The True Purpose of Vines by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The first book in the Winemakers series, set in Portugal, we meet and follow the story of Julia and Griffin. If you love historical romance, then you will definitely want to read this. The author has a way with words that will pull you in and keep you engaged until the last pages.
The Taste of Light by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Set in Mozambique 1861, this historical romance Pedro and Anne get their love story told. This author uses ways to draw you into the story and hold your attention until the very last words. Full of history and love, this series is great so far and this is only book 2!
Curse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was incredible, I absolutely love this author and everything that I have read of theirs so far. This book is supernatural fantasy spun with a while lot of myths, intrigue, suspense, and a little bit of oh Lala. Selene gets his amazing job on this island where most people don’t stay, so why and what could be the reason. this book was a short quick read, but it is absolutely worth it. you wouldn’t be able to put it down you’ll be hooked from the beginning and read till the end. This book is well worth the read.
Divinely Dramatic by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another wonderful book by Sandra Young. The second book in the saga of characters from Divine Vintage (Book 1), but involving main character Marcy. Again, I really enjoyed this book. The connection between Marcy and Mike was interesting and I enjoyed the layers that built throughout the story. I also loved the costuming and theater component of the book. Yet again, the paranormal component only added to the fantastic story. So many interesting mini stories within the overall story of Marcy Anderson. I would definitely be in favor of more books with these characters.
Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. There was an instant connection to the characters of Tess and Trey and I was pulled right into their story, their sizzling connection, and of course, their tie to the century-old family story of Phoebe and Edward. This was a quick read and just so enjoyable. I loved the way the different characters channeled the older family members involved in the mysterious happenings 100 years earlier. The paranormal component of the story just added to the fun and romance of it all. Great read.
The True Purpose of Vines by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Julia Costa is a young Portuguese woman who is a widow, and she has a passion for wine and winemaking, it has been instilled in her since she was a child and she loves it, so when she married, she knew how to both work and manage the vineyard, however, after her husband died, she took on the roll full time, not that the suppliers know that. Griffin Maxwell is a young man who has made a deal with a large wine salesperson, the unfortunate thing is that he now has to chase a debtor in a small town in Portugal, it is the last thing he wants to do, however, he reluctantly agrees and goes to another vineyard nearby.
Griffin is not used to travelling when not doing it on horseback, so when he becomes stuck behind a local mail cart, he cannot take the cramped space any longer and decides to forge ahead on horseback, however, this does not go to plan when he encounters a boar and a woman working on the vines, in the most inappropriate mens clothing, but destiny brings them together to escape the boar, then part ways. This, however, is not the last he will see of this intriguing young woman as he meets her again at the local villages celebration and this is where he also cannot resist a taste, no matter how scandalised she feels after the kiss, but he is adamant he wants nothing else to do with the Portuguese or their temptations.
Julia does her best to ignore the attraction between herself and the Englishman, however, when the past comes to visit, she knows she needs to make another hard choice. Soon, Julia and Griffin begin to work together learning about each other’s skills and when Griffin discovers Julia is the debtor he is supposed to chase and is torn between his heart and his business dealings, but things are not to be within control, or Julia’s when tragedy strikes, and a pestilence begins to rip its way through the local vineyards.
Will Julia and Griffin be able to work together to find a cure for the vines, or will their livelihoods come crashing down before they can take a chance to invest in them? This is a historical romance set in beautiful country with a fascinating culture and the trials and tribulations they face, all while weaving a tale of romance and danger throughout, a tantalising glimpse into a world into which you will want to dive deeper.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
Kingdom of 7 Sovereigns: Wolf by R.C. Reigh
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Bastion is a school where young humans, shifters and fae of the royal families of the seven sovereigns will come to study, hone their skills and blossom into the rulers they are being trained to be and it is one of the safest places they can be. Each sovereign state has their own tower where the youths live and each one has two emissaries to help them.
Amelia of Avonlee is one of these youths, a girl with a future planned out for her, but she is rebellious and especially with one certain part, an arranged marriage between herself and the Prince Dane of Carpathia, she is adamant that she doesn’t want this and is determined to break it. Prince Dane has always wondered what his betrothed looks like but is of the opinion that she will just be another weak human, but that all changes when he meets her for the first time and the idea of breaking the betrothal soon becomes impossible.
Meanwhile, the other students have their own worries and dreams, so between studying, training and the tournaments and competitions between the kingdoms beckon, the rivalries come out to play in full force. The main one is between the two shifter clans, they each feel superior to the other and will do anything to prove it, so during the tournaments, some true colours shine through and they are not all positive ones.
One elusive fae from a kingdom nobody wants to garner the attention of is Kessara, the daughter of the Necromancer, a beautiful girl with plenty of tricks up her sleeve and chaos to create, but she is always willing to help others, but for a price of course. This is how Prince Dane comes to her, desperate for help with Amelia and turning her opinion of him and their betrothal round, however her price is a steep one for such a request.
As the months progress, the Bastion becomes a haven of lies, alliances, betrayal and treason as treaties are broken, maintained and stretched to their limits, especially when danger calls and reality hits, but will this lead the students down the correct path, or will fate intervene? This is a fantasy book filled with magic, action and a sprinkle of mayhem which will keep you on your toes and hooked until the end.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
Shifter Shorts by T.K. Lawyer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Romance, fated mates, hot as hell shifters, what more could you want from a collection of short stories?
In the first story, Elorah is a young woman who is always running away from Rowan, she knows that she wants him and that he wants her, but what she can’t understand is why, especially when they keep playing cat and mouse, but who will win in the end?
The second story is one where a woman called Terra goes to sit in a coffee shop opposite a building with some fascinating statues, but the more she looks, the more she sees, but is this really happening, or is she imagining it, that is the main question?
The next story is heavier, but just as good where Lorena wakes up in a room in Hell, but she is not alone, there is a Hellhound in there with her and not just any Hellhound, an alpha who claims her, but can she really believe she is the one for him?
Draco is more than meets the eye in story three, he is a mix of two shifter species and is a one of a kind, but only one person Esma, accepts him for what he is, well mostly at least, but will she take a leap of faith and take their friendship further?
Jax is a wolf shifter, and he has his eyes set on Ivy, his Harlot, but when danger calls and a decision to be made, will it be a happy ending?
The final story is about Walker and his scuba diving love, but will a mutual love of the water be able to keep her next to him, or will his wild nature scare her away?
This is a collection of stories filled with passion, danger and seduction where fated mates are found, and romance is kindling in the pages of this paranormal romance.
Reviewed by @roxsannel
Curse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I am a big fan of this author and have yet to be disappointed by any story she tells. This one included. Curse of the Forbidden Island is a short story with romance, mystery and plenty of entertainment. I wish it was a full novel. I enjoyed it thoroughly and cannot wait to see what’s next from C.A. King!
Curse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 Stars
Curse of the Forbidden Island by C.A King is another fantastic, cleverly crafted, and highly original paranormal treat. And another great read from Ms. King’s seemingly limitless imagination!
Selene has been on a bit of an unlucky streak of late, jobless and homeless she is desperate to find something that will get her back on her feet. Then the perfect position appears that includes somewhere to live- and it’s located on a tropical island. A winning combination for sure. But stepping onto the island starts off a bit of a mysterious and steamy adventure—- and certainly grabbed her attention… Well worth the read to uncover the mystery and discover all the spicy details for yourself….
This is a paranormal reverse-harem romance with mystery, secrets, steam, intrigue, drama, a touch of danger, tension, and engrossing developments. I am always excited when I see that Ms. King has released another book, as I always know that I am going to love every word- and this was no exception. From the moment I laid eyed on the beautiful and intriguing cover, I was hooked. The story was fun, mysterious, steamy, and captivating. The only issue I had was that I wish it was longer- as I would have loved to sink my teeth into a full-length novel, because this is a very short novella (52pgs), and although the story was ‘complete’, I really wanted to know more- and stay immersed in Ms. King’s world longer. I am hoping that this is the first book/introduction to a new series- so fingers crossed.
This is a wonderfully crafted and intriguing tale that kept me entertained the whole way through.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, C.A King!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Curse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up. I enjoy this author’s writing style as well as her attention to details that make her stories realistic. This book is no different. It has suspense, connectable characters, and a plot that made the story easy to read. This is a shorter story but it sure packs a punch. I read this book in one sitting as it is that great. I enjoyed the characters and what they added to the story. A fast paced story that will have you turning pages fast. I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it
Review by @bjwagner
Fashionably Fake by Morgana Bevan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I thoroughly enjoy this series! The last of the four has fallen in Fashionably Fake. The author sucks you in. Get you invested. Next thing you know it’s 5am after saying 1 more hour because you can’t put the book down. Though this is a series you don’t have to read the previous books first. It reads well as a standalone novel. Doesn’t mean you shouldn’t read them all into this one.
Jackson has fallen. But reality will he ever truly have the girl he wants? Ros is an enigma, it’s not that he doesn’t understand her but he knows there’s emotional damage there as well. Telling the press they’ve been in a relationship for months doesn’t help his case. Ros is pissed but agrees to be his fake girlfriend.
Ros can’t believe Jackson did this to her. And he refuses to retract the statement. Men like him never truly want a woman like her, at least that’s her mindset. So why does she agree to help him? Did she think she could keep her distance? As feelings start to bubble to the surface she’s not sure how to handle them.
Will Ros drop her walls and insecurities enough to let Jackson in?
Will Jackson truly pursue her?
Those questions and so much more. A fun romance that keeps one on their toes wanting more. There’s other supporting characters outside of the main four so I’m curious to know if this is the end or will they get stories too?
I look forward to more by this author in the future.
Now you should look forward to reading this book!
Group Hug by Ariella Talix
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was a bit slow to start with the individual main character introductions but once you get a tad further into the book you realise that all the background information was a necessity to set the rest of the book up.
This is the love story of Petra,Weston and Callum who meet because Petra and Callum want to rent rooms in Weston’s home.
Soon enough though they turn the attraction that they have for each other into a ménage. Starts with couch snuggles and ends in some great sex scenes and love marriage and happily ever after.
Along the way there are a few plot twists and turns with Petra’s family but you will just need to read the book to find out. This is definitely a page turner.
Curse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
If you want a quick raunchy read with a twist at the end, this is the book for you. This was a quick short story that can be read in one sitting that made you wanting more. Each chapter is a tease of what is to come and easily built onto each other which led to a tantalizingending. It did however, felt like a campfire story for adults as there wasn’t much depth. Nonetheless, I really enjoyed it.
The Other Side of Together by Emily Cox
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Mmm. a-Mei-zing. COULD NOT PUT DOWN. Both Emily Cox and Nicole Allen are new authors to me, and I don’t even have words. The fact that this book was written by two amazing authors but more so the fact that it was so seamless, honestly if not for the front having both names you would think this was written by one incredible author. Dual perspectives Mei Li and Marcus.
Mei Li is from Taiwan but moved to San Fransisco when she was eight years old and now lives in Chinatown with her parents and they own a family restaurant, Zheng’s. Marcus is the son of Detective Ray Miller, a star student and soccer star. Both have big dreams but after ten years of living on the same block one day, one tiny “insignificant” moment changes everything. Mei deals with the secrets of her family’s status in the US while trying to show gratitude to the “man” that helped them stay here. But now since meeting Marcus she no longer wants to just play the part and settle for the grown man seven years older than her that isn’t who he pretends to be. Her dreams are to be a chef, to go to L.A., find an internship and go to culinary school. Only Nick has suffocating ropes attached to his “kindness”. Marcus has a dream to go to Stanford with a full scholarship in soccer, to play. Only he fears abandoning his father like his mother did so long ago. Finding Mei, he still cares about school, soccer, and finishing the deal with his dad for his motorcycle but he wants the girl now too. His parents went zero to a hundred quick, and it burned them both, Marcus being the only good thing to come from it. Marcus doesn’t want that he wants every day to begin, end and be filled with Mei in his life. To take things slow and steady for the win-win.
When secrets start to come to light, will anyone be left standing in the ashes? Can Mei Li escape the nightmare she’s “trapped” in? How will Marcus complete the deal and get the girl? This world is a reality based one with countless people living in similar moments every day. Mei Li and Marcus were brought together right when it was their moment, when their lives were supposed to truly begin. Not the lives their parents tried to force on them but their own. I absolutely LOVED the characters of Mei Li and Marcus their innocents and curiosity, coming into their emotions and not running from them when they felt they should. I especially have a personal understanding of Marcus as I was also the product of teen “love” that burned out too quickly. While my mom wasn’t as extreme as Marcus’s dad I had similar rules, my mother was terrified I would be a teen mom too, but I did things the “proper” way, married and then kids. Life is what you make it, our decisions shape them and when parents feel they made mistakes and force those changes on their kids they create unimaginable fears. I will certainly be keeping an eye out for more books from these authors, they have captured my heart with Mei Li and Marcus, and I will eagerly devour anything that comes next.
Kingdom of 7 Sovereigns: Wolf by R.C. Reigh
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Kingdom of 7 Sovereigns: Wolf is the beginning to a new YA, Fantasy, Romance series that I am totally into after reading this book. I have never read anything by this author but upon reading the book description and seeing that it was a good read for people who love beauty and the beast solidified my decision to read it. I loved the alternating POV in the storyline and the fiercely independent, stubborn girl that Amelia is and the determined, well meaning, charismatic prince in Dane. The story was rich and absorbing and I am excited to see what will come next in book two!
The Scent of Snow by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have loved every book by this author, and this is no exception! I really enjoyed the characters from all of the previous books in the series coming together to celebrate Christmas. We follow Anne and Pedro in this installment, and it’s quite a journey with dual points of view. Pedro has some darker wounds he is trying to work on, and Anne is there to try to comfort him as well. It is definitely a rollercoaster of emotions in a short span of time! This author is absolutely one that I will always recommend because they have a stunning way of creating a memorable story that pulls you in and never lets go. Do yourself a favor and give this book a chance to take you away to Portugal in the Victorian Era!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Curse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was a good one. I enjoy the author’s writing style and even though this was a short read i enjoyed it alot. This was a paranormal romance that was very faced paced and had new interesting things happening around every corner. It was fun and a little mad at times but i laughed plenty and it just make me more excited to read more by this author in the future.
I would recommend this to someone that is looking for a quick reverse harem read!
Happy Reading!
The Truth About Myths by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have enjoyed this series so much and this installment has made it even better! If you are at all into historical romance, then you can stop reading this review and just pick up the book/series. It’s absolutely worth it! I neglected a lot of responsibilities to read this book because I just couldn’t pull myself away. We get to follow Isabel and Henrique in this book and trust me when I say they will make you swoon! This has been my favorite book in the series so far, and I hope the author continues this world because it is phenomenal. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is into historical romance, but even if you aren’t, I believe you will enjoy this book just as well!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
Curse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Steamy quick read that has Selene losing a job and then gaining a job that seems to good to be true. What Selene finds is an island with rules that pertain to after dark activities, ones that she finds herself indulging in all that the island has to offer. There are rules on the island, but can Selene stick to them.
I enjoyed this quite a bit. I was not sure what to expect and thought the sensuality of the story pulled you in. What a unique book, would read more of this type from this author.
Master Botosoni by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Master Botosoni is the 9th book in the series. I’ve read several of the books but took a break for a bit. Reading this book reminded me of how much I enjoyed the series and how well the author writes about the vampire world and the characters. The story is full of action, some moments that make the reader wonder if Botosoni and Catina will survive each other. I definitely suggest you read the books in order.
Curse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Curse of the Forbidden Island is a short, steamy novella. Selene lands a new job at a remote tropical resort. She has no idea what she has gotten into with her new employers. The story is rapidly paced and left me wanting a lot more to the story. I won’t give details away because I think they are best discovered while reading the story yourself. If you enjoy paranormal, romance, reverse harem, and more, this might be a great read to grab. I read the story in one sitting and wanted to know more about Selene, her employers, and the island. The story was developed but I would have read a much longer detailed version to get my fix. I always enjoy books by this author and I wasn’t disappointed. I hope she dives further into this storyline and maybe makes it a series of stories or develops a longer version of this book. I recommend grabbing this when you need a quick getaway. I look forward to what she releases next.
The Curse of Jean Lafitte by Mary Walsh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Set in the magical and ghostly backdrop of New Orleans, The Curse of Jean Lafitte is a tale with supernatural elements that is as intriguing and as it is interesting. It is a part of The Big Easy Collection 2.
I loved the Pirates of the Caribbean, so I had big expectations for this book as it referenced it as being similar. Did it meet my expectations? Yes, it did. What an adventure.
Mary’s passion shines through with the narrative of historical events and the mystery of the myths and legends. The storyline and the world building flowed seamlessly, where past and present meet and the story was over before I knew it as I was that intrigued by it.
The Curse of Jean Lafitte is a fun, crime, action, adventure, mystery, thriller & suspense tale all rolled into one. I often found myself laughing along. The history and the thrill of New Orleans in such a time is easily imagined. I have always wanted to visit but more so now.
Jean Lafitte was quite the character and after reading this book I went and researched him because I was so intrigued with him.
What does a food critic, a pastry chef, an infamous buccaneer, ghostly legends and myths and cursed treasure have in common you ask. Well, you will need to read it to find out.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Curse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
C.A’s books are so diverse and that is what I enjoy about her writing. You never know what you will get. I can tell you one thing though; they are always good reading. There is not one book that I have not loved.
Curse of the Forbidden the Island is a sexy, paranormal romance with a twist.
This reverse harem tale is hot, sizzling and very steamy. It is short with only 52 pages, but it still packs a punch. Yes, I wish that her stories were longer. It is fun and will have you laughing at times at the madness being uncovered.
She always loved a good mystery. She found more than she was bargaining for when she decided to learn the secrets of the island.
What happens on the island stays on the island, right? But what really goes on there is something you will find out when you read this book.
I can’t wait to get stuck into more of CA’s work.
Reviewed by @jennadb
Shifter Shorts by T.K. Lawyer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is my first book from this author. Honestly in my opinion, the cover photo gives off a different vibe than what the book is actually like. It’s a good book, just not quite what I thought I was getting. There’s 6 different shifter stories, but not your typical shifters. They are all different, like a gargoyle, a hellhound etc. I think it’s worth the read.
Deja Brew All Over Again: A Runaway Bride Romance by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I really love Sylvia Stewart’s writing style. Her books are always fun and imaginative. This story was no different than the rest. Miller and Maisy’s story is so unique. Miller is such a bad boy fantasy character. I really enjoyed this story and can’t wait to read more of her stories.
The Scent of Snow by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was a nice peek into Pedro and Anne’s love story. She wants to have Christmas at the Count of Almoster’s estate and invites her friends and family. This puts most of the characters from the series in one book. There is a curse on the bridge that winds itself throughout the story. Anne is also surrounded by babies and pregnant friends and is trying hard to talk Pedro into a baby. Pedro is worried about being a father because of his dark past and instead tries to give her the best Christmas ever. When disaster strikes, Pedro steps up. This was a short novella and I enjoyed getting to know the characters and the culture even more.
Kingdom of 7 Sovereigns: Wolf by R.C. Reigh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Kingdom of 7 Sovereigns was a good introduction to the series. I enjoyed that the point of view changed to get the full story. Amelia is a princess that wants to have her freedom. Instead she is being forced into an arranged marriage with a wolf prince (Dane), it is the last thing she wants. Her cousin Cora is her protector and a master on the battlefield. Prince Dane is a strong fighter and protector of his pack. He will stop at nothing to protect his kingdom and promote peace. And don’t forget the dragons and the necromancers daughter ready to stir up trouble. They are all attending the same academy with the other nobles of the 7 kingdoms. The chapters are short and easy to read. I’m interested in reading the next book in the series due to the ending.
Resisting Nature by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Good story! I struggled a bit with the timeline for a couple different situations. It seems this one runs alongside the same timeframe as the previous books. The ages and time from when she left did not seem long but the characters acted older/more mature. These situations were confusing for me since I have read the previous books. I do like the characters and the whole situation of Alexa. We have insight into her psyche so I could see it being tough on her. Miles and the pack are always a good time. They have wonderful camaraderie and are fun when they get together.
Overall its a good addition to the series.
The True Purpose of Vines by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I had accidentally read the second book in the series first, so I obviously ran back to pick this one up. I’m pleased to say that it is simply magnificent! Historical romance is one of my favorite genres and this may be one of my very top books in that category right now. The way the author paints Portugal throughout this story is beyond magical. You feel like you are truly there experiencing the country itself. I loved Julia as she is such a strong female character especially in the time period where women were supposed to be meeker. I didn’t particularly like Griffin at first, but he definitely grows on you if you give him a chance. I highly recommend picking this book up to find out for yourself!
Reviewed by @shannlynn
