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The Moon in her Eyes: A Witch’s Tale by Nikki Broadwell – Review by Sarah Oakes

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The Moon in Her Eyes: a witch's taleThe Moon in Her Eyes: a witch’s tale by Nikki Broadwell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about time. Emeline Chase is a witch who can travel through time. Her travels end her up in the 1620s to live with a native American tribe and fall in love with its leader, Samoset. But her abilities cause trouble and mess with time, altering events she knew . With the help of a coven, can she fix it before it’s too late?
A great read. Well developed plot. Well developed characters like Emeline trusting her abilities while struggling with her feelings or Samoset trying to protect his people despite his feelings
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel in the sense of nature with the forests in the past full of colour and animals.
And the scenes with the fountain under the moon were perfectly written with a.sense of awe and wonder Or the magical and friendly sense of the coven house with the stars was a lovely touch
The only issue I would raise is that it was sometimes hard to follow to which timeline the narrative was taking place . Perhaps a switch of perspective on Samoset or chapters with timeline names on could make this clearer. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars .

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A Frothy Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott – Review by Sarah Oakes

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A Frothy Christmas KissA Frothy Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about coffee. Kat has loved coffee since she was little. When she leaves home for a new job, she is nervous at first. Whilst finding her feet in a new town, Kat discovers an antique coffee shop full of new blends and flavours that consume her heart. Her love for the shop increases with Dan, an owner who is handsome and kind. The coffee sparks something romantic between them But when she overhears a private conversation, should she risk her heart?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldnt put down. Well developed characters like Dan making his passion into his business or Kat standing up for herself but kind underneath. great cast of supporting characters like her Dad as a sweet father figure of Spencer as a good friend.
i loved the visual detail of the coffee shop as something traditional and homely with the fireplace and cat. also with the sofas as a comforting space to Kat and the reader. ci also loved the sense of a small community within the shop with everyone knowing eachother and the regulars as good friends was a lovely touch. the passion for coffee with Kat was a lovely touch for a sense of exploration and wonder that was enjoyable to read . And the detail including the smells and tastes of flavours that even captivated the reader was perfectly written. I also loved the mystery with Brian that added comedy to the novel to make it a captivating read. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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It Ends Tonight (Bayou Devils) by A.M. Myers – Review by Sarah Oakes

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It Ends Tonight (Bayou Devils MC Book 4)It Ends Tonight by A.M. Myers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about family. Quinn is trying to put her losses behind her and raise her daughter. Lucas has been looking after his brother for so long he has stopped thinking about what he wants. When Quinn drives into his life, the past returns to haunt him. Can they put the past behind them for a new future?
A great read. Well developed plot. Well developed characters like Quinn keeping going despite it all or Lucas harsh exterior but kind underneath.
I loved the sense of family throughout the novel supporting each other through hard times. And the scenes with Lucas and Brooklyn were sweet to prove that family doesn’t have to be related.
The switch of perspectives on chapters was a great idea to show both sides of events but was sometimes hard to follow.
The only issue I would raise is that there were lots of long sentences that were hard to read and get into the novel which could be resolved with a vaiety of sentence lengths. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.

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The Confectioner’s Truth (The Confectioner Chronicles) by Claire Luana – Review by Sarah Oakes

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The Confectioner's Truth (Confectioner Chronicles Book 3)The Confectioner’s Truth by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about decisions. After King Imbris’ death in the last novel, Emperor Evander rules over the kingdom of Alesia and people ad guild members alike are forced to swear oaths of loyalty. But when a baker goes missing and citizens start acting strangely, Wren and her friends try to escape with their lives before it’s too late. On the run, they search for Lucas and new allies so they can stad up to the emperor and free their people. But is anywhere truly safe from the might of Aprica?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldnt put down. well developed characters in new allies like Ansel as a harsh exterior but caring underneath or Dash as more than just a soldier and Hale’s struggle to do the right thing was emotive and perfectly written. A spine chilling villain in Daemastra. i loved the sense of family sticking together no matter what with Imbris and family not always being related with the Confectioners which was emotive and beautifully written.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel with hidden bays full of secret beauty with its forests ad wild sea with the hardy sailors and warriors. And the sense of colour in the fruit markets o the island. also the contrast with the Apricans crisp uniforms and the too white kitchen was perfectlyl written.
Once again the sense of exploration as the characters go further outside of Maradis with more islands and lands out there, with maps at the start to make locations clear to the reader. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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A Pink Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott – Review by Sarah Oakes

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A Pink Christmas Kiss

A Pink Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about trying again. When her father starts to become seriously ill, Billie leaves her career in New York to look after him and his mechanic company. Whilst there back at home, she starts to look at her life differently. When chance bumps her into old flame Leroy, can she follow her heart and do what is right?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Billie figuring out what she wants in life
I loved the sense of a small town with little shops and cobbled streets and sense of community everyone knowing each other. I also loved the contrasts like city and town or office and mechanic or city streets and the garden which was beautifully written.
The only issue I would raise is that there were a lot of long sentences which could be resolved with a variety of sentence lengths to grab the reader at the start. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.

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The Confectioner’s Coup (The Confectioner’s Chronicles) by Claire Luana – Review by Sarah Oakes

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The Confectioner's Coup (Confectioner Chronicles, #2)

The Confectioner’s Coup by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about thinking things through. Wren survived the ordeals of the first novel and is trying to resume her normal life. When her and Callidus are on the trail of a Gifted ice cream maker, they are attacked by mysterious men in black. However, the ice cream maker Thom joins them and is a fast friend. As war looms and tensions rise, Guild members start mysteriously disappearing., including Thom. Can Wren and her friends solve the mystery and find Thom before war threatens them all?
a great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. I loved the character development of people such as Calliidus, as a kind and caring man underneath it all or Hale not just being a reckless fool which was brilliantly written. Also the King returns as a spinechilling force to be reckoned with. I loved the use of tension throughout the novel, as conflicts arose for Wren in a fantasy world with its own laws and society and politics.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel and the vivid sense of colour in the blues of the lake and the greens of the islands, and also sun and sand in Hales account of his home later on. Or the wedding scenes with colourful bright and detailed dresses against the dark of the black carriages and Black Guards. which contrasted perfectly.
a great example of building upon a fantasy world in a sequel with the Celestans and their cultures and traditional wedding dresses. Or the Apricans with their Viking like nature and their sea faring ways to explore more to this world outside Maradis. I also loved the use of maps at the start which was a lovely touch and gave a clear location to the reader. Overall, a great read and I would give five stars.

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A Tangy Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott – Review by Sarah Oakes

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A Tangy Christmas KissA Tangy Christmas Kiss by Allyson R. Abbott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about not meeting expectations. Mel would do anything for her mother. But when he mother asks her to go to Spain for her aunt completely out of the blue, she wonders if she’s taken it too far. After a frantic journey, she is helped by a plane passenger Lucas. But when a house full of farm animals awaits her, has she taken on too much?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Mel trying to do her best despite everything or Lucas kind nature but standing up for himself or Domingo’s stubborn side but kind underneath.
I loved the use of the Spanish language into the novel which was a brillaint touch to add to the culture and feel of the narrative. Also this with the food by Lucas as display of Spanish culture full of flavour was a lovely touch.
I also loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the Christmas tree in the airport or the sense of nature with the orchard with colours and scents and freshness as if you were there too. The only issue I would raise is that there was sometimes time jumps in the narrative that were hard to follow and it seemed slow to start. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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Hope’s Deceit (The Fated Series) by Angel McPherson – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Hope's Deceit (The Fated #2)Hope’s Deceit by Angela McPherson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about expectations.
After the events of the previous novel, Trinity has to prove to the Watchers that she can fulfil her destiny while worrying if Blain will succumb to the darkness. At the same time Melia sends armies of Rogues to attack Trinity and her friends. Can she fulfil her destiny and restore the balance?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. A great example of building upon a sequel with new developed characters like Anna as bold and brave but kind underneath or Becky as a fun new friend.
I also loved the mix of realism with school and fantasy of the watchers and magic which was combined beautifully done. Along with fast paced action with high stakes and gripping fight action scenes for a captivating read.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel in the natural imagery with the grass lake outside the cabin as a source of calm Or the magical sense of the moon over the battle later on in the awe and majesty of nature. And the use of colour with Watchers powers and light and dark vivid and beautiful. Overall, a great read about and I would give it five stars.

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Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist Mystery (Karina Cardinal Mystery) by Ellen Butler – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Isabella's Painting (Karina Cardinal Mystery #1)Isabella’s Painting by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about doing the right thing. Karina Cardinal is a lawyer in love with her boyfriend Patrick. His family invite her to their Christmas Party and she has a great time. But odd events happen in Martin’s library that fuel fire to her curiosity. When she discovers the secret, she is dragged into an uncertain world of art and smoke and shadows and perhaps she shouldn’t have looked after all.
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Karina loving and kind but also standing up for herself or the eccentric Molly or mysterious Martin. I loved the use of suspense drawn out to perfection that kept you reading to find out with Karina. I loved the use of setting with the large house and tunnel rooms and hidden places for that sense of mysery but the colourful art contrasting with beautifully. Or the visual detail of shops and coffee places for a busy vibrant city. High stakes and fast paced action made for a captivating read with a love of art throughout for a lovely touch.Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.
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Climbing the Walls (Hart and Cole) by Sacha T.Y. Fortune – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Climbing The Walls (Hart & Cole Book 1)Climbing The Walls by Sacha T. Y. Fortuné
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about married life. Kris and Nicole are happily married with a kid. But Nicole works hard and is always kept busy by her boss Darren. Can they keep in married bliss or will work life drive them apart?
A great read. Well developed plot. Well developed characters like Nicole working hard to achieve her dreams or Kris trying to be a good father or Nikita as a sweet little kid curious about the world. I loved the novels exploration of the ups and downs of married life which was fun to read. I also loved the use of small space settings in the house and office which was brilliant for every day life and also to increase tensions between Kris and Nicole in a confined space. The flashbacks worked well with the plot but were often abrupt to the narrative of the present.
The only issue I would raise is that there were too many long sentences that made it difficult 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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Hope’s Decree (The Fated Series) by Angela McPherson – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Hope's Decree (The Fated #1)Hope’s Decree by Angela McPherson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about change. Trinity lives her life as a normal teenager at high school. When Blain Heros arrives in town, her whole world is turned upside down with nightmares and strange events as she is pulled into a destiny she never knew existed. As she stumbles into this new world, can she keep her normal life?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Blain doing his duty despite his feelings or Trinity standing up for herself but also admitting she needs help. Great cast of supporting characters like the supportive Keri or rebellious Candy or the sweet Trevor.
I loved the mix of realism of high school life and bullies but also fantasy with magic and empaths I also adored the use of Greek mythology with the names and history and the stars which was a lovely touch to the story
I also loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the natural imagery of the stars and the clear skies as untouched natural beauty to be adored.
The only issue I would raise was that the author used the contraction y’all a lot which felt jarring to the narrative. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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The First Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams – Review Sarah Oakes

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The First Backwards ChristmasThe First Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about reinvention. South Pole Alaska is slowly becoming a ghost town as residents leave. When the mayor resigns, local Jack Furst is volunteered into the role. Can he come up with a way to restore their town?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like the supportive Joyce living her dream or Jack wanting to help others. Extremely enjoyable as a prequel to learn how all the traditions came to be.
I loved the feel of a small town community working together to brainstorm ideas with the sense of a small town with little shops and friendly people.
I also loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the Christmas tree and decorations or the Santa costume full of vivid colours against the snow white landscape. Also the sense of the elements in the cold and the snow as if you could feel it And the unusual but refreshing take on Christmas. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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A Must for Christmas (Darling Cove Series) by Deborah Garland – Review by Sarah Oakes

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A Must for Christmas: A Darling Cove NovellaA Must for Christmas: A Darling Cove Novella by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about miracles. Faith finally married and found happiness with Greg and is about to give birth. But complications arise in the pregnancy and Faith gets sick in hospital. Will Faith and Greg be able to pull through it all or will they need a miracle?
A great read. Well developed plot. A wonderful addition to the series. I loved the combination of drama and fast paced action but also the fun magic of Christmas. Also the sense of a large family helping each other out and sticking together no matter what was a great touch I Loved the visual detail in conntraating colours with the white of the hospital bed against the yellow walls of the nursery which was beautifully written. The only issue I would raise is that there is some repetition of previous plots from the series at the beginning. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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Distant Memory (Solum Series) by Colleen S. Myers – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Distant MemoryDistant Memory by Colleen S. Myers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about changes. After the events of the previous novel, Elizabeth and her friends are desperate to rescue their friend Finn from the torturous ways of the E’mani. But when they meet a mysterious stranger called Selmay, they discover there may be more to the story. Searching for Finn, they find dangers in store and face new enemies closer to heart. Can they make it through it all and save their friend or will it be too late?
A great read. Well developed plot. The sense of uneasy quiet after the war while having villains still at large was brilliantly done full of tensions and suspense to keep you reading. New characters like Selmay were well developed seeking revenge but kind underneath or Texxak as mysterious and ambitious or Roger given more of a story with his past. I also liked how this trilogy continues to stick to Elizabeths perspective in the narrative as we follow her journey and is easy to follow in the first person.
I als0 loved the use of lab settings throughout the novel with the sense of claustrophobia and small spaces/ corridors for unease. In particular with the red lighting and dangerous walls in one lab later on which was excellently done. And then the contrast with open spaces and forests of outside which was a great combination. I also liked the sense of fantasy of winged creatures but the realism of science and computer hacking. And in this the feel of finding a family in the Remains and working together to stop horrible things from happening The only issue I would raise is that there was repetition at tunes at the beginning with long sentences which were hard to read. It also seemed slow paced and this could be resolved with a few more action scenes or conflicts to help keep the reader engaged. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.

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Must Remember (Solum Series) by Colleen S. Myers – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Must Remember (Solum, #1)Must Remember by Colleen S. Myers
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about aliens. An alien race called the E’mani have caused devastation to Earth and captured its people. Among them is Elizabeth, a prisoner on board their ship. The E’mani are cruel and heartless, torturing her endlessly. When she develops magic, she escapes to seek answers, but can you escape the E’mani?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Elizabeth fighting to stay alive but a kind side underneath. Great villain that will send shivers up your spine. Loved the contrasts between everyday college life and alien spaceships blend of realism and fantasy which was beautifully written. I also loved visual detail throughout the novel like with the claustrophobic sense of the spaceships and corridors and labs which was great for a sense of fear. Fast paced action and high stakes made for a captivating read. Overallt read and I would give it five stars.

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Can’t Forget (Solum Series) by Colleen S. Myers – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Can't ForgetCan’t Forget by Colleen S. Myers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about remembering. Elizabeth was abducted by aliens called the E’mani and taken to a far away planet but she fled from them to another race called the Forst. A few months later she finds her happy ever after in marriage and a baby. But the E’mani are not far behind and the threat of war looms. Will the Forst be able to stop the E’mani and war before it’s too late?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Marin protecting everyone but kind underneath or Elizabeth standing up for herself but loving underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the kind old mentor Ute or the fun friend Hana. A spinechilling villain.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with the sci fi nature of the place with glistening lakes and icy world of two suns with blue and green shadows for a futuristic yet beautiful sense of nature.
And the sense of detail in the world with the layout and clan tents and greenhouses clearly thought out and described as if you were exploring it too.
I also loved the use of foreboding over the whole wedding scenes which was beautifully done. The use of flashbacks memories was done well and didn’t distract from the narrative of the present and added to the mystery. The only issue I would raise is that there was some repetition in places which if resolved would be five stars. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.

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Embrace the Passion (Pets in Space ) Anthology – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Embrace the Passion (Pets in Space Anthologies, #3)Embrace the Passion by S.E. Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A brilliant anthology of tales featuring pets in space. In The Heart of the Cat alien shapeshifters search for a mythical item to help their people but discover there is more to the tale. In Desert Hunter on a fantasy world desert travellers Mersi and Bren help a stray dog and face their fears. In Star Cruise Mystery Dancer a talented dancer is more than she seems and has a mysterious pet. Or Operation Ark a tale of returning animals home and facing troubles on the way and many more captivating tales to explore in this fantatsic collection.
A great read. Well developed plots with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down.
Fast paced action and high stakes in wonderful fantasy worlds made for a highly captivating read throughout the novel. In particular, I loved the visual detail throughout the stories, in the sci fi nature of the world’s with two suns or extreme places like the desert with its dunes and harsh climate. Or the sarafin world with the exotic and eerie beauty of the forest kingdom with a sacred sense of magic and mystery. Overall, a great anthology and I would give it five stars.

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The Confectioner’s Guild (The Confectioner’s Chronicles 1) by Claire Luana – Review by Sarah Oakes

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The Confectioner's Guild (The Confectioner Chronicles, #1)The Confectioner’s Guild by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about luck. Wren is given the chance of a lifetime when a customer notices her baking and tells the Guild and they offer her a job. But before she can start, the guildmaster drops dead whilst eating one of her cupcakes. Accused of his murder, Wren faces execution and is only spared by being vouched for by the inspector and that the King is absent. But can they find the real killer before its too late and the King returns?
A great read; Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Wren struggling to trust people but wanting to belong or Lucas trying to help people or Hale with his humorous personality but kind nature underneath. Great supporting cast like the stern Callidus of the sweet Olivia.
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. I loved the vivid imagery throughout the novel for example with the palace and temple in a sense of grandeur and detail in a sense of wonder shared with Wren or the vivid colours of dresses and icing. or the scenery of mountains and water further on in the novel colourful and spectacular all beautifully written to create the sense of wonderful world full of life and colour and people.
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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Bound by Blood (Crescent City Wolf Pack 3) by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Bound by Blood (Crescent City Wolf Pack, #3)Bound by Blood by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about staying. Alexis Gentry has never stayed in one place for long, a rogue werewolf always on her own. Bryce Samuels is a policeman who has always found Alexis attractive, but never got the chance. When she gets into trouble with a werewolf exboyfriend, she ends up in hospital. Wanting to help her, Bryce looks after her and lets her stay at his house even thought she is reluctant. Will she run in fear of getting hurt or will she stay?
A great read. Well developed plot. Well developed characters like Bryce helping people with kind nature underneath harsh personality or Alexis standing up for herself but also struggling with her fears. a great addition to the trilogy from a different perspective. also brilliant with the theme of how sometimes not all mental battles can be won, both in Alexis and also in the suicide rescue department which was perfectly written.
I also loved the visual detail throughout the novel with the woods and the moon full of spooky natural imagery that was also calming and beautiful to add to the supernatural elements of the novel. i also loved the feel of the small town with its little cafes and cobbled streets to add to the sense of magic and mystery which was beautifully written. Or the scenes at the wedding full of people and life and colour with the dresses but also crowded nature for Alexis which was perfectly done. and the use of the senses throughout the novel with scents and tastes as if you were actualy there. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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Tomb for an Eagle (The Orkneyinga Murders 1) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders, #1)Tomb for an Eagle by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about mystery In the Viking era, Sigrid’s day is ruined when she finds the buried body of a man in a nearby gully to her farm. While visiting the area, Ketil realises he knows the man as a warrior and messenger to the Thorfinn kingdom. Together, Sigrid and Ketil investigate a whole town of suspects. But can they find the killer before it’s too late?
A brillaint read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Sigrid doing what she loves and standing up for herself or Ketil trying to find the truth and fit in to the community. I also liked how he was the damsel in distress needing saving for humour which was brilliantly written.
Also loved the visual detail throughout the novel with the island in the fog with rocky crags and harsh weather which was perfectly written with air of mystery and magic as something of the ancient world harsh and unforgiving
And the sense of history with Viking warriors and ships and culture and food halls as if you were actually there.
Brillaint mix of crime thriller and historical with suspense and fast paced action for a captivating read. Overall, a brilliant read and I would give it five stars

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Must Be Crazy (Darling Cove, #3) by Deborah Garland – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Must Be CrazyMust Be Crazy by Deborah Garland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about struggling. Skye Mallory has always struggled to find happiness. When her flat nearly burns down, she is saved by fire chief Edward Mendelssohn. But when he is being sued by her client, will she follow her heart or protect her career?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Edward trying to raise his son and help others or Skye standing up for herself and surviving pain or Justin as a sweet kid. A great antagonist in Miles as a well written jerk to cause conflicts in the plot. Also loved the sense of a small town and the visual detail of the vivid flames or the bright and colourful and detail
of the artitechturee of the house which was beautifully written. The only issue I would raise is that sometimes the narrative felt a bit repetitive at times. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.

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Do Not Open Until Halloween by C.A. King – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Do Not Open Until HalloweenDo Not Open Until Halloween by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about the unexpected. Caitlin does her aunt Petunia a favour by catsitting whilst Petunia is at a funeral. Wanting to ask out a boy, she invites some friends over to pass the time. When things go wrong and rules are broken, will she be able to set it right before Petunia returns home?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Caitlin trying to do the right thing or Dwayne as kind and knowledgeable. Great cast of supporting characters like the eccentric author Petunia or the annoying Justin or the stubborn Merlin.
I loved the dip into the horror genre with the visual detail of the house in its gothic look and overgrown weeds and mysterious shed to create unease which was beautifully done. Also the fantasy with the gnomes and cats as otherworldly and a different take on fairies with the bubbles was a brillaint addition to the genre. Fast paced action and rules waiting to be broken in a shifting magical location made for a captivating read. Overall, a great read and I would give it five stars.

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Small Town Hero (Small Town Brides 1) by Kim Koby – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Small Town Hero (Small Town Brides, #1)Small Town Hero by Kim Koby
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about kindness. After finding out her fiancée cheated on her, Rebecca runs away in her car with no destination in mind. When her car breaks down, a local man Ryan comes to her rescue. She is hesitant at first, as a stranger in a new town, but soon realises there are little other options in the middle of nowhere. While her car is being fixed, she stays at his house for a few days. Will her time there make her think things through?
A great read. Well developed plot. Well developed characters like Rebecca’s harsh exterior but kind nature underneath or Ryan doing the right thing and supportive nature. Also a sweet dog called Chief who will melt your heart.
I loved the visual detail throughout the novel like with Ryan’s little house small but full of colour with gravel path and the garden and kitchen as a cosy place or the calming natural imagery in scenes on the back porch under the stars as a safe space away from it all. I also loved the use of contrasts throughout the novel like city and country, New Jersey and Tennessee, busy and quiet or dressy and casual wear which were combined to perfection to display the differences between the two. and amde for a captivating read. The only issue i would raise is that sometimes the dialogue was repetitive and I felt a conflict int he middle such as the mechanics not having parts or something would have made the ending stronger. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.

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The Nearness of You by K.G. Fletcher – Review by Sarah Oakes

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The Nearness of YouThe Nearness of You by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about opposites. Lauren Rose is a talented singer living in Atlanta struggling to make it in the show business. One Friday night she performs in a hotel like any other night. But her life is changed forever when she meets supermodel David Randle at the gig and finds instant chemistry with him. Their passion blossoms while attending his sisters wedding, but when he returns to Britain, will their love survive the distance?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Lauren doing what she loves despite the struggles or David drive for ambition but a kind heart underneath. Great cast of supporting characters like the colourful and wise Jordan or the sweet and supportive Catherine. I loved the use of music in the novel with the songs used and Laurens passion for music as a lovely touch. i also loved the use of the senses with taste and smell and touch in the breakfast place to make it feel as if you were actually there. i alos loved the scenes in the wedding full of life and people and also loved the use of opposites used throughout the novel which worked well to create contrasts. Overall, a great read and i would give it four stars.

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Must Love Fashion (Darling Cove #1) by Deborah Garland – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Must Love Fashion (Darling Cove #1)Must Love Fashion by Deborah Garland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about a new job. Gwen has always wanted to work in fashion and manages to land her dream job at Prada. Excited with her new job, she expects to follow her passion and progress her career. What she does not expect is for her new boss Andrew Morgan to be so attractive. Will she risk her career for love?
A great read. Can be read as a standalone but also enjoyable as a prequel. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Gwen following her passion no matter what or Andrew trying to move on but also run his company.
I loved the attention to detail in the autumnal setting outsidewith it’s colours and trees. And also the dedication to the world of fashion with designers and clothes and handbags in a busy work environment. The only issue I would raise is that it seemed slow to start but perhaps this could be resolved with chapter breaks to speed up the pace. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars

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The Fifth Knight (The Knights of Caerleon 1) by Jesikah Sundin and Claire Luana – Review by Sarah Oakes

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The Fifth Knight (The Knights of Caerleon #1)The Fifth Knight by Jesikah Sundin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about mysterious fates. To save her father and sister from a rival Irish clan, Fionna strikes a deal to go to England and steal a faerie sword, the famous Excalibur. To get into Arthur’s kingdom, she fights in a tourney and suprises everyone. But fate has more suprises in store for her than she could ever expect. With a cursed land at stake, can Fionna help her new friends?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Fionna trying to save her family but also a fiercesome warrior. Brillaint set of supporting cast like the humourous but kind Percival or the sensible Lancelot.I loved the visual detail throughout the novel with its sense of nature as a home and a part of everyday life shaping the people and full of the senses as if you were there.
A great twist on the Arthurian legend with Irish additions to the tale. I also loved the use of Irish mythology in the novel with Morrigans and the sidhe fae true to their origins. Overall a brillaint read and I would give it five stars.

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Must Have Faith (The Darling Cove #2) by Deborah Garland – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Must Have Faith (Darling Cove #2)Must Have Faith by Deborah Garland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about struggles to forgive. Faith Copeland left her fiancee Greg Mallory at the altar ten years ago. When a chance brings Faith back to Darling Cove and reunites her with Greg, will they be able to mend their relationship or always be remembering the past?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. Well developed characters like Faith doing a hat she loves but standing up for herself or Gregs harsh exterior but protective nature underneath. I really loved about the setting of a small town with its train station and police station small community full of life and people who all know eachother. And loved the sense of the newsroom with long corridors . The only issue I would raise is there was some repetition at times. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.

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Painting Kuwait Violet by Pamela Q Fernandes – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Painting Kuwait VioletPainting Kuwait Violet by Pamela Q. Fernandes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great read about the unexpected. Violet is a finance graduate looking for work and to pay off her fathers debts. She sets off from Goa to Kuwait to work as a maid for Sabah Dashti in hopes of a better future. Struggling barriers of a different language and food, Violet finds her feet but mysterious events start to happen in the house and dangers lurk nearby. But will Violet discover if Kuwait truly is a paradise?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns. The use of suspense was done to perfection with small strange events as you kept reading to find out why girls kept leaving. Well developed characters like Violet staying kind hearted despite hardships or Sabah keeping a brave face as a mother despite the allegations. Great supporting cast of different personalities like the stubborn Tintin or the curious child Aliya or the intimidating Rauf making the novel full of life and people with bustling lives.
A great example of bildungsroman as Violet finds her feet and grows as a person through her experiences in life. A brilliant example of celebrating another culture with love and care towards Asian language and culture and religion and food and dress throughout the novel which was a lovely touch. I also loved this aspect of the imagery in the novel with the dry desert and hot air of Kuwait as a hard place but also beautiful. The only issue I would raise is that it seemed slow paced and large amounts of characters was sometimes hard to keep track of. Overall, a great read and I would give it four stars.

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Micheal’s Heart by Lori Thomas Harrington – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Michael's HeartMichael’s Heart by Lori Thomas Harrington
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great read about the power of music. Colbie has always had a passion for music that consumes her but always felt like something was missing. When she has a car accident and nearly dies, a strange experience will change her life and the lives of everyone around her. following her passion for music leads her on a wild adventure with new friends where anything is possible. Can the power of music heal broken hearts and even cross time?
A great read. Well developed plot with twists and turns that I just couldn’t put down. Well developed characters like Colbie pursuing her dream despite all the setbacks or Micheal loving her but unable to stay. I loved this addition to the romance genre with the soul mate idea but not being able to be together in a different way due to him on the other side. Also with this the visual detail with the sense of natural imagery was stunning with bright colours of the sea and the hill and the blue flowers which was beautifully written. this vibrancy contrasting with the stark white hospital rooms worked brilliantly. I also adored the passion for music filling you up and getting lost in it which was relatable and calming. Great supporting cast of family members like Lyric as a caring daughter or Madeleine as an interfering mother as a family that sticks together
the only issue I would raise is that the two flashbacks seemed to distract from the narrative of the present and were hard to read with long sentences. Overall, a great read and I would give ti five stars.

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Romance in Rehoboth Boxed Set (Books 1-3) by K.L. Montgomery – Review by Sarah Oakes

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Romance in Rehoboth Boxed Set (Books 1-3)Romance in Rehoboth Boxed Set by K.L. Montgomery
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

a great trilogy about finding love where you least expect it. Set in the idyllic seaside town of Rehoboth, the first novel tells the story of writer Claire starting life again after her divorce as a writer and mother. Will she lose the weight she wants and find the man of her dreams? Sonnet and Drew have been bitter rivals since high school years ago. But when Sonnet’s aunt leaves them both a house in disrepair, can they put their differences aside and sell it together? Lindy Larson has always been shy, but takes a backing vocal part in a production fo a play by Claire. When troubles arise, will she find courage and take the leading lady part?
a series of great reads. Well developed plots with twists and tunrs and surprises that you will not be able to put down. Well developed characters of women who go for what they want such as Sonnet and her science teaching dreams or Claire to lose weight balanced with the humour of Drew. Great example of switching perspectives in the novels between chapters that was well written to dispaly both sides of events and were easy to follow. Great romances placed in amazing setting of wonderful natural imagery. for example the little beach town by the seaside with its stunning sunsets and storms in vivid beauty but wild and free. Overall, a great trilogy and I would give it five stars.

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