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Rebound (Rewind Book 4) By Rowna Shaw – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Rebound (Rewind #4)Rebound by Rowan Shaw
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about breakups. Nosh thought he had it all. But when he finds his boyfriend Hugo cheating on him with an actor, his whole world is turned upside down. He turns to his friend Adrien and stays at his house for a while. Can he get over Hugo and move on?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Noah standing up for himself but emotive underneath or Hugo as cold and manipulative. Great cast of supporting characters like the fun friend Nour or the supportive Adrien or the quieter Raphael.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with Paris with its streets full of life and people and colour despite Noahs mood contrasting perfectly. Or the scenes at dinner with the candles and food as intimate and homely. Or Rapheals house with its sense of culture with bright paintings and lots of books with smells and sounds so vivid its as if you’re actually there.
The switch of perspectives worked well to display all the sides of the story and was easy to follow with names in the chapter titles. I also liked the use of French culture throughout the novel with its foods and language giving the book a sense of character. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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Covert Threat (A Grey Ghost Novel Book 5) by Amy McKinley – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Covert Threat (Gray Ghost #5)Covert Threat by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about science and danger. Jules is a research scientist working on some military type drug with her company. But when strange things start to happen and a boat race goes wrong, she realises science is more dangerous than she expected. To protect her, she enlits the help of bodyguard Trev Shaw. Together, they try to work out what is going on as events unravel. Can they find out who is behind it all before it’s too late?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Jules standing up for herself but with her fears underneath or Trev as assertive but kind underneath
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the storm at the beginning with its sights and sounds so vivid its as if you’re actually there.
I also liked the use of suspense with small details revealed slowly to make you keep reading to find out what happened and whos begin it all. The first person narrative worked well to display Jules thoughts and feelings throughout the novel. The only issue I would raise is that sometimes the scientific terms used were hard to understand what they meant and may cause confusion for some readers. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.

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The Istanbul Conspiracy (Code Raven #7) by Lynda Filler – Review by Sarah Oakes

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The Istanbul Conspiracy (Code Raven #7)The Istanbul Conspiracy by Lynda Filler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about weddings. Tensions run high and danger lurks when the daughter of the Minister of Defense and her new groom are found murdered. All Luke and Samaar want to do is get married on a yacht in Instanbul. But life seems to have other ideas in store for them when a security breach puts their plans on hold. With these targets on new couples, the team of the Raven Group race to find the culprits before they strike again. Can they find out the truth before it’s too late?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Luke determined but loving underneath or Samaar standing up for herself but vulnerable underneath.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the scenery of a Istanbul or Turkey with its seas and beaches for sense of peace and tranquility, but also foreboding bad tidings.
The switch of perspectives worked well to display both sides of the story and was easy to follow with names in the chapter titles. I also liked the use of suspense with small details revealed slowly to make you keep reading to find out who’s behind it and why they’re attacking weddings. Fast paced action and high stakes made for a captivating read. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.

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Second Chance (The Conclusion Of the Flowers in December Trilogy) by Jane Suen – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Second Chance (Flowers in December #3)Second Chance by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about second chances. When Connor was dealing with his mothers death, he met Mary Ann who was the florist. But with grief, he distanced himself from her and the chance of a relationship with her. A few months later, he returns to the town with a new outlook on life. He bumps into Mary Ann again and old feelings resurface. But will she give him a second chance at love?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Connor going after what he wants but also unsure or Mary Ann standing up for herself but vulnerable underneath. Great cast of suoporting characters like the no nonsense Mrs Steele or the perceptive Alana.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the snow covered forest and sparkling trees on the car drives making the countryside peaceful and magical.
Or with the cards later on with the childlike fun and togetherness as they make the best of a bad situation. Or with the memory of her father with the colourful trees and hot chocolate and bonfires with sights and sounds and smells so vivid its as if you’re actually there.
The switch of perspectives worked well to display both sides of the story and was easy to follow with names at the start of chapters.The memories worked well to portray the events of the past and didn’t disrupt from the narrative of the present. The only issue I would raise is that there was some repetition in places which could have been reduced. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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Dagda”s Daughter (Raven and Hummingbird Book Two) by Nikki Broadwell – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Dagda's Daughter: Raven and Hummingbird Book 2Dagda’s Daughter: Raven and Hummingbird Book 2 by Nikki Broadwell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about consequences. Dagda is the all father of Celtic mythology who has broken all the rules. To protect his family and legacy, Dagda has been wiping his daughter Katels memories for years. But when a young boy named Brant enters her life, strange things start to happen. As events unravel, Katel rediscovers her memories and finds a legacy she didn’t know she had as danger approaches. Can she stand up to her father and make him see the consequences before it’s too late?
A great read. Well developed put with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Katel standing up for herself but also vulnerable and unsure. Great cast of supporting characters like the wise Gwen or the supportive Freya or the manipulative Dagda.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the green forest with its tall trees and herbs and flowers and spirits for a sense of a fairy tale forest full of magic and wonder and beauty. I also loved the contrast in the forest later on with the use of blacks and greys for a sense of destruction wonderfully written. I also loved the use of the weather throughout with the deep dark clouds for a sense of foreboding and pathetic fallacy with colours getting darker throughout was a lovely touch. Or with the visions with their sounds and smells and sights so vivid its as if you’re actually there.
A great example of world building with fantastic beings with their own rules and laws and societies living alongside humanity. I loved the use of Celtic and Norse mythology given the respect they deserve and true to their origins, wonderfully written. The only issue I would raise is that I would have liked a list and pronunciations of the names of the Celtic gods and creatures to help the reader follow things more easily. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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The Crown of Stones: Magic-Borne (Book Three) by C.L. Schneider – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Magic-Borne (The Crown of Stones, #3)Magic-Borne by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

  1. A great read about answers. Ian Troy struggles to keep going against the strength of his enemies. Desperate for answers to solve things and tackle his ever growing magic, he seeks the stories of the past. Can he find the answers and defeat his enemies before it’s too late?
    A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Ian trying to keep going despite the odds. Great catsbof supporting characters like the stern Sienn or the caring Jillyan or Jarryd as wise but kind and more to him.
    I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the prologue with the stones and auras and waterfall and magic with their bright and beautiful colours for a sense of awe and wonder so vivid it’s as if you’re actually there. Or the portal with its vivid colours and strange sensations wonderfully written. Or Kabri later with its white sand and beaches in the sunset for a sense of beauty and calm.
    A great example of world building with a range of fantastical beings with their own rules and laws and societies. I loved how the author explored more of the history of the Shinre in this novel adding more to them.
    I loved how the book brought the reader straight into the story with short sentences and fast paced action to grab your attention and draw you in to make you want to read more. I also liked the use of the journal entries as part of the narrative was written well and didn’t disrupt from the narrative of the present. It also added suspense, with small details revealed slowly to make you want to keep reading, wonderfully written.
    The only issue I would raise is that I by the end of the story I felt the rivalry between the world and Langorians was never truly explained when it was a major point in previous novels. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.View all my reviews

Naughty & Nice (Spicetopia #4) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Naughty & NiceNaughty & Nice by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about temptation. Natalie is busy trying to organise the wedding of Cyrus Sweet and Jolie Cox, the owners of Spicetopia. To make things worse, Cyrus’s family have ordered a vicar who is very religious to officiate the wedding. The vicar, Micah struggles to accept the world of Spicetopia and battles with his attraction to Natalie. Can he keep to his duties or will he surrender to desire?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Micah naive but stubborn or Natalie confident but vulnerable underneath.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the theme park with the castle and palm trees for the luxurious and beautiful feel of the theme park. Or with the theatre with its colorful vases and the carvings of dragons intricate and colourful and beautiful. Or the scene in the love tunnel with the fairy lights making it magical.
The switch of perspectives worked well to display both sides of the story and was easy to follow with names in the chapter titles. I also liked the use of contrasts with religion versus sex and a vicar in an unusual setting. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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The Crown of Stones: Magic-Scars (Book Two) by C.L. Schneider – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Magic-Scars (The Crown of Stones, #2)Magic-Scars by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about memories. After the events of the last book, Ian was drugged and imprisoned. He is set free and taken to safety but when he wakes up he has no idea who he is. But he must remember, as Kings and enemies grow more powerful and threaten the lives of everyone. Can he find himself again before ti’s too late?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Ian as a brave warrior but also lost and vulnerable underneath. Great cats of supporting characters like the sarcastic but caring Malaq or the distrustful Krillos.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like the icy regions at the start with its sense of beauty and danger, wonderfully written. Or with the memories of Kabri with its sand and sea, full of life and people and bright colours so vivid its as if you’re actually there.
A great example of world building with a fantasy world with its own history and geography. I liked the sense of expansion, as the author explores more of the world with seas and ice and mountains, adding things to develop this world further. The first person narrative worked brilliantly to show Ians struggle to find himself again. I also liked the use of suspense, with small details revealed slowly to make you keep on reading to find out what happened. The memories and flashbacks worked well to display what had happened and didn’t disrupt from the narrative of the present. The only issue I would raise is that there were a lot of long sentences that were hard to read which could be reduced with a variety of sentence lengths. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.

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Misplaced (Joined Book Two) by Mara Gan – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Misplaced: Joined: Book TwoMisplaced: Joined: Book Two by Mara Gan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about theft. Meda wakes up on a beach with no memories except her name. She tries to make a life for herself on an unfamilair world and ends up stealing to make ends meet. In her own way, she does what she can to help those in need under a corrupt and tyrannical Prince. But can her meddlesome ways keep her out of trouble or will she end up in danger?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Meda as brave and bold but kind underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the concerned Kako or the enigmatic Kyrios.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the white beaches and grass and blue sky in the sun drawing the reader in with exotic beauty. Or the volcano inside the island under the clear sky with the sound of the birds as fantastical yet serene, wonderfully written. Or with the market on the island later on full of life and people with the food and wares with their sights and sounds and smells so vivid its as if you’re actually there.
A great example of world building with a fantasy world with its own geography and history, full of life and colour. The first person narrative worked well to display Meda’s journey to find herself again. I also loved the use of Greek mythology with characters true to their origins and given the respect they deserve, with some new perspectives on characters like Medusa that were a lovely touch. The only issue I would raise is that it felt slow to start. It also had lot sof long sentences making it hard to read which could be resolved with a variety of sentence lengths. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.

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A Song To Remember: A Crescent City Wolf Pack Novella (Mystifying Music Book 3) by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Sarah Oakes

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A Song to Remember: A Crescent City Wolf Pack Novella (Mystifying Music Book 3)A Song to Remember: A Crescent City Wolf Pack Novella by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about memory. Shane is a musician and a werewolf. When performing a gig in a pub, he meets Bekah and they instantly connect as she is the fated mate that he’s been waiting for. But when a friend dabbles in dark magic, he is robbed of his memories. Can he find her again without his memories?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Shane confident but vulnerable underneath or Bekah standing up for herself but with her worries underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the skeptical Chase or the cautious Luke or the sweet Emma.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with New Orleans cathedral of white marble and tall spires and colourful houses and little backstreets as somewhere full of magic and wonder. Or the saxophone itself with its case and keys in simple beauty. Or its music sweet and melodic drawing you in so vivid it’s as if you’re actually there, wonderfully written.
A great example of world building with fantastical creatures living alongside humanity with their own rules and laws and societies. I also loved the passion for music throughout the novel was a lovely touch. The switch of perspectives was easy to follow with named in the sections and to display both sides of the story. I also liked the use of suspense with small details and memories revealed slowly to make you want to keep reading to find out what happened. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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The Crown of Stones: Magic-Price by C.L. Schneider – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Magic-Price (The Crown of Stones, #1)Magic-Price by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about temptation. Ian Troy is a Shinree, one of a race of magical beings. Ten years ago, he stopped a war with dark magic and paid the price. Now, he roams the world, helping out where he can. When pursuing an assassin, he discovers there may be more to magic than he imagined. As events unravel, Ian finds friends and foes alike and struggles to resist the addiction of magic. Can he use magic for good or will he pay the price of death and destruction once again?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Ian as a strong warrior but with his anxieties underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the sarcastic but kind Malaq or the supportive Jarryd.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the destruction and the use of grey and dark colours draining even the description of life. Or the scenes with the eldrings later on as gothic and monstrous and beautiful, wonderfully written. Or the swamp with its mud and bogs with their sounds and smells so vivid its as if you’re actually there.
A great example of world building with a range of magical beings in a fantasy world with their own rules and laws and histories.i also liked the sense of geography with its islands and swamps and mountains giving the reader a sense of the world as .harsh and unforgiving.
I also liked the use of suspense with details revealed slowly to make you want to keep on reading to find out the truth.The only issue I would raise is that there was some reptition with ians guilt which could have been reduced. Overall, a great read and I would give four stars.

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Lost in Carmel by Terri Lee – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Lost in CarmelLost in Carmel by Terri Lee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about recovery. Natalie Hampton has always been a Hollywood movie star, living a life made of lies. In a bad mental state, she ends up in Rome. She is unsure at first, but with small steps and the help of new friends she makes her way into recovery and finding her true self. But when Hollywood lies find their way into Roman paradise, will Natalie return unscathed?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Natalie finding her feet but strong underneath. Her journey of discovery and the scenes with the therapist Anne were moving and powerful, with a relatable and emotive depiction of mental illness and its struggles and small steps wonderfully written. Great cast of supporting character like the kind Anne or the funny but caring friend Monty or the sweet Nico.
I loved the visual detail throughout he novel like with the piazza with its little cobbled streets and cates full of life and people. Or the sky throughout the novel with its bold and vivid colours beautifully written.
I also loved the use of Italy with its food and culture and people given the respect it deserves and giving the novel a sense of character. I liked the use of time with the dates in chapter titles to help differentiate between past and present. The flashbacks worked well to display what happened and didn’t disrupt from the narrative of the present. I also liked the use of suspense with small details revealed slowly to keep you reading to find out what happened. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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The Rise of House Valdis (House Valdis Book 1) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Sarah Oakes

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The Rise of House Valdis (House Valdis #1)The Rise of House Valdis by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about protection. Xenobia Valdis is an alien being who helps young women out of situations and runs her own company. One day, a man comes into her house with a strange request to save his daughter. Xenobia agrees to help but events unravel and soon she has policemen at her door digging for the truth. Can she make sure her girls stay safe?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Xenobia determined but caring underneath or Matt with a gruff exterior but kind interior. Great cast of supporting characters like the supportive Maggie or the mysterious Javier
However soemtimes it felr like there were too many girls and characters to keep track of which could have been reduced. .
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with Xenobias and her blue skin and black eyes making her otherworldly and fascinating and beautiful. Or with the cabin later on with the trees and the lake and the quiet for a sense of peace away from everything. Or the dreams with their sights and sounds so vivid it’s a sid you’re actually there.
A great example of world building with fantatsical creatures living alongside humanity with their own rules and laws and societies. I liked Xenobias creature as was something different to the fantasy genre.
The switch of perspectives worked well to display all the different sides of the story and was easy to follow with names in chapter titles. The only issue I would raise is that the book felt more centered on romance than the supernatural which may deter some readers. There were also some long sentences in places that were hard to read which could be resolved with a variety of sentence lengths. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.

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Virtue & Vice (Spicetopia #2) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Virtue & Vice (Spicetopia Book 2)Virtue & Vice by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about dreams. Katya and Moon are on holiday in Greece when they meet Cyrus and Jolie. Whilst there, they come up with the idea of an adult theme park called Spicetopia filled with everything you could want. They part ways and return to normal life, thinking it will never happen. But Cyrus Sweet seems determined to make it all come true. Can dreams ever become a reality?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Katya cautious but loving underneath or Moon as more exuberant but worried underneath.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the islands with the blue waters and white sand and green palm trees as beautiful and sernee and so vibrsnt and vivid it’s as if you’re actually there. Or with the Starlight Cay on the island shaped like a star for the sense of homely but exotic. I also liked the contrast with the colourful island and the boring drab offices as conflicting worlds wonderfully written.
The switch of perspectives worked well to display both sides of the story and was easy to follow with names in chapter titles. I also liked the idea of the sequel shifting point of view form the original by focusing on other characters which was a great idea. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery, #3)Diamonds & Deception by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about trouble. Karina Cardinal is trying to stay out of trouble after a row with her boyfriend. But life has other ideas when Sadira, a friend of her sisters, is accused of stealing a lot of diamonds from the jewellery sshe works at. Events unravel and Karina finds herself ina search for the truth. Can she uncover the truth?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Karina cautious but still wanting to help or Jillian as loyal and determined. Great cast of supporting characters like the austere Bernard or the supportive Jessica.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the fashion catwalk at the start with bright and colourful dresses with sights and sounds as vivid it’s as if you’re actually there. Or the big house later on with the fairy lights and trees and flowers and the wide stairs for a sense of elegance and luxury and beauty. Wonderfully written.
I liked the use of suspense with Sadira and the diamonds with details revealed slowly to make you keep reading to find out the truth with Karina. Fast paced action and high stakes made for a captivating read. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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Toxic Blonde (A Johnny Delarosa Thriller Book 2) by David Stever – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Toxic Blonde: A Johnny Delarosa Thriller (The Delarosa Series Book 2)Toxic Blonde: A Johnny Delarosa Thriller by David Stever
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great reas about intrigue. Johnny Delarosa returns to investigate a new mystery..he takes a case where a young woman wants revenge on her cheating husband by any means necessary. But there is more to the story with technological giants and Russian mafia get involved. Can he solve it all?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Although at times it felt a little complicated with a lot going on and was hard to read. Well developed characters like Johnny determined to get to the truth but caring underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the feisty kate or the supportive Mike.
I also liked the use of suspense throughout the novlr as details were revealed slowly to keep you reading to find out what happened and who was behind it. The only issue I woolf Roade is that there were many long sentences that made the book hard to read which could have been reduced with a variety of sentence lengths. Fast paced action and high stakes made for a captivating read. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars

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Dark Feathers by Natalina Reis – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Dark FeathersDark Feathers by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about darkness. Phoenix is a dark angel. One night when collecting a soul, a woman sees him and speaks to him, things which have never happened before. His boss Asmodeus thinks it is a threat and orders Phoenix to follow her. Phoenix accidently ends up being her roommate and discovers new experiences and finds himself. Can he sirll follow orders or is he something more than a minion?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Joan stubborn and sarcastic but caring underneath or Phoenix trying to find himself but also follow orders.
Great cast of supporting characters like the bubbly brother Caleb or the loving Sky. A great villain in Asomedeus cold and cruel and manipulative done just right.
I loved the visual detial throughout the novel like the the bay with its blue waters and clear sky with the boats and seagulls for a sense of calm for both Phoenix and the reader, beautifully written. Or with the coolies with their tastes and smells sosl vivid its as if you’re actually there as you experience new things with Phoenix, wonderfully written.
A great example of world building with fantatsical beings living alongside humanity with their own rules and laws and societies. I loved the idea of the dark angels, with evil creatures not being demons for a change was fresh and exciting. Phoenix’s journey of finding himself and his insecurities was relatable and emotive. The switch of perspectives worked well to display both sides of the story and was easy to follow with names in chapter titles. Fast paced action and high stakes in a fantasy story made for a captivating read. Overall a great read and I would give it five stars.

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Sugar and Spice (Spicetopia #1) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Sugar & Spice (Spicetopia Book 1)Sugar & Spice by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about business. Cyrus Sweet is the youngest son of Carden Sweet, owner of the kids theme park called Sweetopia. To force him to pull his waight in the company, Cyrus is made to go undercover. He is meant to find out about an employee uprising. But instead he finds more to the story and has his eyes opened. Can he choose between what he wants and what his family wants?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Cyrus arrogant but finding his feet and caring underneath or Jolie as independent but vulnerable underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the manipulative Carden or a good friend Colleen.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the theme park with the silver castle or the jewelled throne of The Red Velvet Queen for a sense of awe and magic, wonderfully written. Or the bold sense of colour with the bright pinks and deep reds and colourful arch so vivid it’s as if you’re actually there.
The switch of perspectives worked well to display both sides of the story and was easy to follow with names in chapter titles.I also liked the mystery with the employee upprising, with small details revealed slowly to make you keep reader. The only issue I would raise is that there was some repetition with Cyrus wanting his money which could have been reduced. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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Journeys Through SpaceTime (Journeys Through Book 1) by James Talisman – Review By Sarah Oakes

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Journeys Through SpaceTimeJourneys Through SpaceTime by James Talisman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about adventure. A mysterious voice calls out acrosss the universe, sounding in the heads of a multitude of people from different planets. It brings together a series of characters as events unravel and they are taken on a quest of adventure and danger. What does the voice really want from them all?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. A series of well developed characters like the brave warrior Cassius or Hirisho trying to make his father proud or the wise and kind Nerities. However, at times it felt like there were a lot or characters to keep track of and this could have been reduced to help the readee follow the story.
A great example of world building with a wide range of fantatsical beings and worlds with their own rules and laws and societies wonderfully written. I liked the feel of different worlds having different feels to them like the Egyptian or samurai soldiers, making the universe feel diverse and full of culture and life and people, wonderfully written.
I liked the mystery of the voice and what it wanted, making you want to read on to find out answers.
However at times, it felt like the book was more concerned with characters than describing the details of the planet in question to engage the reader. The switches between worlds were often jarring and hard to follow and could have deserved a chapter each to give this and the description justice. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.

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Hitting The High Note (A Four Horsemen Novel Book 3) by C. A. King – Review BY Sarah Oakes
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2Hitting The High Note (A Four Horsemen Novel Book 3)Hitting The High Note by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about music. Bekka just wants to run her music shop and dreams of playing in an orchestra. Her plans are always put on hold and are disrupted by a series of robberies and a strange man dressed as a cowboy. As events unravel, she finds herself centre stage. Does music have a magic of its own?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Uriel the jester but vulnerable underneath or Bekka standing up for herself but anxious underneath.
I loved the visual detial throughout the novel like with the shop with the glass and sheet music fluttering on the wind, making destruction beautiful. Or the scenes in the gala with the colourful dresses and music full of colour and sound that was so vivid it’s as if you’re actually there.
I liked how it was Uriel’s story, switching the focus to another horseman for this book. The switch of perspectives worked well to display both sides of the story and was easy to follow with names in chapter titles. I also liked how the artefact was something different from the usual chalice or spear usually found in these kinds of books made it fresh and exciting. The only issue I would raise is that it felt unclear why Uriel was dressed as a cowboy as it felt unnecessary. Fast paced action and high stakes in a fantasy story made for a captivating read. Overall a great read and I would give it four stars.

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To Kill A Fae (The Dragon Portal Book 1) by Jamie A. Waters – Review by Sarah Oakes

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To Kill a Fae (The Dragon Portal Series, #1)To Kill a Fae by Jamie A. Waters
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about secrecy. Sabine is a Fae living in disguise in the city of Akros. One night, she is tailed and ambushed by a group of men. She is saved by a man who is more than he seems. Sabine seeks to find out the truth of who is hunting herd despite the safety risks, fearful someone knows her identity. As events unravel, powerful forces come into play and the past returns to haunt her. Can you ever turkey stay hidden forever?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Sabine fierce and brave but caring underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the overprotective Dax or the more tender Bane.
I lived the visual detail throughout the novel like with the crypt with winding paths and standing stones for a sense of ancient magic and mystery. Or with the bar with the tree with the glass and the vines as beautiful in a deadly place. Or with the kaleidoscope with ti’s bold beautiful colours for a sense of wonder so vivid it’s as if you’re actually there..
I loved how the book drew the reader in at the start with the action and magic in a fantasy world. I also liked the use of suspense as details about the attackers and or Savines past were revealed slowly to keep you reading to find out what happened.
A great example of world building with fantatsical beings and creatures living alongside humanity with their own rules and laws and societies and customs. I loved the wide range of creatures like goblins and fae and demons giving the feel of a mixed society full of life and character and wonderfully written. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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Ailey of Skye by Wendy Hewlett – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Ailey of SkyeAiley of Skye by Wendy Hewlett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about recovery. Aileen MacEwan heads to skye after her grandmother dies and leaves her a house there. But when she arrives, someone is already living in it. Annoyed, she tries to have him removed but discovers they have more in common than she thought. As time goes on and events unravel, she discovers both herself and new friends along the way. Will she return to Canada the same person or sleill she be changed by Scotland?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Ailey standing up for herself but vulnerable underneath or Brodie as stubborn but caring underneath
Great cast of supporting characters like the sweet mother figure Lianie or funny and charming Alec.
I loved the visual detsil throughout the novel like with the house with blue door and stained glass panes and cream walls for a sense of comfort. Or the scenes in the fairy pools with the waterfalls in the sun with its blue waters and green trees as hidden kingdom full of magic wonderfully written.
I also liked the use of Scottish culture throughout the novel with its language and customs given the respect they deserve and adding a sense of character to the novel. I also liked the use of suspense as detials about Ailey were revealed slowly to make you want to keep reading to find out what happened to her. I also liked how the book was Aileys journey as she grows and changes through the story emotive and powerful and moving.. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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SAN DIEGO DEAD (Jake Wolfe Series Book 4) by Mark Nolan – Review by Sarah Oakes

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San Diego Dead (Jake Wolfe #4)San Diego Dead by Mark Nolan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about danger. Jake and Cody just wan to have a relaxing vacation in Mexico after protecting their country from dangerous forces. But fate has other ideas when a mysterious woman attacks his girlfriend Sarah. With a drug cartel group behind them, they flee back to America to find safety and also learn more about a mysterious package the cartel desperately wants to retrieve. As events unravel and danger threatens everyone, can Jake and his friends stop these enemies before its too late?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Jake determined but protective underneath or Cody as smart and intelligent and an adorable dog. Great cast of supporting characters like the anxious Sarah or the good friend Pez or Easton as gruff but kind underneath. A great villain in Rop cold and ruthless and menacing. However, at times it felt as if there were to many marines to keep track of which could have been reduced.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the vacation scenes with the beach and the sea for a sense of calm. Or the scenes with the whales as giant but beautiful creatures for asense of woner. Or the scenes with the sharks in the stormy sea, pulling the reader straight into the action from the start wonderfully written. Or the use of the senses throughout the novel with tastes and smells and sounds so vivid its as if you’re actually there.
I also liked the use of switching the perspective to Cody for a dogs narrative which is something you don’t often see in novels and was a great addition to the story. I also liked the use of Mexican culture in the vacation scenes with its language and people and customs given the respect they deserve and giving the novel a sense of character wonderfully written.
The only issue I would raise is that there was a lot of long sentences that made it difficult to read which could eb resolved by a variety of sentence lengths. There was also a lot of repetition with Sarah’s inner dialogue which could also be reduced. Fast paced action and high stakes made for a captivating read. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars..

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The Confectioner Chronicles: The Complete Fantasy Mystery Series by Claire Luana – Review by Sarah Oakes

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The Confectioner Chronicles: The Complete Fantasy Mystery SeriesThe Confectioner Chronicles: The Complete Fantasy Mystery Series by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great series about luck. In the Confectioners Guild, Wren is a simple confectioner who gets the chance of the lifetime that comes with a terrible price when the guildmaster is killed and she is blamed for it. In the Confectioners Coup, an army arrives on Maradis and guildmasters start mysteriously disappearing and Wren and her friends search for the truth. In the Confectioners Truth, a new enemy rules over the land and Wren and her friends go on the run trying to flee the new regime. Can Wren and her friends survive it all
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Wren wanting to belong somewhere or Lucas’ kindheartedness or the humourous Hale or the stern Callidus.
A brilliant example of world building in a fantasy world with its rules and societies and geography and history that was detailed with care for the audience to imagine. The idea of magic bakers was a fun and fantastic idea and was a brilliant addition to the fantasy genre. The passion for baking in Wren was a lovely touch. Fast paced action and high stakes in a wonderful fantasy world made for a captivating read. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars

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Rebel Jewel (The Jewel Chronicles Book 3) by Natalina Reis – Review by Sarah Oakes

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3Rebel Jewel (The Jewel Chronicles, #3)Rebel Jewel by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about rebellion. Milenda and Jaali have lived in peace in Isvarld for a few years now. But nothing is ever constant and soon they are called back to Afrika. They return into murky waters in order to save both the Natalans and the Fjordens who have been enslaved for years. Can they survive long enough to see long term peace in their lives and their nation?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Milenda courageous but caring underneath or Jaali stubborn but anxious underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the sweet Johari or the Mama Nyeusi as the voice of reason and humour or the sarcastic gods later on.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the jungle with its ferns and fronds and river full of sights and sounds so vivid it’s as if you’re actually there. Or the marketplace full of life and people and colourful fruits and cloths beautifully written. Or the scenes in the shrine with the little love seat and the flowers a small spot of paradise wonderfully written.
The switch of perspectives worked well to display both sides of events and was easy to follow with names in the sections. Fast paced action and high stakes made for a captivating read. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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The Time Traveler’s Magic (Magic Bound Saga Book 1) by Anna Applegate – Review by Sarah Oakes

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The Time Traveler's Magic (Book 1 of the Magic Bound Saga)The Time Traveler’s Magic by Anna Applegate
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about time. Ember is struggling to cope with her mother in hospital and the bills piling up. Things get strange when she is attacked by a man in a garage and he and his friends start following her to work. But events unravel and things get even stranger as she finds herself amongst pirates and ships. Can she make it back home to save her mother in time?
A great read. Well developed plot. Well developed characters like Ember standing up for herself but vulnerable underneath or Rane strong and stubborn but caring underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the innocent Destin or the gruff but kind Rick.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like the dream with the fog and the monster and the magic and the purple gem mysterious and colorful wonderfully written. Or the hospital full of life and people but contrasted eibt the white walls wonderfully written.
I loved how the book started off in the mystery, grabbing the reader attention from the start. I loved the sense of unease with the shadows and the feelings so strong its as id you’re actually there. also liked the time travel element of the book as a good idea but the jump to the past felt jarring to the reader and felt confusing as to what time period it was set in with no dates or signifying aspects making the characters and time travel hard to visualise and hard to relate to. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.

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Out Bad (Sinners or Saints Book 1) by Janice M. Whiteaker – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Out BadOut Bad by Janice M. Whiteaker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about determination. Joe hasn’t let anyone into his life lately due to his mysterious and dark past. He sees Gwen at a party and that all changes. He wants her but she is closed off and cold towards him. Can he break down her barriers and win her heart?
A great read. Well developed plot. Well developed characters like Joe determined to get what he wants but caring underneath or Gwen standing up for herself but vulnerable underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the cautious Heath or the supportive Gabbi
I loved the visual detusl throughout the novel like with the scenes with the party full of life and people and colour and sights and sounds so vivid it’s as if you’re actually there.
I liked the mystery with their pasts with little details revealed slowly to keep you reading to find out what they did. I liked their worries of trying to put the past behind them was powerful and emotive but sometimes had repetition which could be reduced. The switch of perspectives worked well to display both sides of the story and was easy to follow with names in chapter titles. The only issue I would raise is that these first person narratives often felt like they went off tangent into thoughts and were hard to follow. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars

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Monty and the Monster by Rhonda Smiley – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Monty and the MonsterMonty and the Monster by Rhonda Smiley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about friendships. Monty always has trouble making friends. When he moves house again, he struggles to fit in and finds bullies everywhere. Whilst exploring his new house, he finds a trapdoor in the attic leading to underground chambers full of old crates and notes about old experiments. Full of excitement, Monty decides to literally make a friend. his friends turns out to be a furry monster with mysterious abilities. Can Monty keep his monster hidden from the world before scientists get to him?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Monty standing up for himself but vulnerable underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the mysterious and bubbly Houdini or the creepy Dr Petrovic
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the rickety house full of cracked floors and spider webs and lofty attic for a sense of the gothic. Or the scenes in the underground with the rope ladder and tunnels for a sense of adventure, dark and dangerous and exciting wonderfully written. Or the scenes in the skate park full of life and people and a sense of wonder as a place away from it all for Monty. Or with the monster and giant size with its colourful fur and teeth and claws and the green slime straight out of a sci fi novel, strange and weird and wonderful.
the combination of horror with monsters and experiments and a child’s story with school and bullies combined perfectly to make a captivating read. I loved the sense of the horror genre existing in a kids narrative, a place you wouldn’t expect it and makes it fresh and exciting. I also liked the nods to horror stories like with Hyde and the hints to Frankenstein later on was a lovely addition. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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September Breeze (Cinnamon Bay Romance Book 2) by Nikki Lynn Barrett – Review by Sarah Oakes

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September Breeze (Cinnamon Bay, #2)September Breeze by Nikki Lynn Barrett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about feelings.. Tess Dixon is a songwriter working for a movie set in Cinnamon Bay. She arrives finding no accommodation ahs been provided for her but a local woman offers her a solution with a live in job position to a small family. Curious, she goes to the house and accidently lands herself the job. She promises the father she wont stay long in the position. But over time feelings grow and health issues appear, making Tess question her want to leave. Can she stick to the plan or will her feelings make her want to stay after all?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Tess determined but unsure underneath or Brian as a good father but with his worries underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the sweet and silent Tatum or loud and boisterous Alice or the three eccentric ladies in Birdie, Hattie and Trixie
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the house itself small and tucked away but homely with the cypress trees and white stone. Or the scenes at the beach with the sea calm and blue as a space away from it all for the family wonderfully written. Or the storm later on with its sights and sounds so vivid its as if you’re actually there beautifully written.
The switch of perspectives was written well to display both sides of the story and was easy to follow with names in the sections and asterisks to separate them. I also liked the Mary Poppins feel to the story like the strange advert and a nanny coming from nowhere who loves to travel and also the want to leave which were all excellent additions to the story. I also loved the respect toward peope with disabilities in the novel like with Tatum’ mutism just accepted and not criticised. I also loved the portrayal of visual impairment in the novel later on with Brian’s worries and fears emotive and relatable and perfectly written. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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Time Tourist Outfitters, Ltd by Christy Nicholas – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Time Tourist Outfitters, Ltd.Time Tourist Outfitters, Ltd. by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about urgency. Wilda just wants to live her life running her outfitters shop for time travellers. But life seems to have other ideas for her when a time traveller collapses in her shop due to a mystery illness. The contagion spreads to every other Temporal Agent who has Travelled recently and Wilda finds herself and her team as the only ones unaffected. Pulled out of retirement, she and Mattea Travel into the past, following three men for a cause of the illness. Can they return to the present with answers before its too late?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Wilda sarcastic and stubborn but caring underneath or Mattea kind and naïve but stubborn underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the supportive friend Tarren or the condescending Lady Xanthippe.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the Temporal Shifter with its brass and copper and steam like something out of a sci fi novel strange and antique but with a sense of beauty and wonder. Or the scenes in Mali with the desert and the impressive palace and its caravans, full of life and colour and people wit the animals and the vibrant dress colours with sights and smells and sounds so vivid its as if you’re actually there, wonderfully written.
I loved the idea behind the story of the outfitters shop for time travellers, fantastical but realistic at the same time and wonderfully written. A wonderful example of world building with the Temporal Agents living alongside other humans with their own rules and laws and customs clearly explained to the reader and wonderfully thought out tot he smallest detail, a lovely touch. I also liked the use of the past, with historical figures and cultures given the respect they deserve. I also loved the use of pronunciations at the start of the novel to make the names more easier for the reader to understand, a lovely addition. I also liked the sense of mystery throughout with the disease and the three men, with details revealed slowly to the reader, making you want to keep on reading to find out the answers. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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