The Round Box by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I always love books by Lois Wickstrom. She does such a wonderful job capturing the magic of imagination.This one is probably my least
Group Hug by Ariella Talix
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Ariella Talix is a new-to-me author and I had no idea what to expect with her writing. I enjoyed the easy banter, characters, and plot of this story. It’s definitely a spicy one, so be prepared!
When the three main characters, Weston. Callum, and Petra, all find themselves living together after some undesirable circumstances they find that being roommates is a tall order to fill.
Getting the perspective from each character is perfect for this book as there are so many things to consider from each perspective. Group Hug is a story of friendship, love, and overcoming obstacles.
A New Day For Cray by G. Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Cray learns that his actions have consequences. A New Day for Cray is a good book to teach young children that their actions towards others have consequences. Cray likes to be mean and can’t understand why his friends don’t like it. Only when there are consequences to his actions does Cray understand the impact of his actions on his friends.
The Round Box by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have three grandchildren and am always searching for books that they will like. I also sometimes babysit the younger children in our neighborhood.
I read this book and think that the little ones would love to read this or have it read to them anytime. This was a quick read and would be nice before bed or maybe as a storytime book to read at the library.
Check it out. I think your children will enjoy it.
Savage Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
“Savage Start” by Isla Vaughn is a gripping prequel to the Hidden Valley Elite series that captures readers’ attention from the first page. The author does an excellent job of portraying the cruelty of high school bullying and the devastating effects it can have on someone’s mental health. The dynamic between Riley and Cole is intense, and the author’s vivid descriptions made me feel like I was right there in the moment with them. Overall, “Savage Start” is a well-written and engaging read that leaves the reader wanting more. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good high school romance with a touch of drama and suspense.
The Rocklyns Collection: Contemporary Romance Boxed Set by Alicia Street
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
As you start reading the stories in this box set about The Rocklyn family you will see how each couple gets together. After you finish reading the seven books in this set you will have met a very unique family with a lot to offer each other as well as you the reader.
You will be taken away into a fantasy world/ I found myself caught up in the characters and their story lines and it was really hard to put the book down. Every time I got a few minutes I caught myself sitting down to read just a little more.
I highly recommend this box set and think you will enjoy it as much as I did.
Savage Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This was a quick read for me. I thought the characters were good and it set up the upcoming books in the series. I am not a huge fan of bully and con tropes but this was a decent read. I didn’t connect with the story but am optimistic for the series as a whole. I do like the author’s writing style.
Kingdom of 7 Sovereigns: Wolf by R.C. Reigh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Kingdom of 7 Sovereigns is the first book in this series about four young royals managing their way through a school that began as a way for different kingdoms to build relationships with one another. Coming out of a war that their parents almost lost against the underworld, the royals realized that they had to stop infighting so that they could defeat their common enemy. The forming of a school to teach their children altogether is their hope for a better future of peace. However, their children also have a mind of their own.
Amelia of Avonlee has been promised to Dane of Carpathia and is not too happy about it. She would much rather choose her own path. Dane does not want to make anyone do anything they do not want to do, but fate steps in and has other plans. Cora wants nothing but her cousin Amelia’s happiness and safety. Kessara, the necromancer’s daughter, is a loner that just wants to cause chaos. New friendships are made, hearts are crushed, and attacks abound on this new school. Can these teens work together or will they end up mortal enemies?
This is my first time reading this author. I have to say, I really enjoyed this book! I would have liked more background information on the war, but there is enough given that I could piece it together. The characters were easy to read about and picture in my mind. The relationships made, the self-discovery, and disappointments were relatable even though it is fantasy. I am looking forward to the next book to see where this story goes, especially with Kessara. I hope the author will surprise the readers with a character twist!
Group Hug by Ariella Talix
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Weston has hit a bump in the road, with his relationship gone and a house which he wants to keep as it holds memories of his grandad but as his financial position becomes more of a problem he is forced to seek a room mate. So when he adds to advert to the site he receives instantly two applications.
Callum is fresh out of school and just embarking on his career as a chef, this is the perfect place to stay but with his two new room mates, can he divert the attraction to both of them to concentrate on his career.
Petra has just come out of a horrendous situation, a bad relationship and her last room mate was not the best and arriving here to meet Weston and Callum she is loving the vibes and it helps they are both gorgeous. Having a safe place for her and her dog to stay is great but these two hunks are a added bonus.
This a lovely story and the chemistry is off the charts. I love all the characters although Weston is my favourite if I had to choose.
I thought the dynamic was brilliant and as it is written in all three point of views it is heart warming to read how there love for each grows with each chapter. With each character struggling with issues in there lives they become closer and start to become a family of sorts including the four legged family members too. The story is well written and the characters are well developed and draw you into the story.
I loved the this story and can’t wait to read more books by this wonderfully talented author.
Master Botosoni by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Master Botosoni has a lead to the rogue elements trying to bring down the Consulate but can he follow the rules and stay away from her or is the attraction too much for him to resist.
Catina has visions of where the shifter den is but when she is enlisted by the consulate to find the rogue Vampires and shifters but when her vision leads her into danger can she get out in time or is her fate sealed.
This is the ninth in the series and they just get better with each instalment. The chemistry between Catina and Master Botosoni is off the chart and I always love the loyalty these alpha man have to the charges they have, it is just brilliant to read. Although these are relative short stories they definitely pack a punch and leave you wanting more and more.
I can’t wait to see who the next Master’s story will be and get closer to them getting rid of the rogue elements.
4/5 stars
What a wonderful story. Could this moody wounded soldier and fearful librarian come together? This story showed that challenges could be overcome and not to judge a book by its cover. I really enjoyed seeing this relationship develop. They overcame a lot. She worked through her fears to be come more confident and he learned to let another in. The narration was done well. I always wish for a male voice to do the the male. However, this narration was quite enjoyable. It’s an experience I do recommend.
Group Hug by Ariella Talix
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 Stars
Group Hug by Ariella Talix is a sweet and spicy menage/why choose story with plenty of ingredients to keep you flipping the pages.
Weston’s set to lose everything, so in a last-ditch effort to keep afloat, he decides to rent out a couple of rooms in his house to help make ends meet. Callum culinary dreams have his sights set on a bright future, so he can’t afford to let anything distract him from his goals. Petra and her furry companion have been down on their luck and really need a place to stay. When these three come together, sparks fly- and things heat up quite quickly. What happens makes for a fun read.
-MMF
-chemistry
-Sizzle
-Humour
-Banter
-Drama
-Angst
-emotion
-multiple POV’s
If you love sexy MMF menage stories with interesting characters and steamy developments- then you might want to check this out.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Ariella Talix.
Reviewed by @angelahayes
The Round Box by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I Always enjoy reading these stories by author Lois Wickstrom. She is quickly becoming my favorite go to author for great kids books. Her books are always so interesting and always keep the little ones intrigued when I’m reading to them. We all love all the cool activities and more that’s included with most books, and in the other it helps teach action words with I also love🥰🥰 and omg her grandmother always has the coolest stuff lmao. I can’t wait to see what other Fascinating things she has🥰
The Rocklyns Collection: Contemporary Romance Boxed Set by Alicia Street
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4 – 4.5 Stars
The Rocklyns Collection is a boxed set containing seven books in The Rocklyns series by Alicia Street. This is my favourite series by Ms. Street, so far- so having these seven books in one romantic package was a fantastic find, especially as there was no waiting between books- and I got to have a great binge session.
Each book in the series could be read as a standalone if you wanted- as the series follows the Rocklyn siblings, with each sibling getting their own book. But trust me, you are going to want to read them all as they are all really wonderful characters.
This is a fantastic, well-written, contemporary romance series- with characters who drew me into their story and kept me turning the pages to follow them while their story unfolded. They are all so well developed and complicated individuals with their own unique personalities, quirks, and flaws. They were crafted in such a way that they were entirely realistic, relatable and believable. I was invested in every one of them and the outcome of every story.
There’s a lot to keep you engrossed- from second chances, different worlds/opposite attract, secret baby, grumpy/sunshine, forbidden love, finding love unexpectedly, secrets, drama, angst, and the healing power of love- just to name a few.
Seven books for the price of one- now that’s a bargain!
The Box Set contains:
-Lovers in Training (Book #1)
-Maybe Lovers (Book #2)
-Rainy Day Lovers (Book #3)
-Encore Lovers (Book #4)
-Never Lovers (Book #5)
-Improbable Lovers (Book #6)
-Windswept Lovers (Book #7)
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Alicia Street!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
A Heart So Savage by April Moran
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Okay, I enjoyed this installment of The Savage Duet much more than the first. You can tell that these characters really grew on the author. While I found the pacing a little off at times, everything seemed to really come together for the second half of the book.
Group Hug by Ariella Talix
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I’ve read a few books by this author. All of which being about the same concept and idea just different scenarios. I have to say Group Hug is probably my favorite. The author brings together 3 people from different backgrounds and takes the reader on adventure. All of which have a path to self discovery in some way. It’s just how that comes about that makes this an interesting story.
Weston, Callum, and Petra are brought together by a roommate posted by Weston. Weston was at the point in his life he couldn’t afford his home anymore, so why not find a roommate. What he didn’t expect was to find 2. Let alone be attracted to both of them. Weston lost all but his grandfather young from a freak accident. So when his grandfather passed he was alone.
Callum is ready to get out of his parents house, and the ad was the most attractive option. Because he was running behind he ended up taking the tour of the house with another potential tenant. Striving to create a life for himself in the culinary world. Callum has a decent family who is always there that loves and supports him. However nothing was ever easy for them.
Petra needs a new place and needs it fast. Being recently kicked out of her current home due to the dog she adopted. To her luck Weston was willing to open his home up to both her and Callum. Petra is from a hope with absent parents. Growing up with a slight silver spoon she never knew was family and love were.
Navigating the attraction between these 3 is never easy. And because of that it starts out extremely awkward.
The question is: Will it work out or are they just having fun?
3 very different people but the same in every way . Which is the lesson they realize throughout. Which comes with acceptance of what they have.
This is definitely and MMF menage gives the reader laughs, sadness, smile, and some spiciness as well.
Good Enough — The Deadman’s Tribe Book 1: A Protector Romance / Romantic Suspense by Nicole Craig
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a great read. This is a new author to me and I am so glad I took a chance on it. This story is full of action, suspense, romance, great characters and so much more. There were some twists and turns. I was kept glued to the pages throughout the entire book. The chemistry between Kai and Waters was off the charts and you can feel it jumping off the pages. Kai is a movie director and Waters is a navy seal. Neither one of these characters do relationships because of their jobs but the attraction is undeniable. There are also other really great characters in this story and one in particular that I wanted to punch in the face. I don’t want to give anything away so I will just say this is a must read! I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.
The Rocklyns Collection: Contemporary Romance Boxed Set by Alicia Street
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This series focuses on the story of the adult children of Matt Rocklyn Sr. who worked very hard at securing his struggling family farm and transformed the farm into a very successful family vineyard. His adult children, all of them dealing with their lives and path to love are each encompassed in each of the stories told. Since all of their lives are centered in this vineyard, their lives are showcased to the readers of the family and those involved with them. These stories take through a slew of emotions, steamy romance scenes, reconnections, and so much more. If you enjoy romance with a bit of intrigue and great story line, this series is a must read!
Kingdom of 7 Sovereigns: Wolf by R.C. Reigh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4.5/5 Stars
This is such a great entrance to fantasy for YA readers. The world building is excellent. The author gives great details for the story. At first I wasn’t thrilled when I saw the multi POV, but it’s done very well in this book. This is a great first read of the series and I know the 2nd book will be just as good.
Shifter Shorts by T.K. Lawyer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
T. K. Lawyer is a first time author for me so I was excited to read something new. I loved the fact there were 6 very different short shifter stories; it wasn’t just normal shifter stories. There is a big cat, a gargoyle, a Hellhound, a dragon/vampire hybrid, a wolf, and a great white shifter. All very different, and several I’ve never even thought of or seen in other stories. The characters were a little underdeveloped, but that could just be because they were all sort sorry stories. The world building was pretty good, even with the shortened length. The reader is transported into forests, cities, the ocean, and even the underworld itself all through the storytelling of T. K. Lawyer. Some of the stories I would love to see as full length books and a couple are definitely better left as short stories. Overall, a quick, interesting read by an author I wouldn’t mind checking out more from.
Cole has to deal with his mom’s mental health, while his brother defends their father’s lack of interest in marriage and offspring. Both of them are highschoolers with dreams of being selected to play in the NFL, they have the built and athleticism to the point, now just need the time and selection.
Riley has lived on the go since she can remember, city after city, change of look after change of look in order to not create a life but a constant runaway. But in one of those little lives of her she meets a man, and a kiss that will be burned in her mind forever.
The beginning of a whole thread of stories, a good start of the series.
Portrait of Deception by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Portrait of Deception ended up being far better than I expected. I didn’t really know what it was about when I started reading it, I was just drawn in from the cover art. The book kept me engaged until the very end, and was filled with suspense. Margo’s entire life crumbles in one night. Then the little that remains is torn away from a bad decision. However, going through all the drama that results, she changes her view of life and what is important to her. I was happy with the ending of the book, and look forward to reading more by the author. It looks like this may become a series, so I’m excited to see what is to come next.
Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy
This is my first audio book by this author which I enjoyed listening to. I look forward to picking up another by this author. It is a story that is full of mystery, action and even a little romance. I enjoyed how the narrator brought the story to life with the different tones for characters. They made it easy to listen to and I wanted to keep listening. This is Nash and Betsy’s story. Neither one was expecting the other but what destiny has in store for them you don’t want to miss. I enjoyed this audio and I think you will too. I highly recommend this audiobook.
Deja Brew All Over Again: A Runaway Bride Romance by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Deja Brew All Over Again: A Runaway Bride Romance (Love on Tap Series) by Sylvie Stewart. I have loved this series and I was so excited to finally get to read Miller’s story. Miller has always had a laid back attitude but has always been kind of the black sheep. I really enjoyed how we can see Miller’s maturity in this book. Maisy is trying to save her little brother but she’s beginning to have second thoughts about marrying someone just to do that. When she bails the wedding and jumps into someone’s truck, she wasn’t expecting someone as cute as Miller. Miller is stunned when Maisy jumps in his truck but is not complaining. Miller is a bad boy and Maisy does not need that if she is going to protect her brother. The chemistry is so hot between these two and Maisy’s brother Bear is hilarious! Will Maisy be able to convince Miller he’s worthy of love and a family or will he screw this chance at happiness up? Read this awesome romance to find out!
Group Hug by Ariella Talix
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Group Hug by Ariella Talix was a well written MMF romance that kept my attention from start to finish. Despite being a spicy read, it was cute with likable characters. I found myself smirking throughout. I enjoyed that the story was written in the perspective of all three main characters, Weston, Callum and Petra with a good grasp on their thoughts and feelings as the storyline progressed. Overall, I had fun reading this book and would be open to reading more from this author in the future.
Sasha Smart: Short Stories for Girls by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Sasha Smart by Shermaine Perry-Knights. This is an amazing collection of short stories for girls aged 8-12 that are inspiring, uplifting and so full of self love. I so wish I had this book when I was young. The biggest focus of this book is self acceptance and self love, which is so important for young kids especially young girls today. Each story is a different problem young girls might go thru and they really focus on communication with their parents. The stories are about bravery, peer pressure, loving yourself and being positive. We all have bad things in our lives but how we react to them are 1/2 the battle. I think these stories would be great for teachers and parents alike. Every girl in this age group should get this book. I’m buying all the girls in my family one! This set of stories would make the prefect gift!
Portrait of Deception by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Having recently finished “Portrait of Deception,” the second installment in the Southwest Suspense series, I found the tale of Margo McAllister engaging. In Italy to pursue her photographic aspirations, Margo faces unexpected challenges after rejecting a dubious offer from a corrupt politician. The narrative, though initially stretching the bounds of believability, gradually grew on me. Margo’s journey, marred by a blackout drug and unanticipated consequences, drew me in. Despite some contrived twists, the overall suspenseful atmosphere and Margo’s predicaments managed to capture my interest. While not without flaws, the book ultimately succeeded in holding my attention and curiosity.
The Marcy Series Box Set: Books 1-3 by Linda Burson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a 3 book series that should be read together and not stand alone books. Each book builds on the previous one. The series sucks you in quickly . There is love, agony, rage, confusion, trauma, while facing reality. Full of plot twists and emotions going on. Had a hard time putting the books down.
Savage Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was a quick read but a great set up for the rest of the series! Depicts more “real life” characters and has a little set up for romance. Can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
The Round Box by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Round Box is Book Two in the Grandma’s Closet Series. It is a children’s picture book full of fun, whimsy, magic, and adventure. The beautiful illustrations are bright, colorful, and really bring the story to life. The story centers around a young girl named Carrie who is bored and seeking something fun to do. She remembers boxes in her grandma’s closet and goes to look because they are always interesting. When she finds a round box named the Fascinator, she opens it up and discovers a boat inside. When Carrie looks more closely at the boat, she discovers it is a hat and decides to wear it. Suddenly, Carrie feels like she is on a boat, and everything looks different. I loved how the act of putting on one hat changed Carrie’s entire outlook and made everything around her seem magical and fun. A great read for kids to learn how to use their imagination and think creatively.
