Afflicted Love is Book One in the Rhythm and Heart series. It is a MM romance story full of raw emotion, passion, lust, and forbidden love. It tells the story of Kyle and Lyle who met when they were younger, after Kyle saved Lyle from being bullied. The two became friends, and Kyle vowed to always protect Lyle. Over the years they had to navigate the feelings that they were having as they eventually started feeling more for each other. Both boys have grown up with abuse and neglect in their lives so when they met, they vowed to be there for one another. When they become separated after an unfortunate incident neither expects to see the other again. Lyle has spent years denying how he feels about Kyle and has tried to put it behind him until a death in the family brings them together. Can they put aside the hurt, anger, and betrayal and move on together?
This was a beautiful story of forbidden love, overcoming inner demons, and family dynamics. Please be advised that it does have some dark material that may contain triggers for some. The characters of Lyle and Kyle were wonderfully written, and their story is compelling, tragic, and complex. The bond they have and how they feel for one another must be kept hidden because it is forbidden and not tolerated by those closest to them. Their love is considered wrong and forbidden. This book will have you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as you experience the pain, betrayal, anger, grief, love, lust, and despair that Lyle and Kyle navigate through. A fantastic read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-20 15:44:332023-05-30 07:17:05Afflicted Love (Rhythm & Heart Series) by Autumn Sand – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
A Curse of Ash and Iron is an imaginative and intriguing retelling of the classic Cinderella story and is geared towards young adults. It takes place in 1876 during the time when steam machines are becoming invented and has a bit of a steampunk element to it. The story is told from two different POV’s, Ellie and Ben’s.
When Ellie’s mom dies her father remarries and she becomes a stepsister to Rebecca who, unlike the classic fairytale, is not mean at all. The stepmother is cruel, mean, cold and puts Ellie and her father both under a spell. The spell must be broken before midnight on New Year’s Eve, or it can never be undone. Enter Ben, who is Ellie’s childhood best friend who has not seen her in years. When he realizes that Ellie is under a spell, he knows that he must be the one to save her. Will Ben have what it takes to be a hero and save Ellie and her dad from the spell before it is too late?
This was a creative retelling of the classic fairytale that I really enjoyed. The twists that the author put on it were interesting and fun. The characters are ones that you can love and hate at the same time. The stepmother is the typical, wicked, and evil stepmother that you naturally loathe. Ben wants to be a hero for Ellie’s sake, if he can stop swooning over her long enough. He is smart, kind, and cares for Ellie a great deal. Ellie seems to be a bit naïve, but I felt that was probably because of the spell the evil stepmother cast on her. A great story full of magic, historical elements, fantasy, romance, suspense, drama, and a steampunk element.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-20 14:39:412023-05-30 07:16:39A Curse of Ash and Iron by Christine Norris – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Lap Baby tells the story of three women who survived a plane crash twenty years prior. Each woman has coped with the crash in a different way as they try to move forward and overcome their grief. Paige was a baby, a lap baby, when the event occurred and was adopted after the accident. She is happy and just wants to forget that it ever happened. Marie has never gotten over the loss of her son who died in the accident and needed to blame someone for the crash. She has decided that it was Julie’s fault and wants revenge as the anger and hatred eats away at her. Julie was the flight attendant on the plane who had had to live with the choices she made during that day. She lives with the guilt and the consequences of her decisions. Each woman has learned to cope in a different way as they try to heal. They struggle with issues like alcoholism, PTSD, and self-doubt, that have a ripple effect through their lives.
This author was new to me, but I know that I will be looking for more of her writing. This book was based on a true story, which I did not know when I started to read it. It was compelling, heartfelt, heartbreaking, and hard to put down. The author did a beautiful job of sharing the stories of the survivors of this horrific plane crash and how it affected their lives even years later. The characters are beautifully written and relatable, so it is easy to get invested in their individual lives and story. This is an emotional read that will tug at your heartstrings and have you reaching for the box of Kleenex. I highly recommend this book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-19 14:33:152023-05-25 13:12:40Lap Baby by Amy Q. Barker – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Vassal of Magic is Book Three in The Virus of Beauty Series. The book picks up where the first two left off so I highly recommend reading them first or you may feel a bit lost. The story continues with Wilf as he struggles with his magical powers. As much as he wants to be a normal teenager, he must make the decision to tap farther into his magical abilities or allow an ancient magical realm to perish if he stands back and does not intervene. The problem is that he is unsure how to fully harness his magical powers and that makes things a bit trickier. The stakes are higher for Wilf this time and time is running out for Wilf to make a choice as he struggles to protect his girlfriend Katryna and his loved ones.
I have read and enjoyed this entire series and the author never fails to provide an entertaining story with magnificent writing. The scenes are vividly described and pull you into each scene with the characters. I loved the way the author wrote and described the magical realm and felt transported there with the characters. The characters are beautifully written, unique, quirky, and lovable. You cannot help but root for Wilf as he struggles with the dilemma of being normal or of fully harnessing his magic. Wilf struggled to believe in himself and his capabilities as he tried to decide whether harnessing the powers within him would make matters better or worse. He bore the weight of the world on his shoulders and was burdened with a major dilemma to save a magical realm and his loved ones. In this installment we see Wilf grow and become stronger as he and his friends work together. This book was full of action, suspense, danger, mystery, magic, wizards, witches, family, friendships, and love. I highly recommend this riveting and entertaining series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-19 13:56:232023-05-25 13:12:07The Vassal of Magic (The Virus of Beauty Book 3) by C.B. Lyall – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Savage Truth is Book Two in the Hidden Valley Elite series. The book carries on with the story from Book One that was filled with drama, anger, hatred, with a bully themed/friends turning to lover’s theme. It centers around the characters of Riley and Cole who both attend Hidden Valley Elite high school. Cole is known as one of the Elites at the school because he is a star of the football team and basically becomes the king of everything he does. He is the type of guy that guys want to be and that girls want to be with. Riley used to attend the school and has just returned after being gone for a year. She never imagined that she would be returning after being on the run with her mom from her mother’s psychotic ex-boyfriend. Riley also never expected to see Cole again after they shared a secret kiss while drunk at a party. Cole has not been able to get Riley out of his mind since then so when he sees her again feelings surface. In typical douchebag, jock, I’m-too-good-for-everyone behavior Cole decides to torment and bully Riley. She stands her ground and pushes back and the two play the cat and mouse game back and forth as they maneuver through their love-hate relationship.
In Book Two the story of Riley and Cole continues, and we are able to see its conclusion. The cat and mouse game between them continues and the chemistry between them grows. Cole realizes that he has intense feelings for Riley that he has been denying. In the past all he cared about were physical relationships but with Riley he feels a deep connection. Riley realizes that she loves Cole and has never felt like this about anyone before. Things heat up when secrets start to come to light about Riley’s mom and the true reasons Cole hates Riley and her mom. When secrets about who Riley’s dad is come to light and Riley’s life may be in danger, Riley must decide if she will run again or have the strength to stay. As the secrets and lies surface and danger looms, it pushes Riley and Cole to make hard decisions. Rather than fight each other they decide to fight for one another and protect one another at all costs.
This storyline may cause triggers to some because of its dark subject matter. As a survivor of bullying in high school it was a bit difficult to read at times. The characters are ones that you will either love or hate. Or in the case of Cole, love to hate at first. In the beginning, he was a bully through and through and had the attitude that he was better than everyone else. Yet, you cannot help but feel that there is more under the surface and must understand that high school is a popularity contest. Cole is used to getting his own way, used to winning, and used to being popular so he could not risk losing all that. Riley is used to living a life in hiding, running from her mom’s ex, and never staying in one place long. She just wants to get through high school and not draw attention to herself. Yet, Riley is not the type of girl to put up with stuff and will stand her ground and push back. She is strong and feisty. Both Riley and Cole developed and matured in this book. We were able to see a softer side of Cole that loved Riley and wanted to protect her from harm. Their love-hate game slowly bloomed into more, but it did not come easily. Great series that will have you reading to the end to find out what happens.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-18 17:35:352023-05-25 09:56:46Savage Truth (Hidden Valley Elite Book 2) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Healing Kiss tells the story of a nurse named Lillian who has been on the run from an evil corporation who wants to use her as their guinea pig. To save herself and her family she faked her death and took on the new name of Zoey. Lillian/Zoey has healing powers that the evil corporation, Kinetica, want to monopolize on for their own gain. Lillian knows that if they capture her, she will be dead because they killed her mother. When she finds out that her sister Hannah is dying, she risks her life to come back and try to save her sister’s life. When she gets to the hospital, she discovers that she does not have enough energy to save her and needs to find someone she can draw energy from. Enter Tristan, whom Lillian meets by accident outside the hospital. She strikes up a deal with him without telling him the true reasons she needs his help because she is fearful of Tristan’s reaction. Rather than tell him about her healing powers she makes up a story, but secrets have a way of coming out eventually.
I loved how this storyline was laid out and the author’s writing style. The story was about more than two people meeting and eventually falling in love. It was also about the supernatural gift that Lillian had which came at a risk to use. Lillian’s gift of healing powers was one that intrigued and fascinated me. It was unfortunate that she had to hide it and herself from those that intended to bring harm to her and her family. I enjoyed the aspect of the evil corporation being after Lillian which added a bit of danger, suspense, and intrigue to the storyline. The characters were well written and the way in which Lillian and Tristan meet is quite believable. Fate brought them both together for a bigger purpose. I enjoyed how the romance slowly builds between them and the attraction between them grows. This was a beautifully written love story with supernatural elements, mystery, suspense, intrigue, danger, secrets, and lies.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-18 16:16:172023-05-25 09:56:00Healing Kiss by Amanda Uhl – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Three Women in November is based on a true story of a divorced dad of boys living in Australia who decides to move on and find love. Leo is a bit of a romantic with old-fashioned ideas about love, dating, and romance. In his quest for love he meets three very different women with different backgrounds that capture his attention.
Leo meets Zoya on a business trip and likes her, so he pursues a relationship with her. The chemistry is there between them, but Zoya tends to lash out in anger at odd times. They decide the relationship will not work and call it quits. She does let him know that his scars will never heal unless he works on them.
Leo finds himself single and talking to his counsellor who he develops an attraction to, but he is her patient. They do try a relationship, but it does not work out. Aysha tells him that he needs to learn to love himself or a relationship will never work.
Then Leo meets Jade who is in a flailing marriage and must put the needs of her children first. She is trying to find her way after her marriage ends and must wait until her son finishes school in November.
This was an interesting story and I enjoyed how the pursuit of love and a soulmate was told from the male’s point of view. I found it unique and refreshing that a man like Leo could be old-fashioned and a true romantic at heart. Leo met three very different women who all had their own issues and baggage, yet they all had things in common. Each of these women have unresolved issues and emotional scars. Each woman makes him wait to have a normal and healthy relationship. Each woman’s deadlines for love have Leo waiting until November. Each woman tells him that he needs to work on himself before he can have a healthy relationship. This is so true, and I feel that most of us can relate to how broken and unlovable we feel after coming out of a bad relationship. We cannot truly love another unless we learn to love ourselves first. This book was a great read that shows us how vulnerable men can also feel while seeking love. It was a light hearted, emotional, witty, raw, and real look at love, dating, and relationships.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-17 16:21:052023-05-24 13:51:02Three Women in November by Jim Shomos – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Foxy Tails is a MM paranormal romance between a shapeshifting fox and a healer that meet quite accidentally. Huli is a nine-tailed fox that lives in a world that hunts him because they believe he is a demon. The story starts out action packed with the fox fleeing from hunters after trying to seduce the wrong person. The Fox does not always think clearly when he needs to feed, and this often leads to trouble for him. He tries to seek shelter in a home that he thought was unoccupied but quickly learns that someone does indeed live there. The home he sought shelter in belongs to Xiao Ying who is a divine healer. The two find a connection in that they both lead lives that are lonely and feel an attraction towards one another.
This was a fun and engaging story, and I liked how the story started out with the way in which Huli and Xiao Ying first meet. The introduction was quite accidental and unexpected but obviously fate intervened to bring them together. The romance takes a bit to get started, which in all honesty I enjoyed. It was not instant chemistry but more of a slow burning romance and a relationship that built over time. I found this to be refreshing and a bit more believable. Huli was as to be expected as a fox because he was sly, clever and did not always think before acting on impulse. Xiao Ying is a bit quiet and reserved but it is because he is wise and perceptive. The two characters brought out the best in one another and made a perfect couple. This book was full of action, suspense, intrigue, adventure, danger, magic, and romance.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-17 15:38:042023-05-24 13:49:03Foxy Tails by Natalina Reis – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
People Safari is a fun and whimsical book told from the perspective of wildlife animals. A group of animals, including a deer family, are taken on a tour by their Tour Guide who is a racoon to observe people in their natural habitat. While on tour they learn the peculiar habits of humans who throw away a lot of perfectly good food, grow gardens full of delicious vegetables the animals are chased away from, and allow their small humans to be swallowed up by large, yellow beasts. Oh, and where do they go to the bathroom? This was a delightful read that was funny, witty, and informative. The illustrations are bright, colorful, and really brought this story to life. Although geared towards younger children this is a fun book for all ages to read. I highly recommend this informative and entertaining book about animals and how they perceive humans.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-17 15:00:512023-05-24 13:48:44People Safari by Feather Chelle – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
To be a Fae Legend is Book Three in the Realm Chronicles series. Tatiana is now seventeen and looking forward to some rest and relaxation after the harrowing ordeals that she endured in book two. When her mother told her the prophecy that bad things happen in threes she could not have been more right. More evil is lurking out there and it is up to Tatiana to fight to save her family, her people, and her kingdom. Tatiana must also make a choice between her suitors, even if that choice puts the needs of the kingdom before what her heart wants.
This series has been so splendidly written that it has captured my attention since the first book. If you have not done so, I highly recommend reading them in order as each book continues and builds up on the story from the previous one. The author’s writing style is so vivid and accurate that it immerses the reader fully into the setting and story along with the characters. Tatiana has grown and matured as both a person and as Queen of her kingdom. She is forward-thinking, smart, strong willed, determined, motivated, brave, and feisty. It is admirable how Tatiana faces evil forces head-on and does what she can to protect her kingdom and those she loves, which often means putting their needs before her own. A fantastic read with suspense, danger, magic, action, danger, and the battle of good versus evil.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-16 14:03:052023-05-24 12:41:01To be a Fae Legend (Realm Chronicles Book 3) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
To be a Fae Guardian is Book Two in the Realm Chronicles series. This book starts off where the first book left off and builds on the story. There is immediately some suspense and intrigue as Titania’s adventures continue. As she has taken on her duties in her role as Queen, Titania has grown, matured, and adapts to each situation and obstacle that comes her way. Although she struggles to believe in herself and her abilities, she does the best that she can for her kingdom. In her most recent adventure, Titania must fight to save her kingdom from evil forces that threaten to destroy Middle Earth.
Yet another great book by this talented author whose writing style draws you completely into the story. The attention to detail and vivid descriptions make the reader feel as though they are there in the story as it unfolds. The characters are fantastic, and it was nice to see Tatiana’s growth as a character as she tried to settle into her role and duties as Queen. Tatiana may be young, but she has some strong opinions on how to run and protect the kingdom that not everyone agrees with. In saving her kingdom from the Kobold she broke the rules of the High Council and is accused of treason. Being Queen does not save her from having to be punished but it does not deter her from trying to save the Fae from the evil forces that threaten to destroy her realm. Queen Tatiana must rise to the challenge with grace, courage, strength, and determination. I highly recommend this great read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-16 13:54:152023-05-24 12:40:42To be a Fae Guardian (Realm Chronicles Book 2) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
To be a Fae Queen is Book One in the Realm Chronicles series. We are introduced to fifteen-year-old Titania, a faerie princess who is preparing to be Queen. Although she has been training for years, she is feeling unprepared for the role at such a young age and is undecided if she is ready for the role of Queen. Her family is broken and still grieving from the loss of her four brothers which has left her mom in a catatonic state. Her brothers lost their lives in battle with the Kobold which left Titania as the last of her line. Titania must be brave and prepare for her role as Queen even if she does not feel ready. As she does so she must decide who she can trust as she is met with resistance from forces both inside and outside of the castle walls.
This was the first book that I have read by this author, but it will not be the last. I loved the author’s writing style and was completely immersed in the story through the author’s vivid descriptions. The characters were captivating, and easily relatable. My heart went out to Titania’s mom as she grieved for the loss of her sons. It was truly heartbreaking to think about the immense grief and sadness over such a tragedy. I especially liked the character of fifteen-year-old Titania, who did not let her young age stop her from preparing for her role as Queen. Through her sadness, grief, loss, and fear she musters up the strength and courage to do what is best for her kingdom even though it means putting it before her own needs. We see her grow as a character, gaining years of wisdom in a short time. Through the obstacles she overcomes we can see that Titania is strong, smart, determined, and feisty. This book has action, suspense, mystery, magic, faeries, and drama in the age-old battle of good versus evil. Now onto book two.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-16 13:45:282023-05-22 21:13:03To be a Fae Queen (Realm Chronicles Book 1) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
The Daredevil is book two in the WaterFyre Rising series. This book combines action, adventure, drama, and romance as we are introduced to the characters of Royce and Michelle. Royce owns his own company and Michelle is a travel blogger. Both are smart, feisty, hardworking, determined and addicted to adrenaline.
Royce is a billionaire who has worked hard to get to where he is at. He has a zest for life and is always seeking the next thrill and the next adrenaline rush. After a horrendous relationship from his past scarred him, he has no interest in relationships. Michelle has worked hard to get to where she is and does not want to be told what to or have someone dictate her life for her. She too, has a zest for life and is always seeking the next thrill or the next adventure. When Michelle gets sent to Iceland on assignment things change quickly for both Royce and Michelle. While in Iceland Michelle runs into Joyce and they discover they have mutual friends and knew each other a long time ago. As they spend time together, they chemistry and attraction between them intensifies and big-hearted Royce discovers that he would do anything for Michelle. When unexplainable accidents and murders start to occur at Royce’s business, they quickly realize that someone is seeking revenge. Royce vows to protect Michelle at all costs.
I loved the storyline and fell in love with the characters in this book. Royce and Michelle both had baggage from their past that was holding them back on some ways. When they got together Royce discovered that he could fall in love again and that the right woman was worth fighting for. The chemistry and passion between the two really sizzle. A must read for anyone looking for a book full of action, suspense, danger, murder, intrigue, secrets, revenge, passion, lust, and love.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-15 17:27:382023-05-24 07:52:08The Daredevil (WaterFyre Rising Book 2) by Nadia Han – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
The Mastermind is the first book in the WaterFyre Rising series. It starts off with a bang and tells the story of a slow burning romance between a girl and her brother’s best friend. Remington, or Remi as he is known, runs into his best friend’s sister, Audri, when he comes back home to finalize a business deal. His hometown holds a lot of painful and disturbing memories for him so coming home does not come easy for him. He does, however, look forward to seeing Audri, his best friend’s sister. Nothing has ever happened between the two in the past because as his best friend’s sister she was off limits. Now the two are brought together because Remi is her new boss. As the two start to spend time together Remi and Audri realize that there is an attraction between them. As they begin a whirlwind romance things from their past begin to surface which have the potential to threaten their entire future. Will they risk everything for love?
This was a captivating read with a great storyline and wonderful characters. Both Remi and Audri are multi-faceted with a good side and a darker side. They are both hardworking, independent, and successful. Remi is now a highly successful businessman and Audri has a successful marketing job and makes her own jewellery. Audri was off limits to Remi when they were growing up because that was his best friend’s sister but as adults that is not an issue. As the chemistry between them intensifies something sinister from their past threatens to ruin everything. The ensuing storyline is riveted with drama, secrets, lies, danger, and suspense. The story takes some twists and turns that will leave you riveted and reading until the end.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-15 16:45:532023-05-24 07:51:55The Mastermind (WaterFyre Rising Book 1) by Nadia Han – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
The Innovator is the third book in the WaterFyre Rising series. Although this book continues on from the first two books it can easily be read as a standalone. Grayson has been hurt in the past by a woman, so he has all but shunned off women and withdrawn from his family after his uncle’s betrayal. His way of dealing with life is by throwing himself into his work. This keeps him too busy for romance or relationships as he tries to juggle numerous projects all at once. Natalie has recently moved to the United States from Paris for work and has no time for love or romance. She is grieving the loss of her father and intends to focus on the mysteries surrounding her father and his death.
When Grayson and Natalie cross paths they argue and do not get along at all. Grayson does find Natalie very attractive and loves to get under her skin by bickering with her. Natalie is attracted to Grayson as well and continues the banter back and forth with him. As they start to spend more time together things begin to heat up. When they end up alone in a building together will the chemistry between them become undeniable? Can there ever be a future for these two as a couple?
This series has been great and each book builds on the other as the pieces start to come together and form a bigger story. The characters are intriguing as is the case with Grayson and Natalie. Both are hard-working, successful, smart, independent, and hard-headed. Each has found their own way of dealing with loss, grief, and betrayal by shutting out others and focusing on work. They butt heads and bicker because they are more alike than they would like to admit which makes the enemies to lovers’ aspect of this story so plausible. This book was wonderfully written, and the author did a beautiful job of covering sensitive topics such as grief, loss, suicide, and eating disorders. If you want a read full of suspense, tension, romance, passion, and chemistry this book is a must.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-15 16:08:262023-05-24 07:56:12The Innovator (WaterFyre Rising Book 3) by Nadia Han – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
The Promised Plan is an interweaving of short stories and poems and tells the story of grief, loss, estrangement, and familial relationships. It is a gut wrenching read full of raw emotions and feelings that will leave you in tears. This is a story that I know many, including myself, can relate to. As a mother we all want for our children to be close so when an estrangement occurs between siblings it can be difficult for a mother.
This story centers around a mother who devises a plan to reconcile her daughters but passes away before she is able to do so. As her dying wish she enlists the help of her granddaughter, Merci, to help her get her daughters to reconcile. Lacey attempts to keep estranged from her sister Krista, until her daughter intervenes. She risks disappointing and hurting her daughter if she does not try to forgive her sister. Can these women come together and reconcile after losing their mother? Or will hurt, anger, and hard feelings keep them estranged?
The author beautifully tells the story of how hurt, disagreements, and misunderstandings can occur between siblings. The result is not just estrangement between the siblings, but it causes a ripple effect through the family that can cause feelings of anger, betrayal, and sadness. After losing their mother Lacey and Krista must decide if they can push the hurt, guilt, and anger behind them and forgive one another in order to reconcile. The story hits home for me because of my relationship with my sibling so this was a difficult and emotional read for me. This book will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as the author navigates through the difficult topics of death, grief, loss, familial relationships, estrangement, secrets, lies, anger, betrayal, hurt, forgiveness, and reconciliation. I highly recommend this book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-15 15:05:292023-05-24 07:55:33The Promised Plan by Sharon Hughson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
In Book two of Tally and the Angel they are off to Canada to continue the adventures her and her sidekick, Jophiel, started in book one. In the first book Tally met an angel named Jophiel who was contained in a necklace that she inherited. This book is geared towards pre-teens, in the 9-13 years of age category, but is a fun read for all ages.
In her latest adventure Tally finds herself in Whitehorse where the temperatures are at minus 25 degrees centigrade. Her dad has booked them a holiday at a retreat where they can learn how to cross the tundra with a team of sled dogs. Tally immediately notices how cold it is when her nose hairs freeze up so Tally and her dad have to learn to dress for the weather. This requires layering up on their clothing in order to stay warm. They then set off across the snowy tundra in search of adventure but get more than they bargained for when Tally’s dad is injured.
He is taken to a small, remote village to heal where the villagers do not leave because of an ancient curse. Tally’s dad is now in imminent danger and only Tally and Jophiel can save him by battling against Both earthbound and mythical creatures like gold hunters and mystical wolves. Tally is in a life-or-death situation as races against time to save her dad and rid the village of the ancient curse.
This book was wonderfully written with a great storyline, descriptive scenes, and amazing characters. The scenes were described so vividly that it immerses you into that place. Right down to describing frozen nose hairs with the cold temperatures. I understand completely how that feels because I live in a part of Canada where temperatures can sometimes get to minus forty degrees centigrade over the winter months. What a shock it must have been for Tally to go from India to the Yukon, yikes! The author did a fantastic job of describing the climate, the Yukon, and sled dogs. Tally and Jophiel both really grow as characters and the bond between them starts to forge as they spend more time together. Tally learns to be courageous in the face of danger in order to save her dad. This book was full of danger, suspense, mystery, action, and adventure as Tally went up against both real and mythical beings. A great read for all ages.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-15 14:16:182023-05-24 07:55:09Tally and the Angel: Book Two, Canada by Eleanor Dixon – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
In the third book in the Tally and the Angel series, Tally, her dad, and her angel Jophiel, set off for Japan. Twelve-year-old Tally quickly gets wrapped up in an adventure involving some new Japanese friends. Japan makes for an amazing backdrop as Tally is faced with numerous challenges that include a cursed drum, a ghostly queen, mythical beings, samurai warriors, and long-buried secrets. While she is busy trying to solve mysteries her sidekick angel, Jophiel seems to be a bit distracted by a mysterious Japanese angel who may or may not have the have the answer about the curse from long ago. Tally becomes in a race against time, and she must be brave if she is to solve the mystery. She also must decide if she trusts her new friends.
This was a beautifully written book that immerses the reader into the modern world of Japan as well as its history, culture, and ancient traditions. As Tally becomes immersed in the culture of Japan, we are able to learn of its ancient traditions such as sumo wrestling, taiko drumming, and tea ceremonies. We learn how strong and courageous young Tally is as she tries to solve the mystery surrounding Miyu and Yoshi. Through her adventure Tally learns about friendship, trust, and bravery. This book is full of danger, suspense, mystery, intrigue, drama, and paranormal elements. A perfect addition to any pre-teen’s library.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-15 13:26:332023-05-24 07:55:02Tally and the Angel: Book Three, Japan by Eleanor Dixon – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Reign: The Rise of the Lich is the second book in The Silver Blood Knight Series. This paranormal vampire book starts off action-packed and continues throughout. The book is told from the point of view of a wolf which I felt was creative, brilliant, original, and immediately intrigued me into reading more.
It starts with the lycan/vampire/wolf, Reign, having a vision about the president of Italy being turned into a Lich. Although Reign is a lycan/vampire he chooses to remain in wolf form. The Moretti brothers are hybrids just like Reign with the strength of the lycans and the speed of a vampire. James is a hybrid with magical powers and Adam is a teenage human mage with powers. Reign, Adam, James, and the Moretti brothers have been anointed by God to act as his warriors. They set out to rid Rome of the Lich as they attempt to protect Earth from evil forces. Will they be able to survive?
This book was very well written with descriptive settings that made you feel as though you were there, amazing characters, and a great storyline. The author did a fantastic job with the creation of the hybrid characters, and how they band together to protect Earth from Evil. The small group of Heaven’s warriors band together to battle evil forces that are determined to destroy Earth. Resisting temptation along the way, the small group ward off mythological creatures, corrupt politicians, and hordes of undead warriors. I really enjoyed how the story was told from the point of view of a wolf. I have never read a book told from this point of view and felt it was a unique, out of the box, writing style. The story was action-packed from the first pages, and full of shapeshifters, magical powers, adventure, drama, suspense, and danger. Ultimately it tells the story of good versus evil as the warriors anointed by God in Heaven fight Hell on Earth created by a corrupt, evil politician. Looking forward to reading more by this author!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-14 10:08:122023-05-22 21:22:12REIGN: The Rise of the Lich (The Silver Blood Knight Book 2 by Carol McKibben – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Jade has recently been relocated to the smallest of small towns humanly possible. The move was made through no choice of her own and was done to protect her from her ex. After Jade testified against him, she was placed in the Witness Protection Program where she was forced to not just move but to change her name and take on a whole new identity. Part of her new identity involves the “inheritance” of a small gift shop from her late “uncle” that she is expected to run as her own business. The store has a small apartment upstairs which she now gets to call home. Jade is far from happy about the situation but must make the best of it in order to stay safe from her ex and his goons that are after her.
Jade has not even had a chance to get settled when she meets Baala, who was originally there to kill Jade because it is prophesized that she would be the one to kill him. Instead, he was enticed by her beauty and decides to strike a bargain with her. Baala starts to tell her some very unsettling news about herself. Turns out that her parents had some secrets that they never revealed to their daughter prior to their passing years ago. Baala also reveals that he is a serpent shifter and the first king of Hell and that he needs her help to unlock a book that is hidden under the store. The two strike up a bargain in which she helps him unlock the book, but he must protect her from her ex. Jade is suddenly thrust into a whole new world that she did not even know existed.
This book pulled me in from the first pages when Jade’s whole life was uprooted to protect her from her ex. Jade’s ex was into some shady dealings and when she testified against him, she had no choice but to flee or be killed. Immediately, we realize how strong Jade is in order to have stood up to her ex and testify against him. She put her life in danger in order to bring him to justice. Jade expects a boring life, running a boring business, in a boring town. What she got instead was a life that she could never begin to dream could happen to someone like her. The life she had before suddenly dulls in comparison to the new life she is thrown into as suddenly, Jade is thrust into a world of demons, fae, angels, witches, shifters, magic, and the supernatural. A great read full of secrets, action, suspense, danger, drama, intrigue, and suspense.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-13 19:56:392023-05-22 21:19:16The Serpent and the Firefly by Courtney Davis – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Aliens on Earth is a collection of short stories written by numerous authors. Each sci-fi adventure tells a different story and has different characters, some are human, and some are alien. The underlying theme is navigating love with someone from not only a different background but also from a different planet. With 36 different stories to choose from this collection has something for all lovers of sci-fi romance stories.
There were so many good stories that it would be hard to review all of them but there are two that stuck out and really grabbed my attention. The first one was The Alien and The Crime Boss by author Naomi Valkyrie. I have read many of this author’s work and love her writing style. This short story of a MM alien romance did not disappoint.
Leilphun has been exiled and now finds himself on the run to a strange new world where he hopes that he will be safe. He hopes to find a safe haven on Earth but gets “rescued” by someone that he may not be able to trust. Instead, he has been captured by a mafia crime boss whose family is battling another mafia family in a war to take over.
Kasper wants to take over but is choosing to bide his time and watch the war rage on between the families. Danger abounds when Kasper tries to merge the two families together. When he saves Leilphun he does not expect him to change his life or become attached to him. Leilphun is set on protecting and defending Kasper. The two are fated mates who now have found a reason to live and want more from life.
The second story that really drew me in was called Alice’s Illusions by Maya Black. This new author is one whose writing I immediately felt drawn to and I will be keeping an eye out for more of her stories.
Alice is a teenage girl who has recently lost her older sister. She is still grieving and unsure how to cope with the loss. Nobody in her home really talks about her sister and Alice feels that they do not care enough to honor her sister’s memory. Her parents bicker when the topic of her sister comes up and her younger brother still has nightmares every night. Alice feels alone and as though she has nobody to talk to about her sister’s death. Until the new boy, Hal, starts school and Alice learns that he lost his younger brother. Alice feels as though she has a kindred spirit in Hal and the two form an instant connection.
Hal helps Alice “speak” with her deceased sister a number of times through a Ouija board where she begins to learn the truth surrounding her sister’s death. Alice is horrified at what she discovers and starts to spiral out of control, lashing out at her parents, and spending even more time with Hal. As the two begin to spend more time together Alice senses that there is something not quite right about Hal. His moods swing drastically, and Alice begins to become frightened of him. She tries to push him away but feels a connection with him that is undeniable and cannot stay away from him. As the two bond, Alice’s behavior begins to worry her parents and they want her to seek help. Then Hal disappears and as the search for him begins the question rises as to who this elusive stranger is and where did he come from?
Each story may be different, but all are beautifully written, the storylines are interesting, and the characters are well developed. The authors did an amazing job in their writing, and I thoroughly enjoyed this collection. I read works from some authors whose writing I had previously read and was introduced to some new authors whose work I will be looking for in the future. These stories contained action, suspense, drama, danger, intrigue, and of course romance. A great compilation of short stories that does not disappoint.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-13 19:19:412023-05-22 21:18:32Aliens on Earth Anthology (Limited Edition Romance Collections) by Various Authors – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Last King is the first book in the Legacy of Riverfall series. Maren is the underpaid, underappreciated healer for her small village. She spends long days creating tonics and potions to heal the villagers and receives little in return for her hard work. Maren has dreamed of leaving her little village but is unable to because she looks after her younger sister who is sick with a mystical disease and is unable to travel. Maren and her sister Thea live in a cold, damp, and dark basement with little money and little food. Everyday is a fight to survive and figure out where the next meal is coming from. When Thea arrives home late one night and tells Maren that the deputy is after her because she stole a loaf of bread it starts a ripple effect of events for Maren.
Maren tells Thea that she will take the blame for her and when the deputy comes, she takes Thea’s place. When the deputy carts Maren off to jail she is not concerned that he will hurt her because she knows his secret and that she is the only one who can create the tonic he needs. She is thrown into jail with several other prisoners and must do what she can to get through the night. When Maren is confronted by an angry prisoner her survival mode kicks in, and she is prepared to fight. As another prisoner steps in and tries to protect her, and things intensify in the jail cell between prisoners, the village bell goes off warning them that the village is under attack.
The villagers immediately run to the caverns to hide out while the village is under attack, but Maren does not make it in time. Maren and another prisoner, Zane, find themselves left outside with no way to protect themselves from the attack. Kane asks Maren if she will help him find something and offers to take her to where he knows there is a magical plant that will help heal her sister. Maren is reluctant to go with this stranger but loves her sister and wants to heal her. She sets off on an adventure with Zane and they must work together to get what they both want. Although chaos is raging all around them an attraction begins to slowly form between Maren and Zane. As their adventure continues secrets are revealed about Maren and she learns things about herself that cannot possibly be true. Can she trust Zane? Is there really a magical plant that can heal her sister? Can these secrets that she finds out about herself really be true?
Last King started out with a bang and immediately grabbed my attention. The storyline was enthralling, the setting was vividly described, and the characters were amazing. Maren is someone who puts up with a lot of from the villagers who often take advantage of her kindness and generosity. They expect miracles from her but do not want to pay her. Maren says nothing although it hurts her deeply and takes its toll on her mentally. The lack of money she makes from tonics and potions for the villagers makes it hard to provide the basics for her ailing sister. Maren loves her sister and will do anything for her, including believing a stranger’s claim that there is a magical plant that can cure her illness.
When Zane tells Maren about the magical plant, she heads off on an adventure with him even though he is a complete stranger and even though she is unsure that she can trust him. What ensues is a slow burning romance, action, adventure, mystery, suspense, danger, and the revealing of secrets that could alter Maren’s entire world. This fantasy adventure has magic, monsters, kings, fae, and paranormal elements. This was a great read and I cannot wait for the next book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-12 11:58:022023-05-12 13:48:41Last King (Legacy of Riverfall Book 1) by Amabel Daniels – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Rene has spent the last three years wallowing in grief over the loss of his twin sister, Cerise. He spends most of his time wallowing in self pity, drinking away his sorrows, and popping pills in an effort to forget his pain. For three years Rene has been trying to find the person who murdered his sister by visiting other crime scenes that appear to be murders similar to those of his sister. When he visits a murder scene where the body has been laid out with flowers and a circle of bones it feels as though somebody cared for the deceased person. Rene cannot help but feel as though something is different and senses another presence watching him. When he looks over, he catches a quick glimpse of someone with violet-colored eyes, but she disappears as fast as he saw it. Once Rene returns home, he continues to feel the presence and catches fleeting glimpses of an otherworldly female. He feels as though he is slowly losing his grip on reality and starts to question his own sanity.
Belladonna has been hiding in the forest and acting as a recluse for years where she can feel at peace with nature. Her life was a quiet one until humans entered her forest and desecrated the body, she had laid out so peacefully as a way to honor the deceased person. The humans came and carelessly tossed the bones into a bag and destroyed the shrine she had so lovingly created. When Belladonna sees Rene at the crime scene, she senses his grief and knows that he is different from the other humans. She feels as though they are kindred spirits because he has sensed deep loss and becomes obsessed with Rene. Belladonna decides that Rene will be the one to avenge her people and follows him home. She pops in and out and shows glimpses of herself, making her presence known to Rene until the time is right and she is ready to make him hers.
This was another delightfully sinister and dark novella by this brilliant and talented author. Albeit a brief read it packs a lot of punch and is beautifully written. The storyline is chocked full of suspense, danger, intrigue, murder, mayhem, pixies, magic, and the desire to seek revenge. The characters of Belladonna and Rene are engaging and intriguing. Both have a desire to help the murdered women but have their own ways of doing so. Rene is a shell of his former self after his twin sister was murdered. He has been slowly killing himself with booze and pills and has become obsessed with fining his sister’s killer. Belladonna senses his grief and becomes obsessed with making him hers. Rene and Belladonna do seem drawn to one another and have a connection. As their connection grows the two of them work together to try to find out who is murdering these women and dumping their bodies. I highly recommend this dark paranormal romance.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-10 11:57:202023-05-12 13:40:51Corpse Pixie by Sinister Styx – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Undying Light is Book One in The Stella Maris Series. The book is told from the point of view of three different characters. Each character has a unique power and secret that they are trying to hide which makes them unlikely to trust many people. As the book progresses it starts to intertwine the lives of the three and give a bigger storyline.
Character number one is Kaela, an eighteen-year-old girl that is different from other girls her age because she has healing powers. She tries her best to disguise it which can be difficult because she glows when she uses her powers. Kaela is intelligent and is just finishing college to be a nurse and wants to use her healing powers to help others.
Character number two is Seth, who is an undying, which is like a vampire. There are very few things that can kill an undying. Most of the undying were eradicated by a tyrant king so there are very few in existence. Seth is on a quest to find his possessions that have once again been stolen. He enlists some shady characters to do his dirty work for him.
Character number three is Terran, a werewolf. He is the only son of a family of old school money in which the males are all born with this special “affliction”. He works as a public servant which angers his mother who feels that he should be a wealthy lawyer and be married to the right woman. Terran leads a secret life that nobody knows about in which he brings justice to those who escape it. Kaela crosses paths with both Seth and Terran at different times and under different circumstances. She must decide if she trusts either of these men. When Kaela is attacked by a group of men at the clinic, she works at it is Terran who comes to her rescue. He is badly injured in the process, so Kaela uses her healing powers to save him. In the process, both learn of the other’s well-guarded secrets and trust the other to not tell anyone. Things are going well until Seth comes along. He recognizes her as one of his own and wants to protect her and teach her. Seth offers to protect Kaela but then Terran gets in his way. Can Kaela really trust either of these men?
A great urban fantasy book with paranormal elements, shapeshifters, magic, intrigue, suspense, secrets, tension, secret vigilante activities, and danger lurking around every corner. The characters were well written, and their back story explained in a manner that made their individual story easily understandable. Kaela, Seth, and Terran were all supernatural beings with their own unique abilities that they kept a secret. They trusted nobody and each kept to themselves. It was easy to understand why they felt as though they may not have been able to trust one another. Looking forward to book number two.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-09 12:03:212023-05-12 13:39:31Undying Light (The Stella Maris Series Book 1) by Aurora Wildey – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Hero Complex is Book Three in the Bluestone Series. Ivy is struggling to save the studding ranch left to her by her grandparents. When Ivy is approached by a local business owner with a proposition to save her business, she tries to hear him out. That is, until he opens his mouth and starts acting like a male chauvinistic jerk who knows more than she does and treats her like she does not know anything about how to run a ranch. That is when Ivy learns the true reasons behind why her business is failing. With her being single, it seems that men do not want to bring her their business because their old-fashioned way of thinking makes them believe that a woman is not capable of running a business.
Retired Marine, Ace, has been living on Ivy’s ranch and helping her in exchange for room and board. When he learns of Ivy’s meeting with the local businessman, he goes to the meeting with her to act as moral support. Ace gets upset at the way Ivy is being treated and, in an effort, to placate the businessman he informs him that Ivy and he are engaged and that he is helping her run her business. Now the rumor is circulating in the small community that Ivy and Ace are engaged, and things begin to get messy. Ivy is horrified about the rumors but goes along with them because she needs to save her ranch.
As Ivy and Ace play the part of being engaged the sparks fly between them. Ivy is attracted to Ace but wishes that he would stop trying to save her all the time. She is independent, smart, and strong so she does not feel as though she needs a hero running to her rescue. Ace is attracted to Ivy as well, so he only wants to protect her. He would love for the relationship to be more but feels as though his battle scars will turn off Ivy. Both Ivy and Ace do their part in their engagement and try to fight off the intense chemistry between them but find the attraction becoming more undeniable as time goes by. Can there ever be a real relationship between Ivy and Ace?
I loved this entire series and have fallen in love with this author’s writing. I could not put the book down and found the storyline and the characters amazing. The characters of Ivy and Ace are believable and relatable. Ivy sees herself as an independent and strong woman who does not need a man running in to save her. When Ace tries to come to her rescue, she is offended yet realizes that she must accept help, or her ranch will fail. Ivy has trauma from her past that she needs to deal with and is carrying a huge secret that she has not told anyone about. This secret could prevent her from having the future life she deserves. Ace feels damaged and unlovable due to the scars he suffered during his time as a Marine. Neither Ivy nor Ace feel that they are good enough for the other. The events that ensue are gut wrenching and take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Be prepared to laugh, cry, scream, and maybe even swear out loud a bit as Ivy and Ace struggle through the demons from their past and try to push forward.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-09 11:12:132023-05-12 13:39:16Hero Complex (Bluestone Series Book 3) by Isobel Reed – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Love Tools is Book One in the Bluestone Series. Lily has recently moved from London to the small town of Bluestone County after inheriting her father’s hardware store. Although Lily was estranged from her father and had not since him since she was a small child, she took the move as a fresh start. She needed to escape from the life she had in London. The city was too busy, her apartment was cramped, and she felt like she was going nowhere in her job. Plus, she found her mother to be too overbearing, and she found herself in one bad relationship after another. The excuse to run her estranged father’s hardware store clear across the country came as a welcome excuse to flee from the life she was hating and start over.
When Lilly arrives in Bluestone, she throws herself into cleaning the hardware store and preparing for it to reopen. Lily is wrapped up in cleaning the store when a drop-dead gorgeous cowboy walks into the store. She finds it hard to take her eyes off of him, but as soon as he opens his mouth the attraction rating drops drastically. Lily refuses to get into any sort of a relationship, especially with a man as annoying as Jake. Besides, she figures that nobody that good looking would be interested in her anyhow. Jake cannot seem to help messing up every time he opens his mouth but finds he is intentionally saying things to get a rise out of Lily. Although he has all but sworn off relationships, he finds Lily not only sexy as all get go, but he loves her sassy attitude.
Lily finds that she cannot seem to escape Jake who seems to be everywhere, including at her new friend, Sam’s, place. The two begin to spend time together as Jake helps her with prepping the hardware store for the reopening. As they spend time together Lily lets her guard down a bit and opens up to Jake about her relationship with her father. She is seeking answers about why her father abandoned her and what type of person he was. Why did he move across the country to run a hardware store in the middle of nowhere? Jake and her father were close so he may be able to give her some answers. As they spend more time together the chemistry between Lily and Jake intensifies and the attraction becomes undeniable.
This book was well written, and the characters were lovable and relatable. Lily and Jake both have trauma from their pasts that have left them feeling a bit broken. Both have all but sworn off relationships and have chosen to focus on other projects. For Lily it was the hardware store and for Jake it was the ranch. Jake did not know what love was and had only wanted casual relationships until he met Lily. No woman had ever made Jake feel like he could not live without her until Lily came along. Now he needs to convince Lily that he is serious about her and will not treat her like her exes had in the past. Lily has had one bad relationship after another and is scared to let her guard down for fear that Jake will also end up hurting her. The hurt, drama, angst, and betrayals from their pasts must all be worked through before either can be fully capable of having a healthy relationship. This was a wholesome love story with sexy cowboys in a small-town setting with a bit of sass, humor, and witty banter sprinkled throughout. A fantastic read that immediately made me want to read other books in the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-09 10:28:262023-05-12 13:39:05Love Tools (Bluestone Series Book 1) by Isobel Reed – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
A Spot of Earl Slay is Book One in the Tea Time Troubles Series. Naomi has decided that she wants a fresh start after having just divorced her husband. She moves her and her teen daughter, Ella, to the small community of Fayette. Her uncle left Naomi a house after he passed away and she figures that living mortgage free will be a good way for her and her daughter to get back on their feet. Her ex-husband has been less than generous in the divorce proceedings and Naomi needs to find a job and start saving money.
As Naomi and Ella arrive at their new home a fierce storm starts knocking branches off trees and blows open the door on their shed. When the women go to close the shed door, they are horrified to discover a dead body laying inside the shed. While they wait for the police to arrive, they meet the neighbor ladies, Barbara and Ingrid who invite them over for Earl Grey tea and biscuits. Over tea Naomi and Ella learn about the townsfolk and who the deceased person is in their shed. As the women discuss the discovery of the body Naomi and Ella learn it was the town gossip who made a lot of enemies over the years.
Naomi and Ella feel uncomfortable with the idea of staying in their new house so when the neighbors offer for them to stay with them, they decide it is a good idea. As they discuss how hated the deceased person, Yasmin, was they learn that even her own family and friends hated her. Yasmin always had her nose in everyone’s business so it could have been any number of people who murdered her. The list of suspects is long, and the investigation drags on, so the four ladies set out to solve the mystery themselves. As they start digging into the suspect list Naomi has her hands full worrying about if their lives are in danger and fighting with her ex-husband who wants custody of Ella.
The title of this book drew me in immediately and from the first few pages I was invested in the storyline. The author did a great job describing the small-town vibe and how everyone within a small community seems to know everyone else’s business. The characters were beautifully written and relatable. Anyone who has gone through a messy divorce can relate to Naomi and the emotions, stress, and pressure she felt as she tried to do what was best for her daughter, Ella. As if leaving a loveless marriage was not stressful enough, Naomi discovers a murder victim in the shed of her new home. Her new life does not seem to be off to a great start. Naomi was courageous and put on a brave face throughout everything that was thrown at her. Ella helped her mom through things with her wit and humor. As a bonus the neighbors seem nice enough and Naomi and Ella make fast friends with them so that helps the women feel comfortable in their new surroundings. This was a cozy little mystery with action, drama, suspense, intrigue, and danger.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-06 12:58:362023-05-12 13:09:14A Spot of Earl Slay (Tea Time Troubles Book 1) by Aubrey Elle – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Amy’s Rebellion is the first book in the Gemstone Massacre Series. The book starts out fast paced as Amy is fleeing from an assassin that was sent after her by her vengeful leader. She has been on the run from Opal for years, in a desperate attempt to survive and leave her past behind her. While hiding in plain sight she has been trying to harness her magical powers in preparation for the day where she must fight Opal to the death. This day comes sooner than Amy anticipated when her sister is kidnapped, and Amy has no choice but to fight Opal in order to save her sister. Losing is not an option if both Amy and her sister want to survive.
This book was action packed and full of a few twists and turns that I did not see coming. The fantasy world and characters were wonderfully written. Amy has learned to be strong in order to survive the evil forces that dictated her life in the past. She has been trying to leave her past behind her but has always known the day would come when she would no longer be able to hide. The evil forces that dictated her choices were always going to return and she needed to prepare for the inevitable battle against them. Opal is the leader of the evil forces and the one that Amy has been fleeing from after Opal destroyed their entire clan. She has her own reasons for turning evil, which are explained in a prequel book that I intend to read. This book was full of drama, action, adventure, magic, a bit of romance, and the age-old battle of good versus evil.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-06 11:57:442023-05-12 13:09:02Amy’s Rebellion (Gemstone Massacre Book 1) by Julia Goldhirsh – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Brave Kids is a collection of short stories written by a variety of authors. Each short story is on a different topic and discusses things such as the loss of a loved one, being afraid of the dark, bullying, and other situations where a child may feel vulnerable and afraid. Being brave is not about being a superhero, or having super powers, it is about believing in yourself and being kind. Being brave is asking for help when you need it. Being brave is about helping others be better. Being brave is about treating nature and Mother Earth with respect. Each one of the stories are designed to inspire youth and adults to create a better world for all of us, for Earth, and for animals.
This book was truly inspirational and is a good reminder for children, youth, teens, and adults of all ages. Sometimes we have a moment in life that makes us scared, and we need a gentle reminder that true bravery comes from within. Sometimes those things require us to dig down deep and believe in ourselves. Sometimes we lose someone we love, and the sadness weighs us down. Sometimes we cannot do things on our own and it is okay to ask for help from a friend or family member. Sometimes we need a reminder to not take nature and Earth for granted and we need to take care of the planet we live on.
I enjoyed all of the stories in this book but if I had to pick a favorite it would be One Rock at a Time. It is about how to be brave after suffering the loss of a loved one. This one hit home for me after the recent loss of my father. We were close and losing him has weighed me down with grief and anger. My grief was weighing me down like an imaginary backpack full of rocks. Thank you for including this short story, it has helped me release some of the grief and move forward. I highly recommend this book for all ages! A great collection to keep on hand and read when feeling like you are not quite brave enough.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-05 10:58:472023-05-12 13:08:26Brave Kids: Short Stories to Inspire Future World Changers by Janice Pratt – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Ten Thousand Shells and Counting is the heart-wrenching memoir of Nadija’s life as a fourteen- year-old living in war torn Sarajevo in the 1990’s. Her quiet life was changed forever when she watched tanks roll into the airport across the street from her home. From that moment forward Nadija’s life became a struggle to survive with shells going off all around her and with no safe place to hide. She watched in shock and horror as friends, family, and neighbors were killed right in front of her when shells landed nearby. When a sniper killed her neighbor, her family was forced to flee their home and try to seek refuge in another part of the city. Nadija and her family slept on mattresses on the floor so that stray bullets did not kill them in their sleep. Food was scarce and had to be rationed so she went to bed hungry every night. Nadija lived without the basics of running water, electricity, and heat. She lived in fear everyday wondering if she would be the next casualty of the war that ravaged around them.
This memoir was a testament to the author’s strength and resilience as she struggled to through the atrocities and horrors of war. Despite what was going on around her, Nadija attempted to be a normal teenager by staying out too late and smoking too much. Young Nadija learned that the conflicts were not limited to the war raging outside as bickering, arguments, and disagreements ran rampant through their home and within their family. War brought out the worst in people living in cramped quarters as squabbles started over things like toothpaste and wanting bigger rations. Through these experience Nadija learns to stand up for herself and used humor as a bit of a coping mechanism.
This story was real, raw, and honest. I was taken on an emotional rollercoaster ride of shock, horror, anger, and sadness at the destruction caused by war. It is heartbreaking to think of the senseless acts of violence against innocent people. How lives are taken, and homes destroyed without thought. How children must witness the violence and bloodshed. Thank you, Nadija, for sharing your experiences of living through war with us. Your strength, courage, and resilience are admirable.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-05-04 15:04:192023-05-12 13:00:14Ten Thousand Shells and Counting: A Memoir (Teenage War Survival Book 1) by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
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Afflicted Love by Autumn Sand
