Creatures of the Night by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I enjoyed this fantasy story. This is a great mix of a paranormal and mythological adventure. Everything was brought to life and the story and world was beautifully written. I do think this story ended quite quickly but I hope to see more of these characters and of this world.
Ocean’s Three by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the 2nd installment in the Made in Heaven series and it can be read as a standalone. While Kincaid stays true to her paranormal romance MFM, the characters and setting are different. The basic plot line is similar to the 1st installment in such that Cameron, Reed, and Jocelyn meet (initially) in their dreams; however, the storyline and development of the characters does vary from the first book. I do feel that this book was more emotional than the first one and definitely brought a tear or two to my eyes. I enjoyed this book, but it’s definitely a niche that you want to make sure you’re into because it is a bit different.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
The Empty Box by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
It’s Caspian’s UnBirthday again and Grandpa has surprised him with another magical UnBirthday gift. But this time Caspian’s gift box is empty! Did Grandpa forget? Follow Caspian on this magical adventure as Grandpa teaches him how to use his UnBirthday gift.
I love the illustrations in Wickstrom’s books and she’s able to always teach the readers a lesson in her own unique way.
Reviewed by @meggs1717
Taming Brooklyn by Charlotte St. Pierre
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book gave me a softer Den of Vipers vibe. I really enjoyed it. Who doesn’t want the attention of four guys? Maybe scratch out the ex drama but every girl has fantasized about multiple guys giving her attention with no jealousy on their behalf. Taming Brooklyn will have you everywhere in your own emotions, falling for the guys, fearful of her ex, and worried about her future. I too like muscular forearms. Can’t wait for the next book in this series to find out what happens!
The Challenger: A Sports Romance Saga by Rowan Rossler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I’ve never been into tennis but really enjoyed the idea of it in this book. It had plenty to tell you about it but not too much to make you feel like you are dumb about the game. The Challenger had a good suspense plot, along with the romance and love story. There is much to follow in this story but it is very easy to read and follow.
The Thieves by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
After reading the first novel in this series, I could not wait to get my hands on the second. Unfortunately this one did not meet the standards of the first book, but I still really enjoyed it. The reason for the four stars instead of five is because I had such high hopes and I was let down a tad by this one. However, this novel is very original. There is not necessarily a “good” guy in the situation. You feel sorry for Jas, but she still committed a crime to try to help her father. Not only that, but she created three other accomplices along the way.
The author does an amazing job creating characters that come to life, a plot that does not disappoint, and a story that you cannot put down until you finish it. The author creates characters like Jas and Bets that you like but want to dislike in the same token. Their moral compass is a tad skewed, but what would you do if you were in their position? Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a good action-packed novel. Such a quick and easy read. This can also be read as a stand-alone. The only thing that really connects the two novels is Millersville; the plot lines are completely separate.
Review by @aware
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Ocean’s Three by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a great story and I loved the main characters. However, I believe we could have seen a lot more growth from each one. I felt this story was too short. However, there wasn’t anything I hated. I just wanted more from these characters and I didn’t want their story to end. We get to see some growth from Jocelyn along the way, but I wish we got more of a glimpse into the men, Cameron and Reed. Overall a great story though, and I’d read it again.
The Challenger: A Sports Romance Saga by Rowan Rossler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The story of Flynn and Chavez is a bit of thrill, mystery and spicy romance. These two set of sparks that steam up the Kindle window just a little bit. They both have some emotional baggage that they need to deal with and that’s what makes this really kind of an exciting story. I enjoyed The Hustler but I think this story sure did give it a run for the money. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for us with the final one in this trio.
The Empty Box by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Imaginative children’s book
This cute children’s picture story book is the first in the Invisible Magic Wand series. We meet Caspian on his unbirthday as his grandpa gives him his ‘silly’ present. This year is different. What follows is a fun, magical adventure. The book has brilliant illustrations which capture key moments and is easy to read. This would be a great addition to any home library.
The Challenger: A Sports Romance Saga by Rowan Rossler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was amazing!!! It has everything you could possibly want in a book and then some. It has an intriguing story line that will keep you guessing about what is going to happen, what happened to who, and the best question is can they save each other. The characters of this book have suffered throughout their life. Being a professional athlete has it tolls and other things that happen in life all compound into the very best story. The chemistry between the main characters is amazing and the banter that the author indulges the reader on is spot on. It felt as though I was there listening to these people in real life. I did cry while reading this book so please make sure you are prepared. This book was so well written that every emotion the characters felt, I felt. This is the second book in the series but you can read this book as a stand alone and be completely fine. However, if you are like me you are going to want to read the first book because of the way this book made you feel.
Reviewed by: @bbohls
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Falling for You by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this book, maybe more than the first one. Usually the first book in a series is my favorite, but I really fell in love with Evan and CeCe. I love that these characters are so real and relatable. Heartbreak is a real thing, it’s something that CeCe has dealt with in the past and it keeps her closed off from so many, especially Evan who just wants to love her. Evan is hopeful and optimistic and definitely wears his heart on his sleeve, especially where CeCe is concerned. As hard as she fights it CeCe eventually admits and gives into her own attraction to Evan. How will their budding relationship do when CeCe’s horrible ex comes in to town for a food truck competition? Evan isn’t someone who will give up on CeCe without a hard fight. This is definitely a must read!
Falling for You by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was an amazing,y sweet, easy weekend read! It has all of the cozy elements you could ask for and is definitely Hallmark-ish. This is the 2nd book in the series, it follows different characters from the same town. CeCe is just as broody as a normal character in a love story, but it still provides all the feelings while you’re whisked away into the setting and storyline! Definitely a must read!
The Thieves by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the second book in The Millersville Series. It is a fast paced, entertaining thriller. Each chapter rotates from the viewpoint of Jasmine and Bets. There is plenty of high stakes and action on this novel. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat. You just never know who’s going to to show up or what’s about to happen until it does.
Amazing! I love the story, very captivating and had me at the edge of my seat. You will not be disappointed, great characters and twisting storylines. This is my second book from this author, and I just loved it; I recommend to anyone who like a fast passed suspenseful thriller.
A Stranger in Disguise: An Italian Murder Mystery by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
4/5 starts
This book takes place in Rome which is pretty cool! It was my first book in the series and I enjoyed it. I’ll probably go back and read the first 3 books, but it’s not a necessity. This book has so many twists and turns that I read eagerly waiting for the next page. It was an easy, but interesting read!
The Empty Box by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Lovable stories! These books are fully of imagination and trust. I love how this book has family traditions, that are being shared. Full of dream and hopes and fun, characters and stories are equally great. I recommend this book to everyone who loves to read.
Mission 3047: One Soul’s Fantasy by Stuart Ledwith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A sci-fi book full of love and healing. I was a little skeptical at first as we read about Joe’s upbringing, meeting his future wife Chloe and the accident. With in a couple pages, I was intrigued by the story and couldn’t stop reading. The author writes in a way that keeps you involved in the care for Joe. As you read and get to know the characters, you feel so much love from family and friends around to help heal him. The partnership between Sarge and June, aka Chloe, is a little hard to understand at first but it didn’t bother me as much as I originally thought it would. Overall, the book was a new twist to the sci-fi genre and I’m glad I decided to read it.
Falling for You by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
An absolutely sweet small town romance. This is the second book in the series and can be read as a stand alone. It follows CeCe and Evan with sprinkles of the book one cast scattered in the story. The characters are easy to connect with as their stories unfold. It leaves you wanting to know more with each turn of the page. One cannot help but to root for the main characters throughout the story. A very enjoyable read, so much so that I devoured it in one day.
CeCe is wants control both in her life and in the kitchen. She has no room for distractions, even if a coworker has captured her attention. Evan works with CeCe at the restaurant. He has had a crush on her from day one but he isn’t making the move yet. Love cannot be rushed after all. The past that broke CeCe rolls into town hosting a major food competition. Even wants to compete with CeCe, but is she ready to move on from the past? Is Evan enough sunshine and optimism that they pull through?
Chicken Little investigates by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This story was great full of teamwork and friendships. Investigation to the end, lots of meeting friends along the way. I am a big fan of this author and love sharing her books with family and friends. I recommend this to all readers, young and old alike.
The Letter Carrier by Laurie L.C. Lewis is an amazing historical fiction book. Historical fiction is not in my top five favorite genres, BUT let me tell you, I LOVED this book! Lewis did an amazing job collecting background information for over three years, she talked with Michelle Naget and studied french documents to fully immerse the reader in Michelle’s story. Michelle was not even twelve when Germany invaded her village and tore her world apart making her once peaceful life full of fear and hardships. Michelle and her family faced many challenges but never lost faith. Her steadfast faith inspires me and makes me want to try better with my own faith. I cannot praise this book enough! It is a must-read!
Falling for You by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Falling for You was such a cute book. I loved it more than Falling Home, the first book in the Buckeye Falls series, which is saying a lot. This series gives me a Gilmore Girls feel- the small town, where everyone knows everyone. I have CeCe envisioned like Sookie- the amazing chef that is a little quirky but everyone loves. Evan is a few years younger, and landed in Buckeye Falls a couple years ago, and has has a crush on CeCe ever sense. He finally makes his feelings known, and hopes the feelings are reciprocated. CeCe carries a bit of baggage from her previous relationship, which she has hidden well… That is until said ex, brings a cooking competition to Buckeye Falls. Things heat up in the kitchen, and outside… and I loved it. I hardly put this book down, I love all the characters, and Evan is wonderful. I am glad the previous characters from book 1 continued to make appearances throughout. Please let there be more to come!!
Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy
Shadow by D.M. Earl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Shadow is the second book in the Devil’s Handmaidens MC Series by D. M. Earl. The series follows an all-female motorcycle club, with each book focused on a specific member of the club. Shadow focuses on the club’s enforcer, Zoey. There is such a roller coaster of emotions in this book; from anger, fear, and heartache to shock, sadness, and love. Just like the first book, Earl uses amazing world building to put the reader in the middle of small town life in Timber-Ghost, Montana. I think Shadow could be read as a standalone; however, having the back story from the first book and getting to know the characters already will really make this book flow a lot more quickly. Definitely another winner by D. M. Earl!
Ale’s Fair in Love and War by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book had me laughing from the get go at the antics of Cash and Hollis. What starts as a prank war between the two side by side businesses turns a bit more serious when Cash’s brother Miller finds himself in the wrath of Hollis’ sister and father. Add to that a situation that is jeopardizing the business Cash decides to do whatever it takes to keep his business afloat even if it means help from his snarky neighbor. Meanwhile Hollis is fighting a guilty conscience in that she may have had a hand in the predicament of Cash’s business and offers help even if it is to alleviate her sense of guilt. Can these two ever find level footing or is the attraction to much to withstand and will drag them both under?
This is a hilarious, well written book that will go onto my list of books to be read often. I really enjoyed the snarky banter, the increasing tension, and the prank war that these two find themselves in. If you enjoy romantic comedies then definitely give this book a try it is well worth the read and I truly cannot recommend it enough.
The Thieves by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Thieves left me feeling similar to Shore Lodge, another book in the series. I can’t really describe it, a feeling of incompleteness…. They are stand alone and non-overlapping characters. This book, while exciting and entertaining, ended too abruptly. The wrap up was too quick and clean. The characters were wonderful, and there was a lot of unexpected reveals along the way. Some parts had me on the edge of my seat and other parts I was laughing. I’m glad how Dan turned out… I was worried for a while I would hate him. I don’t want to reveal too much but this book was worth the read. I look forward to the next book in the series.
Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy
Streets of Shadow by Rebecca Bischoff
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is a real page turner. Also, the era of where all the events take place are right on point since it takes place in 1665. The characters are very well done, each character is relatable in their own way based on their past experiences. This book shows you the difference between two extremes of being “a lady” and “a servant” in an established household. I do recommend reading this book, it’s not what I expected it to be in a good way.
Ocean’s Three by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Cameron and Reed are cousins who meet Jocelyn in their shared dream one night when they were kids. She never believed they were real until many years later when fate puts them all on board a cruise ship!
Jocelyn has gone from running away from the boys in the past but now that she knows they are real will she give into her feelings? Will they be able to get her to understand their feelings? Can 3 people make a relationship work?
But wait, there’s more… Cameron has visions, a bit of a psychic. Will his ability to see things change the outcome of their relationship?
The Empty Box by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Every year on Caspian’s Unbirthday his Grandpa puts his present under his bed. This year Caspian finds an empty box as his present and is disappointed. Then Grandpa tells him that inside the box is an invisible magic wand that will only work when he names it. Once Caspian learns how to use his invisible magic wand he is able to control time. If he wants something to go quickly, he is able to speed time up. If he wants to enjoy something longer Caspian can slow time down and stretch it out. This comes in handy when Caspian wants to make the school day go by faster, or when he wants to really enjoy eating his favorite dessert.
This was another wonderful book by this author who has once again written a super cute and fun book for children. I loved the idea of an invisible magic wand and being able to speed up or slow down time. If I had an invisible magic wand when I was in school I would have done the same as Caspian and sped up the school day so that it went by faster. Caspian has a lot of great adventures with his invisible magic wand both at school and at home. The story was entertaining, and the illustrations really brought the story to life. A cute story for children of all ages.
Chicken Little investigates by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Lois Wickstrom is really good at writing children’s books, and this one is no different, the only thing I didn’t care for was that the first couple pages were from another story. Even the names of the animal characters was the same. This book however is cute and will be entertaining for children who may not be as familiar with the original Chicken Little story.
Taming Brooklyn by Charlotte St. Pierre
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The men in this book are hot as sin. Oliver and Jaxon are playful romantics, Gideon is the strong, protector, and Aiden is the true Alpha, quiet, calm and powerful. Yet they all are enamored by Brooklyn. The thing I am not sure about is the title of this story. It says “Taming Brooklyn” like there is a D/s relationship somewhere in this story and there is not. This is a RH story and Brooklyn is a survivor of domestic abuse and is employed by a non-profit group that helps foster kids. The four Knight “brothers” own a club and they are investing in the non-profit. Anyway Oliver and Jaxon discover Brooklyn first and they are determined to be with her. In true brotherly fashion (well normal for these brothers) they share everything. This story does have instances and talks of Rape, violence, fighting, and graphic sexual encounters with multiple partners so reader discretion required. I however loved every suspense filled page and cannot wait for book 2 since this one does end in a cliff hanger.
A Dress To Remember: A Fairy Tale by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
WOW what an amazing book. Princess Zarina, the youngest of 13 children is about to have a birthday and it is the year of her Royal Advancement. She wants an amazingly beautiful dress unlike any other that has been seen in the kingdom. Her aunt takes her to a dressmaker outside of the castle that she has heard about and Princess Zarina instructs the woman as to what it is she wants. There are conditions of course, but Princess Zarina agrees to the conditions.
This book is full of adventures, loss, war, being chased and rescues. You can watch Princess Zarina learn and grow and mature through out this book. It is a very good book about responsibility and growing up and taking responsibility for your actions.
I really enjoyed this story and will be buying it in print to share with my daughter.
