Key West Dead by Mark Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
BOOM goes the boat! Jake and Cody are out to figure out who’s killing the people of Monroe County? This is a high packed action story. Beginning with his newlywed friends murder, the thrills just keep piling up. I couldn’t put this one down. Secrets, deceits and twists and turns make for a terrific book.
Deadly Weapon by Mark Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Jake and Cody had to save the world from a deadly virus that was thousands of years old. This one had me right from the start. That action started and in I dove. The heli and plane action was crazy. I love this series. All the action is fantastic. This is a wonderful series.
San Diego Dead by Mark Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Jake and Cody meet up with a bad dude in the tunnels between San Diego and Mexico. This leads to big trouble. This series is so great. I have not been disappointed yet. There are great characters and a wonderfully set-up story. There are action, drama and lots of thrills. Toss in twists and turns. Another wonderful addition to this series.
Vigilante Assassin by Mark Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Jake and Cody are taking the reader for an adventure in this series. The drama, intrigue and thrills all take the reader for a wild read. The author also throws in twists and turns to keep you on your toes.I have found these books to be quite fascinating because they totally grab you right from the start.g The author starts the action right off the bat. A definite must read.
Dead Lawyers Don’t Lie by Mark Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wow, Jake is up to his eyeballs in trouble. He’s trying to save lawyers and then trying not to get killed himself. There is lots of action and drama in here. There’s a lot of intrigue and secrets with a dash of deceit. This really is one of the best series I’ve read on the male protagonists side. A strong character with a fabulous and intelligent dog that solves crimes. You need to read this series.
Dumpster Dying by Michelle Bennington
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
With a title like this, how can I not want to read it?
After reading Prisoner of Night by J. R. Ward, I was in the mood for a different genre.
Birdie Harper has a problem. She likes to collect things. And she prefers to go dumpster diving to see what she can find. One may refer to her as a hoarder.
The way Birdie thinks of herself is a lot different from what others would call her and she is just fine with that.
One day while dumpster diving in the dumpster of her favorite hobby story, she uncovers a dead body! Unfortunately, she finds the body of a young woman that she knows.
Birdie resolves to catch the murderer of her friend and drags her sister and recently deceased husband Walter, to assist her.
The title and cover caught my attention. I just had to read it. The overall world and characters are refreshing to me.
Reading this just made me think of watching an episode of Hoarders mixed in with a murder mystery.
I don’t know if the author has any plans to make more in this series, but if they do, I am looking forward to reading them.
Mission Target by Mark Nolan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
An amazing adventure mystery story. Jake and Cody are a pair that I would want to have my six in a situation. Jake, Cody and the gang are trying save America. There is lots of drama, intrigue and secrets. Excellent storywriting and well-developed characters make this a story that will grab you right from the get go. This is a definite must read.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5951567633
Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story by Winnie D. Pagora
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Unclutter is Book One in the Inner Voice Series. This is the debut novel by this talented author and was so beautifully written that I anxiously await more novels written by her. This book touches on difficult topics such as abuse and self harm but was done in a way that is realistic and honest yet done in a respectful and empathetic manner. The story centers around the character of an eighteen-year-old girl named Tina who has never felt like she belongs. After a traumatic incident with an abuser young Tina is labelled as a liar, slandered, and bullied. She must find the inner strength and courage to stand up to her abuser and overcome her inner demons. This was a powerful and poignant read about the journey that victims of abuse struggle through and as a survivor of abuse, this story really hit home for me. I know how difficult it is to find the courage to not only move forward but to find the strength to face your bully or abuser. It is imperative to create a support system as Tina did and have those that will support you through the highs and lows. I loved the character of Tina who was vulnerable yet strong, smart, feisty, determined, and resilient. I loved that she found the inner strength she needed to come forward. Unfortunately, society is often too quick to judge and label victims of abuse while allowing the abusers to get away with what they have done. This creates a cycle of revictimizing the victim which adds to the trauma they have already suffered. This book contained themes of trauma, abuse, gaslighting, cover-ups, injustice, friendship, hope, and faith. A great book and I look forward to reading more by this author.
The Christmas Escape by Belinda Williams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Cute holiday story! I enjoyed meeting these two main characters. Their meet cute was delightful and they both had some hidden secrets. I like the analogy he came up with about life from his career. Turns out he is a wonderful guy! Oh and the grand gesture…I loved it! Overall a quick read that made me want to head to the beach!
Mission Target by Mark Nolan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
While this is a good book I just didn’t love it as much as the previous stories. I hate to say this but it really seemed like non stop action(usually a good thing right?). He literally ends one and gets a call to go to another location for another assignment. I mean very little down time to spend time relaxing. There are too many govt agencies initials and explanations thrown at us for every little thing. I ended up just skimming those. Last issue was the girls. I am sure he is a hottie and has that great dog but not every woman he comes in contact with is after him(sexually) especially after stating he has a girlfriend and they know her. What Agent Green did..just weird…possible future stalker.
Anyhow I enjoyed seeing all the characters and meeting new ones. We get to see a whole gambit of people from Mafia to secret service. Watching Cody “work” and figure things out plus Jake..he is one smart cookie.
As always I look forward to reading these stories. This one really took us on a journey from the first incident to the last. The author did a good job winding it all together.
Ross: Central Florida Stories by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
“Ross” by Victoria Saccenti is a gripping tale of love, redemption, and the relentless pull of destiny. Ross Michaels and Hadley Keller’s lives diverged after a night of fleeting connection, but their paths are forever intertwined. Fate’s unexpected twist sends Ross back into Hadley’s world, where he’s confronted with her desperate plea to rescue her daughter from the clutches of an outlaw motorcycle gang.
Saccenti skillfully weaves a complex narrative that explores the depths of trauma, the power of love, and the unwavering determination of a protector. Ross, a member of Club Nexus, embarks on a mission to save Hadley and her daughter, revealing his inner Daddy Dom instincts. What follows is a heart-wrenching journey to heal not only physical wounds but the emotional scars that run deep.
The author’s storytelling prowess shines as she delves into the characters’ pain and vulnerability, creating a poignant and intense narrative. “Ross” is a powerful testament to the strength of human connection, and Victoria Saccenti’s writing will leave readers captivated by the enduring love story that transcends adversity and danger. This book is a must-read for those who crave a rollercoaster of emotions, suspense, and love conquering all odds.
Rise of the Y by Angela D. Shelton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a dystopian young adult novel – the first installment in The Y Chronicles series. There are so many of these types of books on the market now, but I assure you, you are not going to want to skip over this one. There are exciting characters, plot twists, and intrigues that will keep you hooked! Lexi is an awesome female lead character, and it was interesting to watch her character develop and grow throughout the story. Even if you are not totally sold on the dystopian genre, there is a little bit of everything for everyone waiting in these pages. I enjoyed it and will be anxiously awaiting the second book!
https://www.amazon.com/review/R220U51NCZMSPW/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5951352661
https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/902286967
Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
My son found a love for baking and cooking when he was a child. This book encompasses the idea that kids can love to experiment in the kitchen and can do well at it! I love that Ben persevered to find a way to get his biscuits to be the best ever! Being a problem solver with the grit to continue on is the trait of a winner. The illustrations in this book are an added joy while reading.
Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Who didn’t grow up wanting to be a top secret spy? When David gets his spy kit in the mail, he is pleasantly surprised to get a job right away. Even though he is irritated that his little sister has to tag along, he finds they make a great team. I enjoyed this short children’s book – I think this would be a great addition to a early-reader’s bookshelf. It is engaging, has action, and could be a start to a enjoying new series!
Arriving Home by Chelsea Lauren
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This was a really sweet book. I love holiday themed romance books and this one did not disappoint. I am not usually invested in MM romances because I do not connect with them. I found their relationship was very sweet but did develop quickly. The spicy scenes were not for me but for someone who can connect with them it would appeal to them. I appreciated the overall holiday tones though.
Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
In this book we are introduced to Logan McKenna and the recent activities of her life. Her life recently seems to be falling apart. Logan recently lost her husband in a car accident a couple of years ago and is put into the position of having to sell the business that she and her husband built. Since the sale of her business, Logan finds herself being called into being a teacher, everything seems to be going great until she is accused of helping her students cheat. Logan is appalled because she can’t help that she is such a great teacher, and her students are excelling on the standardized tests. Now Logan is a position that has her job on the line. Logan moves to California in hopes that maybe reconnecting with an important part of her past life might help her on her journey to rediscovering who she is.
Everything is going well, until a body is found, and her friend is being considered as a person of interest. Logan now has something to do that will help her try to forget everything that has been going wrong for her.
I loved this story and the amount of detail that Valerie put into Logan and her story. I am impatiently waiting to see what happens to Logan next and to see if she continues to find herself in unique murder mysteries.
Mary Espinoza, November 2023
Lies That Bind by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another story with Logan finding herself in the middle of an investigation.
Her guy (Ben) bought a vacation home in Oregon and they stumble across details of the murder of charolette collins. This murder has several hidden details they find when starting to renovate and of course Logan has to get to the bottom of what happened.
I really enjoy Logans strong personality she is a fierce woman and no one gets in her way. This story also took on more dimension than usual with the addition of her half sister to the usual cast in her life. Multi generation family drama and secrets are found and the author Brilliantly shows how trauma can transcend generations and effect people for years to come.
You dont need the other books to understand the plot in this one but I do feel like I understand Logan better with the other books prior.
Forest Park: Logan Book 2 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Forest Park: A Logan McKenna Mystery by Valerie Davisson is book two in the Logan McKenna series, and I personally think that it is just as good as the first book! All Logan is trying to do is figure out what has happened, and why weird stuff keep happening with her around. Logan is just trying to piece her life back together after losing her husband a couple of years before, and it has been an adventure trying to do so! Logan decides to take vacation to Portland Oregon, and she happens to witness an explosion at a food truck and the kicker is that she realizes she knows the deceased. Valerie, our author has a very creative way of explaining in great detail what is going on with our main character and what she is doing. Valerie makes you feel like you are right next to Logan as she tries to go through life. Good job Valerie on writing such awesome books and keep them coming!
Mary Espinoza, November 2023
Devil’s Claw: Logan Book 3 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What happens when there is a piece of property that is up for grabs, and quite a bit of people are interested in it…. that is the big mystery! Well, that’s what happened with prime real estate spot, Lot 429!
This is the third book in this series and our main character Logan, and her daughter are moving to California and have no idea what kind of adventure is in store for them.
As always, Valerie Davisson writes another great mystery adventure featuring our main character, Logan McKenna. Even though this is the third book of the series, Valerie does not fail to impress me with the detail she has added into the book. Some authors kind of lose you after the first couple of books of a series, but Valerie does not! The book opens with luring you into the story which will make you want to keep reading to uncover the truth and the mystery around the real estate plot 429. Will Logan be able to solve the mystery, save her daughter, save the Sea Otter rescue center, or will everything just continue to fall apart with no end in sight?
If you are looking for a great thrilling read, with its fair share of twists and turns then this is a must read!
Mary Espinoza, November 2023
Sea of Demons by Heidi Stark
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is my first book by this author which I enjoyed reading. I look forward to reading the previous books in this series to help know the characters a little more. There are some triggers in this story but not many and if you can get past them, you will find an entertaining story. This is a well written story that is full of action, romance and suspense. The characters pull you into the story from the beginning. I enjoyed watching their growth and how they brought the story to life. They are connectable, relatable and engaging which made the story easy to read. A story where the twists and turns had me turning pages fast just to find out what happens next. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to seeing more. I highly recommend this book.
Review by @bjwagner
Arriving Home by Chelsea Lauren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a cute romance story that I enjoyed reading. I enjoyed how the author used details to pull me into the story with the characters. This is a well written story about what happens when you agree to be a fake boyfriend for the holiday season but what you don’t know is that you are part of a plot for a story. I enjoyed these characters and what they brought to the story. They are connectable, relatable and have great chemistry. I found myself hoping they would get their HEA. I enjoyed watching their growth which made the story easy to read. This is a fast paced story that is hard to put down. This is a story that will bring the Christmas spirit as well as a little romance. I highly recommend this book.
Review by @bjwagner
Kneading a Winning Idea by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Great story about not giving up! I love that Ben kept trying out new recipes to find out what would make his biscuits different from he year before and better. Sofia encourages him, which is what we all should do in a competition, encourage each other. I can’t wait to try out the recipe at the end of the book! Beautiful art work and story.
What an inspirational story of a mom who wants to fight to save the community that she calls her hometown. Sue Cleary retires from being a forensic accountant for the sake of raising her four sons and wants to help save her community from the evils of the politicians. Sue tackles the world of social media with the assistance of friends and family and creates a podcast in order to spread the word about what is going on. What a great, heartwarming book to listen to, it is so inspirational that we can make a difference in the world by doing our part and spreading the word about the woes of the community we see happening. Sue refused to stand by and watch as her hometown tried to become a tourist trap for travelers instead of the community she knew and loved. This was a great book to listen to while I was at home relaxing, or any time I was in the car driving around, or even riding as a passenger. What a great option it is to be able to enjoy the tale of a great book, and what a wonderful job they did with the volume and sound recording, in getting the characters to shine through with their personalities. Kathryn Dodson has written a wonderful book; I am looking forward to hearing more from her in the near future.
@Brandy Rymer
11/2023
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56471764-lies-that-bind” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Lies That Bind: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 6 (Logan McKenna Series)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1609268630l/56471764._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56471764-lies-that-bind”>Lies That Bind: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 6</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5872901.Valerie_Davisson”>Valerie Davisson</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5950661242″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Logan and Ben have recently bought a fixer upper vacation home on the Oregon Coast. Things are coming along nicely when she receives an email from her half sister Olivia stating that she would like to meet up while she in town on business for a few days. While anticipating Olivia’s arrival her reporter friend gets a call about a dead body found at The Collins hotel. The deceased is Charlotte “Charlie” Collin, 32 years old and in perfect health. Logan finds herself pulled into this mysterious case for two reasons: firstly the home she recently bought was purchased from the deceased woman’s fiancé. Second: the first time she saw her sister in person was when she was being questioned by police. Was this a suicide or murder? Who would have a reason to kill this young woman? Was it her fiancé or someone unknown?<br />Another great Logan McKenna adventure down. This character attracts trouble almost as soon as she walks out her front door, but her knack for being able to find the ins and outs of a case make up for it. This is one series that I have liked from the start and I hope there are more books to come.
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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/106111308-charlisa-wahtomy-alba”>View all my reviews</a>
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow! Amazing! This book is written differently than the others in the series, but it was so well done! It’s a love story, a brotherhood, a passing of the torch, and growing old story. Hits home in every aspect. No matter who you are, something in this book will draw you in. Beautiful story telling, as always. Wonderful characters, many emotions, and several different perspectives that everyone can relate to.
The Cold Kid Case: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Stars
The Cold Kid Case is the first book in the Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery series by Rosalind Barden. It is an historical cozy mystery set in the 1930’s Las Angeles with a spunky, street smart, precocious tween named Sparky as our MC.
I love cozy mysteries, and this promised something a little different, so I was intrigued by what I might find under the cover.
Sparky takes us on a crime and investigation adventure when she becomes a murder suspect and has to work to clear her name. The story contains all the historical detailing, language, sights, and societal norms that you would expect from that era- it is richly detailed, and the descriptions are quite ‘visual’, and the characters are many and varied- but all are quirky and ‘colourful’. The author definitely did a great job of bringing everything to life.
From murder to mobsters, movie stars, and a little mayhem this turned out to be an intriguing and fun read.
Looking forward to ‘The Cannibal Caper’ (Book #2) and ‘Monkey Island Murder’ (Book #3).
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Rosalind Barden!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
3.5 Stars
Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail is the first book in A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series, and debut novel, by M.J. Murray.
Budding detective Dylan is on the case when his neighbour’s mail goes missing. With the help of his sister, Emily, and their dog Theodore, these sleuths are determined to solve their first case. What ensues makes for a fun read.
This is a children’s chapter book with an easy to read and understand plot that captures the imagination by engaging the reader with a fun story that contains some ‘learning’ opportunities along the way. There are some fun, black and white, illustrations sprinkled throughout that help inspire the imagination.
This is aimed at children who are just starting to read ‘chapter books’ on their own, or with help- and contains a few ‘harder’ words to challenge them as they read (Reading Tier 2). There are also lessons in problem solving, working together, perseverance, taking initiative, finding ‘clues’, family, friendship, and more.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, M.J. Murray!
Reviewed by @angelahayes
Vanishing Day: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Logan Book 4 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the 4th book of the series. It was so good! Logan become friend with a neighbor that just moved in with her three-year-old daughter. Her neighbor, Lori is hiding from her dangerous husband things take a turn when her husband shows up. can’t wait to read the rest.
