t See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging by Paulette Stout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. As a black woman, I can relate to so much to the struggles of Barbara. Being looked over for promotions that I definitely earned and trying to present myself a certain way to fit in. I know a lot of people pretend that they don’t see the systematic racism in today’s society but it’s there. I also loved that the black character was from a wealthy family, and the love interest had a past. Often things are super stereotypical as if there is a specific blueprint for all black people. I think Sebastian is such a wonderful guy. Even with his wrap sheet. He turned his life around and wanted to make the world a different place.
I also enjoyed the writing style of the author. The imagery was spot on. Reactions and emotions to situations was authentic. This novel was also easy to read and get lost in. Definitely a great read!
Will You Pretend Marry Me by Christi Barth
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Will You Pretend Marry Me by Christi Barth is part of the Swan Cove trilogy but can be read as a stand-alone.
Enemies to lovers
Fake bf
Secret identities
Oh my!
Kaia is a big pop star. For 10 years she has worked hard to gain the success she has, and also thanks her fans for it too. But then she decides she wants a career change and is going back to her legal name, Abigail Dilwort, to become a teacher in a small town.
Everett Reynolds is the VP, and AP chemistry teacher, at the school Abigail contracts to work at. But just like Abigail, he has secrets as well and secretly works for the state, not wanting anyone to know.
While on hiatus from being a pop star, something happens that puts Kaia’s reputation at risk. To try and fix it she asks Everett to fake marry her.
Not going to lie… this book feels like an adult version of Hannah Montana. If you enjoyed the show then you will enjoy this book. There is more drama, of course, but there is humor, romance, and life lessons.
Unicorn, Don’t Do That!: It’s okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstep by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The second book I have gotten for my kids by Lois Wickstrom and I LOVE it! Always the cutest stories and the illustrations on them are beautiful! My oldest (5yrs) loves unicorns so I had to get this one for her and it ended up being such a big hit with both of my girls. It is such an easy read and perfect for kids. This is definitely a silly book that will get your kiddos giggling.
4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced by Julie Castle
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This is a 4 book set. Each book is a stand-alone and has its own tropes. Four different stories, four different adventures in 1 book. Quick easy reads that will make it hard for you to put the book down.
Book 1- Fools Gold (Roped) : After Rafe saves Sarah they are stuck together for the rest of the winter. Months later Sarah was in love and they were getting married. After finding a note on their wedding night with a shocking message on it she ran off. She came back months later wanting to help fix his reputation, but he doesn’t plan on letting her go again and ropes her into staying longer than planned. The MCs are drawn together, so how could there not be a second chance and correcting misunderstandings… right?
Book 2- Her Heart’s Desire ( Rescued): Samantha is a runaway bride. Jake is the hot guy her family hired who secretly has it bad for Samantha. After catching her soon-to-be husband cheating she runs away to her family cabin where Jake is on “vacation”. She agrees to stay there for 2 weeks with Jake and a lot of trouble happens during that time. While dealing with her ex-fiance, Jake, and all the things going on she finds out who her heart desires.
Book 3- Serena’s Web (Risked) : Serena is a single mom who gets worried when she doesn’t hear from her father. After going to his house she notices it’s been broken into and things are missing. At first, she thinks it’s her abusive ex-husband but finds out it is someone different. She tries to get help from the police, but that only makes things worse and her house is broken into and things stolen. After reading a very disturbing text, she decides to take matters into her own hands and that the police won’t be any help, but that only leads to disaster. Even though Mark, an FBI agent, wants nothing to do with Serena he helps her while still working on his case against a dangerous man. Not only do they have to worry about the dangerous man, but also the ex-husband. This book will keep you at the edge of your seat wondering what was going to happen next and hoping for the best outcome.
Book 4- It Had to Be You (Romance): What was only supposed to be a one-night thing at their high school reunion turned into more. Candace just wanted her business to grow and Greg wanted to try his shot at being with her. When a rumor is spread she is forced to decide between making the rumor seem true or her business crashing. With the issues of the past colliding with the future she has planned out, can love blossom?
Drag Me Down by Landra Graf
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Dakota ‘Drag’ Michelson is a member of the Full Throttle Gang and he is a drag racer for his group, and he is certainly more than capable of everything he puts his mind to, except for the one woman who caused him to lose everything, including his arm, and become a cyborg when he had to get a new cybernetic one. Bridget MacIntosh is a woman with a lot of responsibility, she is the leader of the MacIntosh gang, and she has fought tooth and nail to get there and stay there, even if it meant throwing away the only future, she truly wanted because of a deal she should never have had to make.
The only thing that Drag wants now is to celebrate his win and qualification into the upcoming Championship Race, however, when Bridget appears asking for a meeting during the afterparty, he is extremely wary, especially after the last time she framed him for murder and got him kicked out of the MacIntosh gang. He reluctantly goes to hear her out, however, when Bridget tells him that she wants help getting out from under the thumb of her sponsor, he is gobsmacked and has to laugh at the irony of her plan, but he agrees to think on her proposal and promptly leaves before he acts on any of the baser impulses, he still has towards her. Bridget, however, is frustrated by having to wait for his answer when she knows that time is running out, but she also knows how Drag works and that he will give her the answer, she just hopes that it is the one she wants.
When they next meet, tempers and passions flare as Drag lays out the ground rules and his expectations which Bridget is forced to accept and so a truce is called, however, Drag knows that he is most likely going to be double crossed and so develops a back-up plan in case this happens, although Bridget will never know, but as they become entangled in a web of desire, deceit and subterfuge, will the two be able to keep their feeling tamped down so that they can enact their plan with clear heads, or will they blur the lines and allow feelings to ignite? This is a full throttle romance with a sci-fi backdrop where the adrenaline is pumping, and the stakes are high in this danger filled race against time set in a dystopian future.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
Finding Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Such a cute book. It was like reading a Hallmark movie and I loved it. Fun and lovable characters with an interesting storyline. This is book 2 of a series, but I did not read book 1 prior to this one. I didn’t feel like I missed out on anything by reading this as a stand alone book. Lots of layers to the story and I really enjoyed it. There are elements of grief, friendship, falling in love, Christmas magic (though it’s not a Christmas story), and some mystery. I would definitely read more from this series and this author.
Rhapsody in Black: An Elena del Carral Mystery by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Elena del Carral is a prima ballerina and an up-and-coming choreographer who is based in Monaco with the company Ballet Études, however, she has been invited to dance in a Gala Performance by the one and only Derek Micheals, the renowned owner of Terpsichore Ballet in New York City.
It is a great opportunity for Elena and so she jumps at the chance to perform, especially when it includes an audition for Black Rhapsody at the same time, it is a piece which was choreographed by René Fauchier, an outstanding choreographer who is known worldwide for his complex, yet beautiful creations.
The only problem is that Elena holds a secret close to her chest which involves the elusive and unfinished Black Rhapsody, so when she arrives, it is in the midst of a bit of trouble. When Elena drops her bombshell of a revelation however, things take a turn towards violence, and Elena has a mystery on her hands, but nobody can believe that she is not involved when one of their own is viciously attacked and Elena just happens to be the one to find them.
Will Elena be believed as she proclaims her innocence in the heinous act, or will the escalations continue and put more than just reputations on the line? This is a wonderfully choreographed mystery where secrets, lies, revelations and dance combine to create a story well worth reading.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story, An Echo series novella by C. R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
5 Stars
Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story (The Echo Series) by C.R. Alam
Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story is the prequel to The Echo Series. This is a Contemporary Romance that I absolutely loved reading. Once I started there was no stopping until I finished. This is a novella but it’s packed with drama,angst, and so much more. This is Gene and Amanda’s story. Amanda is a local baker and Gene just returned to his hometown and is working in a clinic. When Amanda is in an accident Gene helps out. These two have definitely got chemistry between. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next with these two. I’m looking forward to reading more from this Author.
Master Oradea by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Master Oradea and Natalia’s is the tenth in the Master of Consulate Series. Each book adds to the main story that carries through the series as well as has the focus of a couple. It really is best if read in order. In Oradea and Natalia’s book, the Masters are still focused on finding the traitors and rougues. Natalia seeks out Oradea when her life is threatened.
Will they find the traitors?
Can Oradea keep Natalia safe?
Will they get their HEA?
Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is such an amazing work of art, it had me so intrigued by how it was going to progress from page to page, it was so full of surprises. I loved the development of the characters and the mystery that was built around who and what Detective Callum LeBlanc is and how he is connected to Aeris. What a great idea to have so many amazing authors come together to create such an amazing work of fiction, that includes mythical fairies and other imaginative creatures. The incredible imaginings of these authors have created such a wonderous world where anything is possible, including two mythical creatures finding their happily ever after despite the world trying to keep them apart. If you love to read a mythical adventure, you will not pass up reading this new series.
@Brandy Rymer
04/2024
Healing Hearts by C.R. Alam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Healing Hearts is book #0.5 in The Echo series by C.R. Alam. This is a contemporary romance all about the healing power of love. It is a very enjoyable, novella length story- which makes for a quick and easy read.
It is Gene Rowland and Amanda Garner’s story- Gene is Dean Rowland’s older brother (whom we meet when he had his own story, back in Book #1). This has some mystery, drama, angst, chemistry, spice, tension, banter, intrigue, emotion, a hunky doctor, and a ‘damsel in distress’ element- all woven into a wonderful, ‘finding love unexpectedly’ romance.
As each book in the series focuses on its own ‘couple’ they can be read as standalones if you wanted. But you might just find that one isn’t enough and go hunting for more.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, C.R. Alam!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced by Julie Castle
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
3 Stars
4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced is a nifty little box set that contains the 4 R’s series by Julie Castle. These stories are all contemporary romances, each instalment focusing on its own particular couple- so they each could be read as standalones if you wanted to. But having all four in one handy collection, also means that you can read the entire series, and enjoy all four books for the price of one.
-Fool’s Gold: Roped (Book #1) is Sarah and Rafe’s second chance romance with an opposites attract, some drama, angst, an ‘arrangement’, forced proximity, and a small-town setting.
-Her Heart’s Desire: Rescued (Book #2) is Samantha and Jake’s enemies to lovers romance with drama, the boss’s daughter element, stakeout-gone-wrong, humour, tension, chemistry, and finding love unexpectedly.
-Serena’s Web: Risked (Book #3) is Serena and Mark’s single mother romance with FBI agent/protector, forced proximity, tension, kidnapping, the mob, dramatic developments, and angst.
-It Had to Be You: Romanced (Book #4) is Candy and Greg’s enemies to lovers romance with plenty of sparks, different sides of the track, the one that got away, sparks, chemistry, small town, and just enough drama to keep things interesting.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Julie Castle!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Master Oradea by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Master Oradea is the tenth book in the Masters of the Consulate series by Sylvia Black. It is another dark paranormal romance with enemies to lovers, a rogue vampire faction, shifters, witches, magic, pure bloods, politics, agendas, fated mates, drama, danger, tension, intrigue, chemistry, sizzle, action, and more. Again, as with the rest of the series, this is told from a duel POV- which helps deliver a fuller perspective.
This is Master Oradea and Natalia Benzini’s story- a dark, tense, romantic suspense-that not only tells their story, but also helps build the background story which has been developing throughout the entire series.
It is because of this ‘overarching, background’ story that I highly recommend reading the entire series, in sequence, so you have all the important details, character, and other relevant information on board- otherwise there might be some undue confusion.
There is a lot going on, and a large ‘cast’ of characters, so even though each book focuses on one individual ‘couple’- there is a recurring cast which pops up in instalments throughout the series- so ‘knowing ‘who is who’ helps.
As this ends on a bit of a cliffy, which is set to continue in the next is instalment — “Master Bistrita” (Book #11).
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Sylvia Black!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Marshmallow Rabbit by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
2.5 – 3 Stars
Marshmallow Rabbit by Lois Wickstrom is an illustrated children’s story aimed at children ages 4 to 8years. This story gave me some “Tar Baby/Br’er Rabbit” and “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory/Willy Wonka” vibes, which I liked. The illustrations are cute, colourful, interesting, and engaging, and helped to bring everything to life.
Annabelle has been stealing candy from Mr. Bonbon’s candy factory. Every time there is a factory tour, Annabelle is there taking whatever she sets her mind on, becoming bolder with each visit. Mr. Bonbon is determined to teach her a lesson, and so creates a giant, sticky, marshmallow rabbit that he hopes Annabelle will not be able to resist. What happens when Annabelle grabs the sticky rabbit to take home with her? Well, you can probably guess- but no spoilers from me- so you’ll just have to read the story to find out what happens here.
I really wanted to ‘enjoy’ this story- and would have liked to have read it to my grandchildren- BUT, I hated the way the story ended and really feel that the ‘message’ in this book is wrong, and would be misconstrued. I feel like Annabelle got away with very bad behaviour— rewarded even— and that’s not a message I want any child to learn. Stealing is NOT ok, and shouldn’t be rewarded. Especially since this is not a ‘one-off’ occurrence, or out of necessity (due to homelessness/starving etc), or even that Annabelle learned her lesson and turned over a ‘new leaf’— nope— instead, this was just an entitled child thinking they could do whatever they liked, and get away with it, and the got rewarded on top of it all—- plus thinking she ‘got-one-over’ on Mr. Bonbon, too. Well, that’s how I say it anyway. But maybe you might view it differently…
Happy Reading…
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Kris & The Missing Prince: The Adventures Of Kris by Art Blegen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Kris and the Missing Prince is the first book in The Adventures of Kris series by Art Blegen. This is a fun and intriguing child’s (beginner) chapter book- first instalment in this great little series…
It was quite a fun read, with a wonderfully vivid adventure that draws you in and sweeps you up in all the developments… Well written, with plenty of imagination, there are some small (B + W) illustrations which head up each chapter, which also help to bring the story to life in the reader’s mind….
Kris’s love of reading, along with her very vivid imagination means that she finds an ‘adventure’ wherever she goes. Here, her father takes her to stay with Grandma Mable on her farm, where there’s lots of exploring to be done. She and Ralphie, Grandma Mable’s huge furry St. Bernard dog, have a wonderful time frolicking around the farm. But when she finally enters the woods to explore, where she not only meets some new friends, but also finds herself on a quest to rescue a missing prince. She’s a knight, not a princess- though. Facing obstacles, a bully, the threat from the evil gnome Gnalath, and more…. Her quick thinking and bravery help her face and overcome challenging situations- while also drawing us further into the story and her ‘world’. With action, fantasy, drama, high stakes, friendship, overcoming obstacles, mystery, and intrigue- made for an engaging read- and there are also some ‘lessons’ imparted along the way….
Each instalment to the series could be read as a standalone, as each has its own fully contained adventure, starring Kris. But, having said that, Kris finds herself in lots of interesting situations that result in fun adventures- which you will definitely want to be part of….
The series consists of (so far):
-Kris & The Missing Prince (Book #1)
-Kris & The Pirates (Book #2)
-Kris and The Cowboys (Book #3 – releasing soon)
-Kris & The Astronauts (Book #4 – coming later this year)
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Art Blegen!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
