Corpse Pixie by Sinister Styx
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I truly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see how the story continues. The paranormal storyline was a unique combination I believe I have come across before. It was a quick, easy enjoyment read that I would recommend reading.
Where Fire Meets Flame by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A meeting of eyes, with a spark of interest, in the coffee shop – exactly what Riley Scott and Tristan Cain have – yet neither of them act on it, each for their own reasons. Yet, as fate would have it, they would see each other again. And so begins their story.
This story was well written with well developed characters and detailed words building. I would recommend this book to others. It was a quick, enjoyable read.
Pulling Together by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This adorable story can teach kids it is ok to have different interests and still be friends. There is nothing wrong with being different. Being kind and caring is truly what friendship comes down to.
Wickstrom had become a go-to purchase for me when shopping for my nieces and nephews. The stories are always well written, and the illustrations are on point as well. I would recommend this book to others.
Under My Care by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Another hit! This is the second book by Dunn I have read, and again, I would recommend picking it up. I couldn’t put this book down. It had a little bit of everything: suspense, secrets, medicine, danger, and love. Will Rowena and Pete have a love story or their own? Will they survive the dangers they face? You’ll have to pick up the book to find out, but it is worth it.
Shadow Wolf by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Let me start out saying if you don’t enjoy stories ending on cliffhangers, this one is not for you. This is both the first is a series and the first book by lilliana Rose. There is a bit of suspense, mystery, and romance. We have Tamaska, a human who is hired to organize the sale of the Blood Opal. It’s stolen before this happens; however, Kodiak, a member of the security team, knows it was the vampires who are responsible for the theft. His werewolf pack runs the security company hired by Tamaska, and now they must get the gem back. Will Tamaska find out the whole truth? How will she handle it? Will she choose a side? Can Tamaska and Kodiak overcome their differences?
While I really do not enjoy stories that are true cliffhangers, I didn’t realize this one was until I was too invested. I really enjoyed the authors writing style and can’t wait yo see how she has this story play out.
Emissary: An MM Forbidden Romance by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Kai, an angel of death, a celestial, who is suppose to take out watchers and demons. But, Byron is a different, he is the first to make Kai question is this the right thing? Byron, a demon – different from all the others, questions why Kai spares him. Can he trust him? Can the two overcome the obstacles life puts in thier way?
I truly enjoyed the world building and the story evolution between Kai and Byron. I would recommend giving this story a chance and continue on in the series.
Master Calabrea: Dark Vampire Romance by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
With Isla and the other traitors trying to reek havoc, Master Calabrea is tasked with finding Isla and returning with her alive. Tansia is assigned to the masters team thanks to her emerging psychic powers. There is an instant attraction for Calabrea. But, nothing is ever simple. Tansia goes off on her own with dire consequences. Will Tansia and Calabrea ‘s chance at happiness be gone before it begins? Will Calabrea be able to find Tansia in time?
I have absolutely loved this series and can not wait for the next book. I was a bit bummed it ended on such a cliffhanger but excited to see what happens next.
Grace Under Fire by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Growing up on the family farm Grace knew her dream was to take over from her parents, run the farm and add her own stamp to it. However due to unforesee circumstances the time table to buy own her parents has moved forward significantly. Ryan ran from town 8 years prior due to a family tragedy but he is back now. Though he has no plans on sticking around, he just wants to sell his mom’s farm and move on again. Grace and Ryan have known each other for years but the tragedy Ryan left over also ended up meaning he left grace’ s friendship behind as well. Will Grace and Ryan be able to work through their history to be friends again? Eill Grace be able to turn to Ryan for support and help? Will Ryan be able to care for Grace in more than passing? Will Grace and Ryan be able to overcome thier past trauma, allowing Rachel other to live and love?
I have really enjoyed the Anderson sisters series both books were quick easy reads with great characters and unique stories to each of the girls. Each book can be read as a standalone so the order doesn’t really matter. Just pick a book and enjoy!
Caspian’s UnBirthday by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Caspian and his grandpa are off on a new adventure with his newest unbirthday gift! A pair of brown socks! This story briefly touches on things such as graciousness, thankfulness, and spending time with family. This is a unique short story that is creative, a dash of the unexpected with an enjoyable time. I would recommend this book to younger children. It is an adorable read.
Operation Blackbird by Ellen Butler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Being a spy during the Cold War came with all sorts of challenges. Miriam had experienced more than one of them. Her team’s current assignment is to relocate a defecting scientist and his family to America. But, things can never be that simple. They must evade other spies from multiple agents all while staying alive.
This book is the second in the series though it can be read as a standalone. I enjoyed Butler’s ability to weave an amazing story while keeping many things from the story true to the period and her characters having depth. I can’t wait to read more by this author. I would suggest this book to others.
Hit on You by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A year earlier, Luke Williams fled love in the middle of the night, determined to protect herself. Even though she left him, Nikolai Bazenhov knows where Lu landed and has kept tabs on her from a distance. However, when Lu finds herself in danger Nikolai steps in and uses everything at his disposal to keep her safe. Will that be enough? Will Lu accept the help? Can she keep herself protected from falling for Nikolai a second time? Will the two find their happily ever after?
This was the first book by May I have read but it will not be the last. I enjoyed her character development and well as world-building. Her writing was easy to follow as well as hard to put down. I would recommend this book.
Talisman by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
As an ancestor of Celtic warriors that have been cursed, Rowen Sheridan must find his talisman or die. The talisman is the one woman who the warrior develops a special one of a kind connection. Orphaned at a young age, Alyssa Macaulay is raised without the knowledge of her family’s history and heritage. Alyssa is thrown into the deep end when she ends up in Rowen’s path. Will she be able to adjust to this new reality? Will Rowen and Alyssa find a HEA? Can they break the curse?
I really enjoyed this story and can’t wait for the next book in the series. The story was well – written and easy to follow. The characters have depth and are relatable, to an extent. This book gives you a little bit of everything; action, mythology, and romance. Worth the read!
Chatroom With A View by Glenn Maynard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book but after reading the sleeve I knew I had to read it. Chatroom with a view was far darker than I was expecting; it may be triggering for some. Troy, one of the main characters, character took be through a range of emotions. I started out feeling sympathetic to his history but by the end of the book I found I really did not care for him ( well written character I believe this was the author’s intent). the book was well written, though there were a few places I felt like there was something missing. Even still I would recommend this book. I know I will be reading more of Maynard.
Sharing His Nanny by Tori Chase
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Desperate to make ends meet until she can find a new investor to back her fashion line, Stella does something she really doesn’t want to do. She calls her step mother for another loan and to ask for an extension on the previous one. She ,however, doesn’t get that far before her stepmother is telling her to meet her in Malibu. Not knowing what she was agreeing to but knowing she needs the help Stella meets her. When she gets there she realizes she is at her stepbrother’s vacation home. Stella is surprised when Charles arrives with a surprise of his own, a little girl. Her stepmother informs her this is the job she is needed for…..to be the nanny for a month while her stepbrother and his two best friends are there on their annual vacation. Not having a choice she agrees, even knowing what the three men use this vacation for every year. I mean how hard can it be for her to hide her crush when they will be busy partying it up. Little does she know the next month will change her life forever in more than one way. She she ready?
This was a well written story with lots of steamy scenes. if you like it hot, I would suggest reading this book. There were a few places the story did not flow as well as I thought they should but it was not overly distracting from the story. I will definitely be going back to read the other book in the series.
Fear Inc.: Volume Three by Melinda Valentine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What do you do when you fall for your best friends little sister? For Kasper, it’s have a hidden relationship until reality slaps him in the face at which point he breaks both their hearts, walking away. Six years later, Krysta
still hates Kasper for what he did. At least that’s what she claims.
When trouble comes for Krysta, the truth must come out, letting the chips fall where they may in order to save her. Kasper plans to fight for Krysta, prove to her she is it for him. His timing couldn’t be worse though. Will Krysta be able to forgive Kasper? Can she open her heart to him again? Or will.she continue down the path she had put herself on?
While this is the third book.in the series and is able to be read as a standalone which wish I had read them in order. The character carry over and the histories.hinted at would probably add the book. The story is easy to follow and you don’t need the background for the.story to flow well? Just a personal preference. The book is well written and I would suggest giving it a read.
My Pearl Heart by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Jasmine has a hard life; she hasn’t let that slow her down though. She co-owns and runs ‘Divine Events’ with her best friend Candance. They plan and host events for the social elite. James is a member of one of the most prominent families in New England. His past is scattered with bad decisions and failed ventures. He has cleaned up his act but in order to get the financing for his new venture he has to marry. Candace and him have come to an arrangement, get married and then a quickly divorce. What could go wrong? Jasmine gets kissed by a stranger; the kiss was the best she had experianced and it knocked her for a loop. She is shocked to learn her best friend’s fiance and the man you kissed her are one in the same, What is she going to do, she is to serve as their wedding planner. Will the wedding go through? Who will James pick? Is there a way to find everyone a happily ever after? You’ll have to read to see, but I promise you won’t be disappointed.
This was the first book by Sheats that i have read; I really enjoyed it. I loved the main characters and how they interacted with each other as well as the bit of background given. I actually would have like a bit more background details, not have them does not take from the book. The story was a quick, easy read which flowed well I would reccomand this book to friends.
WE Blend by Willa Drew
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Being the step daughter of a famous musician isn’t always an easy thing. This is true for El;who is determined to make her own way in the music industry. She does not want to use her last name or parent’s name just to get doors to open which is even more difficult when you have extremely overprotect parents.
Wil is in LA to participate in a film competition which really could provide him with a once in a lifetime opportunity.
When the two meet there are sparks and a chemistry that can’t be denied. Will the two act on them? Will each reach their goals? Will they be completely honest with each other? Will they trust in each other?
This story is well written. The story line is easy to follow, has great imagery, and wonderfully written characters. While I am not usually a cliffhanger type, now that I have read the book, I am invested and can not wait to see what comes next.
Jake by Toni Denise
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Four blind dates- what can it hurt to get his friends off his back. Jake is tired of the women he meets just being after his money. Lauren is focused on her goals and making her way on her own. What will happen when the two each agree to a blind date set by a friend, or in Jake’s case 4 dates? Will they find what they didn’t even know they were looking for? Will the money be a breaking point between the two? Will their difference actually be a good thing?
I really enjoyed this story. It was a well written, page turner. I loved the characters, not just the main two but the supporting characters as well. I cant wait to see how the rest of the guys turn in the hot seat play out. I would absolutely recommend reading this story. I know I am ready to dive into the next in the series.
Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
My niece and nephew always love when I bring them a new Wickstrom story book; she is one of their favorite authors. This book was even more exciting for them, two stories in one. These stories followed Dino friends Conifer and Spike on two different adventures. Along the way the two learn about kindness, working together, and understanding just to name a few skills. The story is well written and with excellent illustrations. I would recommend this as well as Wickstrom’s other books for elementary ages kids, or kids that are struggling with their reading levels. Overall an adorable story with a moral.
Unearthly Magik by Matilda Reyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
When best friends Ava, Nadia, and Lucas decide to take their combined skills and partner opening the Black Cauldron Detective Agency they take all kinds of cases. Whether it be man hunting for the mage equivocate of a mafia boss or family pet they will take any supernatural case for the right price. The three of them receive a cryptic message asking for a meeting, deciding together it is not a hoax they accept. Their curiosity turns into something different when it is realized that they mystery client is Ava’s ex boss calling in a favor he is owed. The Lauret Grimoire, containing the knowledge about the different creatures and clans, not only that but their vulnerabilities as well, so much if fact it is believed it would be powerful enough to take out the Arch mage. Will the group be able to find the Grimoire before the information gets into the wrong hands and used against their enemies? Will the resources available be enough or will they be too late?
Unearthly Magik is the first book in the Black Cauldron Detective Agency series by Matilda Reyes. The story has a bit of everything which makes the story easy to immerse yourself into and get lost. I loved Reyes writing style – how she gave depth, substance, and visualization to both her characters and the world they live. I will note that there are some points in the story where blurs from the characters are in Spanish or a combination of English/ Spanish. While I felt the surrounding conversation gave enough context to infer what was being discussed this may be an issue for some. I can’t wait to see what the Black Cauldron Detective Agency get themselves wrapped up in next!
Master Romano by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Having read the first three books in the Masters of the Consulate series, I could not wait to read Romano’s story. I would like to point out the series should be read in order for the best experience.
Having recently discovered the treachery within their ranks the Masters of the Consulate are being overly suspicious of each other as well as cautious. Romano is aware the others fear he may be a traitor to their kind, but he is not just going to be an open book. He has given everything to them and is now feeling the sting of betrayal himself; still he is going to do what he can for his people.
Raven is found sneaking onto Master Romano’s property, when confronted by Romano she disappears in to thin air, which signals she is a witch. Witches and vampires are suppose to be on opposites of a war however they are intrigued instead. As their relationship grows will the two be able to figure out a way to be together? What will they do if they must choice? Will they be able to go against everyone to have their happily ever after? Will they be able to protect those they care for yet keep each other?
Romano’s story did not disappoint. I would recommend not only this story but the whole series. I can not wait to see what comes next.
My Darling Rogue by April Moran
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The bastard son of a nobleman, Gabriel Rose has earned himself a place in the ton that can not be disputed. It on the edge thanks to many but, it does not really matter to the women , they see him as a thrill to be had. He has his eye on Lady Cecilia Buchanan. Lady Cecilia comes across as the typical daughter of high society however she has a secret she feels makes her unworthy. Due to this She has managed to avoid her mothers attempts to marry her off. But that avoidance ends with Gabriel. She says no but Gabriel is determined. Will Gabriel’s be enough for him to put in the work to win Cecelia? Will Cecelia be able to open herself to Gabriel , giving him the trust that must exist between a couple? Will Gabriel and Cecelia both get what they want, their own happily ever after?
I really enjoyed reading this story. Watching Cecelia and Gabriel come together and of course all the spice along the way made for an exciting read! I can not wait to see what comes next in this series. Worth the read.
Rivals by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Growing up in a mafia family Mia knows her worth to her father. Fearing the outcome of her father’s plans, Mia plans to leave. Before she can her step-brother drugs her and takes her with plans to use her for his own gain. Mia escapes and heads to the one person she knows can offer her the protection she needs, at least, as long as he doesn’t kill her. Nico La Rosa is not expecting Mia or her demand of marriage. Since Nico did not expect to marry, after deciding the information that will be provided outweighs than potential negatives of the arrangement, he agreed. As the two work together toward a common goal, they will run into obstacles, discover old secrets that explain much, and grow to like each other. Will Nico and Mia succeed in ruining her family’s trafficking ring? Will Nico really be enough to protect Mia in the end? Will Nico and Mia find love in there arranged marriage after all?
This is only the second book by Amy McKinley I have read, but I will definitely be reading more of her work. I loved that the female lead was strong on her own, she had a mind of her own and stood her ground. While this book is the 7th in the series, it can easily be read as a stand alone without much confusion. There are definite advantages to reading the series in order though, it provides more information on how the families interact, how things have come to be as they are, as well as gives more depth to many of the characters.
I would recommend reading this story, in fact, the whole series.
Watcher by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Watcher is the first book in the Star-Crossed Celestials Duet by A.L Morrow. Jace is a watcher who always seems to make the wrong choice in men, falling hard and fast. Cyrus is a messenger, newly assigned to the city. When the two meet it is instant attraction. The issue is they should be on opposite sides of a war that has been going on for years between the Watchers, Demons, and Messengers. The Messengers believing the other two should not exist. While Jace and Cyrus do not care they should be against each other, they face many obstacles on their road to happiness. Will they be able to overcome the challenges that come with being on opposite sides? Will each be able to keep their loyalties as well as each other? Will their feelings be strong enough to fight for what they want?
I really enjoyed reading this story. It was well written and the characters had depth. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Taylor’s Law by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
After caring for her sister and niece until her sister’s death, Ella Anderson is committed to continuing to provide a loving home to her niece, Tessa, just as she discussed with her sister. However, after returning home from the funeral Ella finds her sister has received a summons request in regards to paternity and custody, the date – the following day. Overwhelmed, but determined to do whats best for Tessa, Ella goes to the meeting believing things will be manageable. They are anything but. Jake Taylor, the attorney representing, the potentially paternal grandparents believes the whole situation is a gambit for money and makes it clear that is the case.
What does Jake know that Ella doesn’t? What is going to happen to Tessa? Will Ella lose all in the end? Or will everyone win? Will all the secrets and lies be overcome?
I thoroughly enjoyed Taylor’s Law by Jennifer Raines. There was a depth to the story that you do not always find. I enjoyed reading the changes that each of the main characters go through allowing them to not only grow as a person but also allow themselves to go after what they truly want. I would recommend this book; it is worth the read.
I’m Not Your Difference by Theresa Sederholt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
After his husband left him, with just a note, Andy has worked hard to pick up the pieces of himself. Just as he is finally ready to dip his toes back in the dating pool, his ex, Stephan, comes back around wanting a second chance. Andy talks these things through with best friend and brother-in-law Fitz. In this process, Andy finds out that there is a suspected serial killer killing guy men in manners that suggest suicide.
Will Andy hear Stephan out? Will he allow him a second chance? Will Andy find someone new? Will Andy end up in the cross hairs of a killer?
I’m Not Your Difference is the fourth book in the Fitz Series by Theresa Sederholt. While this story can be read as a standalone I will note that I believe reading them in order would probably give better background, history and depth of the characters and how they came to be in each other’s lives. Many of the support characters seem to have been in the series from the beginning which is what led me to the read in order suggestion. I personally have not read the first three books. I did fall in love with many of the characters present in Andy’s story and cant wait to go back to read the other’s stories. I would absolutely recommend this book.
****NOTE I will note that there are some graphic non consensual scenes and violence in the story that may be a trigger for some.****
Levi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
After the unexpected loss of their parents, the Delaney triplets must decide the best way to care for their younger sister. The three decide all of them will live on the ranch to care for her, though none of them have a clue what they are doing. Shortly after moving back, Levi, a retired navy seal, receives a call from an old contact asking for his help. Thinking this may be the answer to his prays, Levi brings Bella aka Beccy to the ranch under the guise of a nanny/ housekeeper. His job is to keep her hidden and protected from her ex whom she is helping put behind bars. Will Bella be able to be a convincing housekeeper? Will the two be able to tolerate each other enough to keep the peace while stuck with each other? Can Levi keep her safe?
This is the first book by Edith Mackenzie I have read; I can not wait to see what comes next with the Delaney triplets- which triplet will fall next? This was a quick enjoyable read, I would absolutely recommend reading!
Death & Mirrors: All Things Dark & Deadly, Book One by S.F. Benson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Evaline wants to be a great detective. When a stranger comes to her father for his aid, he declines. This peaks her interest and off she goes. Evaline finds herself on an adventure like no other. Cast into a mirror world she discovers a world that is being overrun by evil. Evaline sets off to defeat evil. Will she be able to? What challenges with she face?
This is the first book by S.F. Benson I have read. I really enjoyed the unique writing style and imagination that is present throughout the book. The story does have an Alice in Wonderland vibe. I will definitely be picking up Death & Shadows to see how the series continues. Well worth the read!
Vive la Resistance by Seelie Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The Traits are back, still on the run and fighting against the Coalition that wants them dead. As the fight continues others join. Half bloods, who are treated like second class citizens, fight for the right to be an equal part of the vampire nation. Will the war remain hidden from the humans- as it must? Will the half bloods succeed? Will the Traits be able to keep their children safe? Will everyone survive the fight? What side will win?
This is the third installment in the Donovan Trait series. I enjoyed this one as much as the first two. I would strongly suggest reading this series in order just for the background and charter building. I would recommend reading not only this book but, this series.
Ye Gods! The Law is an Ass! by Seelie Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ye Gods! The Law is an Ass! is the second book of the Donovan Trait series. The story picks up where book one ended; if you have not read book one I would suggest reading it first. Trait and his love interest Judge Shirley Magnusen are set to marry. Since it is a vampire marriage it is far more complicated than a human one. The couple must sign an agreement with the Vampire Coalition. 1. Magnusen must be turned and 2. conception and pregnancies of any kind the Coalition has control of. When it is discovered that the couple did not uphold their end of the deal they go on the run while trying to find a solution. Will they find one? Will they be safe? Can they protect their family? Will the changes lead to bigger issues among the vampire community?
I would recommend reading this story if you enjoyed the first and want to see what adventures await the couple.
