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Dream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Dream-ShifterDream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an entertaining story! Gwendolyn learns she is a dream-shifter. She experiences a series of misadventures trying to become herself again. This book was a cute read. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I will be reading this with my grandson. It deals with so many topics in such a gentle way. I loved her reaction when she found out she had to interview a funeral home director. Gwen is a strong protagonist. She has to overcome a lot. She knows what she wants and goes for it. The other characters are quite funny also. The whole story is a good read for middle schoolers. Quick read that they will enjoy. I hope the author will do more of these.

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The Fifth Daughter of Thorn Ranch by Julia Brewer Daily – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The Fifth Daughter of Thorn RanchThe Fifth Daughter of Thorn Ranch by Julia Brewer Daily
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is an amazing story. Such a strong and fascinating woman to be the main character, Emma is one of my favorite protagonists of the year. She comes up against a large challenge and overcomes them. This story makes me think of Outlander, with its time travel parts. The story is well-written with such detail that you feel you are there. The switch in POV between Emma and Josie keeps you engaged. I found I just couldn’t put the story down. I was into it from the beginning. I have never been to Texas but felt like, hmmmm, maybe? The tone of the story, the plot and everything just flows so smoothly. It’s a terrific story. Fans of time travel should give this a shot. Western style time travel, new genre? Love!!!

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The Rom Com Movie Club (The Rom Com Movie Club Book 1) by Bernadette Marie – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The Rom Com Movie Club - Book OneThe Rom Com Movie Club – Book One by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was a true delight to read. A fun, entertaining romp through the rom com’s as we follow Lisa and Ryan’s relationship. Oh, the chemistry is bubbling, the trouble is brewing and the laughs are coming. Most people who have been in relationships can relate to this romance. I found the characters relatable. It kind of felt like Tina & Aaron were the back story. I love Ryan and Lisa. Their story shows how they have to work to make love work. All the references to the Rom Com movies are terrific. We needed this book. The writing is full of light humor, contemporary, and just plain entertaining. This author writes in a tone that makes the story feel real, like you are there and these could be your friends. I can’t wait for book two. A definite favorite of mine.

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Pardon Me, Please by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Pardon Me, PleasePardon Me, Please by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a cute story that kind of teaches about the turkey pardoning done by the White House. I found it to be entertaining and full of bright pictures that children may enjoy. The story may start conversations about Thanksgiving and why turkey is eaten. Another book to make learning fun by this author. She has fast become one of my favorites when I look for books for my grandchildren.

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The Sacrifice (Dragonpets Book 1) by R. L. S. Hoff – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The Sacrifice (Dragonpets #1)The Sacrifice by R.L.S. Hoff
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I found this book to be quite interesting. I just found myself a little lost at times. In reading the story, I felt that some of the setup of the story was missing. Other than the storyline issues, I found the characters to be quite entertaining and well written. It was interesting to watch the characters work on building a better world. It has lots of actions, drama, a bit of romance and fantasy. Basically, a little of everything for everybody. I am looking forward to reading more in the series. I actually came to enjoy it.

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Glass Houses by Sinister Styx – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Glass HousesGlass Houses by Sinister Styx
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well, it’s a quick read. A tale of revenge gone wrong. It’s kind of a contemporary Romeo & Juliet erotic romance. I found the characters interesting. The Demon messing with our main characters was a twist but I did love the lesson learned of not to throw rocks at glass houses. If you like steamy romance, this is for you. Overall, an entertaining romance.

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The Dwarves’ Dilemma (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Dwarves' Dilemma, TheDwarves’ Dilemma, The by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a cute story that teaches about fairness and accepting responsibility. Using a little of Snow White, the Dwarves and the Queen, the author reaches also about mirrors and the what, who and science of them. A fun, quick read for the kids. My grandson and I found it entertaining. He loves to ask lots of questions so this book started us down the rabbit hole of mirrors and the science of them. Colorful pictures, bite-size bits of the story for each section. An A+ read. We are fans of the author. Love the books she puts out. The kids learn and have fun doing it.

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A Christmas to Remember by 5 Prince Publishing – Review by Shelly Kittell

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A Christmas to Remember: An Anthology from 5 Prince PublishingA Christmas to Remember: An Anthology from 5 Prince Publishing by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An anthology of ten stories that will melt your “grinchy” heart and have you loving Christmas. We have second chance stories such as Mistletoe Memories. This story will bake you a new love for Christmas and teach you to not assume everything. My favorite story in the book, Gretchen is strong and went through an inner struggle to come to terms with how to handle her ex-fiance. A Rocky Mountain Romance is another favorite that will have you shedding happy tears like you are watching Hallmark Movies. Beautiful writing, amazing characters and a lovely Colorado setting. It is one of my favorites because I grew up near Aspen so I love playing detective with details trying to tell if she used any local area near there to base the town on. These stories are well-written, bring that Christmas spirit as we head into the season. The characters will have you smiling and chuckling. Grab a cup of hot chocolate, a lap blanket and curl up and start reading. So many lovely stories to choose from.

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The Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The Final BiteThe Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I found this story to be a short and redeeming story of second chance love. It is nice to see a story like this in the paranormal world. The writing is quite thoughtful. The characters are well-developed and I found they paired up well. Overall, I really enjoyed the story.

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Revenge Honeymoon by K.J. Gillenwater – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Revenge HoneymoonRevenge Honeymoon by K.J. Gillenwater
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this book. Ruby and Em are my kind of people. When you are jilted at the altar, take honeymoon. Even if it’s a honeymoon couple cruise, you know there will be a hot single guy. Tada, the photographer, Max, was a hot guy that mowed Em over right from the start (Quite literally). This is a funny rom-com that will have you crying and laughing through their misadventures. You might even find yourself relating to some of their troubles. Heavens, I did. A fun, contemporary read with drama and a few twists and some unforgettable characters make this a book that you just can’t pass up. I’ll be putting this one on my shelf to reread and share. A new author to me. I hope to read more.

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Order of Vespers (The Vespers Chronicles Book 1) by Matilda Reyes – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Order of VespersOrder of Vespers by Matilda Reyes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What a fascinating story! This is the beginning of a new series. Jasper finds that she has supernatural powers and goes to Manhattan where no one knows her. Unfortunately, she is kidnapped by the Order of Vespers, a league of assassins. The story is full of drama, action, intense suspense and a bit of mystery. I love the characters. The author wrote them full of teen angst and just how they would be seen. The plot had a couple choppy spots but it flowed so smooth. I’m looking forward to reading more in this series. That ending…..Loved it! I’m hooked…have been since the beginning. An eagerly awaiting fan.

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Dia’s Lure (Solstice Quartet Book 3) by Catherine Peace – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Dia's LureDia’s Lure by Catherine Peace
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! This is the most intense of the series. Dia is amazing strong. Trying to survive and hide to keep her family safe. The drama, action, romance ( even a bit of steam) keep it a definite page-turner. We have paranormal in the story. I loved how Dia is really trying to make a better world for the swans. An amazing the story. I found the writing superb. The characters were incredible. The descriptions of the locations were divine. This has been a must read series. I’m looking forward to reading the next.

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Lucas the Spy Cat (Jake the Growling Dog) by Samantha Shannon – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Lucas the Spy CatLucas the Spy Cat by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was so excited to see this. My family are big fans of Jake, The Growling Dog. Now we get Lucas, The Spy Cat. Lucas is a beautiful Black Cat that goes out prowling at night. His owners want to know what he’s doing so they hook up a spy cam to his collar. What do they learn? You’ll have to read it to find out. This author writes such an entertaining and informative story. The character is always fun. The pictures are bright and colorful. The text is in little bits so to not overwhelm readers. It’s a perfect storytime book. There are exciting learning activities and information at the end. What a wonderful addition this will be to our collection. I recommend you pick up a copy to add your collection. Well-done author.

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Shadow Patterns of Melt by J. R. P. Fogg – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Shadow Patterns of Melt - Book OneShadow Patterns of Melt – Book One by J. R. P. Fogg
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A fascinating science fiction read. Bashr and Nialla are traveling through space. They are on adventures to places that I can’t even spell. The travels are full of drama, odd bugs and other items, annoying family and government that want your plans and other items. They don’t let any of this get to them. They won’t give up their freedom. They are kind of a perfect pair. I like how they work together as a team. It’s an odd book but a really good read. It isn’t my usual book genre but I’m glad I read it. Written well with fun characters that are strong, independent and determined. They are doing things that I’m not sure I could so I’ll enjoy it vicariously through them. A fascinating read that you should tr

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More Than by Diane Barnes – Review by Shelly Kittell

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More ThanMore Than by Diane Barnes

Love this! I was hooked because I could totally relate to Peggy’s struggles. She is one tough mama that hung in there and kicked butt. She gained friends, lost weight, and showed her kids that she is amazing. Another new author to me, I love writing that involves strong women overcoming challenges. Peggy is still going to have more to work on but the story showed us that it is possible for over 40 women to do this. Amazing writing that had the story flowing well. Terrific characters, even spoiled Grace. I loved it and hope to see more.

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Rainbow’s Red Book of Poetry by Lily Lawson – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Rainbow's Red Book of PoetryRainbow’s Red Book of Poetry by Lily Lawson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beautiful poetry that celebrates love and life’s challenges. ‘Game Over’ is the one that most resonated with me. Many of these may speak to you. Some are profound. Some are deep. Most make you think. I am not a fan of poetry but I found myself reading everyone of these and finding them beautiful and thoughtful. The rhythm flows nicely. I recommend this book to everybody. Even if you have runed the other way to poetry, give this a try. This isn’t your normal poetry. Contemporary poetry that will have you thinking about life. Well-done author.

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The Protector (The Freemasons Book 4) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The Protector (The Freemasons #4)The Protector by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely fell in love with this book. Renee was rescued and this is her story along with Declan’s. You feel every minute of Renee’s emotions as she is adjusting back to a free life. Declan has been in love with her for a long time and he will wait for her. He is her safe place/ He is her person. Out of everyone, he is the one she trusts and goes to. Renee goes to Hell and is partially back. She and Declan have a long journey ahead but Renee is determined not to let her fear take hold. You have to read this book. It really is an incredible story. All the characters from the previous books are in here. The author ties the book up nicely. The storylines tie up and flow smooth. That ending…..BAM! I didn’t see that coming. Renee is a fierce woman that just needed to remember to believe in herself. An amazing book! I would have given it more than 5 stars if I were able to.

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Better Gnomes & Gardens (Mysty Haven Mystery Book 1) by Casey Cardel – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Better Gnomes & Gardens (Mysty Haven Mystery)Better Gnomes & Gardens by Casey Cardel
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love a good cozy with some paranormal touches. Missing gnomes, Bigfoot, fairies, werewolves….the town of Mysty Haven sounds like a perfect place for a mystery. Bob is on the hunt for Charlie, the missing gnome. He has the wildest misadventures trying to find him. I wonder will I was reading if he didn’t just want to pinch himself and ask if this was real. The story has all the elements of the perfect cozy and more. The plot will have you rolling right off your chair. The characters are very entertaining. I enjoyed this book and hope to see more from this author.

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Devlin by Angela K. Parker – Review by Shelly Kittell

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DevlinDevlin by Angela K. Parker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Evelyn and Devlin have sparks. Problem is they work together and he annoys her. She is coming off a bad breakup and he makes a proposition. This is a quick, fun and entertaining read. There is lots of banter and humor. The characters are so made for each other. I loved the writing in the story. It just flows together so well. The writing is contemporary and realistic. You feel like you might be with them. An enjoyable read. A new author to me and I hope to read more

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After She Became a Lady by Wareeze Woodson – Review By Shelly Kittell

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After She Became a LadyAfter She Became a Lady by Wareeze Woodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wow, I loved how strong Laurel is. She faces so many challenges head on. The writing feels so realistic that you feel like you are there with her. The storyline is smooth and relatable. The characters are well-written. The author writes very good historical fiction that feels so easy to read and is not dull or dry. A strong story that is a must read.

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Master Catteneo (Masters of the Consulate Book 5) by Sylvia Black – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Master CatteneoMaster Catteneo by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh my goodness, this has to be my favorite of the series so far. Master Catteneo and Alessia have a fated romance. He’s a Master Vampire and she’s a gypsy psychic. This story brings basically everyone back together as they look for Lucianna, who’s been taken by the evil ones working with Isala. The drama is outstanding in this installment. I love the ladies of the Masters. Alessia is just trying to fit in and here comes Embry jumping to conclusions. The adventure, romance, and suspense will draw you in and keep you there. I finished this book in 24 hours. Every minute I had, I was reading. I could not put this book down, I had to know what was going to happen. There are a couple of subplots going on by the author does such a great job of being able to take these and it all comes back together and ties in so well. The characters feel like they are people you might know. Yeah, they are supers, but they have human characteristics. Ezra, Alessia’s gramma, is awesome. I would love to see her have a story (could just be due to I’m a senior citizen also, lol). Fantastic book & series. I’ll be eagerly awaiting Master Calabria.

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Soliloquy by Janet Fogg – Review by Shelly Kittell

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SoliloquySoliloquy by Janet Fogg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An amazing trip back in time! Erin is left a box with 8 magical figurines in it (there used to be 12) from her grandmother, with a mysterious note. The adventure begins when Arick is brought in to help tell her more about it. I really can’t tell you a whole lot because you have to read this incredible journey. I can tell you that she wakes in Nazi-occupied France. The characters are so well-written. You can almost feel like you are there in the story, that’s how relatable these characters are. Well done! The plot is easy to follow and flows fairly smooth, even with a few choppy sections in there. This is truly a fascinating story that revolves around her aunt, that she is named for, and a piece of music that creates a hauntingly beautiful memory. The ending was breathtaking. This is one of the best time-travel pieces I’ve read this year. An amazing story that fans of history, music, and/or romance should read. I’d give it more than 5 stars if I could.

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The Magical Summer of Miranda Stone (The Emergence Duology Book 1) by A.D. Brazeau – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The Magical Summer of Miranda StoneThe Magical Summer of Miranda Stone by A.D. Brazeau
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I fell in love with this story. Miranda. She has an amazing story. The summer she hits her teen, magic starts leaking out of her hands. All of sudden, everyone including family, looks at her funny. Women are disappearing so she runs away to New Orleans. From there, the drama happens. Right from the start, it feels reminiscent of the Salem Witch Trials. I found the story exciting, scary, adventurous, and interesting. Here she is 16 and off to do her own thing by necessity. I found the descriptions in the book perfect for the imagination. The characters were well-developed and just perfect for the story (unique and very quirky). A perfect YA fantasy story. I can’t wait to read the next one.

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Finding Bryce (Green Brotherhood: SEAL Team XII Book 1) by Debra Parmley – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Finding Bryce (Green Brotherhood: SEAL Team XII Book 1)Finding Bryce by Debra Parmley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an exciting reading. It’s quick, full of action and suspense. Bryce is a SEAL That meets Pippa at a Halloween party. Pippa is dealing with issues. Can these two make a relationship work? I loved seeing how SEAL’s work together. Family is forever. An HEA that will leave you smiling. I can’t wait for book 2.

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The Kidnapping by Linda Burson – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The KidnappingThe Kidnapping by Linda Burson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh, Jenna, can you find someone to love you for you? Will they love you for only your money? Well, looks like that jerk, Steve, chose option #2. This is a fantastic story. The kidnapping was a plot of fools from the beginning. (It was planned that way). I don’t think I’ve laughed that hard. Jemma is a fighter and very independent. She’s going give it her all. She and Andy seem to have found each other in the unlikely spot. They feel like a good pair that deserve that second chance. They are one couple you love to read about being happy. The story is well- written. The characters are well developed. Each one is so relatable. Jemma feels so real, as does Andy. I loved how well it flowed, even when a twist appeared, it just came back together. Awesome story.

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Petty’s Crime (Satan’s Devils MC Las Vegas Book 3) by Manda Mellett – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Petty's Crime (Satan's Devils MC Las Vegas #3)Petty’s Crime by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author has done it again. I’m familiar with Petty from little bits of him mentioned in her previous books. It was really quite interesting to get his story in this book. He grew up being taught that a man never hits a woman. When he married that “evil witch” of a wife and ends up being the abused husband, no one expects it. It broke my heart to read all the turmoil that her coming back into his life caused. I would have said, “Hell no.” He seemed to have feelings for RoseLyn and it would have been nice to see him acknowledge them sooner. For him to not really believe her, made it a bummer that she ended up getting kidnapped. Sometimes big drama has to happen to make you realize that you almost lost what you love. As usual, the author does not disappoint with her writing. We get snippets of the other characters in the MC. We have our drama, romance and flat-out butt kicking. One of my favorite MC writers, the book is a must read for MC fans and romantic suspense fans.

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Shadow and Crystal Thorns (Fae and Crystal Thorns Book 2) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Shadow and Crystal Thorns (Fae and Crystal Thorns, #2)Shadow and Crystal Thorns by Kay L. Moody
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book 2 in the series does an incredible job at picking up in the series where we left off. Chloe, Quintus, Mishti, Elora, and Brannick are fighting the war against the mortals. They are still trying to save the Fae from iron poisoning. This story is full of action, lots of fantasy, drama, suspense, and a little romance. There are a few subplots going on. The author ties them all in so well that it all still runs so smooth. That ending! Cliffhanger, didn’t see that coming…I can’t wait for the next book. This is definitely one of the best YA fantasy series I’ve read.

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Yesterday’s Over (Philly Heat Series Book 3) by Becky Flade – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Yesterday's Over (Philly Heat series, #3)Yesterday’s Over by Becky Flade

I love this series. Trudy and Ben came together when a set of skeletal remains were found after a large explosion. This story has a way of pulling you in and you are totally engaged in the story. There is romance, drama, suspense and mystery. The story runs flawlessly through the book. There are some twists. These bring things back together smooth. The characters were well-developed and easy to relate to. I’ts been a real treat to read this series. This author writes in a way that makes you feel like you are there in the middle of the story with them.

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Mis-Spelled (The Stellaluna Chronicles Book 1) by TH Leatherman – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Mis-Spelled (Stellaluna Chronicles, #1)Mis-Spelled by T.H. Leatherman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Well, Evan is certainly having a challenging day. Getting chased by his brother ends with falling into the land of elfs. He meets a dragon-morphing girl and many little elves. He ends up on many adventures with her. This story is a fun fantasy full of humor, adventure, and wit. I love the characters. You can feel the quirky personalities. The storyline flows fairly smooth. It’s an enjoyable tale that many will like with dragons, elves, and more.

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The Warrior (The Freemasons Book 3) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The Warrior (The Freemasons #3)The Warrior by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story is an action packed romance. The story continues with our Freemasons. Jude and Sienna finally get the chance to come together after flirting in the last book. The spark has been there. Jude has been focused on finding his sister, Renee. Until she is found, he doesn’t want to get into a romance. He feels so guilty, that it is his fault. Sienna, the director of the Freemasons Homeless shelter, is dealing with her own hassles, but she is there for him. This story will grip you right from the start. This author is one of my favorite romance authors for her writing. It’s contemporary. It’s heartfelt. You can feel the emotions as they work out their relationship. The major action comes as a rescue attempt is made for Renee. The drama and adventure will leave you on the edge-of-your-seat wanting to know what’s happening. The cliffhanger is exciting. Some major characters make an appearance in this book from the previous books. The upcoming final book is on it’s way. The story of Declan and Renee will be told. I can’t wait. I have loved this series.

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