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A Teacher’s Heart by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a special tribute to teachers! I found this to be a sweetly written book about how teachers care about children and want to do their best to teach them. Considering today’s education, this book is coming at just the right time. The sentiment is meaningful. The pictures are beautifully and tastefully drawn. It’s a good book that many may enjoy.
Rise of the Hunter by Barb Jones
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Wow! I found this story to be quite exciting. The Queen and her friends are in for the battle of their life. Good and Evil. The Tall Dark Man makes his return. Having read the first book and then jumping here to book 4 made it a touch confusing but I did finally get my bearings. The story went back and forth giving history of the prophecy leading to the third battle. As a paranormal fan, I love that there’s a bit of everything in there: vamps, stone demons, witches, you name it. Fantasyland. You are pulled right in from the beginning as the story delves right into how the tale began. I found it to be well-written. The time jumps were done smooth so that you could follow the story without getting lost. The Hawaii history was quite fascinating and a wonderful touch to the story. I believe it’s a story worth reading. I do think this is better read in order but you can do stand-alone.
Holding Up the Sky by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
What a fun story! It’s an entertaining story/myth teaching about helping and being kind. I loved the bright colorful pictures. The story was another big hit in our house for storytime. My grandson now walks around telling me he is holding up the sky. (He is autistic and feels he needs to model heros in many forms). The characters are kind and compassionate. The ones who need to learn lessons always learn a lesson in a good way. I love the stories this author writes because she makes learning fun.
Falling Again by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I so enjoyed this one. Natalie and Anthony’s story is so flipping relatable. Trying to balance work, parenthood and marriage is so hard. Family and life an a small town where everyone knows your business doesn’t help. It was so fun to see familiar faces from previous books. Alice is like a spoiled brat. The end tickled me and I can’t wait to read her story.
Anthony just wants to have his wife back and is trying so hard to make things right. You feel for him. Trudy is just an older woman set in her ways and he happens to be blessed with her as his secretary. Good or bad, she’s just trying to help him. Natalie just misses her husband and thinks she’s changed too much. These two are going through struggles we are all going through. I laughed so much reading this and rooted for them.
So well-written with lovable characters. This town is one I would love to live in. So much fun, even with gossips. This is a must-read series. I would give it a higher rating if I were allowed to.
The Messy Kids by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is the funniest book I’ve read. Chester learns how to clean up messes the right way. This is a humorous story. My grandson and I read it in a restaurant yesterday waiting for our meal. We were giggling at the messes Chester and the Messy Kids got into. The ending was our favorite parts. The illustrations are bright colorful. You can’t help but laugh with the story. It’s entertaining and teaches a wonderful lesson. This is the funniest book I’ve read. Chester learns how to clean up messes the right way. This is a humorous story. My grandson and I read it in a restaurant yesterday waiting for our meal. We were giggling at the messes Chester and the Messy Kids got into. The ending was our favorite parts. The illustrations are bright colorful. You can’t help but laugh with the story. It’s entertaining and teaches a wonderful lesson.
Ghosts of Alda by Russell Archey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a fascinating book. I found myself getting lost in the book as I followed on the magical journey. I found the characters and details quite fascinating. Honestly, I enjoyed this book much more than the ones like the Lord of the Rings. The author gives details that make it so much easier to picture in your mind. The beginning is my favorite. Picturing the wilting forest. I loved the storyline because it engaged me. My mind was engaged through the whole story. This author writes in a way has you picturing the story in your mind. From everything I’ve read recently, that just doesn’t happen much anymore. I’m thrilled to have had the next book in this series to read. I can’t wait for the next. Really, you should read this series, I can’t tell you more. You must experience this for yourself. It’s really that good.
The Boys of Alpha Block by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was exciting and thrilling. The boys plotting an escape because, quite frankly, the guards were jerks. The story is full of drama. The teachers just wanted to do the right things by the boys. This was a story I had to devour in one sitting. You can’t put it down. Once you get pulled into Alpha Block, you can’t leave. The characters are so well-written that you feel like you know them. Their struggle is real. Though the boys committed crimes, they didn’t deserve to be abused like that. An amazingly well-done story that had me sucked in and reading it page to see what was coming next. The English teacher knew something was coming, she had me looking. The story flows so well. I can’t recommend this book enough. I hope to read more from this author. Check it out, you won’t be sorry.
The Passion of 3 by Ariella Talix
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A passionate tale of Caro, Nash and Grey that will have you hooked from page 1. The story is intriguing as you read it. A little drama, polyamory, and suspense. For fans of steam, this will fog up those mirrors. I enjoyed the story, did find the steam got in the way a couple of times. This was the first I read in the series. I will have to go back and read Tanner, Zoe and Eli’s story, The character’s are written well. You could feel their emotions as they struggled with rekindling their romance. The drama and suspense had me rooting for them. I found it a story worth reading. A passionate tale of Caro, Nash and Grey that will have you hooked from page 1. The story is intriguing as you read it. A little drama, polyamory, and suspense. For fans of steam, this will fog up those mirrors. I enjoyed the story, did find the steam got in the way a couple of times. This was the first I read in the series. I will have to go back and read Tanner, Zoe and Eli’s story, The character’s are written well. You could feel their emotions as they struggled with rekindling their romance. The drama and suspense had me rooting for them. I found it a story worth reading.
Acting Counsel by Morgana Bevan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Catrina and Nathan, I loved this couple. What looked to be a one-nighter turned out to be a surprise. The flirting and just cheekiness was quite entertaining. I loved reading and watching their romance develop. They are such a cute pair. The story is great. I loved the characters and getting to see some from the previous two books in the series was an added bonus. Thank you to the author for a wonderful story
Someone to Watch Over Me by Debbie Cromack
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oh, this was too sweet of a second-chance romance to miss. Angelo and Lucia grew up together and were childhood friends. There has always been a spark there. There have also always been obstacles to overcome for them both. A well-written story that allows us to follow them as this slow-burn romance develops into so much more. The characters are well-developed and so relatable. The story was a beautiful ending to a beautiful series by this author.
Walk Off by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I found this to be an interesting read. The rekindling of their romance brought on the newfound knowledge of their daughter. It was a nicely done second chance romance. I found the characters to be okay, a tad whiney but they were very relatable. The plot was fairly smooth and fast paced. This is a nice, quick read for those weekends spent in a quiet setting.
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/120278597-stalked-by-the-devil” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Stalked by the Devil” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1681519183l/120278597._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/120278597-stalked-by-the-devil”>Stalked by the Devil</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/82055.Stacy_Deanne”>Stacy-Deanne</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5592857778″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
This is a fantastic romantic suspense. The Devil may come in any form, male or female. This story kept me in suspense as to who the true guilty party was. The characters run the gamut from sweet to sleazy and, man, I loved every one of them. The storyline had it’s moments but if you love romantic suspense, this is the one for you. Lovers of steam will be overjoyed at the touch of steam in this one also. Romance, suspense and drama abound. Will family and long awaited love win? You’ll have to read to find out.
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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/150094264-shelly-kittell”>View all my reviews</a>
Huff…Puff…Grind! The 3 Little Pigs Get Smart: a science folktale by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Another fun retelling of a classic fairy tale. The three pigs are master builders and the big bad wolf just couldn’t blow their houses down. The houses were built to withstand the wind. In reading this story to my grandson, we found it to be entertaining and fun. We also learned about house building and windmills. The story also taught a little about cooperation. This is a wonderful addition to our library.
Ways to Improve Bailey by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this YA rom-com. Bailey and Tanner make the cutest couple. The story had me giggling so much that my family kept asking me what was funny. Marnie and her matchmaking was quite hilarious and profound. The characters are well-written for teens. Angsty, anxious with some ADHD tossed in and shake to make some cool teens. I loved the story because it’s relatable even to us old people. The story is refreshing. It’s written with humor and fun. A quick and entertaining read.
Trapping the Butterfly by Debra Parmley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This author always delights me with her books set in different time periods and cultures. The Roaring 20’s were a time of change and mafia. Bethany wants some freedom from her aunt and uncle. In the heart of Chicago, she finds Al Capone and his gang. I loved reading and watching Bethany develop into the strong woman she could be. The characters were a delight. The author takes such details that, at times, it feels like you could be there with Bethany. I found the writing stunning and full of delicious detail. I devoured this book in one sitting. I just wish there were more.
The Synchronicity of Love: Stories that Heal, Transform, and Awaken by John David Latta
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I found these stories to be fascinating. The author truly opened up with his vulnerability in sharing these. You could feel the love coming from the stories. There were several stories in there that just resonated because at times I have felt the same but to open yourself up spiritually to Love is eye opening and so enlightening. The book was just what I need to read. It gives a message of hope and healing. A definite must read.
Editor Kill Fee by G.G. Collins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
What a fun story! Yes, it’s a cozy mystery but as Taylor is solving the mystery, there is humor and entertainment with the members of the book club and her two cats. Dangerous back roads and people who aren’t as they seem, sounds like a good murder mystery to me….oh wait, that’s what it is. haha. As Taylor looks for Anita, we see a wonderful cast of characters that make up the fun town of Pecos, The writing is quite entertaining. I don’t think I’ve chuckled this much in a long time. Now I’ll have to go back and read the first two of the series so I can catch up on Taylor’s exploits. A fun mystery romp for the cozy lovers out there.
4/5 stars
This is an amazing novella of Desert Flower’s journey. This really is a story that grabs your attention. I was intrigued at how she started off her life and how strong she became. She is a true warrior spirit. The writing is so flowing and relatable that you must continue listening while you work. All of the characters are well-written from Grey Fox to those in the tribe. They all grew to mesh well, as a family should. This is about a young, indigenous girl that becomes a strong young woman. She overcomes a lot and finds her family. It’s a definite must listen to story. I do wish the narrator could have given a little more energy to her voice. It was a tad dry and I fell asleep a few times. I enjoyed the story, not the narrator, so much
Earl of Griffith by Aubrey Wynne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Oh, Lady Helen finds herself in a bind. A widow with a small child, she finds herself back home at her brother’s wedding. The Earl of Griffith is her escort to his wedding. The Earl charms his way into their life. This is a sweet 2nd chance romance that made me smile because Helen deserved a second chance at a happy life. There is drama and romance. The characters are lively and kind of fit into the storyline. I found Helen to be quite brave for the time period. I’m not sure I would have made it, if it were me. The storyline was quite fascinating and well-written. Scoundrels and heroes abound. An excellent read if you like historical romance.
Underneath The Whiskey by Chelsea Lauren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
A dark and kind of depressing story. Unfortunately, this hit a little to close to home, I had a family member go through something similar to this. It is a reminder that there is always hope at the end of the journey when life is hard. The struggle may be rough. It’s a hard story. The issues of addiction, conversion therapy, etc. may be hard for some readers to read. It’s a story worth reading because it is well-written and, though dark, the author gives hope. There is light from addiction, etc. The characters were well-written. The issues were done in such a way as to feel real. It’s a story definitely worth reading. I would just give a tw for some
Living With Conviction: Unexpected Sisterhood, Healing, and Redemption in the Wake of Life-Altering Choices by Toby Dorr
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Toby’s story is truly inspirational about how she overcame and tried to change the system while she was in for what she did wrong. She knew her mistake and acknowledged it. She learned to stand up for herself. She tried to make a better world. I found this to be a well written book that I couldn’t put down. It’s a definite must read. I don’t want to give a lot away. Toby shares her vulnerability with the world and because of this, we get to read a 5 star memoir of this year. A truly fascinating book that shows there is hope and things can change one person at a time.
Twisted Proposal by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book is fascinating. A little bit of everything: romance, BDSM, suspense, mystery and a touch of steam. I loved the characters. Ethan is a little twisted and watching him work through his issues is quite interesting. The storyline was a little glitchy in a few spots but flowed fairly smooth and it was quite good. This is an exciting story that if you like twisted adventure and romance, it’s for you.
Deception by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A little of everything can be found in this story. Daniel is a vet working through his issues. He likes a little BDSM with his women. The story has lots going on. I found the characters quite fascinating and exciting. The story took a little longer to get going but once it did, BAM!! It’s a good story if you love romantic suspense with lots of drama.
Bound by the Hinterlands by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Wow! This is a fantastic paranormal romance. Cressida and Caravahl have a romance to remember. She’s thrust into an arranged marriage in a strange land. Caravahl has to risk it all to save his land and Cressida. The characters are very well-written. This is a love for the ages. So beautiful. The plot runs so smooth. I am amazed at how well the story flows. The chemistry sparks as the romance develops. This is flat-out a must read of this year.
Helpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This is a sweet little book. I’m not too sure that young children know quite what self-care is but I think this is a good teacher for helping them know what to do when they maybe feel grumpy. Either way, it can start a discussion. I love how the story brings the whole family together. Family is important, especially in today’s world. The pictures are bright and engaging. A very sweet book that can be enjoyed by many.This is a sweet little book. I’m not too sure that young children know quite what self-care is but I think this is a good teacher for helping them know what to do when they maybe feel grumpy. Either way, it can start a discussion. I love how the story brings the whole family together. Family is important, especially in today’s world. The pictures are bright and engaging. A very sweet book that can be enjoyed by many.
Twisted Bond by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oh, what a tale of twisted love this is. Rose and Titan aren’t necessarily meant for each other but, dog gone, the sparks and chemistry pull them together like two magnets. MMMMM, the steam coming off those two. A tale with a little bit of a fairy tell retelling. It’s delightfully entertaining with characters that are quirky and twisted, cranky and odd. Rose and Titan have issues and baggage but can they work it out to break the curse? Not telling, you have to get the book and read it. This author does a fantastic job with writing a story that will pull you in, give you the giggles and make you sweat. Not to mention, look at that eye candy on the cover. This is a paranormal romance with a twist of suspense that will make you want to hide in the tower just to read it by your lonesome.
Brutal Days: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Oh, the things we do for friends. Sky’s best friend, Gia, is crushing on Damon Savage. She’d due anything to help her friend, even due what Damon wants. The chemistry between Damon and Sky is off the charts. Forget the Elites and those gossip-mongers. These two have some sparks going. This is one hot and steamy romance. They both have some issues to deal with. Damon shows that he’s just as much of a &*)hole as his brother, Cole, could be. All I can really tell you without spoiling is that the story is worth reading. The characters are so dramatic that it’s easy to relate to them. The plot runs faily smooth. This book might combust in your hands but it’s so worth it to pick and read. The drama and romance is better than one of those cheesy shows on TV. You know what I’m talking about. Hit that One-Click button.
Breathless Love by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Hank & Ella Mae’s story is one that will touch your heart. Oh my goodness, the chemistry is sparking. Ella Mae is working through some real challenges with her brother and herself. Hank is a sweet, sweet cowboy that is the best kind of heart you could hope to find. The story is both heartwarming yet tragic. Faces from the Bennet family pop into the story (I sure hope we get Becky’s story, too). I love this author’s writing. It’s real, relatable and you feel the writing. I smiled, laughed and cried with them, tears of pain and joy. This is a beautiful story that will take you behind the scenes of a musical artist’s life. Gritty, yet if can be romantic. Oh, this is one of my favorite authors and this series will be joining my library. Absolute beauty.
Secrets of the Sorcery War by Elise Carlson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The story continues the adventures of The Manipulator’s War. If you are into stories that include the LGBTQ+ genre and love the YA fantasy adventure, you’ll enjoy this. Ruanon, Linh and the others are so well-written. I can’t say they are relatable but you do feel their challenges. The adventure and drama they face keep you involved in the story until the very end. That’s what keeps the story intriguing.
Seen by Lori Nelson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Mouse is a brave young lady. She’s out there with a drone hunting for the next best news story. Be careful what you wish for. You might find something you wish you hadn’t. She experiences the worst betrayal. I found the story exciting. It’s full of drama, action, unpredictableness and lots of unique characters. It’s a dystopian world I don’t want to be in. I couldn’t put it down. A fascinating read, that’s for sure. A definite must for the TBR stack.
