A Pig and A Poke by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Cute kid’s story with fun at the fair, a bully, a determined little girl and a cute little pig. Angela and Bruce are not friends but they both have entered the greasy pig wrestling contest. Whoever can hold on the slippery little guy wins! Angela is determined to beat Bruce the Bully.
This story is easy to read. It has adorable pictures with an engaging story.
The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Super cute story about the places we call home. Big cities, small towns, different weathered places. Even places different animals call home. Bottom line is love begins at home, no matter what type of home you have. Pictures are cute as well.
Decisions Matter: A picture book about learning right from wrong by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
If you have been reading this series, you know that Buddy has been adopted into his forever home. His new home has cats. One cat is a little bit of a troublemaker and gets Buddy into trouble. Both Buddy and Salem learn that telling lies will get you into more trouble and more often than not, could get others in trouble as well.
Another cute story with a good lesson attached. This is book 3 in a very cute series. The pictures are simple yet fitting for the story.
Good Things Take Time: A picture book about learning patience by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is book 2 in this adorable series about Buddy the Blue Corgi. Buddy is learning patience as he waits to be adopted. We don’t always understand God’s plan but if we are patient, good things will happen. Buddy learns this life lesson watching his sibling get adopted while he waits for his own forever family. Cute meaningful story with great pictures.
You Are Special by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Buddy the Blue Corgi is a cute story about being different and still being special. This puppy is cute in his uniqueness and special because that is the way God makes everyone. Different but special.
Sweet, short story with a big message.
Where’s Gramma? by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I don’t know if I loved this story more because I’m a gramma now and can totally see me doing this with my grandkids or if this story is just super cute! Either way I enjoyed reading it and wondering where Gramma was going to turn up next. The illustrations were perfect for the story and engaging for young and old readers alike. Can’t wait to read to my 2 yr old granddaughter!
Release by Rowan Shaw
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book is the “what happens after the happily ever after”. Short stories used to bring us back into a world of love, hate, acceptance and closed-mindedness. Not a perfect world but this author puts the emphasis on the love and acceptance these characters have for each other and their friends.
I really enjoyed catching up with all the characters from the previous books. It was like checking social media to see what’s new with our friends. The steamy parts weren’t so bad either as long as you like consensual, breathtaking, fulfilling sex.
Recommended for those that have read and enjoyed the rest of the series.
Back in the Ring by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is book four in the Predator Series. And how sad does this story start!! Death of a loved one just plain sucks. New characters are introduced who pull me right into their world.
I loved this story, even with the underlying sadness. Hope is a good thing. Second chances are amazing.
This story can be read without reading the first three, but it helps connect the characters later into the story.
The writing in this story is good. I enjoyed this book and the series. Looking forward to reading May’s other series.
The Crown of Stones Complete Trilogy by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This box set includes The Crown of Stones, Magic-Price, The Crown of Stones, Magic- Scars, and The Crown of Stones, Magic- Borne. Each book needs to be read in order. This series is an exciting adventure in a fantasy world.
The Shinree people are living as slaves. Their magic suppressed and their minds being drugged by the Langorians. However, Ian Troy, also a Shinree, is a soldier on the run. After using his magic during a war, and killing everyone, he was exiled from the city of Rella. He is able to suppress his magic because he knows when he releases a spell everyone and everything around him, for miles, is killed.
One day Troy is unable to suppress his magic, almost as if he is being controlled by an outside force. And this begins his adventure to find out just what the heck is going on. Some people try to bring him to their King or Queen, while others just try to kill him.
There are many characters introduced throughout this story. Some are just talked about in the past tense as there are many deaths in this story. Troy, Malaq, Sienn and Draken are just a few who seem to be important to the survival of all humankind.
The second book in this series is The Crown of Stones-Magic Scars. The adventure continues with Ian Troy leading the fight for good. Although, in this book, he doesn’t remember who or what he is. After being in prison for two years and on the drug, Kayn’l, that all Shinree are forced to take, he is still just a shell of a man. Slowly Ian learns of his fate and his purpose: to free his people and help build a new kingdom, where everyone can be free and live in peace. (Sounds like what we need in the real world!) In order to do this, he must remember what happened to the Crown of Stones magic. At the same time, he must prevent the bad guys from figuring it out first.
Magic Borne is the third and final book about Ian Troy and his adventure to save his people from evil leaders and suppressed magic. It seems throughout the three books, when one leader was defeated another, meaner one took over. Unfortunately, the evil leader this time is Troy’s own father, Jem Reth. Reth wants to make all people slaves to him. Ian faces many challenges while trying to figure out how to defeat his father. During this story Troy continues to struggle while controlling his magic.
This story includes all the components of a great book. Hot steamy romance, fighting, magic, adventure and great writing! The characters, while in a fantasy world, still had feelings and thoughts, sometimes even deep thoughts. Ian, being the main character, shows the most growth with his life and sacrifices.
“Like my magic and my scars, the past and future are a part of me. I’ll always carry their weight. But I think it’s time I try living in the present for a while.”
This was a great conclusion to this series and even though it’s a long story like the first two, the excitement and adventure makes the pages fly by. I recommend this book, this series and this author, especially to those readers who love fantasy adventures. Schneider has created a world full of control, greed and power-hungry rulers. Even though I don’t usually read fantasy stories, I’m glad I read this one.
Wildfire Knockout by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Predator Series continues with Wildfire Knockout. This novella is a quick read and oh so good! Beth and Scott finally become friends, but the real question is can they become more. Finding the one can be easy, healing is the hard part.
This author continues to bring us into her world, where the tough, sexy women don’t really need rescuing, but the helpful, sexy men sure don’t hurt. This story was easy to read just like the first two before it and since this is book three in the series, it must be read in order.
Wrecked by S. Courtney
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a new to me author and I am so glad to have read this book and look forward to reading more in this series! This author has a smooth writing style that makes for turning page after page super easy!
Sometimes when you think someone is The One, they really aren’t. Sometimes family really isn’t family. Sometimes you need to get Wrecked to get where you need to be.
Reaper, Avi and even Tator Tot, learn these lessons the hard way. Thankfully the bad world doesn’t change them too much.
The End of Try Try Again: Overcome Your Weight Loss and Exercise Struggles for Good by Kristen Carter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a helpful book with encouraging ideas to change your thinking about food and weight loss. A lifestyle change that is sustainable.
This author is well versed in fitness and educating those about fitness. This book is educational and easy to follow. Giving the reader a chance to reflect on their own choices and how to make changes that will last.
The Predator Part Two by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Part two of this series is the conclusion and the make-up sex part of K.C and Chamberlain’s story. These two rediscover each other after years of rebuilding themselves and trying to “get over” the other. However, their connection is still there making all the sex worth it!
I enjoyed their reunion but felt like something was missing in this book. Felt more like this was the buildup for Beth and her story. Don’t get me wrong, the sex was really good!
Love these characters and look forward to what they may get into in future stories.
The Predator Part One by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
O.M.G. Where oh where has this book and this author been??!! I read a book by this author way back in 2020 but I guess she escaped me. Now, after reading this book, she will not get away!!!
The main character K.C., gets put through so much in her short life. Her family is a real piece of work. Are there really any good political families in real life or make believe? This story is a little predictable on one hand but then there’s a little twist to keep you flipping those pages. Chamberlain, the male MC is ugh…so sweet but ugh. A true guy with his platonic blinders on. I absolutely love love love K.C. and Chamberlain’s relationship. The secondary characters aka best friends, Beth, Scott and even Gwen, who I love to hate right now, are all worthy characters as well.
This way this author writes had me mesmerized and trying to read faster than I ever had. Currently reading part 2 of this story and looking forward to what may and who may come next.
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a new to me author and so glad I took a chance. This story was a pretty good love story. This book kept me reading and turning page after page. The main characters of Anne and Declan are victims of insta-love. One look and they were hooked. However, because of their beliefs (he’s her best friend’s older brother) and the situation (he is rising up through Dad’s company and keeping the family name at the top) neither actually believe their feelings.
I loved the way things worked out though. Such a twist! Looking forward to more from this author.
Irresistible Bond: Central Florida Stories by Victoria Saccenti
Not my first book by this author and definitely not my last. Storm, Marcus and Barrington have been friends since childhood. Now that they are all grown up things have changed. Their friendship has developed into so much more, I would say an Irresistible Bond even. The bond of friendship changes when Storm leaves. While she is away Marcus and Barrington build a life Storm can come home to. But when she is finally able to come home, she is a bit beat up. Her life has changed but not her feelings for Marcus and Barrington.
I love the way this story reads. The development of the characters and their life lessons makes for this an irresistible story. Even though this is book 5, it can be read as a standalone. Looking forward to more from this author!
Secrets, Lies and Betrayals by Lynn Wood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This story is one of politics, violence and death, with a little bit of hope and love thrown in. Lea is the victim throughout the story however she doesn’t always play that way. She is trying to get on with her life with her new identity since her real life was stolen when she was 3 years old. For years Lea has been hiding but as she turns 18 and graduates, she discovers she needs to learn how to take care of herself, build a life and as Max tells her: “Gotta live, girl”.
This story takes many turns and when the world starts looking for lost little Michaela, Lea must go back into hiding, but will she ever be able to come out and live a normal life.
This story was a little slow to start as this trope isn’t my go-to. About a third of the way in I was hooked. Looking forward to reading more in this series and about these characters.
Catch A Cowboy by Rachelle Paige Campbell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This story, these characters, this author. Hit me good with all the feels.
First: “External validation”
Then: “Children were a gift, forcing the grown-ups in their lives to snap out of their doldrums and look at the world with wonder.”
Absolutely love the sweet slow burn love that these characters develop. While both Ted and Stephanie are awkward around each other, which is so cute, they are strong and opinionated in their respective line of work, making them perfect for each other. I love the writing style of this author and the way she brings the characters together, even after a little turbulence.
This book is the second in the series but can be read as a standalone as each book focuses on a new couple. Looking forward to reading more about the Kincaid Ranch and family.
Five Tries to Get It Right by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is a really touching story about mental illness and the darkness that one can feel.
Lydia and Kate are best friends and have been since they were children. They weren’t always close due to the changes in their lives. But they reconnect when it is needed the most. Kate is in trouble. The life she worked so hard for and that she loved, has taken an unexpected and unwanted turn. Nothing prepared her for the events that unfold, nor does she know how to deal with the darkness inside her as it begins to take over. While this may sound a little like science fiction it is not… It is the reality of many people dealing with different types of mental illnesses. Lydia is a caretaker, first for her mother, then her husband and her daughter, and even the children she teaches. It is what she knows. When her life takes an unexpected turn, she focuses her care-taking energy on Kate. Little does Lydia know that she will need more than just care-taking skills to help Kate.
I liked the writing style of this story. The characters are believable and admirable. The plot moves in real time as life would. This story is about growing up but not necessarily growing old.
Toasted by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the first book I have read by this author and so glad I took a chance, such a cute story. The writing style makes this story easy to read as well as fun to read. Looking forward to the next story in this Love Burns series.
I could feel Libby’s pain and confusion and even her frustration! Thankfully the “elusive toaster fire” brought the town fire department to her rescue. Zach being the main hero of the day and the story! These characters are real, down to earth and so sweet. The story is totally believable right down to that darn toaster! Glad there will be more for Libby and Zach and their friends!
Come Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This story is a slow rolling mystery. There is a little romance, mostly one sided it seems. There are many secrets being kept in this story, right up until the end. The plot flowed with these secrets and the good number of characters keeping them. The main character, Erica, is too trusting of not only her new husband but of every person she meets. She believes everything she hears. “You’re a gusty, intelligent woman, but sometimes you act like a brainless fool.”
Other characters include Erica’s husband Terry; her well-meaning older aunts; Doug, who is a “friend” of Terry’s; and the Hartley family. All of these characters are on my list of characters not to trust. Every one of them has a secret or two. The author’s writing leads me to believe they are all troublemakers and unable to be trusted.
Erica needs to decide what is happening around her, what happened to Terry and most importantly, she needs to survive long enough to turn 25 to inherit millions from her parents.
Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Banks and Killer Kaitlyn are a power couple, except they are not a couple in that sense of the word. They are beautiful, funny, sexy and flawed and determined. However, time is ticking for them both. Banks is aging and his hockey career is in jeopardy and for Kaitlin, she is aging and her hopes of becoming a mother are slipping away as her eggs begin to become “seasoned”. Working together may get Banks the deal of a lifetime, but can they also make Kaitlin’s dreams come true.
As a hockey fan, the references to the game and the players’ positions were spot on. Being of the perimenopausal group, those symptoms are spot on as well!
So glad this is a series! Looking forward to reading more hockey stories!
The Better Man by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This author never fails at heart breaking, heart mending and heart warming stories. And boy oh boy does this story have all the feels. It is sweet, funny, satisfying with a touch of heavenly influence.
This story is about forgiveness, hope, love, 2nd chances and family.
“No matter who you choose to pursue, don’t sit back and hope love finds a way. Sometimes, we must open a way for love to work.”
So many relationships dynamics, friends, father-daughter, mother-daughter, father-son, brothers, brother-sister. Communication, understanding, forgiveness and love is needed for all of these relationships to work.
Discovering things about yourself helps create a better person. Sharing those things isn’t always in the best interest of others. Jamie and Laramee discover how to love and believe in not only each other but themselves as well.
The title of this book leads us to believe there are others in this series so I am looking forward to discovering those and reading more from this author.
Amese of Animalis: The Borosa Legacy by M.J. Murray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This story is the interesting journey of Amese, a young teenager learning how she must rule her part of the universe. Amese must discover secrets, secrets her family is hiding and secrets of magic. Amese must learn how to use this information to keep peace for all creatures everywhere and the six guardians of the ancient magic.
This is a fun story for pre teens. I loved all the animals involved. Amese’s family and friends are entertaining as well.
Oscar and Emmy Foster Kittens by Terri Sabol
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Oscar and Emmy’s humans, Abby and Charlie with the help of Mom, discover how to care for newborn kittens. The family learns what it takes to prepare and foster kittens until they find their furever homes.
Cute story that tells about the responsibilities of fostering kittens. Age-appropriate pictures and wording.
Texas Winds by Dana Wayne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
My first book by this author and I am hooked. All the feels in this story.
“It humbled him to realize he’s spent so many years wallowing in his own pain and grief to see how he neglected his child. He saw to her basic needs, of course, but neglected the most essential one of all. The one he, himself, just realized was missing from his life. The need to know you are loved.”
Almost all of my reviews state this very thing. We all want to be loved, we all want to be accepted and valued and just plain loved.
Jake and Lexie are too cute with their beliefs about love and the things they want in life. Their situation is almost too good to be true. I was afraid something or someone would come along and try to ruin their inta-attraction. I am happy with the way this author handled things for these two and their loved ones.
Queen of the Fairies by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This story is a very whimsical and silly story told by a child. It is cute and easy to read with great pictures. I like the way the storyteller weaves the story and questions all the what ifs that could happen. I believe children aged 6-8 would enjoy this story. I look forward to reading to my granddaughter one day.
Finders Keepers, Cowboy by Rachelle Paige Campbell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This story is a cute frenemies story about Meg and Ryan. They have been neighbors and rivals since childhood. Just because their grandparents were friends back in the day doesn’t mean Meg and Ryan have to like each other. But of course with age comes knowledge and wisdom. Maybe their grandparents were on to something.
This author’s writing style made this story an easy to read and enjoyable story. The characters were believable and the descriptions of the ranch and shed project made me feel like I was there with them. Close or even forced proximity is one of my favorite troupes.
I recommend this author and look forward to reading more from her.
Fay’s Kindness Parade by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a super cute ocean short children’s story about kindness. The story follows Fay as she spreads joy. She is nice and helpful and encourages her friends to be the same. Pictures are fitting and adorable.
Code Dog by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This story is about many things, Cody the Code Dog, a town with secrets, a monster in the woods, kids trying to decipher the code and discover the secrets all the while trying to be kids, homework, chores and creating a band. I’m tired just thinking about their adventures!
The beginning half of this story seems to be all over the place. The three friends, Beth, Timmy and Arthur, are all concerned about their own thing. Beth wants to finish the school project, Timmy wonders about the monster in the woods and Arthur wants to just keep writing songs for their band. They don’t really seem to get along as friends do. But then their teacher needs their help in finding the missing time capsule. Luckily there’s a map with clues, however, those clues don’t really make much sense and there are others looking for the capsule, as well.
Cute story with a cute dog and some very interesting characters. While I do love most of this author’s books, this one wasn’t my favorite. Will continue to read the stories from her and look forward to more.
