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Vampires of Atlantis by Courtney Davis – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Vampires of AtlantisVampires of Atlantis by Courtney Davis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Fascinating paranormal story with a new twist. The characters are all quite entertaining. The plot has just a few minor glitches with tiny details yet it flows so nice. I loved the storyline. It is nice to read something about the paranormal vampire, werewolf, etc. with a whole new view. Tossing in Atlantis just gives it a whole new perspective. I enjoyed every minute. I was unable to put the book down. Right from the start, I was enthralled with the story. For you paranormal romance lovers out there, I highly suggest this one.

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Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Leaving No Traces (Commissario Scala #5)Leaving No Traces by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Detective Scala reminds me of a dog going after a bone. He will go after ever fact. He gets what seems like a straightforward case. Nope, nothing is as it seems. This is another fantastic mystery from this author that has us following Detective Scala as hee tries to find out who the murderer is. The twists and turns will surprise you. I love the writing of this author. She fascinates me with the details and the character personalities. The plots are always just the right style that you are pulled in from the start. Another winner that you should read.

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Granting Katelyn (Sweet Valley Series) by S.E. Reichert – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Granting KatelynGranting Katelyn by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Katelynn is asked to help Hugh and his owner, Grant with some equine therapy. Little did she know that she would be helping them both. Hugh, a horse, suffered an accident and she was the only one who could reach and help him. Grant, better known as “The Beast”, is an overbearing grump. He also suffered from the same accident. This story kind of made me think of Beauty and the Beast. There were a few extra villians in the story that sure made you not like them. I found myself rooting for Kate and Grant. These two had a lot of issues to get through. Kate taught that hardships can be overcome. Life can be hard but you can get through. I love this series. Elle’s story was good. Kate’s story has been lovely and heartwarming. The writing is beautiful. The characters are fantastic. The storyline is smooth with no glitches. I couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait to read the older sister’s story next.

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Firewall by Jessica Mehring – Review by Shelly Kittell

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FirewallFirewall by Jessica Mehring
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is an excellent romantic suspense thriller. Veronica finds a suspicious hard drive and the fun starts there. Her best friend, Cera, sends her brother, Angus, to protect her. I found the action and drama to be exciting and intense. The writing is well-done. The story starts right off with grabbing your attention. I couldn’t put it down. It’s a short book so you get a lot packed in but it doesn’t feel rushed. The characters are developed well. The chemistry between Angus and Veronica is intriguing because neither has time for a relationship but here it comes. An exciting read that fit in perfect for a weekend read. This was a new author to me and I hope to read more.

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wow! This is an emotional ride. I came into the series at this point. I will need to go back and read the previous books. The book starts pretty intense and I was drawn right in. The writing is such that you feel like you are right their in the action. The topic is deep and might be a tw so please read the author’s website. I found the story to be interesting and very intriguing. It is a good read.

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Heavy Shot (Nashville Assassins: Next Generation) by Toni Aleo – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Heavy Shot (Nashville Assassins: Next Generation #7)Heavy Shot by Toni Aleo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was full of sparks all over. We have Shelli, grudge holder to Dimitri. Shelly and Posey, sisters who argue. Dimitri and Austen. Oh, did I love Dimitri and Austen story. These two showed us what true love is. It all came down to what is more important to you and what are you willing to give up. First, this is my first venture into the Nashville Assasins and I need more!! This team story is hot and exciting. I loved the drama. Second, I couldn’t put down the story of these two. I was pulled in by their interactions. I loved the back stories with all the OG families, such as Peepaw, and Dimitri’s family and the Adlers. The dual POV makes reading it so much more like you are there listening to the interaction. This book was a fantastic story. A quick read that will make you smile.

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The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1) Audiobook by Cat Treadgold – Review by Shelly Kittell

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4/5 stars

Can love work through the silence?

I found this a romantic and charming story. The flirting between these two was fun and quite witty. When one can’t talk and the communication must be done by writing it makes it so much fun. The miscommunication can be fun and quite enticing. Blushing abounds because errors can be made. These two are quite fun characters. I enjoyed their story. It kind of reminded me of a Pretty Woman vibe. I couldn’t stop the story. Ali had her hands full trying to figure out what had happened to her brother and that mystery, then she comes upon Joe in the woods. He’s dealing with surgery that can mess up his career. His biggest obstacle sis having to keep quiet due to surgery on his vocal cords. I enjoyed the story very much.Hearing it in audio did a lot to add to it. The narration was a little dry but I still enjoyed it as it brought the story to life. With Ali’s brother’s mystery, I feel hearing it in audio, that helps add more to the story. It’s quite enjoyable.

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Marked Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 2) by Lilliana Rose – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Marked Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 2)Marked Wolf by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tamaska is back in this action-filled second book of the series. Kodiak is a hot wolf and the chemistry between these two is **wham**. The problem is that wolfs and humans aren’t supposed to bond. She’s trying to rescue the blood opal. There is so much adrenaline filled drama. I found myself on the edge=of-my-seat waiting to see what’s coming up next. This series is exciting and full of the paranormal. I love the characters and the writing. I can’t wait for Book #3 to see what’s ahead.

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Reticent Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Reticent Hawke: A Billionaire Reverse Age Gap Best Friend's Older Sister Forbidden Romance (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 2)Reticent Hawke: A Billionaire Reverse Age Gap Best Friend’s Older Sister Forbidden Romance by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jude and Angelica…where to start? Forbidden love? Love from afar? 12 year age gap? I can understand why Jude stayed away but oh, my heart hurts for him being that lonely. These two have some issues to get through and they will. As the older one in the relationship, I’ll say it can feel different because society paints a jaded picture but pooh. Women can have younger men. My husband is 10 years younger. I was rooting for Angelica once she realized what she had. I was rooting for Jude all the way. Coming into a mafia family wasn’t easy. The Hawke’s were different. They are a family and love each other. Don’t hide it, talk to someone. Dealing with his agoraphobia didn’t help. This book left me feeling every emotion. I think it’s the best Hawke book ever (even though you’ll write more). I couldn’t put it down. This author writes and you feel her soul in the writing. The passion and emotion are in it. You feel like you are almost in the middle of the action. Best writing of the year. More than 5 stars if I were allowed to.

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Master Campania (Masters of the Consulate Book 7) by Sylvia Black – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Master Campania: Dark Vampire Romance (Masters of the Consulate Book 7)Master Campania: Dark Vampire Romance by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I didn’t think I had a favorite in this series but Master Campania and Willow have just become my favorites. He rules a vampire territory in Italy and sh’es a sassy little witch that thinks she know it all. They both teach other their is more to life and learn to love. The action was fast-paced. It has been since book 1. I loved seeing everyone back in action. Lucianna is amzing and I am still following what is happening in their battle. An amazing journey for all of them. Campania and Willow have left me wanting more of this lustful, flirty and spicy couple. All is good in this this book. My only complaint is that I have to wait until October for the next. 🙂

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The Anchor Knot (The Knot Series Book 2) by DonnaLee Overly – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The Anchor Knot:securing the knot of truth (Knot, #6The Anchor Knot:securing the knot of truth (Knot, #6 by DonnaLee Overly
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to think of this story. As it started, it felt like a romantic suspense, which it is to a point. Yet, Gabby really grows from a widow trying to please her daddy to coming into her own. She realizes that her life is her own and her son’s. There shouldn’t be secrets or cheating fiancees or conniving managers. Some of the antagonists in this story are truly ones youo just want to hate. It was nice to watch Gabby learn to stand and speak for herself. The twists were not what I saw coming but they fit well. I found this to be a very well-done story that is totally about female empowerment and you can also find happiness. The writing is beautiful and the characters are well-developed. This is womens fiction I would recommend.

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Regaining Integrity (Code of Honor Book 4) by Brooke May – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Regaining IntegrityRegaining Integrity by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

These two had me chuckling at the flirting, the sparks and the chemistry. He wants her. She wants him, but doesn’t. Ridge wants to have a crush on her. This is the sweetest romance and I still love the moments when Cera gets hers. A fun story where the tables turn, hearts shine and love is found. Characters are fantastic This is one of the best series out there in the romance genre. I love it when the author takes us back there. I can’t wait wait to return again. Take me back to Montana.A quick read that you will enjoy.

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Love, Only Better (Bold Journeys Book 1) by Paulette Stout – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Love, Only BetterLove, Only Better by Paulette Stout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Rebecca is a character that I could totally relate to for personal reasons. Reading this story was like reading about my life. I found the story to be powerful. The start built at a slow start but I found that it was building to a story that let us watch Rebecca find out what True Love was and could be, with Kyle. She learned to want to love and be herself. Sure, she has issues. Sometimes, it’s refreshing to read a story and watch someone get through it. Even being fiction, it still brings hope. I enjoyed it all, though her friends left something to be desired. I look forward to reading more. I already have the second book up next.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a fun story. Russell has to take his grandfather to the carousel at the park every day. The same routine…. One day, his grandfather opens an adventure and the fun starts there. This is an amazing history adventure that brings stories to life. Each chapter is a history lesson brought to life. A fun chapter book that will be a great addition to any child’s library. I will be adding it to our homeschool library.

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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Ten Little Starfish: A Counting BookTen Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a sweet little counting book for children. It is bright, colorful and a fun way to learn some new facts about starfish. The illustrations are so cute that they will catch children’s attention and start conversations. The activities and fun facts at the end of the story help to continue that learning. This would be a wonderful addition to any child’s library.

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Complicated Choices by Risa Nyman – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Complicated ChoicesComplicated Choices by Risa Nyman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I found myself feeling all the feels with this story. A high school senior winds up having to take care of her new baby brother because her mom can’t handle it. There are a lot of complications in her life all at one time. She wants her mom to get help. She wants to have a life. She wants to knoww who the baby’s father is. The twists in the story will astound you. This story feels so real. I feel it’s one of the best stories I’ve read this year. If I were allowed to give it more than 5 stars I would.

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shelly Kittell

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this modern retelling of Jack & The Beanstalk. Infomercials, fast talkers, lazy, all the things that little boys can be. It’s funny, entertaining. My grandson was laughing at the giant and how the boys tricked him. The illustrations are wonderful. Another winner for this author.

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Tempting Fate (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book 1) by Bella Faust – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Tempting Fate: a dark and angsty love triangle romance (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book 1)Tempting Fate: a dark and angsty love triangle romance by Bella Faust
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh my! First off…make sure to read tthe author’s trigger warning. After that, you are in for a ride. This is one of the most intense romance stories I have ever read. I don’t really want to give away too much. You must read it to find out more. The chemistry is off the charts. The characters are so well written and drawn into the story so well that you can’t help but be pulled in right from the beginning.
At times, I found myself holding my breath waiting to see what happened. I am waiting to see what comes out in the next book.

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) by P J Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Scala is one detective that I would want on my case if I needed one. He’s trying to protect his family from a possible psycho but seems to be losing it a little. Romizi is just trying to help him but ends up with a few mishaps like a pop in the nose but as friends, he forgives him. He understands. I find these books so interesting because Scala is a no-nonsense cop good at the dettails. He lets a little slip in this one because its his family and that affects him.Like a dog with a bone, he is relentless and he won’t let this go, he will figure out who’s trying to hurt his family and who’s killing the others. I love how the author just leads into the next books at the end. Such great writing and wonderful characters. Even with the story based in Italy, it is still easy to understand for us here in the US. A must for mystery lovers.

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The Secret Humankind (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1)The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I found this book to be entertaining. Ending up at a crime cleaning service which isn’t quite what it says it is. Learning that not everything is as it is is kind of the lesson of the book. For the first in the series, I find the author set up the book in a perfect way. I was drawn in by the characters right from the start. I am a fan of urban fantasy. This is one of my favorite genres becasue it can go in a few different ways. The story is quite fascinating. I can’twait for the next book to come out.

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Flowers of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Flowers of Evil (Hani's Daughter Mysteries Book 1)Flowers of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I found this book to be quite enjoyable. The characters were quite unique and relatable even being based in the Egyptian ancient times. The cozy mystery was really a nice twist. Having the girls figuring it out was a nice plot because it showed them being strong and persevering through the challenges that came their way. The premise was a really good story. I look forward to reading more in this series.

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The Ring of Eagna (The Cross of Ciaran Book 4) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The Ring of Eagna (The Cross of Ciaran #4)The Ring of Eagna by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The excitement to read the next in this series. I am a big fan of this series. The author has written it to feel so authentic. She includes a map, glossary and a dictionary. The characters are so uniquely written that they are such a joy to read. Ciaran and his brother can make me feel like I’m on the treasure hunt with them because of all the descriptions and the stories that are shared. Cait is torn, yet not, because there are so many to watch the kids. I loved trying to figure out which is the bad guy. I don’t think I would want to go on family vacations with them because they always end up in trouble, but they roll with it. I’ve loved this series and I can’t wait to read more books from this author. I love her style of writing and how authentic she makes it feel. This is a must read.

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Sleeping with the Enemy (Astoria Royals Book 3) by Deborah Garland – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Sleeping with the Enemy (Astoria Royals, #3)Sleeping with the Enemy by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Riordan and Priscilla’s story had me right from the start. Man, the action was there. Her tragic story from her teen’s ripped my heart out (the author does give a trigger warning. Make sure to read it). These two come back together and the action is sparking and full of chemistry as they try to avoid but can’t. I haven’t read the first two in the series but you can bet I will now. I loved the characters. They just fit the mafia stereotype so well. Priscilla didn’t quite fit the mafia daughter type but she’s trying to overcome so much. The story can be graphic but it’s a good romance that is worth reading.

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The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Duology Book 2) Audiobook by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra – Review by Shelly Kittell

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I sure enjoyed this continuation of The Coin series. Gabriela and Richard took this story to a whole new level. The spy game and time travel just made it so fanflippingtastic. I used to think The DaVinci Code was great but I have since changed my mind. I found the protagonist in this series are well-written and developed. The antagonist fit their role perfect. The story flows smooth and it just is. Listening to this in audio was different. It is enjoyable in audio. I do with the variety in voices had been more. I am and always will be a fan of variety and not just the same voice. It’s worth the listen because it’s got the same thrill and is exciting.

The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1)The Silent Woodsman by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this a romantic and charming story. The flirting between these two was fun and quite witty. When one can’t talk and the communication must be done by writing it makes it so much fun. The miscommunication can be fun and quite enticing. Blushing abounds because errors can be made. These two are quite fun characters. I enjoyed their story. It kind of reminded me of a Pretty Woman vibe. I couldn’t put the story down. I had to finish it in one sitting. A quick read that will have you giggling.

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Murder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Murder in a Gated CommunityMurder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this story quite entertaining. So many different ways the plot could go and so many entertaining characters: Hazel, the grouch; Andrea, the hiding ex-wife of an abuser, etc. So much going on and I loved it because I could try to figure out the mystery. Leslie and Jane were my favorites because they seemed so quiet and nonconfrontative (but Jane would surprise us). The plot was well-written and a full of terrific twists. This is a community that I can’t wait to read more about. So much more in the undercurrents of this community. This is a story that is a must read. I can’t wait to read more.

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Oathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Oathbreakers AnonymousOathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a cool story! The premise drew me in because I love rooting for the underdog. Loved how the characters were written. The personalities are each so unique and quite individualistic. They each fit into their spot in the story. I just couldn’t put it down. To fall out of favor with the Gods and take up the charge to get your spot back, that takes gumption. These guys had some cajones and I enjoyed watching their journey. The writing was strong and you couldn’t help but feel engaged by the story the minute you started. I couldn’t put it down. I thought my kindle was attached to my hand. Fantastic story and I can’t wait to read the next book.

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Tequila Midnight (Southwest Suspense Novels Book 1) by Kathryn Dodson – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Tequila MidnightTequila Midnight by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jessica is having some issues of her own to get through and Tomas decides to hire her for a tough case of a daughter that’s missing and a daddy that wants her found. Dang, this was an action packed story that had me reading and I couldn’t put down the story. I had to see what was coming.I’m often the first one going “just pause, it will be there when you get back.” Well, I couldn’t do that with this story. It’s that good. Badassery, thugs, a romance that she doesn’t want to acknowledge, daddy issues… you name it and it’s probably in this story. She grows up a bit as she’s hunting this girl and it’s a neat story to read and follow. I cannot wait for more with her and her friends. One of the best series I’ve read this year.

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Sage Advice by Cori Cooper – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Sage AdviceSage Advice by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author writes such wonderful teen books about growing up. Pyper is a young woman working her through school. She has her plans and often times, they just don’t work the way she wants. Isn’t that all we wanted back then? All our issues at the time to work out. I found this story to be relatable. I really enjoy these stories as the author makes her stories feel like she could have taken them from your childhood. This is a fun story.

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Planting Hope by Jennifer Raines – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Planting HopePlanting Hope by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a wonderful book. Holly and Chris both have issues having ben through traumatic experiences. They are both brought together to help pull her grandmother’s healing garden other and to help child victims of trauma. This is a sweet story of two people working through their issues and healing as they build a relationship. My heart wouldn’t let me quick reading. I was invested right from the beginning. A beautiful story that will touch your heart right from the start. I need to read more of this author’s books.

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