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Spidersight (Tirzah M.M. Hawkins Horror Stories) by Tirzah M.M. Hawkins – Review by Shelly Kittell

SpidersightSpidersight by Tirzah M.M. Hawkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

*shudder* This book is creepy, gave me nightmares, and is sooo good. I’m a huge fan of horror and have arachnophobia. I knew going it what it was about and had to read it. A demon spider and a little girl trapped. The writing is superb. The characters are written to give the write amount of creepiness. I haven’t been this creeped out since Cujo or Night Shift. Well done, author. This is a must read for horror lovers. New author to me and now a new fan.

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The Gauntlet (The Soppranaturale Series Book 1) by Ashley Pagano – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Gauntlet: The Soppranaturale SeriesThe Gauntlet: The Soppranaturale Series by Ashley Pagano
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Gauntlet is one action packed story that grabs you right from the start. The moment Link and Ommily see each other and that spark connects, I’m glued. What is it? Why is it there? They are the only two fae left and I’m intrigued to know where the story is going. New twist on the fantasy/paranormal. I loved it. Let’s have some more. The story is full of drama, adventure and an annoying human fiance.There are lots of supernaturals around. I loved all the characters. Such a variety to fit everyone’s needs. The chemistry is out of this world. I can’t wait to read book 2.

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Elemental Fire (The Hidden Realms Book 1) by EG Manetti – Review by Shelly Kittell

Elemental Fire (The Hidden Realms #1)Elemental Fire by E.G. Manetti
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

With a name like Sin, I went into this thinking it had to have some steam. I have to say that I LOVED this story. Some fantasy, romance, drama, mystery, suspense, etc. make for an intriguing tale that you just cannot miss. I had to finish this in 2 sittings (I had to feed my child). I found myself wanting to know what was going to happen next. Sin gets herself in some deep things. Being able to see past the glamour is pretty important in this world (or Terra) as its called. Finding out about the Hidden and having to work with one was a surprise and then things got hot from there. What a fantastic book! Another new author and I hope to read more from this author.

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Musical Murder Mystery Boxed Set #1 Books 1-3 by K.L. Montgomery – Review by Shelly Kittell

Musical Murder Mystery Boxed Set #1Musical Murder Mystery Boxed Set #1 by K.L. Montgomery
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Sound of Murder
The West Side Murder
Little Shop of Murder

Oh my goodness, Ruby finds herself in mixed in up in trouble again. The author does a fantastic job with this boxed trio of cozy murders set amongst a musical theater troupe. Ruby and her buddy, Nova, find themselves solving murders around famous musical plays. The stories are quite entertaining. They will have you rolling in laughter. You will probably even find yourself humming Ruby’s “clue songs” to the tune of songs from the play. I do love the stories because they are clean and wholesome. This is always a nice change for me. It is sooo very refreshing. The tone is light; yet, the mystery is always serious. The characters, both supporting and main, are well-developed and relatable. West Side Murder was my favorite as the main story involves a senior living community at odds. It was just like the plot of West Side Story. These were seniors with attitude. Loved everything about it. On top of it, she had to deal with a new boyfriend and whether or not she wanted a long distance relationship and a colleague out to get her (still waiting to see how that one will end up). This is quite the entertaining, exciting, and humorous set. I do believe that you must read this set. You’ll have a great time reading it and trying to figure out who did it. It’s not that easy to figure out. The author did a bang-up job hiding the killer. Jump in and solve the mysteries.

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The Hunter (The Freemasons Book 2) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Hunter (The Freemasons, #2)The Hunter by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Gemma & Dominic are a pair that just can’t deny the chemistry. They want to but can’t. He runs The Lodge. She’s an entertainment reporter looking into her father’s death which she blames on him and his 3 buddies. Oh, let the drama begin. She has a grudge and threatens Dominic. He is just out to protect his investments and secrets. This enemy relationship slowly moves into friendship and more. An entertaining book that also covers some deep subjects such as sex trafficking. I loved watching the relationship develop between Gemma and Dom. Gemma is pretty independent and learns it’s okay to ask for help. Dom has to learn to let the walls down. The storyline will touch all your emotions as Ava and Cole are in it as well. They share news. A quick and adventurous read. The suspense pulls you in. I couldn’t put it down. You had to know what happens. I love this series. I can’t wait to read Jude’s adventures in the next book.

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Divided Lives by K.R. Mullins – Review by Shelly Kittell

Divided LivesDivided Lives by K.R. Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lottie is an amazingly independent woman in a time when women are challenging the status quo. A clerk in the Judges office, she finds herself helping with several mysteries. The most important one finds her trying to find out who is setting her up to look like she killed her casual lover, Rose. Could it be the upcoming trial? Who could it be? I have to say I loved this book. Emma, from the YA series had a cameo in parts. Wonderful to see it sort of tied in. Lottie is strong. The other characters all had their own individual personalities that had their own quirks. The
story is well-developed and carries itself. I loved the whole mystery throughout and the suffragettes, protest movement. The tone seemed to be how unfair women’s rights were and we saw that in how Henrietta and the others were treated. There was a little of everything to suit the tastes: humor, murder, mystery, romance, etc. A wonderful book and I hope we’ll see more of Lottie in the adult realm

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Cooked: The Chef Blows Her Lid by Cari Schaeffer – Review by Shelly Kittell

Cooked: The Chef Blows Her LidCooked: The Chef Blows Her Lid by Cari Schaeffer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a funny and entertaining romance. Olivia is quite relatable. She’s starting over after life kicks her a few times (cheating spouse, job loss, etc..). With the help of friends, she overcomes these challenges and shows to be strong, resilient and quite the badass. The characters in the book are fantastically written from the guilt spewing mom to the crazy ex all the way to the sexy lawyer. The story line is quite engaging and entertaining. There is plenty of humor in the story. It flows so well together. I love the whole premise of her being a personal chef and building from there. She’s very independent. Her match has such chemistry. Perfecto! I would give this book mroe than 5 stars if I could. A definite must read for the contemporary romance lovers out there.

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More Text Than Sex by Jim Shomos – Review by Shelly Kittell

More Text Than SexMore Text Than Sex by Jim Shomos
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is one of the most entertaining books I’ve read. Annie, Cat, and Robbie have a story that will keep you engaged and eager to know what’s coming next. There is one main story and several little plots going on. I love how they all tie together so that things are flowing together smooth and easy to follow. The chemistry between Annie and Robbie took a little bit to ignite but it did finally come along. Robbie reminded me of a high school kid with a crush. Of course, with Delooney as your mentor, I’m not surprised. The man needs a new mentor. Finally, the romance kicks in. I loved the drama, the humor, adventure. The contest was fun to watch it develop. A really cute and fun story that took a weekend to finish ( I did have a child that needed sustenance, lol.) You must read this one. A worthy read.

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Ice Dance by Vik Azeem – Review by Shelly Kittell

Ice DanceIce Dance by Vik Azeem
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a fantastic story! Hassan took us on the ride of a lifetime in this urban fantasy tale. I found it intriguing, engaging, exciting and quite enthralling. The characters were developed to be the most delightful creatures out of your imagination. That doesn’t mean good but just fanciful. The storyline was such a surprise because I wasn’t expecting an urban fantasy (nope, didn’t read the synopsis.) I loved the flow. You went from normal story right into the fantasy. Great job and I look forward to reading more from this author. New author to me and a new favorite. Highly recommend

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Fighting Chance by Toni Denise – Review by Shelly Kittell

Fighting ChanceFighting Chance by Toni Denise
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Chad and Kendall are two people that fight the chemistry they obviously have. She’s a sports reporter. He’s a hot MMA fighter. This is an entertaining, sports romance. The drama unfolds as Kendall’s just trying to find a way to keep her job. The characters are well-developed. I can just picture walking into a gym and meeting them. They just feel so real and down-to-earth. The plot line flows smooth. The humor has you chuckling, even as a few twists are thrown in. There’s even an appearance by a “Dick Tracy” wannabe, lol. A romance read that’s perfect for that chuckle you may need. It’s modern, contemporary and I recommend you buy it.

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Mafia Elite Series Box Set Volume 2 by Amy McKinley – Review by Shelly Kittell

Mafia Elite Box Set: Volume TwoMafia Elite Box Set: Volume Two by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Now this is a box set you just don’t want to miss. Mafia romance that will keep you glued to your Kindle. These stories are full of drama, action, and romance with that perfect touch of steamy. These are just a couple of the stories in the set. They are incredible. You’ll find yourself feeling all the emotions on this ride…
Collateral Damage:
Trey and Hailey’s story, one of my favorites in the series, has brought out the emotions as I’ve read it. This story will have you riding the emotional roller-coaster as Trey is the mellow, doctor, brother of Marco, Nico and Sophia. He gets to fix up the injured and he works as a surgeon at the hospital. Hailey has a naughty side and gets herself caught up in a big problem at the hospital. Trey rescues her but there are still big issues. Plot twist that noone sees coming. This author writes phenomenal stories that have you feeling the action, drama, mystery, romance, all of it like you are right there. It’s the only series that I yell at the characters in the book like I yell at the TV. I am so engaged that it makes the book a winner for me and that’s how it has been the whole series. The characters are so full of human personality and quirks that they feel real and you can empathize with them. The plot flows smooth, no chop, even with going back and forth between characters. The story feels so real One of my favorite authors because of the fact that she can keep you engaged all the way through. I would give it more than a 5 if I were allowed. It will be on my Best of 2022 list.
Rivals:
A truly bittersweet moment has been had. I have had the pleasure of reading this series from the beginning to what is now the end. The story of the Five Families, aka The Chicago Mafia, has now been told in such a manner that you feel like you are leaving close friends. The main characters in ‘Rivals’ are Nico La Rosa and Mia Tucci. Unfortunately, I cannot share a whole lot with you because it just gives away too much. The author grabs you right from the start. Each book basically picks up where the last one left off. In this book, we also get to visit with everyone except Max and Luc (and their wives) as they were in Italy. Everyone else played a pivotal role in helping Nico and Mia take down the New York Tucci and Amata family. There are moments that will live in your mind such as Mia meeting the other wives and she’s told that they will love her, but they will have no qualms at killing her either. My favorite are the quiet moments between her and Nico. They are tender and romantic in a chaotic environment. The plot just stays right on task with a twist thrown in here and there, and it just comes right back. This author is extraordinarily talented and her writing is also. Her female characters are strong and courageous. This series is one that I recommend to all my friends that love romantic suspense and Mafia. Hot, steamy and fantastic! It would get more than 5 stars if I could give them.

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Borrowed Time by Lane Cohen – Review by Shelly Kittell

Borrowed TimeBorrowed Time by Lane Cohen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fascinating book. This is a new author for me. I loved the look at history and time travel. One has good reasons for wanting to travel through time while the other is just a man who can’t take no for an answer. The book takes a look at man/woman relationships. Friendships are also viewed. The book has so many angles to view it from that I did get a little lost at times (only because history loses me). I found the characters well0developed and relatable. They had their quirks. It’s an engaging tale that sucks you right in and drags you into the story wanting more. I definitely recommend this story. I would give it more than 5 stars if I could.

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The Veil by Wanda Luthman – Review by Shelly Kittell

The VeilThe Veil by Wanda Luthman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this biblical fiction to be short and, yet, quite interesting. A short story based on the tearing of the veil inside the Jewish Tabernacle is a different take. Something extraordinary is witnessed in the temple. Believers will find this book to be a neat little addition to their fiction library. What I really like is the author gives readers information to become believers in and of Christ. This book gave me goosebumps. I enjoyed it.

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Breathe Underwater by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by Shelly Kittell

Breathe UnderwaterBreathe Underwater by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Evelyn and Damian are two young lovers broken up by a father that thinks he can control everything by money. Fast-forward years later, Damian works undercover law enforcement in the mob. Assigned back to Dallas, Evelyn sees him running down her street. Paths cross and the dramatic adventure begins. This story is full of romance, steam, suspense, drama, and adventure. The storyline meshes together nicely. There are two storylines and they intertwine to flow smooth. A fast-paced read that you may enjoy.

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The Intruders by Brett McKay – Review by Shelly Kittell

The IntrudersThe Intruders by Brett McKay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wow! This is quite the thriller. Dex just wants to change his life for the better but ends up having a horrible ride that puts his whole family at risk. This book is scary, original, entertaining and very engaging. The author includes his thoughts in between each chapter. This was new to me. I understand that this book started out on Vella and that is why the format. I came to like it because you got a glimpse into the process of how the story came about which added another level to it. A definite thriller that creeps you eye. Those silver eyes gave me goosebumps. The characters, right down to the minute details, are so spot on and relatable that you can feel a piece of yourself in them. The plot flows fairly smooth. I recommend this for all those thrill seekers out there. Don’t forget to check over yoru shoulder.

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The Virus of Beauty (The Virus of Beauty Book 1) by C.B. Lyall – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Virus of BeautyThe Virus of Beauty by C.B. Lyall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a terrific first book to this exciting trilogy! Wilf is a 16 year old soccer player that just wants to live like a normal kid. Unfortunately, not gonna happen, he’s sucked into the world of wizards and witches. He has to save the witches from a horrid virus going around. I found the characters amazing. The development and detail put in took so much time. They are so accurately described and easy to picture. I found the drama and adventure to be exciting and engaging. This is edge of your seat action. You have to know what’s coming up. The plot fs well laid out and flows smoothly. Great YA book and even for us older people into fantasy books. I can’t wait to start the next one.

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The Serpent Awakens by Luna Saint Claire – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Serpent AwakensThe Serpent Awakens by Luna Saint Claire
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found the book to have a few trigger warning areas. Overall, it was inspirational as you read about Nico’s journey returning to Buenos Aires to find himself. He went on quite a journey. The writing is beautiful. The characters and details of the journey are quite fascinating. There is so much in the story to be soaked in. I am positive that I will be reading it again. It is a story of faith as you follow the journey of Nico. He develops it on his travels. It’s a tale that must be read.

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The Second View (The View from Here Trilogy Book 2) by Leon Stevens – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Second View (Book 2 of The View trilogy)The Second View by Leon Stevens
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is really a very interesting book. The second in the series,it will take you back into the center world on another unknown adventure with our travelers. Travel to a place of mystery, a little adventure, a bit of solitude and a lot of sand. Maybe you’ll run into AI? I found the story to be engaging in spots yet a little dry in others. I enjoyed reading about the travels into the unknown world. At other times, I sort of felt like it was some type of video game. It also felt like maybe, a warning. Could we face this on our Earth? Fiction or could there also be a little message in the story. It left me thinking about what i read, which is good. I can’t wait for the next adventure.

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Queen’s Destiny (Blood Prophecy Book 1) by Barb Jones – Review by Shelly Kittell

Queen's Destiny (The Blood Prophecy, #1)Queen’s Destiny by Barb Jones
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this to be a quite fascinating story. Chloe and Amanda meet through their positions at the Museum in Seattle. They are both part of a 3,000 year old prophecy. Through the story, we flash back and forth through time to see how this story develops and goes. It can be a little hard to follow at times but I am a big paranormal fan and loved all the creatures in it: vampires, werewolves… It’s an entertaining story that I enjoyed. I found the characters quite intriguing. The story did engage me from the start.  It’s the beginning of the series and I do hope to see more. I want to see where this goes. I recommend it for paranormal lovers out there.

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Nightfall in Deptford (Crescent Moon Chronicles Book 4) by L.E. Towne – Review by Shelly Kittell

Nightfall in Deptford (Crescent Moon Chronicles #4)Nightfall in Deptford by L.E. Towne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this book. The time travel factor, the romances that didn’t quite work due to age factors and the drama had me on the edge of my seat. I was pulled in and engaged from page 1. Coming in at book 4 of the series, it really has you wanting to know more. The suspense, the romance, the intensity just keep you so very curious as to what is around the corner. I love the writing. The characters are all very well-written and developed. This is a terrific book. I am going to go back and start with book 1 so I can see what happened before.

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Just One More Egg (Science Folktales Book 6) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shelly Kittell

Just One More Egg: A Science Folktale (Science Folktales)Just One More Egg: A Science Folktale by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a cute and sad story! Mama Warbler ended up with a cuckoo egg in her nest. She could have kicked it out but kept it. What was one more? She just accepted it. Because she accepted the cuckoo bird, her nest was safe from the cat. Neighbor bird, however, wasn’t. She lost an egg to the cat. We shouldn’t judge by the looks, smells, etc. Everyone has a role in our lives. I did find it interesting that the eggs aren’t that much bigger and even though the bird is larger, the momma still takes on the baby cuckoo. Even an old lady can learn new facts. Cute children book that makes a great story time book

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Dainty Damsels: Halloween Collection by J.N. Sheats – Review by Shelly Kittell

Dainty Damsels: Halloween Collection 2022Dainty Damsels: Halloween Collection 2022 by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an adorable coloring book! The pictures are artfully drawn. I want to get out my markers or colored pencils out and start coloring. They are perfect for glitter pens. I love the cute cartoony images. This is the first time I’ve seen this product and I’m going to be looking for these collections. I’m always looking for fun coloring books to help destress. A new favorite that I’ll recommend

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Boss’s Vendetta (Sicilian Gods Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by Shelly Kittell

Boss's Vendetta: Dark Mafia Romance (Sicilian Gods Book 1)Boss’s Vendetta: Dark Mafia Romance by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m not sure I can say enough about this book. A new author to me and a new favorite!! Salvatore and the lovely doctor have the chemistry to watch. Starting off at the beginning, you felt like you should be behind a screen because they had the hots flowing. They may not have known it but the attraction was there. The drama was fantastico. There’s mafia warfare, romantic struggles and a bit of everything else you might expect. This story kept me engaged from the beginning all the way to the end. I absolutely could not get enough of it. I have since learned this is part of a series and I will be reading the whole thing. This is an excellent book that is going to the top of my list for 2022. You should try it if you like mafia and romantic suspense.

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Chevalier (War Horses Book 1) by Scott Warren – Review by Shelly Kittell

War Horses Book 1: ChevalierWar Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well, this is an exciting book. There is lots of tech and robots. Vandal (as he is known – nickname) ends up being a pilot and goes on the adventure of a lifetime. A mechanic, he ends up having to get in and fight in the war. I found the drama and adventure sucked me in, even though this isn’t my usual type of book, so that I just had to finish the book. It’s exciting, fun, full of drama, suspense and adventure. You should give this a shot.

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An Inheritance to Die For (Cozy Mysteries To Die For Book 4) by Judy Moore – Review by Shelly Kittell

An Inheritance To Die For (Cozy Mysteries To Die For, #4)An Inheritance To Die For by Judy Moore
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I found this to be an entertaining cozy mystery. Beck is a bookstore owner/new private investigator. Her old college roommate hires her to investigate her father’s murder. The cast of characters is quirky, suspicious and very mysterious. Everybody has a motive and Beck will figure out who did it. The drama, adventure, and humor will have you reading this in one sitting. I would definitely recommend this.

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We Blend (Falling for the Rockstar’s Daughter Book 1) by Willa Drew – Review by Shelly Kittell

WE Blend (Falling for the Rockstar's Daughter Series #1)WE Blend by Willa Drew
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

El & Wil make such a cute couple. She’s trying to live her dream. Her mom and stepfather, the rocker, are in the way. Wil meets her when he tries to get to know his stepfather, the rocker. I have to say that the adventure of avoiding The Rocker kept me chuckling. I loved the chemistry of El & Wil. The tone of the story is cute and entertaining. I found the characters quite a delight. They just want to get on with their life. When Wil takes her home to meet his mom is precious and the sweetest. I found this one of the most adorable romance novels and I really can’t wait for the next book in the series. The humor, drama, and romance all come together to create a book that everyone can enjoy.

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Defying Ella (True Platinum Series Book 4) by Morgana Bevan – Review by Shelly Kittell

Defying EllaDefying Ella by Morgana Bevan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fun story. It did get a tad long around Jared. That chemistry is classic. He can’t admit he is attracted and she loves giving him a hard time. I loved Ella. She gave him a lot of crap but in the end….Hard story at times but very worth continuing. Everything came together. The characters are well-developed and have finely defined roles within the story. A romantic read that might hit you just right. Go ahead and give it a shot.

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Unveiling Beulah Audiobook by Dana Wayne – Review by Shelly Kittell

5 out of 5 stars

Beulah and Luke come together in a beautiful love story of two people with issues. They have both been hurt and have come to a small town in Texas, to try again. Beulah is a strong woman with lots of determination. Because she has a physical scar on her face, she tends to stay in the background. I do love how Luke makes her feel and helps her remember that she is a woman. Watching their relationship develop and grow is a treasure and truly makes this story a treat to listen to. The narration is pleasant but could stand a little more emotion and variation to it. Overall, I would recommend this story. This author has wonderful writing. Whether just the book or the added narration to it, the stories are always wonderful. You get an honest and realist feel to the story. Always engaging and keeping you wanting more.

Rebel of Fire (The Vigilant Book 3) by LM Preston – Review by Shelly Kittell

Rebel of Fire (Vigilant, #3)Rebel of Fire by L.M. Preston
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another knockout story in the Vigilant series. Rei is the younger sister and she is on the adventure of her life trying to save her father and her family. With the help of Asher and under the requirement of Megan, she has to do certain things. The drama keeps you engaged. You just cannot put the book down. I have been reading this series since the first book and have just had to know what’s happening. It’s a page0turner. The characters are written to relate to and full of secrets. The town is a paranormal psychoville. This whole family is just trying to survive and get out. They are all badass. Rei’s story is just as fantastic and exciting as the others. You should read this story. Better yet, read them all, starting with the first one.

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Breathless in Love Audiobook (The Maverick Billionaires Book 1) by Bella Andre & Jennifer Skully – Review by Shelly Kittell

5 out of 5 stars

Will and Harper came together by way of classic cars. He’s a self-made man and she is raising her brother, who has special needs from a car accident. Will is harboring a secret that he almost lost his life in a car accident also. Both have sworn to never let anyone hurt them again, but the sparks of this romance have ignited something with this meeting. This romance is real, sweet, and full of compassion. Harper’s brother is written so sweet. We see Harper come to realize that her brother is growing up and with help from others can have a life of his own. The tone of the story is wonderful. The characters are beautiful. They are so relatable. I found the storyline so pleasant. It was a terrific romance that a romance reader will love. The narrator had a perfect voice for this. Her intonations were fantastic and helped add to the story and make it even better to listen to. I recommend this audiobook.