Posts

Ignite My Heart (North Fork Series Book 2) by Alicia Street – Review by Heidi Sturgess

/0 Comments/in /by

Ignite My Heart (North Fork Series Book 2)Ignite My Heart by Alicia Street
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh my goodness Blake is having a tough time of late and she deserves a break and some real people and love and happiness she deserves it all !

So Blake is out work at the moment but she’s smart I’m sure Harvard will get her on staff sooner or later 😉 she’s divorced and I say good riddance to bad rubbish , she was told she can’t have children and the house she was staying in just flooded 🫣🤣 I laugh but it’s not because I’m unkind it’s like really what else can go wrong !?

Morgan is a delectable man , he is strong and yummy , a good friend and yummy and a doting father and yummy ( yes he’s yummy 😉😜🤣🥰) he is raising precious Ciara ,9, by himself but he’s in need of a nanny and then he has to deal with Fawn on top it ! I don’t like her and won’t name her again because she’s a waste of space ! Harsh I know but plech she’s awful !

I love how Blake loves her books and languages yet can get down on a child’s level ,she loved Ciara from the first moment as if she were her own and her needs always came first ! At a stage Blake felt like she was loosing herself and often I think as moms and wives feel like that and that says a lot about how dedicated she was in her role as carer Morgan is a lucky man . I love the unexpected blessing that came their way and that their little family grew 🥰

Morgan and Ciara need Blake just as much as she needs them ! She just slots into their family , they were made for each other 🥰 being part of their journey had me laughing , crying , getting angry and just wanting to see them happy . Their story felt real , characters became a part of you 😍

View all my reviews

What We Never Say (Bold Journeys Book 2) by Paulette Stout – Review by M Policicchio

/0 Comments/in /by

What We Never Say: Empowering Contemporary Women's Fiction (Bold Journeys Book 2)What We Never Say: Empowering Contemporary Women’s Fiction by Paulette Stout
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This work of contemporary women’s fiction handles this not often spoken of issue with tact and care. Men that have suffered sexual harassment or abuse often get forgotten. This tale of a proud survivor reclaiming his life and being a beacon of hope for others was beautifully written.

Kyle has hidden his past from the love of his life Rebecca. She has opened up about her struggles with intimacy and it has only made their relationship stronger. When she wants him to open up about his past, he is afraid his secrets will chase her away. When Kyle discloses what happened to him as a 19-year old, Rebecca doesn’t run. She supports Kyle.

Rebecca’s life is taking an interesting turn. Her blog that discusses her very personal journey to overcome her intimacy issues is becoming successful. It has even caught the eye of the icon of fashion and women’s magazines, Jane Stuart and MOD Magazine. Neither immediately understands their connection through Kyle. As the connection is revealed, Jane tries to save herself by painting Rebecca as the villain.

Kyle and Rebecca face all the problems together. Together is where they realize they should be. The author paints a wonderful portrait of families and partners supporting survivors of sexual abuse.

View all my reviews

Devil’s Claw (Logan McKenna Series Book 3) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Toni Sellers

/0 Comments/in /by

This is the third of Logan McKenna mystery and it definitely didn’t disappoint.I was hooked from the start as with the other books. Fast paced and lots of action and suspense, yet some very heartfelt moments. I definitely recommend this series, you won’t be disappointed. I can’t wait to read the rest of this great series. Also the otter was a great addition.

Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kristin Boutelle

/0 Comments/in /by

Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite #6)Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It started right where the previous book ended, almost where it ended, after the major event happened. I love how the author just grabs your attention with the flow of the story. I especially love how she incorporates the minor characters in with the major characters. This book is very hard to put down and it definitely grabs your attention with everything that goes on in the story.

View all my reviews

Devil’s Claw (Logan McKenna Series Book 3) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Katie Matthews

/0 Comments/in /by

Devil's Claw: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Book 3 (Logan McKenna Series)Devil’s Claw: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Book 3 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I think this may be my favourite of the series so far. I really enjoyed the story and I love getting to know that characters a little bit more with each story. I actually loved that I learned a little from this story too, it really was a great read. I think what I felt most in this book was a shift in Logan’s character, she really did seem happy and that her life was moving in a more positive direction. I enjoyed the pace of this story it did feel a little slower but equally as exciting to read.
Although this is the third book in the series it could be read as a standalone however I would highly recommend that they are read in order just so you can fully understand the back story if the characters.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

@katiem
View all my reviews

Forest Park: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 2 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Katie Matthews

/0 Comments/in /by

Forest Park: Logan Book 2 (The Logan McKenna Series)Forest Park: Logan Book 2 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After enjoying book 1 in this series I was looking forward to seeing what Logan would be doing in this second book and I wasn’t disappointed. Again the author told an exciting, gripping read which kept me turning the pages. Her writing is engaging and exciting. I really like the main character Logan, she just has something about her that makes you like her instantly. I liked the differing POV’s in the book it meant that the story had more depth to it in my opinion. There were a few sensitive topics within the books but I felt he author dealt with them really well and respectfully.
I can’t wait to see what happens with Logan in the next book!

@katiem
View all my reviews

Forest Park: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 2 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

/0 Comments/in /by

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50864453-forest-park” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Forest Park: Logan Book 2 (The Logan McKenna Series)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1567788301l/50864453._SX98_SY160_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50864453-forest-park”>Forest Park: Logan Book 2</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/5890221534″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
The Logan McKenna Series has been a great adventure. I hate to admit this but ai started reading these books around book four or five and then read books one through three. All have been great and all can be read individually without needing to read any of the others. I do however highly suggest reading all of them because you will fall in love with the characters. This is book two of this series and we see Logan dipping her toes back into the dating scene having started a new relationship. On a trip to Portland, Oregon she makes a new friend in Than, a Vietnamese vet trying to get back on his feet and owner of a food truck. When an explosion destroys Than’s truck, he is one if the main suspects. Logan is determined to help get him cleared as a suspect and find the true culprit. Not knowing anyone on the force in Portland and not having her normal access to any evidence she is on her own. Who can she trust? Will she be able to find this guy before he strikes again?
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/106111308-charlisa-wahtomy-alba”>View all my reviews</a>

Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Katie Matthews

/0 Comments/in /by

Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a really exciting read and one I thoroughly enjoyed. It’s a little out of my usual reading comfort zone but it was nice to read something a little different. The pace of the story was really good and the characters were well developed. The book was easy to read and follow. The authors descriptions in the story are pretty vivid so it was quite easy to imagine what was going on – probably not a book to be reading before bed I have to admit! The main character Logan was a likeable and I’m definitely looking forward to reading more about her in future books.

@katiem
View all my reviews

Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

/0 Comments/in /by

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50043781-shattered” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1565703158l/50043781._SX98_SY160_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50043781-shattered”>Shattered: Logan Book 1</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/5890206685″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Poor Logan had recently lost her husband and the life she has known for years. Even though she is grieving, she drops everything to help one of her good friends clear his name when he is accused in the death of a young artist. She throws her all into uncovering the truth so an innocent doesn’t end up in prison. The closer she gets to the truth, the more antsy the real culprit becomes. Will she be able to find the perpetrator before he or she strikes again? This book was a great start to a great series. It will keep you engaged and turning the pages.
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/106111308-charlisa-wahtomy-alba”>View all my reviews</a>

Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book #1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Angela Hayes

/0 Comments/in /by

Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1)Murder at the Wedding by Christine Knapp
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

Murder At the Wedding is the first book in the Modern Midwife Mysteries series by Christine Knapp. This is the first book that I have read by this author, so I really didn’t know what to expect from one of her books- but I do love a good cozy mystery, so I took a chance, grabbed myself a copy, and dove right in.
What I discovered between the covers is a fun and entertaining cozy mystery with an intriguing storyline, tension, dramatic developments, family dynamics, murder, crime and investigation, a midwife ‘detective’, hospital politics, emotion, and interesting characters.
I loved Maeve and her somewhat snarky and sarcastic inner dialogue, and witty banter. She really was the star of the show here and really helped to bring the whole story to life. I would love to see this book/series made into a television series, as Meave would be very entertaining on screen. I loved that the author gave her a bit of an original ‘occupation’, and she wasn’t the ‘typical’ writer, chef, bookstore owner, or wedding planner (etc) that we see so much of in cozy mysteries. I also liked the showing of the pregnancy info, ‘hospital’ workings, snippets of hospital procedure, hospital/workplace politics, and midwife work practices- as this added an extra element of interest to the story. Although saying that, there were a few tense, and/or emotional moments- and I will mention that there are some possible triggers included in the storyline, so consider this before diving in. The author has included sensitive topics in the day-to-day dealings of a midwife, and ‘real-life’ issues- but I think she did so in a mindful and considerate way (topics such as fertility issues, and loss of a baby).
Maeve, and the supporting cast of characters are all really well-developed individuals, with their own unique personalities, quirks, and flaws. Ms. Knapp has an eye for detail and her story is wonderfully descriptive, setting the scenes beautifully- painting pictures with her words, and giving everything a ‘visual’ quality.
I enjoyed the mystery and the ‘whodunnit’ aspect’ and the complex storyline, and other clever touches Ms. Knapp wove into her story- it made for an engrossing read.
I will definitely be keeping an eye out for more of Ms. Knapps work in the future- as well as continuing with this series.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Christine Knapp!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

View all my reviews

Forest Park (Logan McKenna Series Book 2) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Brandy Rymer

/0 Comments/in /by

Forest Park: Logan Book 2 (The Logan McKenna Series)Forest Park: Logan Book 2 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Logan McKenna is at it again, in this thrilling new adventure in Forest Park, Book 2 of The Logan McKenna Series. This poor woman is just getting her life back together, two years after the tragic accident that claimed her husband’s life. She’s moved on to a new job, a new relationship in the making, and is even taking time to vacation in Portland, Oregon. This poor woman must face tragedy once again as a murder takes place while on her vacation. Will Logan be able to clear the name of her new friend, and make it out of this alive, or is the killer after her once again? There are so many pieces to put together to solve this ongoing mystery while enjoying the thrill of the chase to beat the clock. What an amazing read this was, Valerie Davisson just keeps outdoing herself as this series progresses, and so does the intensity of the cases Logan is in dire need of solving. I am officially hooked on this series and am so excited to continue solving these murder mysteries along with our heroine. Will Logan ever get a break, and get to enjoy life, or is she doomed to continuously be put into life-threatening situations?
@Brandy Rymer
10/2023

View all my reviews

Devil’s Claw (Logan McKenna Series Book 3) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

/0 Comments/in /by

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/37540145-devil-s-claw” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Devil’s Claw: Logan Book 3 (The Logan Series)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1513314269l/37540145._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/37540145-devil-s-claw”>Devil’s Claw: Logan Book 3</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/5890191608″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
A new Otter Rescue has just opened on a plot of land, but there are people who don’t want it there. They’d much rather have condos sitting there. Who wants the Otter Rescue demolished and will they succeed? Logan found herself in the middle of an investigation when she shows up for her shift at the Otter Rescue to find a co-worker deceased and another barely clinging to life. A severe storm is rolling in and she must hurry as her daughter Amy is missing. Will she find her before she perishes as well? This was a fast paced book and it was fun to read. I enjoyed learning about the sea otters. I have always thought they were absolutely adorable, especially how they hold hands when sleeping. The Logan McKenna series if you’re looking for something new to dive into.
<br/><br/>
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/106111308-charlisa-wahtomy-alba”>View all my reviews</a>

Shattered (Logan McKenna Series Book 1) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Brandy Rymer

/0 Comments/in /by

Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shattered is the first book in Valerie Davisson’s The Logan McKenna Series, and it was an amazing mystery, thriller! I was highly impressed with the way that the characters were developed with so much intrigue, they were well-developed and well-rounded in that they are very realistic. I love the setting, the eerie darkness that follows Logan is just chilling. I love that there is a killer on the loose and that we get to help solve the mystery while living the story through Logan’s experiences. The fact that she works so hard to clear Thomas, who won’t even fight for himself, and then having the community come together to help solve this crime is so heartwarming. What a wonderful read, I couldn’t put it down from the second I opened the book. I am a huge fan of mystery books and thrillers, so combining both into a series was awesome!!! This is a must-read for all you book lovers looking for your next adventure of thrills and chills.
@Brandy Rymer
10/2023

View all my reviews

Devil’s Claw (Logan McKenna Series Book 3) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Brandy Rymer

/0 Comments/in /by

Devil's Claw: Logan Book 3 (The Logan Series)Devil’s Claw: Logan Book 3 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Devil’s Claw is the third book in The Logan Series by Valerie Davisson and is one of my favorites so far in this series! This book is so full of thrills, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading this book! It was so exciting I read the whole book in one sitting; I just couldn’t put it down! I had to know what happened to Logan’s daughter Amy, and the adorable sea otter cub. If you love a good mystery series that is full of thrills and chills, then this series should be on your next-to-read list. The action that goes on is so mind-numbing, it’s like you are right there experiencing everything through Logan’s eyes, her fears are real! I am so excited to start on the next book in this series because if it’s anything like the first three books in this series, it is going to continue to offer a thrill ride I can’t wait to get started on.
@Brandy Rymer
10/20203

View all my reviews

Mr. Wimp (The Human Mating Site Book 1) by B.L. Wilde – Review by Audrie Harrington

/0 Comments/in /by

Mr Wimp (The Human Mating Site #1)Mr Wimp by B.L. Wilde
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a quick novella, but a really fun read. I feel like I was able to get to know the characters well in a short time and there was a lot of action. The main character is dumped by her husband of 12 years and needs to deal with it. She learns that he has been cheating and her friends are excited that she may become more like she used to be. She is heartbroken, confused, but goes out with her friends as the time goes by. I like the idea that the novellas will all become a longer story and can’t wait to read more. I’m not sure how the title fits in yet so I am waiting to read more and understand it. I also am American and I think some of the sayings were weird, but maybe that is just how the Brits say things, almost like words were forgotten. Overall, I really liked the storyline and characters and can’t wait to continue the story!

View all my reviews

Devil’s Claw (Logan McKenna Series Book 3) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Anastasia Dodson

/0 Comments/in /by

Devil's Claw: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Book 3 (Logan McKenna Series)Devil’s Claw: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Book 3 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This series never disappoints! I’ve enjoyed the first two and this one is no different. Logan (our mc) is always running into to trouble and this book includes a mystery, twists and turns, and a mysterious newcomer that shows up out of no where and throws a wrench in a well thought out plan BUT the most important part of this story was… Sea Otters! Absolutely adorable and we get to learn quite a bit about them in this book!

As with this other books in this series, this book can be read as a standalone but IMO this series should be read in order to get the most out of the series! I would recommend this to anyone that love a good mystery!
Happy Reading!

View all my reviews

Liar, Liar (The McIntire County Series Book 4) by Winter Austin – Review by Julie Johnson

/0 Comments/in /by

Liar, Liar (The McIntire County Series: #4)Liar, Liar by Winter Austin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I can’t get enough of this series and this writer’s stories!! They grab you from the first sentence and hang onto you until the last word. Each story is full of adventure, mystery, romance, suspense, and lots of shenanigans.

This story focuses on Sheriff Shane Hamilton. He’s had a pretty rough year and that election was something else. Coming up on a very trying anniversary, Shane is looking forward to having some private time to think back over the memories of the past 19 years. When his phone starts ringing off the hook and messages are blowing up the line, he soon learns that a body was found and his idea of a private weekend is now blown to pieces.

FBI Agent Liza Bartholomew wasn’t planning to return to Eider, Iowa anytime soon. She’d rather not ever step foot back there after the last adventure she had. However, her latest suspect is leading her to Eider and some familiar faces she hasn’t seen in awhile. Trying to keep a very low profile, Liza gets word of a murder when she stops at a local convenience store. Her cover may be blown and her suspect now might get word of her arrival. Everything is blowing up in her face and her plans are shot.

When the sheriff and the FBI Agent end up realizing their cases are connecting and they find themselves spending more time together, feelings start to erupt that neither one wanted initially. The romance build is fun to read about these two!

I highly recommend reading these books in order as the back story is important to really understanding the characters in this series. I’m sure it could be read as a stand alone but there will be some important features lost. I’ve really enjoyed this series and can’t wait for more from this author!

View all my reviews

Devil’s Claw (Logan McKenna Series Book 3) by Valerie Davisson – Review by ASHLEY LAPE

/0 Comments/in /by

Devil's Claw: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Book 3 (Logan McKenna Series)Devil’s Claw: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Book 3 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

All Logan wanted to do was enjoy some quality time working on her art and music. After losing her years prior husband this was just the break she needed for her and her daughter. Yet neither could imagine their lives changing so drastically when they saved a sea otter pup. Gina, the owner of the local sea otter rehabilitation center sits on the land that Gina’s father left her but even that is in jeopardy now. Everything is on the line along with Amy’s life. This is the first book I have read from this series but it won’t be the last that’s for sure! The author did an amazing job giving enough details about the back story that I knew enough to grasp the storyline and the history of the characters.

View all my reviews

Reviewed by @alape

Killer Smile by Allan Evans – Review by Rayne East

/0 Comments/in /by

Killer SmileKiller Smile by Allan Evans
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hooks you in
This is a well executed psychological thriller. It’s dark, gritty storyline has twists and turns that you don’t see coming. This is the sequel to Killer Blonde and the storyline does make reference to events that occurred in the first book but the author does a great job of weaving in key information so it doesn’t detract from this story. I will definitely go back and read the first book though. I enjoyed the character interactions especially Cade and Rook they were like characters of a crime show. This book could easily be made into a movie or tv series. I look forward in this series. Recommend.

View all my reviews

Devil’s Claw (Logan McKenna Series Book 3) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Devil's Claw: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Book 3 (Logan McKenna Series)Devil’s Claw: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Book 3 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In this installment of the Logan McKenna Series, we learn a lot about Otters and conservation of their habitat and those people who don’t care about the otters and using force to hurt people. This is another great book from the author. I really like the main character and the storyline that goes along with her.

View all my reviews

Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Jennifer Crain

/0 Comments/in /by

Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1)Murder at the Wedding by Christine Knapp
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Never being pregnant myself, I loved the facts/tidbits about pregnancy sprinkled at the beginning of each chapter. The start of the book contains a relevant quote from Moby Dick, which sets the tone for the whole book.

The line “I didn’t wake with nightmares. But then again, my nightmares were all coming in the daytime.” It sums up Maeve’s life as she tries to solve a mystery and save their family business. The book excels at character interactions and the main characters are fully flushed out. The field of obstetrics is also described, but not in a boring nonfiction way, but as part of the story.

I was also intrigued to read more about and find out “El Cid” could have been based on a real person!

I found the mystery to be easy to solve, but still really enjoyed this light hearted, fast read.
I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

View all my reviews

@bookworm1909

Forest Park: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 2 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Forest Park: Logan Book 2 (The Logan McKenna Series)Forest Park: Logan Book 2 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In the second book in the Logan McKenna series, the author brings different perspectives of an incident and shows the wide range of characters in the story. I am really enjoying how the perspective of the characters come together to bring better understanding of the crime. There was a lot more action in this book compared to the first book. I again liked Logan’s character and hope we get to understand more of her background.

View all my reviews

Devil’s Claw (Logan McKenna Series Book 3) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Shannen Kern

/0 Comments/in /by

Devil's Claw: Logan Book 3 (The Logan Series)Devil’s Claw: Logan Book 3 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an incredible read! I also appreciate the research that this author put in about otters because they are seriously one of my favorite animals. It made for a perfect combination of learning and thrilling mystery. The way the background is painted for us throughout the book brings such vivid scenery to the forefront of my mind. I will say this definitely had me thrown for a loop with all the twists and turns. I loved the flow of the story, which is absolutely important, so you aren’t jolted out of the world you’ve immersed yourself in. You won’t want to miss this installment of Logan’s mysterious series, and I’ve already picked up the next book because I can’t wait!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

View all my reviews

The Earl, Her Reluctant Guardian by Wareeze Woodson – Review by Jennifer Crain

/0 Comments/in /by

The Earl, Her Reluctant GuardianThe Earl, Her Reluctant Guardian by Wareeze Woodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this historical mystery/romance. One of the main reasons is the vivid descriptions of the setting, for example “fog hovered barely above the ground, gray, cold with a threat to engulf the entire area distorting sight and sound,” for it made me feel like I was in the 1800s. The budding romance between Jacob and Vanessa.

I am always looking for words I don’t know, and this book didn’t disappoint with the word benighted; or the unrest against Napoleon in France (which I didn’t know about it). The Vanesssa character was also written excellently, for example, one of my favorite lines was “I’m not a dashed female jumping at shadows” and “she was not some helpless, spiny ninny.”

Overall, I would highly recommend if you like a fast paced, intriguing story about two people destined to fall in love.

View all my reviews

@bookworm1909

Devil’s Claw (Logan McKenna Series Book 3) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Kristan Anderson

/0 Comments/in /by

Devil's Claw: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Book 3 (Logan McKenna Series)Devil’s Claw: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Book 3 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Devils Claw: A Logan McKenna Mystery by Valerie Davisson is book three in the Logan McKenna series. It does seem as though you could read each book as a standalone, but being a series, I’d just read them in order. This story was a little closer to home for Logan than the previous two books. This one involves a murder at her job and then includes her daughter, Amy, missing. Logan and her daughter are back in California. There was a lot of interesting descriptions in this book, especially about Sea Otters. Again, Valerie is an amazing with making you feel right in the story and assisting with the descriptive movie in your head. But there were also a lot of people that were telling the story to keep track of. Overall, another decent read. I’d be interested in what other crazy scenarios Logan gets herself into.

View all my reviews

Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Betsy Melano

/0 Comments/in /by

Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

With her husband Jack passing due to a car accident, Logan McKenna must continue living and find ways to survive. Although teaching didn’t seem to pan out, Logan continues to find her place in the world. Maybe it’s through helping friends at their booth at an arts festival.
A dead body is found in one of the other booths and the police suspect Logan’s friend is the killer. Logan feels a great need to help her friend.
This book is well written and I enjoyed learning about the main character Logan. She’s a strong woman who cares for others and I can easily relate to her. The world building helped put the story together. A good mystery book and a new series I’m looking forward to read more books by this author.

View all my reviews

Forest Park (Logan McKenna Series Book 2) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Kristan Anderson

/0 Comments/in /by

Forest Park: Logan Book 2 (The Logan McKenna Series)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. Logan is back at it again trying to figure out what has happened. While on vacation to Portland, an explosion at a food truck causes murders where she realizes she knows the deceased. Valerie definitely can explain her way around some food, I had to stop and eat! That said, the author is definitely incredibly descriptive with everything in the book, talk about movie in your head! There are a lot of different views and it jumps around a lot and I admit it took me a little bit to follow and catch who I was reading but I did eventually catch up. The story overall was good, Logan’s character definitely has a lot of depth and I like how it makes her feel real and likely relatable. Here’s to book three and hoping it’s just as good if not better!

View all my reviews

Shattered (Logan McKenna Series Book 1) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Kristan Anderson

/0 Comments/in /by

Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Shattered: A Logan McKenna Mystery by Valerie Davisson is book one in the Logan McKenna series. This is my first introduction to this author and although the book wasn’t my favorite, I will be checking out the rest in the series. It was nice to find a murder mystery that was interesting and not the same as the rest. Logan has been through a lot and is now trying to find herself in the second half of her life. After all, she’s only in her 40s, she’s got more to do in this life. The book itself was good, started dry for me but I came back around. I can appreciate the different arts in the book and found everything quite interesting. Everything was explained in such detail that I felt that I was about to get a good grasp on why Logan enjoyed it. It is at a Festival where there is a murder and one of her friends is a suspect. I am looking forward to book two.

View all my reviews

Zibs for Sale (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jennifer Crain

/0 Comments/in /by

Zibs for Sale: a retelling of Beauty and the Beast (I am an Alien)Zibs for Sale: a retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another worth-reading picture book by Lori Wickstrom. I disliked the discontinuity that the hardware store is light years away, yet they traveled by spaceship faster than lightyears? I did appreciate it parallels the original (and not Disney-fied) retelling of Beauty and the Beast, to expand children’s knowledge of the traditional tale.

The story is supported through vibrant, colorful illustrations. Although a little wordy at times, the story is intriguing enough to be engaging to students. I also learned, I probably wouldn’t like to eat Zibs!

View all my reviews

@bookworm1909

Sins of the Father (The McIntire County Series Book 3) by Winter Austin – Review by Tonya Merritt

/0 Comments/in /by

Sins of the Father (The McIntire County Series: #3)Sins of the Father by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love Winter Austin’s books. I think this story is my favorite of the McIntire County series though. Jolie and Xavier make me fan myself. Jolie is on the search; will she prove Xavier is innocent or is he the one with the little girl? A wonderful ride of adventure and romance, that will keep you reading for hours!

View all my reviews