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The Last Cabin Girl (Detective Josie Thompson Series) by Tom Swyers – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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The Last Cabin GirlThe Last Cabin Girl by Tom Swyers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“The Last Cabin Girl” written by Tom Swyers is a psychological thriller taking place at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. Josie is a single mother of two, trying to navigate the divorce with her abusive ex-husband. After bodies are found in the river surrounding her property, Josie is a suspected by the FBI to be a serial killer. She has to prove her innocence, but is unsure of who she can trust. Overall I found the story to be intriguing, with many secrets, twists, and turns.

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The Sound of Murder (Musical Murder Mystery Series) by K.L. Montgomery – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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The Sound of MurderThe Sound of Murder by K.L. Montgomery
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“The Sound of Murder” written by K.L. Montgomery is the first book in the Musical Murder Mystery series. Chorus girl, Ruby, is on tour with a traveling theatre troupe when she finds the deceased body of a fellow cast mate. Ruby is determined to get to the bottom of the murder, and uses song as way to keep her thoughts organized. This book was unlike any other mystery that I’ve read! I loved the setting and the humor that you don’t typically see in this genre.

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Reunion in the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction Book 4) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Reunion in the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction, #4)Reunion in the Outback by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Reunion in the Outback” written by Nicole Flockton, is the fourth book in the Welcome to Bunya Junction series, but can easily be read as a standalone. Michael and Yolanda were high school sweethearts, who left their small hometown and moved to the city to start a life together. They are now married with a young daughter, but when some intense and emotional stressors appear in their marriage, Yolanda heads back home hoping to rebuild her life. Michael is determined to keep his family together and fight for his marriage. The lack of communication between the couple was very frustrating at times, but I did enjoy the character development.

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The Killer Jack Mystery (The J.D. Pierson Case Files) by C.H. Sessums – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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The Killer Jack Mystery (The J.D. Pierson Case Files)The Killer Jack Mystery by C.H. Sessums
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“The Killer Jack Mystery” written by C.H. Sessums is a historical mystery taking place in Texas in the year 1936. Jenny Dee is determined to keep her father’s private investigation business thriving while he is struggling with alcoholism. When he is unable to take a call, she goes in his place and stumbles upon a mystery within her own family. This is a very well written book, with an excellent story line that keeps you guessing! This is the second book in the JD Pierson Mystery Series, but can easily be read as a stand-alone book.

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Doctor in the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction, Book 3) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Doctor in the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction, #3)Doctor in the Outback by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Doctor in the Outback” written by Nicole Flockton is the third book in the Welcome to Bunya Junction, but the first that I have read. In need of some assistance, Scott, a small town doctor, hires an obstetrician named Franceen. She has recently moved into town following a life altering loss, and desires to focus solely on her career. Scott and Franceen start as professional co-workers, ignoring the attraction they feel towards one another. They both have a lot of issues from their past that they’re dealing with, and the story follows them as they begin to find healing. I loved the character development and the setting of this story! I am looking forward to reading more in this series.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Depending on You” written by Jessica Aiken-Hall is an emotional story about two best friends, Cate and Patti, who have kept a life altering secret for the last twenty years. As evidence begins to surface, they must make the decision to face the consequences of their actions. I admired the way the author describes the setting, allowing me to think back to my own high school years. The character development was amazing, I loved following these two women and admired their personal growths.

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A Bride for Noah (Brides of Broken Arrow) by Cheryl Wright – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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A Bride for Noah (Brides of Broken Arrow #1)A Bride for Noah by Cheryl Wright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Bride for Noah (Brides of Broken Arrow Book 1) written by Cheryl Wright is a very cute historical novella. After the death of his father, Noah discovers that in order to inherit the land, he must be married. Mary, living in horrible conditions with her uncaring father, agrees to a marriage of convenience contract to Noah in order to escape. The story follows them as their relationship develops, allowing the reader to wonder if the marriage will last after the contract is up. This was a very clean and heartwarming story. I look forwarding to reading more from this author!

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A Hundred Wishes (Band of Sisters) by Marianne Rice – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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A Hundred Wishes (Band of Sisters)A Hundred Wishes by Marianne Rice
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“A Hundred Wishes” written by Marianne Rice is a fictional romance novel. After leaving the Army following a traumatic event resulting in severe injuries, Gina has taken up crafting and sewing. Bryce first meets her while she is selling quilts, and through a slight misunderstanding, he quickly find outs that Gina is not afraid to speak her mind. Gina and Bryce’s interactions are so fun, and after communication issues in the beginning of the book, I really enjoyed their character development. I admire how the author took some very sensitive topics and showed how these characters were able to overcome the odds. This is the first book that I have read in the Band of Sisters series, and I am looking forward to reading the other two books!

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Exiled South by Harriet Cannon – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Exiled SouthExiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Exiled South” by Harriet Cannon is a historical fiction novel that begins in Washington State when Lizbeth’s husband unexpectedly passes away. She returns back to her childhood hometown in South Carolina, where long kept family secrets come to light. I loved how the author ties in all the family ancestors and the decisions they made that caused a lasting impact. This book is incredibly eye-opening, with a strong focus on diversity and Southern history.

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ConQuest: The Art of Selling at Cons by Megan Mackie – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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ConQuest: The Art of Selling At ConsConQuest: The Art of Selling At Cons by Megan Mackie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“ConQuest: The Art of Selling at Cons” written by Megan Mackie is a very informative book with excellent delivery. I learned so much reading this guide! I had no idea there were so many different types of cons, nor that so many authors sell at them. The author gives many tools designed to assist with selling at cons, and provides examples of what has personally worked or not worked for her. This book is a fantastic guide!

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Apocalypse Thoughts (The Pox Series Book 5) by Kendra Griffin – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Apocalypse ThoughtsApocalypse Thoughts by Kendra Griffin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Apocalypse Thoughts” by Kendra Griffin is an engaging book following a group of teenagers in a post-apocalyptic world, on task to deliver valuable CDC data. The main character, Kella, is brave, strong, and very relatable. The sibling relationship in this story had me smiling, reminding me of my own relationship with my little brothers. I loved the character development in this story, as well as all the sarcastic humor. This book is part of a series, but can easily be read as a stand-alone novel.

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Priscida Finds Greatness by Constance Mays – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Priscida Finds Greatness: In Herself and in OthersPriscida Finds Greatness: In Herself and in Others by Constance Mays
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Priscida Finds Greatness: In Herself and in Others” by Constance Mays is a very sweet and interactive children’s book. I read this out loud to my 5 and 8 year old boys, and they both enjoyed pretending to be Priscida! They did impressions of her posture and actions. We enjoyed learning new vocabulary and now have an affirmation posted on our school board to recite daily: “I am great. Go be great today!”

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A Cold Creek Christmas (Reigning Hearts, Book 5) by KG Fletcher – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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A Cold Creek Christmas (Reigning Hearts, #5)A Cold Creek Christmas by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“A Cold Creek Christmas” by K.G. Fletcher is a heart-warming holiday romance story. Amber struggles with Christmas, and is just trying to get through the holiday season. She meets Gio, an amazing single dad who loves Christmas! When Amber meets Gio’s young daughter, Talia, she begins to open up to the idea of celebrating Christmas again. This book has amazing character development and was very enjoyable! It is the 5th book in the series, but is the first one that I have read. It can easily be read as a stand-alone novella.

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Whatever Tomorrow Brings (Embrace Tomorrow Duet Book 2) by Amy Argent – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Whatever Tomorrow Brings (Embrace Tomorrow #2)Whatever Tomorrow Brings by Amy Argent
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Whatever Tomorrow Brings” by Amy Argent is the second book in the Embrace Tomorrow Duet. After reading the first book, I was so eager to learn what happens next for Will and Tori, as he decides to fight the cancer. While the first book focused more on building their friendship, this one had many heavily detailed romance scenes. This story brought me to tears many times. Will overcame so many trials, both physically and emotionally, and Tori was by his side the entire time. Their relationship is overwhelmingly beautiful!

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Strega – Magic: The Spirit Never Dies by Lynne Russell – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Strega - Magic: The Spirit Never DiesStrega – Magic: The Spirit Never Dies by Lynne Russell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Strega- Magic: The Spirit Never Dies” written by Lynne Russell is a captivating historical novel surrounding an Italian family that uses magic. The first few chapters introduced many characters, which was a bit confusing for me at first and I struggled to get into the story. However, as soon as Annie was introduced, I was hooked! I truly admire the courage she had to make some difficult changes in her life in order to listen to her heart. The love story between her and Ian is very cute and her character was so strong and independent! Being Italian myself, I especially loved all of the detail given to traditions and descriptions of Italy! This was the first book I’ve read by Lynne Russell and I can’t wait to read more!

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Shadows of Doubt (A Crawford Mystery) by Merissa Racine – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Shadows of Doubt (A Crawford Mystery)Shadows of Doubt by Merissa Racine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Shadows of Doubt” by Merissa Racine is very intriguing mystery novel. Lauren is a court stenographer who freelances. Due to financial stress, she temporarily begins working with her ex-husband, the judge, while his regular stenographer is on maternity leave. As trial begins for a very high profile case, Lauren begins to doubt that the accused is guilty and begins to search for answers. This is the second book in the series, but can be read as a stand-alone novel. I enjoyed the character development and the mystery, and look forward to reading the other books in this series!

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Christmas Cookies on a Cruise Ship (The Perfect Pairing Series Book 1) by Parker Fairchild – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Christmas Cookies on a Cruise Ship (The Perfect Pairings Series Book 1)Christmas Cookies on a Cruise Ship by Parker Fairchild
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Christmas Cookies on a Cruise Ship” written by Parker Fairchild, is a very sweet and clean holiday romance story. Olivia decides to embark on a cruise in order to escape the Christmas holiday with her sister, who had an affair with Olivia’s boyfriend and is now engaged to him. Olivia feels sad and lonely on the ship, and after too many drinks tells the cruise employee dressed up as Santa Claus her deepest wish. This is where things took a very interesting turn. That night she meets and falls in love with a man, who has the same name as the character in a romance novel she is writing. He is a Navy SEAL, and the majority of conversations steer back to his career. I appreciated that the story brought attention to the difficulties our service members can experience coming back home. Overall the story was difficult to follow and was very unlikely, but it does put you in a festive mood! I enjoyed following along as Olivia’s personality completely changes from sad and insecure, to happy and confident. I appreciated the side characters, especially the elderly veterans, who added some sass and humor to the story!

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Snowflakes & Stockings (A Wilton Hills Christmas Book 4) by Marianne Rice – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Snowflakes & Stockings (A Wilton Hills Christmas, #4)Snowflakes & Stockings by Marianne Rice
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Snowflakes & Stockings” by Marianne Rice is a holiday romance novel. Liberty is an investigative reporter, who has been assigned to discovering Maine’s Secret Santa. Her search leads her to Sawyer, co-owner of a very successful tech company. There is immediate attraction, and she is soon introducing him to her large family. I loved the very relatable family gathering scenes in this book. The sibling banter and teasing warmed my heart, and gave us a better glimpse of Liberty and Sawyer’s personalities. This is the fourth book in the Wilton Hills Christmas series, but can be read as a stand-alone book.

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Come Back Tomorrow (Embrace Tomorrow Duet Book 1) by Amy Argent – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Come Back Tomorrow (Embrace Tomorrow, #1)Come Back Tomorrow by Amy Argent
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Come Back Tomorrow” written by Amy Argent, is Book 1 in the Embrace Tomorrow Duet. It is a tragic, heartbreaking story about psychologist, Tori, who befriends Will, a young terminal cancer patient who has been admitted to the hospital she works in. There is so much mystery surrounding Will. He does not have any family or friends that visit him, and seems to have given up on hoping for remission. Tori begins to visit him every day and he starts to open up to her. Their bond is absolutely beautiful, raw, and honest. I couldn’t help but laugh out loud with some of their witty and clever dialog! This is an amazing story of finding peace, hope, and love, even when you least expect it.

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Death under Palm Trees (A Jack and Frances mystery Book 4) by Carmen Radtke – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Death under Palm TreesDeath under Palm Trees by Carmen Radtke
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Death Under Palm Trees: A Jack and Frances 1930s Mystery” by Carmen Radtke is a historical mystery novel. Jack, Frances, and Uncle Sal travel to London to join family for a much needed vacation. As soon as they arrive, they find out that important documents were stolen, and their assistance is needed in determining which guest is a spy. This is book four in the series, but the first that I’ve read, so I greatly appreciated that the first page listed the characters! It can easily be read as a stand-alone novel, but I am eagerly looking forward to reading the first three books. This book has an entertaining and well thought out story line, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing!

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Stranded (Cetacea Chronicles Book 1) by Feather Chelle – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Stranded: Cetacea Chronicles Volume 1Stranded: Cetacea Chronicles Volume 1 by Feather Chelle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Stranded: Cetacea Chronicles Volume 1” written by Feather Chelle is an insightful and educational book about sea mammals and marine life. The book follows Cherish, a Short-Finned Pilot Whale, and her family as they try to avoid illness that has been spreading throughout the Atlantic Ocean. The book includes maps, graphs and definitions. I loved that the not as common words were bolded, and descriptions were provided! I read this book aloud with my 7 and 5 year old children. We thoroughly enjoyed the story, and as a bonus, we learned new things too!

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Family Secrets (A Whispering Pines Mystery) by Shawn McGuire – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Family Secrets (Whispering Pines Mystery #1)Family Secrets by Shawn McGuire
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Family Secrets (Whispering Pines Mystery #1)” written by Shawn McGuire, was a book I couldn’t put down! Set in a small town in Wisconsin, former detective Jayne travels to her late grandparent’s lake house to settle their affairs. As she arrives, her police-trained dog finds a dead body in the yard. Her training has taught her how to handle the situation, and she gives report to the sheriff. Jayne is surprised that the local police do not seem to be worried about the death, and their suspicious behavior leads her to begin investigating on her own. As she investigates the potential murder, she begins to uncover many secrets about her own family, as well as secrets in the village of Whispering Pines.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the characters, and the small town setting! I look forward to reading the next book in this series.

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Jake the Growling Dog Shares His Trail (Jake the Growling Dog Book 3) by Samantha Shannon – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

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Jake the Growling Dog Shares His TrailJake the Growling Dog Shares His Trail by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Jake the Growling Dog Shares His Trail” written by Samantha Shannon is a very well written children’s book concentrating on disability awareness and making new friends! Jake finds strange tracks on his trail and he is filled with worry. His friends offer to help find this mysterious creature, and they set off! They soon meet a new friend along the trail, named Tuck. With Tuck’s assistance, they find that even though someone may have differences, these differences are nothing to be frightened of. When reading this book out loud to my children, they were delighted to point out the clever rhyming words. The author makes great use of description words as well! I found the book to be very creative.

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