Tears Into Gold is a fantasy fairy book designed for children from the ages of eight to eighteen years old. It is a fun, whimsical read full of magic, fantasy, dreams, and wishes. This is an entertaining book that reads much like a fairytale within a fairytale. The storyline centers around a young girl named Branka who is in love with someone she knows she can never truly have. The boy she loves is out of her social class and a relationship between them would be strictly forbidden. The one thing that Branka wishes for is to have freedom but that wish could come at a price. This was an interesting read that was far different from any other book that I have ever read. Clever, entertaining, and unique. I look forward to reading more books 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 Barnes2023-09-23 14:24:022023-10-08 15:42:49Tears Into Gold by Cori Cooper – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Vixen is Book Four in The Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost Montana Chapter series. Each book in the series builds on the one prior to it while introducing new characters and telling their story. The characters overlap in each book, so I do recommend reading the previous books in the series first. Plus, the series is amazing so I feel they are a must read. This book centers around the character of Mira, or Vixen as she is now called, who has received a call from a girl from her past asking for her help. The girl was left behind after Vixen managed to free herself from a human trafficking ring years ago. Vixen was one of many women who was viciously abused, exploited, and assaulted by a man named Juice. Juice is vicious, cruel, and will take what he wants. When the women in his trafficking ring became pregnant, he took their babies and sold them. Mira/Vixen is one of many women who has no idea where her baby is at or what happened. Vixen now must decide what to do and how to protect herself and her friend while freeing her from Juice’s sex trafficking ring. Her Devil’s Handmaidens have her back, and so do some unlikely others, one of which she never thought she would see again.
Enter Lucas, or Ironside, as he is referred to, who is an undercover FBI Agent. He helped to free Vixen from Juice’s trafficking ring. Ironside and Vixen had a brief relationship until he suddenly ghosted her and broke her heart. Now he has reentered her world and Vixen is uncertain if she can trust him. She must decide if she can forgive him and accept his help. Ironside has his reasons for disappearing and did so to protect Vixen, but he must try to get her to understand that. He is back now and is determined to protect the woman he loves at all costs. Vixen soon learns that there is far more to the story than she ever imagined. Now it is up to them and their friends to save all the women in Juice’s sex trafficking ring.
This is yet another amazing book by this talented author. I love this series and all the strong, fierce, kick-butt women in the Devil’s Handmaidens. Each woman has overcome a traumatic past and risen from the ashes to become a force to be reckoned with. Mira/Vixen is no exception to that. She was swept off her feet by Juice as he lured her into his world. When he tried making her do things, she did not want to do he viciously assaulted her until she obeyed him. Having freed herself from that part of her past she thought that she could leave it behind. She now must prove how strong she really is as her life comes full circle and she comes face-to-face with her past. This book had action, drama, suspense, danger, lust, passion, and chemistry. It also contains things that may be triggers for some with the sensitive topics of abuse, assault, and human trafficking. 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 Barnes2023-09-22 14:56:142023-10-03 13:54:38Vixen: (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter) by D.M. Earl – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Mr. Wimp is the first novella in The Human Mating Site Series. The story centers around the character of Bella who suddenly finds herself single after a twelve-year relationship with her husband. As she comes to terms with her newfound freedom, she soon realizes that she lost a lot of herself in the relationship. With the help of a few close friends Bella starts to enjoy the single life and learns a lot about who she is and what she wants. She realizes that her sex life was less than enthusiastic and sets out to explore her sexuality. This is the beginning of her journey and I anxiously await the next novella to see what Bella is up to next.
I enjoyed this novella and found it to be a quick read with an interesting storyline that I felt many women could relate to. I felt an immediate connection to the character of Bella because she was smart, strong, and feisty but at the same time had low self-esteem. She held back on a lot of things because she lacked the confidence to come out of her own shell. I look forward to seeing Bella grow as a character in her farther adventures. I loved that the book was not all serious and emotional, but that Bella and her friends approached the topic of being single with a sense of grace and humor. I felt the novella had a bit of a personal diary type of a feel which made it feel more personal to read from her POV. The only thing that I would think might possibly add to the story would be divisions between events, not like a chapter but perhaps as a diary entry with a date as the chapter heading. Each entry in Bella’s ‘diary’ would give the reader insight into her journey as though reading from her ‘diary’. I am not sure if that makes sense and is only my personal opinion. Bring on novella 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 Barnes2023-09-22 14:10:552023-10-08 15:04:14Mr. Wimp (The Human Mating Site Book 1) by B.L. Wilde – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend is a children’s book for kids between the ages of five to eleven years old. This book tells the story of a stray cat, named Shadow that Oscar and Emmy’s family has been feeding and caring for. When they notice that Shadow does not look well, they take the cat to the vet who tells them that Shadow has cancer. Oscar and Emmy’s family care for Shadow until they must make the difficult decision to have Shadow put to sleep. The author has done a wonderful job of discussing the heart wrenching topic of the loss of a beloved pet in an easy-to-understand manner for children. This book will teach children about stray animals, loss, compassion, and how to say goodbye to a beloved pet. 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 Barnes2023-09-18 14:42:272023-10-07 11:48:37Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend (Oscarand Emmy Series) by Terri Sabol – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Rocketship Made of Stars is a children’s book designed for kids between the ages of four to eight years old. The story centers around a young girl by the name of Shirl and her alien friend Eee-Ahh. When Shirl takes Eee-Ahh to school with her the teacher and her classmates quickly realize that Eee-Ahh is an alien. The teacher asks her where she came from so, she draws a map of the stars and gives the names of all the constellations. The constellations look the same except the names Eee-Ahh gives the constellations are different from what the teacher calls them. Shirl and her classmates receive a lesson in the names of the different constellations, what they look like, and what they are called. This book is great for any child to learn about the stars and what the constellations are called. It is fun, easy to read, and full of bright illustrations that bring the story to life. 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 Barnes2023-09-16 16:15:392023-10-02 19:06:29Rocketship Made of Stars (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
A Forever Kind of Thing is a young adult contemporary romance that centers around the character of a teen girl named Mina. Mina is used to being bullied and teased because she has grown up poor and wears secondhand clothing. Her classmates are cruel, mock her, call her names, and spread rumors about her mom. When a new boy enters Mina’s fifth grade classroom, she cannot help but notice how cute he is and the confidence he exudes. Mina expects him to avoid her like all the other students and sit beside one of what would be considered a ‘cool kid’. Instead, the new student sits beside Mina and starts to talk to her. Mina tries to warn him that if he talks to her that he will be mocked and explains to him how the other kids bully and tease her. Rather than running scared the new student introduces himself as Wes, and Mina learns that they have a lot in common. Mina and Wes become fast friends and for the next two years the pair are practically joined at the hip. Then Wes suddenly vanishes, and Mina is left with a lot of questions and a broken heart.
Fast forward five years and Mina’s life has taken a drastic turn after her mom has married a wealthy man. Suddenly Mina has the life she thought she could only dream of. She is attending a prestigious school, wearing designer clothing, and is the most popular girl in school. When Wes suddenly reappears and pops back into Mina’s life, she is worried that he will reveal her secrets and ruin her new life. Wes has not had an easy life over the last five years as he has remained poor and in the foster system. Old feelings resurface and Mina is conflicted between her new life of popularity and the love of someone who truly knows her and loves her regardless of her background. The push and pull between Mina and Wes takes the two down a rocky road as they try to navigate their dark pasts and their feelings for one another. Can Wes and Mina ever truly have a life together?
I loved the writing style of these authors and found the storyline compelling. The characters were ones that I was immediately drawn to and found myself relating to. Mina was smart, strong, feisty, and determined to have a better life than what she had. She was tired of being bullied and teased for being poor and wearing secondhand clothing. Her classmates were cruel, and she struggled to feel worthy of anyone. Mina wanted more out of life and dreamed of leaving her small town. When she met Wes, she found someone who saw her for who she was and genuinely cared for her. He did not care about where she came from or that she wore secondhand clothing. Wes was also someone who grew up poor and had a less than desirable life growing up within the foster system. When Mina and Wes became friends, it changed both of their lives. They found friendship, love, hope, strength, courage, and allies in one another. That all came with a price though when their friendship seemingly dissolved into thin air. Love and hope turned to grief, loss, and heartache. When Mina and Wes were reunited after years apart the feelings were still there but the two had led very different lives and taken very different paths. The ensuing journey was one full of angst, drama, betrayal, hurt, anger, and second chances. 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 Barnes2023-09-13 15:27:152023-09-14 09:31:06A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Atonement is Book One in The McIntire County Series. It is a romantic suspense novel full of action, mystery, intrigue, danger, and drama. The story centers around the character of Nicolette Rivers who is a deputy in a small town called Eider, Iowa. Nicolette, or Nic as she is called, is a former marine sniper who suffers from severe PTSD. Nic is estranged from her family and has a complex relationship with her father. She feels strongly that he never loved her, and she blames him for the death of her former lover. Due to the trauma of war and the estrangement from her family, Nic finds it hard to trust anyone, so she shuts everyone out and moves to a small town where nobody knows her.
When a series of apparent suicides begin to take place in her sleepy little town Nic sets out to solve them. The string starts with a man talking about atonement and repenting for his sins while holding his wife and kids’ hostage. When he cannot be talked down Nic is forced to shoot him. This causes flashbacks of her past and her PTSD rears its ugly head. After this incident, Nic is paired with Con, a police detective. Con has been interested in Nic for a while but because of her trust issues she pushes him away. Con, however, refuses to give up on Nic and is determined to break down the walls she has placed around herself. When other suicide cases pop up where the word atonement is mentioned Nic and Dusty begin to feel the cases are linked together. Were the victims somehow connected through a Priest that one of the victims mentioned prior to his death?
This book was brilliantly written and had me hooked from the first pages. The author did an amazing job of creating a riveting storyline with complex characters that you feel an instant connection to. She handled the complex subject of PTSD, and the effects it has on those suffering from it as well as how it affects the relationships they have with others. Nic was a smart, strong, kick-arse woman who was determined to fight her demons and come out stronger for having done so. Con was sweet, kind, and stubborn as he refused to give up on Nic. This book had heartache, heartbreak, loss, trauma, dark secrets, mystery, danger, intrigue, complex family dynamics, death, war, and a crazed serial killer. 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 Barnes2023-09-12 14:25:162023-09-14 09:21:47Atonement (The McIntire County Series Book 1) by Winter Austin – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
A Party to Remember is part of the Notebook Mysteries series. It is a historical crime novella that takes place in 1889 in Chicago and centers around the characters of Emma and her friends. Emma has a nose for solving mysteries and seems to find them everywhere she goes. When Emma and Jeremy are invited to attend a Christmas party, she cannot shake the feeling that something seems to be off about the party. As the day of the party draws nearer her suspicions increase especially when she learns of the list of guests that have been invited to the same party. The guest list seems odd and those invited do not seem to be those that Gregory and Geoff, the party hosts, would normally socialize with so why have they been invited? Emma begins to conduct a small investigation with the help of her friends, Jake and Ethyl, who go undercover as hired help for the party. As they report back to Emma about the going-ons at Gregory and Geoff’s home, her suspicions only increase, and she knows that something is wrong. Who will win the deadly game of cat-and-mouse that Gregory and Geoff have planned?
Another brilliantly written novella by this talented author. I love how she uses historical events that occurred between 1880-1890 in Chicago as inspiration for her stories. The storyline was intriguing, and the characters are engaging. I have grown to love this close-knit group of friends that have become family to one another. Emma is a smart, feisty, stubborn, young lady with a knack for solving mysteries. She can sense something is wrong and pick up subtle clues that many might otherwise overlook. Christmas is a busy enough time of year but for Emma this year she certainly has her hands full. An invitation to a Christmas party that has her suspicions raised. Helping her friends Savannah and Ethan plan their wedding. Added to that, Emma and Jeremy have just become guardians to young Henrietta who I found was a wonderful addition to the story. I look forward to reading future stories with Henrietta to see if she becomes involved in helping Emma solve mysteries. Such a brilliant-minded young lady will surely aid in solving future mysteries that Emma stumbles onto. 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 Barnes2023-09-12 13:30:332023-09-12 14:56:47Notebook Mysteries ~ A Party to Remember (Notebook Mysteries Series) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Master Campania is Book Seven in the Masters of the Consulate series. It is an edgy, enemies to lovers, paranormal romance with vampires, witches, magic, drama, danger, action, suspense, chemistry, passion, love, and fated mates. Although this book could possibly be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the first books in the series because they will introduce you to some of the recurring characters that pop up. Putting that aside, it is an amazing series that you will not want to miss out on.
This book centers on the characters of Master Campania and Willow and is told from each of their points of view. Master Campania is a vampire that rules the south of Italy with an iron fist. Nobody would dare lie to him or betray him because they would not live to see another night. When Master Campania learns of rogue shifters and traitorous vampires teaming up with a group of witches, he is determined to find them and put a stop to them. Master Campania sees all and knows all in his dark underworld, so he knows where a group of witches have been living and where they like to socialize.
Enter Willow, a witch who is out for a night of fun with her friends at a club that Master Campania frequents. Willow and her friends have fled the academy because they were tired of being under the thumb of the head witches, and the coven leader Devora. They are hiding out in Master Campania’s region thinking that nobody would think to look for them there. However, Master Campania is aware of the witches as well as where they are staying. When he spots Willow at the club, he approaches her and demands information on the whereabouts of the rogue witches. Willow is reluctant to tell him anything and instead gives him false information to buy them time so her and her friends can flee to safety. Unfortunately, Willow and her friends do not escape quickly enough, and Master Campania quickly hunts them down. He is now angry that she lied to him and is more determined to get the information he seeks. What he does not expect is to find this little witch so enchanting. Willow also finds herself attracted to Master Campania. What will become of this mutual attraction?
This was yet another fantastic book in this series! The author draws the reader in from the first few pages with a suspenseful, action-packed, and intense storyline. Master Campania is a dark, sexy, devious, and ruthless vampire that nobody dares to betray. He is used to getting his own way and will stop at nothing to get what he wants. Willow is a feisty, bullheaded, smart, and charming witch that values her friends and will do anything to protect them. When Master Campania and Willow first meet it is under less-than-ideal circumstances. They are opposites from two different worlds where vampires and witches have been taught that they are mortal enemies and that they must never mix. However, when Master Campania and Willow meet the chemistry and attraction between them is intense and undeniable. It was impossible to not continue reading to see if either would act on the attraction and if there was hope of them having a relationship. This book hooked me until the end and kept me riveted until the last pages. I cannot wait for book number eight!
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 Barnes2023-09-07 13:36:462023-09-14 08:24:25Master Campania (Masters of the Consulate Book 7) by Sylvia Black – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
The Mother’s Threat is a fast-paced, psychological thriller that will grip you from the first pages and keep you reading until the end. The story centers around the character of Violet who has just opened her own security business. She is an ex-covert-ops leader who is smart, strong, courageous, and tenacious. Violet is a woman who never backs down from a challenge and will instead tackle it head-on. Her first job with her security business, Outrigger Services, is to provide security for a company called Bettermed at an upcoming conference they are holding. When Violet discovers that her mother, Daisy, is planning to join a group of protestors at the conference she is shocked and horrified. She knows her hippie mom to be peace-loving, gentle, and kind so how could she be involved in a protest? Not only is Daisy involved in the protest, but she becomes the voice for the group. When the peaceful protest becomes heated looting, fires, and destruction occurs. Violet and Daisy’s mother-daughter relationship hangs precariously in the balance as they find themselves on opposing ends and Violet finds herself being forced to choose between her business and her mom.
This was yet another amazing book by this talented author. Her writing style is impeccable and draws the reader fully into the story. The relationship between Violet and Daisy became complex quickly when they found themselves on opposing sides of an issue involving big business and climate change. Both women are strong, smart, determined, and have strong beliefs and values. It was interesting to read and see how the conflict would play out between Violet and Daisy. This was a book full of action, drama, suspense, conflict, family dynamics, beliefs, morals, values, and the complex mother-daughter dynamic. The twists and turns will keep you on the edge of your seat and have you reading until the end. 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 Barnes2023-09-05 12:44:032023-09-14 08:38:26The Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
When We Fell Again is an angsty, second chance, contemporary romance that centers around the characters of Jordan and Alexis. Jordan is lead singer with the band Idol Rev. His band is due to go on a comeback tour but after an alcohol induced moment of stupidity Jordan has dislocated his shoulder. He insists that he is still able to tour if he has super strength painkillers to take the edge off his pain. Alexis is a tour manager that usually manages smaller tours. When she is asked to fill in for Idol Rev’s regular tour manager, she is reluctant because it means that she will be on tour with her ex, Jordan.
Jordan and Alexis were together while in university and when he was an up-and-coming rock star. It was being his girlfriend that gave her the love of live music and led her into a career in tour management. Her new career was also what broke Jordan and Alexis up when she started to spend long periods of time away from home. Jordan became jealous, accused her of horrible things, and it inevitably caused the two to break up. Naturally, Alexis is not keen on seeing Jordan again but when she does old feelings begin to stir and she cannot deny her attraction to him. Jordan has managed to avoid Alexis for five years and is not keen on seeing her again but feels that he can maintain a professional attitude. That is, until he sees Alexis and old feelings come to the surface. His attraction to her is undeniable and he vows to change his ways and be a better man so he can win her back. Can old hurt and bitterness be put aside so that Jordan and Alexis can have a chance at a future together? Will Jordan settle back into his old ways of anger and jealousy?
This was a well written story with an intriguing storyline. It was interesting to read and see how Jordan and Alexis would handle being on tour together. Their attraction to one another was undeniable but would it be enough. I had to keep reading to see if Jordan really could change his ways and be the man that Alexis deserved. It was interesting to see how Alexis would handle the situation and if she could forgive Jordan and accept that he truly wanted to change. Would Jordan break her heart again? This book was an angsty, passion-filled, second chance romance that took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions.
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 Barnes2023-09-05 12:05:152023-09-14 08:37:39When We Fell Again by Julie Archer – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Murder Creek is Book One in the Eve Sawyer Mystery Series. It is a murder mystery that centers around the character of Eve Sawyer. Eve is a journalism student who chooses to write an article about a woman who went missing twenty years ago. The only clue to the woman’s disappearance was a bloody scarf that was left behind. Eve decides to delve into the case acting as an amateur sleuth to solve the cold case. Eve has an ability that few others prior to her had which give her a bit of an upper hand in solving the case. As an empath she has unique abilities that allow her to notice minute details that others might overlook. Eve can also feel and sense the moods of others which allows her to tune into their mindset. An added bonus is that as an empath people feel more comfortable with Eve and will openly confide in her.
This was a wonderfully written book with an intriguing storyline and relatable characters. I adored the character of Eve and felt a connection with her. She was smart, feisty, determined, and courageous. I loved that the author chose to write Eve as an empath because I have not yet read about a character with that ability. Empaths have unique gifts and abilities that often get overlooked. They can pick up on energy, moods, and feelings of those around them. Empaths can often sense when someone is lying and picking up on negative energy. Empaths are those that others generally feel comfortable around enough to open up and discuss things that they generally would not divulge to anyone else. How do I know this? I know from personal experience because I discovered a few years ago that I am an empath. Random strangers have come up to me at bus stops and at my workplace and told me things that they have never told another person. These individuals were surprised afterwards that they told me what they had. I can sense other people’s moods and pickup on their energy. Negative energy is emotionally draining so it is important to be surrounded by happy, positive individuals. A huge shoutout to the author for giving the character of Eve the unique ability of empath. This book had action, suspense, mystery, intrigue, and a few twists and turns that kept me reading until the end. I anxiously await the next book in this amazing 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 Barnes2023-09-04 20:24:342023-09-14 07:54:47Murder Creek by Jane Suen – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
A Rainbow Like You is a contemporary fiction book with drama, love, loss, heartache, heartbreak, drama, angst, and tension. The story centers around the character of musician Adrian “Jazzer” Johnson and is told from his POV. Adrian has loved music from an early age and was always driven by the passion to succeed and become a rock star. He dropped out of high school and chose to focus on his career, becoming the leader of a hugely successful rock band. Adrian’s life is not all sunshine and lollipops as he had hoped. The perfect life he hoped for did not happen for him and becoming a popular rock star did not guarantee his happiness. His marriage at a young age turned into a traumatic divorce. He lost his mother, has a less than desirable relationship with his dad, and has turned to alcohol to cope. With so much going on Adrian cannot seem to have the ability to create any new music. Adrian’s life is spiraling out of control until he meets a young girl by the name of Hastings. She has the ability to see music in colors which is a stark contrast to Adrian’s color blindness. Hastings tells Adrian that she can help him, and he reluctantly agrees to accept her help. As the two spend time together they share stories of painful pasts.
This book was beautifully written and not what I expected at all. It was not the typical bad boy, drug addicted, swoon worthy rock star story. This book was centered around a character who seemingly had a perfect life in the sense that he had fame, fortune, and success. Yet, success came with a price and there was a lot going on behind the seemingly perfect façade. Adrian was a tortured soul with a troubled past who was fighting some inner demons. Having suffered so much heartache and loss he was suffering and drowning in his grief. When Adrian met young Hastings, they forged a friendship that helped him grow emotionally and move forward. Their friendship was endearing and heartwarming. This book was a rollercoaster ride of emotions that left me reaching for the box of Kleenex more than once. 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 Barnes2023-09-04 19:30:372023-09-14 07:53:49A Rainbow Like You by Andréa Fehsenfeld – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Dead Keen is Book Two in the Things Unseen Series and the sequel to Dead Sound. If you have not yet read the first book in the series, I highly recommend that you do. Book One will give you an introduction to the characters and their backstories which will give you a better idea of the ordeal that the characters have been through. Dead Keen is a gripping psychological thriller with elements of action, drama, suspense, romance, danger, and drama. Picking up where the first book left off, Neve and Con are flying to Ireland in the hopes to rest, relax, and recoup from the ordeal that they have recently been put through. The pair are enjoying the beauty of Ireland until they get entangled in a mystery involving a deadly cult. Suddenly, their magical getaway turns sinister, and they find themselves in a deadly game of cat and mouse. Neve and Con find themselves battling against video game designers, ancient gods, and evil cult leaders. The tension builds throughout the book as the pair try to unravel the lies and secrets while facing off against an evil cult leader.
Another amazing book by this talented author who drew me into the story from the first few pages and kept me hooked until the end. The writing was so vivid and descriptive that it pulled me into the story and made me feel as though I was there in Ireland with the characters. Neve and Con are a wonderful couple who fit together like pieces of a puzzle. The ordeals that they were put through brought them closer together as they leaned on each other for support. A brilliant rollercoaster ride with twists and turns that will keep you riveted until the end. 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 Barnes2023-09-04 18:31:482023-09-14 07:52:13Dead Keen (Things Unseen Book 2) by Anise Eden – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Rogue Wolf is Book Three in the Protector Wolf Shifter Series. This book picks up where the last one left off so if you have not yet read the first two books in the series, I highly recommend that you do. The first two books give Kodiak and Tamaska’s back stories, how they met, how the vampires obtained the Blood Opal and why Tamaska and Kodiak are so heavily invested in retrieving it from the vampires. It is a paranormal romance with shifters, vampires, drama, action, suspense, mystery, intrigue, passion, chemistry, and danger lurking around every corner.
Tamaska is in hiding with Kodiak’s wolf pack from the vampires who are determined to get to her. For reasons unbeknownst to her the vampires need to mix her blood with the Blood Opal which will give them special powers. Kodiak will do anything to protect Tamaska, but his wolf pack does not feel the same way as he does about Tamaska. As far as they are concerned, she brought trouble to the pack that resulted in bloodshed and the loss of several members of their pack. Out of loyalty to Kodiak the pack reluctantly agrees to protect Tamaska but have a difficult time accepting her into their pack. Kodiak is trying to become Alpha of the wolf pack so he still must prove himself worthy of the title of Alpha. Tamaska could prove to be detrimental to this if his desire to protect her is perceived as weakness by the pack.
Tamaska is anxious to be turned into a wolf shifter but does not understand all the complications that the transformation process entails. Nobody, including, Kodiak will explain the transformation process to her because they want to protect her. What she does not realize is that she may die during the transformation process. She is determined to be transformed and become accepted by the pack but fails to try to understand how the pack works. To be accepted into the wolf pack and become one of them she must follow the rules of the Alpha, who will soon be Kodiak. Tamaska is used to being strong and independent, so she goes against Kodiak’s wishes, and this risks everything he was worked for as well as her acceptance into the pack. Tamaska’s stubbornness almost proves to be fatal when she does not listen to Kodiak and is attacked by a vampire. Lucky for her, Kodiak rescues her before it is too late. When Kodiak is captured by the vampires Tamaska is determined to save him but to do so she must be transformed into a wolf shifter. Will she find someone who will transform her? Will she survive the transformation process? Will she be able to save Kodiak?
This was another phenomenal book in this series! The author does a great job creating an engaging storyline with vivid scenes that fully immerse you into the story with the characters. Tamaska was strong, determined, stubborn, pigheaded, and independent to a fault. These characteristics almost cost her life when she went against Kodiak’s wishes. She felt that she could protect herself without stopping to think about how dangerous the situation was. Not only was she risking her own life but those of Kodiak’s wolf pack as well. Kodiak was strong, smart, loyal, and a born leader. He wanted to protect both Tamaska and his wolf pack at all costs. It was up to him to make the best decisions for his pack, which included Tamaska, but she failed to understand how pack mentality worked. Both Tamaska and Kodiak failed horribly at communicating properly with one another. She felt that she could protect herself and Kodiak felt he was protecting Tamaska by keeping things from her. It was interesting to see how strong Tamaska truly was when it came time to save Kodiak. A great read that kept me hooked until the end. 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 Barnes2023-09-03 14:09:022023-09-14 08:07:00Rogue Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 3) by Lilliana Rose – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
The Secrets of Arkaim is Book Two in The Reeds of West Hills series. It is a kid’s fantasy book aimed for children between the ages of nine to twelve-years-old. If you have not yet read book one in the series, I highly recommend that you do so prior to reading this book. Book one in the series introduces you to the characters, the setting, and their back stories. This story continues with twin boys Jon and Frank Reed and their journey to learn more about their powers while attending West Hills School for the Perceptually Gifted. The boys are anxious to compete in the Zodiac Games and win the title of Zodiac champions. The games will be challenging and will involve testing them of all the knowledge and skills that they have learned so far.
However, with strange things going on at the school any chance of winning the Zodiac Games might be nearly impossible. Weird things are happening to the telepathy students causing them to act irrationally and paranoid. Jon is terrified to go to sleep because a sinister shadowy figure lurks in his dreams. Trouble seems to follow Jon and Frank and they find themselves trying to stop a shadowy figure intent on destroying everything in its path. It is up to Frank and Jon to try to solve the mystery and save everyone.
Another wonderfully written book by this author. The storyline was intriguing, the setting was wonderful, and the characters were engaging. I love that Frank and Jon have gifts and that their parents are sending them to a school for gifted children so they can hone their skills and knowledge. The boys do not like being so far from home, but they love what they are learning and have formed great friendships while at school. The boys are constantly finding new adventures and solving new mysteries. A 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 Barnes2023-09-01 14:09:292023-09-14 07:36:13The Secrets of Arkaim (The Reeds of West Hills) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Xenia Navarro and the Magic Ants is a kid’s book that centers around the character of a young girl by the name of Xenia Navarro. Xenia lives with her older brother Lucas, and her mom, who is an undocumented immigrant from Mexico. Her dad died in Iraq before he was able to marry her mom and her mom felt raising them in the US would be better for her children. Xenia has grown up with the fear of her mom being deported and has been taught not to draw attention to herself. She must get good grades but not so good that she ends up winning a prize and going in the newspaper because this would bring unwanted attention.
Xenia rarely plays outside because of her mom’s fears but one day while outside she begins to observe a group of ants on the special rock around the sunflower in her yard. The ants and the rock help the sunflower to grow. She watches the ants climb into the garbage can and as she watches them, she notices strange things that they seem to be able to do. As Xenia watches the ants, she decides to do a science project on them and the sunflower. However, before she can complete her science project her mom is deported back to Mexico and Xenia’s life is turned upside down.
The author did a wonderful job of writing about difficult subjects in a way that is easy for children to understand. The storyline was a bit intense at times and took me on a bit of a rollercoaster ride of emotions. The character of Xenia was smart, strong, kind, caring, independent, and inquisitive. The neighbor was someone I felt compelled to slap because what Xenia was doing in her yard was none of his business. Who was he to decide if there was a right or wrong way for a girl to act or play? My heart broke for Xenia when her worst fears came true, and her mom was ripped away from her. How traumatic it was to be separated from her mom and everything she knew. This was a a great little chapter book that touches on the topics of family dynamics, immigration, deportation, ICE, Mexican culture and language, politics, whimsy, a hint of magic, and science.
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 Barnes2023-09-01 13:20:122023-09-14 07:35:59Xenia Navarro and the Magic Ants by Lois Wickstrom and Milagros Darling – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Cruel Hate is Book Five in the Hidden Valley Elite Series. This book continues with Aspen and Phoenix’s story from Cruel Start, so I highly recommend reading it first. Honestly, this is an absolutely amazing series that should be read from the first book to understand who each character is, as well as their backstory.
In Cruel Start Aspen decided a good way to test her freedom would be to have a one-night stand with a handsome stranger at a party. Then she learned a short time later that she was pregnant and had to tell this sexy stranger, Phoenix, that he was about to be a baby daddy. Now, having learned of her pregnancy Phoenix is asked by Aspen to go along with her as her fake boyfriend when she reveals the news of her pregnancy to her parents. Neither of them want a real relationship so the idea of a fake relationship seems like it could be a good idea. Phoenix wants to focus on his football career and sees this as a good way to keep the punt bunnies from pursuing him. Aspen hopes that Phoenix will offer her support and step up to help her co-parent the baby. Neither of them are prepared for the complications that arise from their fake relationship.
Aspen and Phoenix are both struggling with school and personal issues which neither wants to bother the other with and this complicates matters farther. Both come from dysfunctional families, have just started college, and both have big dreams for their future. Phoenix wants to pursue his career in football and get drafted into the NHL. Aspens wants to pursue her art and open a fantasy board shop with her sister where boards with her design would be sold. Aspen has no support from her parents and does not feel that Phoenix is stepping up to the plate as he should. She realizes that it is up to her to raise the baby on her own and support herself. Phoenix is having personal issues with his brother and wants to be there for Aspen but somehow keeps messing up. Then there is the undeniable attraction and chemistry between them that only complicates things farther.
This has been an outstanding series from the first book and each book just gets better than the last. The storylines are intense, complicated, and take twists and turns that keep you hooked until the end. The characters are complex, engaging and throughout the book we see them grow. Initially Aspen seems like a girl just testing the bounds of her newfound freedom by losing her virginity. We quickly learn that Aspen is smart, strong, and able to take care of herself. She refuses to raise her child in the type of dysfunctional family that she grew up in. The constant bickering between her parents created a toxic environment and she vows that her baby will not grow up in that kind of environment. Phoenix comes across initially as a jock who uses his good looks and charm to woo women. We quickly learn that deep down he is sensitive, kind, and compassionate. He wants to help but has a lot going on and tends to get preoccupied. Phoenix wants to help raise his baby and does not want to be anything like his own deadbeat dad. This book had angst, drama, family dynamics, unexpected romance, and leaves on an intense cliffhanger. 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 Barnes2023-08-31 15:26:162023-09-09 20:55:55Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
As Though You Were Mine is a heartwarming story that centers around the character of Julie who has just learned that her brother and sister-in-law have both passed away in a car accident. She is surprised to learn that she was named as guardian of their four-year-old twins, Lucy, and Mikey. Julie has vowed to remain single and therefore feels ill equipped and unprepared to raise children. Julie is determined to make the best of the situation and feels a sense of obligation to the children not just because they are her niece and nephew but because she is, in a sense, their mom. When Julie learned that her brother and sister-in-law were unable to have children of their own, she donated her eggs to them. Biologically speaking, she is, in a sense, their mom.
Enter Grant, who is her deceased sister-in-law’s brother and who was the sperm donor. He also feels a sense of obligation towards Lucy and Mikey as their biological father. Julie and Grant enter into a partnership to raise the children as their own. A situation that proves to be complicated for numerous reasons. Lucy and Mikey are suffering from the loss of their parents, and it is affecting their behavior. Mikey has night terrors and has not spoken since the accident. Lucy acts out and has temper tantrums. Julie’s family feels that she is not the best person to raise her niece and nephew and feel that her sister would be a better fit. Her relationship with her family is a bit strained and this risks creating more tension within the family. And then there’s Grant, who Julie feels a connection to and finds herself attracted to. Will Julie’s family stand by her decision to raise her niece and nephew? Is there any chance of a relationship between Julie and Grant?
This book drew me in from the first pages when Julie’s estranged brother and his wife passed away in a car accident. The storyline was heart wrenching, and the characters were lovable and relatable. Julie stayed true to herself and stood by her choices. She was smart, strong, determined, loving, and kind. The emotions that Julie experienced were real, raw, and overwhelming. She loved her brother and always hoped that somehow, they could mend the rift that had come between them and have a close sibling relationship. That chance was ripped away from her when he passed away. The strained relationship she had with her parents and sister became even more strained when they told her that her sister would be the better choice as guardian to her niece and nephew. My heart broke for poor Julie because she really had little to no support from those around her. Nobody felt confident in her ability to raise children. However, she was determined to raise her niece and nephew to the best of her ability and provide them with a loving and supportive home environment. When Grant enters the picture Julie finds someone who loves her, supports her, and is there for her and the children. As Grant and Julie navigate the struggles of sudden parenthood, they find support in each other as well as unexpected romance. This book was an emotional rollercoaster ride full of tragedy, grief, loss, sadness, anger, betrayal, family dynamics, hope, romance, love, and forgiveness. 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 Barnes2023-08-30 11:11:332023-09-09 12:27:22As Though You Were Mine by J. Marie Rundquist – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
The Reluctant Suitor is Book Five in The Studs of Clear Creek County series. It is a historical western romance that centers around the characters of Billie Jean and Fisher. Billie Jean is a strong willed, intelligent, college educated black woman who believes in standing up for the rights of her people. While visiting her family in Clear Creek County she meets Fisher who saves her from being thrown from her runaway horse. Fisher is instantly attracted to Billie Jean but any attraction that she may have for him is quickly suppressed because they are living in a time where interracial relationships are still considered taboo and are frowned upon.
When Billie Jean learns that the blacks are working under horrible conditions at the Locke Farm, she decides to do something about it. She prepares for a fight to make changes and finds herself faced with Locke’s Property Supervisor. Fisher has worked hard to become supervisor and is proud of his achievements. He is happy to have finally gained the admiration of his high society parents and is reluctant to do anything to ruin everything he has achieved. However, Fisher is unable to deny the attraction he has towards Billie Jean and how he feels about her. He wants a future with her but with Billie Jean pitted in a battle against the Locke’s any chance at a relationship with her might be impossible. Tensions rise, attraction grows, chemistry develops, and Billie Jean finds herself reluctantly falling for Fisher. Can Fisher and Billie Jean ever have a chance at a future together?
This book was wonderfully written and discussed the topics of interracial relationships, inequality, age gaps, and forbidden romance, in a sensitive manner. The characters are well developed and engaging. Billie Jean is a strong, independent, smart, feisty, and determined woman. She was determined to make a difference in the world as she fought against injustice and inequality. Fisher is smart, strong, determined, and hardworking. He has worked hard to gain the support of his parents and is proud of everything he has achieved. Billie Jean and Fisher are attracted to one another but face a lot of obstacles that seem determined to keep them apart. This book has action, suspense, chemistry, passion, forbidden romance, angst, drama, enemies to lovers, forbidden romance, and unexpected 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 Barnes2023-08-29 12:52:452023-09-05 14:59:13The Reluctant Suitor (The Studs of Clear Creek County) by Stacy-Deanne – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Amaleigha Makes a New Friend is a children’s book for kids between the ages of six to ten years of age. The story focuses on third grader, Amaleigha, who attends Happy Days Elementary School. When her teacher asks the children in his third-grade class to become pen pals with children in the Ukraine Amaleigha is excited to learn about another country. As Amaleigha and her pen pal, Vova, write letters back and forth, each learn about the other’s lives and cultures. They ask each other questions about what their homes look like, how many siblings they have, and what activities they do for fun. Amaleigha’s teacher also shows his class about the Ukrainian culture by showing them how Christmas is celebrated and what foods they eat. When a war develops between Russia and the Ukraine Amaleigha is worried about her new friend and his family. She has a big heart and wants to find a way to help so Amaleigha and her class raise money to help their new friends affected by the war in the Ukraine.
This was a beautifully written book that was informative and educational for children. It not only taught a lot about the cultures in the Ukraine but also touched on a difficult subject in an easy-to-understand manner. The illustrations were bright, colorful, and really brought the story to life. 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 Barnes2023-08-24 11:53:362023-09-05 14:07:43Amaleigha Makes a New Friend by Janice Pratt – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Vampires of Atlantis is book one in the Atlantis series. It is a paranormal romance that centers around the characters of Ian and Katherine and is told from each of their POV. Ian is a vampire Prince from Atlantis who has been dwelling under the surface since Atlantis sank. His job is to protect the humans from any of the numerous monsters that might escape from Atlantis where they have been trapped. Ian finds himself back on the surface after 1000 years as he tries to track an escaped monster named Norgis. As Ian tracks the monster, he comes across Katherine who has been attacked and is near death. Uncertain of who is after this woman he feels that Norgis is somehow involved and must be after her for a reason. Something about this woman attracts him to her and calls to his soul. Ian decides to take Katherine back with him where she will be safe and can heal.
When Katherine wakes up, she finds herself in a strange place with a strange, but handsome, man. She begins to remember the attack on her life and tells Ian, who realizes that a precious artifact has been stolen and must be saved. The mission is no longer about finding Norgis, it is now about finding the descendant stone and returning it to its rightful place. They now must battle true evil for the survival of the Descendants of Atlantis. Ian feels a strong connection to Katherine, but can he ever have a true relationship with this woman from the surface?
This was a great book with a mesmerizing storyline, vivid scene descriptions, and interesting characters. Ian and Katherine are from two very different worlds but must join forces to save both of their worlds from true evil. Both are strong in their own respect. Ian can be overbearing at times, but Katherine stands her ground. The attraction between them is intriguing and I continued reading to see how or if a relationship between Ian and Katherine would be feasible. I found the premise of an underwater world filled with trapped monsters to be interesting and creative. This book had supernatural elements, vampires, monsters, danger, action, suspense, chemistry, romance, and the classic battle of good versus evil. A must 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 Barnes2023-08-23 14:18:042023-09-05 14:12:20Vampires of Atlantis by Courtney Davis – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Firewall is a contemporary romance novel that is filled with action, suspense, mystery, danger, and intrigue. The story centers around the characters of Angus and Veronica and is told from each of their POV. Veronica is a security professional working for a top-notch financial management firm. She prides herself on being smart, professional, and one of the best in her area of expertise when it comes to providing security. Veronica often butts heads with her boss over the costs associated with the security measures that she puts in place to prevent the company from being hacked and their information sold. So, when she discovers that the company has been hacked, she is shocked and tries to uncover who is responsible. In doing so, she puts her life in danger.
When Veronica’s best friend, Cara, discovers that Veronica is in danger she enlists the help of her brother Angus to keep Veronica safe. Angus is a firefighter who takes pride in his job and in upholding the family name. He believes in working hard and is focused on his career with the goal of being the youngest battalion chief. Angus is not keen on babysitting his sister’s friend but agrees to do so. Before long he realizes that keeping Veronica safe is far more complicated than he anticipated. As Angus and Veronica spend time together the attraction and chemistry between them grows.
This book was wonderfully written with an intriguing storyline and engaging characters. Veronica is smart, feisty, determined, and refuses to back down from a challenge. When danger looms, she faces it head-on. Angus is smart, hardworking, loyal, kind, and loves his family. When his sister Cara asks for his help, he may seem reluctant at first, but he knows deep down that he is doing the right thing. The chemistry between Veronica and Angus was interesting to read as they discovered their attraction towards one another. This book will take you through a series of twists and turns as secrets are uncovered, betrayals are revealed, and the sense of impending danger looms for Veronica and Angus. 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 Barnes2023-08-23 13:35:162023-09-05 14:11:47Firewall by Jessica Mehring – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Softest Touch is a contemporary romance that centers around the characters of Derek and Melinda. Derek is the owner of Wilson Creations which has made him a billionaire. When Miranda is hired on to be Derek’s new Assistant the two do not necessarily see eye to eye and things get off to a shaky start. At first glance Derek feels that she appears to be too young and fragile to be up to the task of being his assistant. Derek does not want to hire her and tells her so, but Melinda does not back down. She gives him an earful about judging her without even knowing her and refuses to go away quietly. Determined to get in her say Melinda is persistent until Derek sees something in her that tells him to give her a chance. He loves her fiery attitude and the power she exudes when she is taking charge, which excites him. As the two work closely together, Derek finds himself attracted to Melinda and her sass, determination, and fiery attitude.
Melinda instantly despises Derek and feels that he is a douchebag for treating her the way that he did. She did not want the job in the first place and only applied for the position because it meant working in the world of fashion. Melinda dreamed of being a stylist but due to all her commitments and responsibilities her dream was put on the back burner. Working at Wilson Creations meant that she could at least be involved in the fashion industry. Plus, her Grandma had a crush on Derek and thought that he was sexy. Melinda does not deny that he is sexy and charming, but she also thinks that he is arrogant, cocky, and downright annoying. Despite how irritating and bossy he is Melinda cannot deny how attracted she is to Derek. As she and Derek work together the attraction between them grows and they learn to lean on one another. Can the attraction between them ever be more than that? Do they have a future together?
This was a well written story with wonderful characters and an interesting storyline. I loved Melinda’s fiery attitude and how she did not back down from Derek when she first met him. Most people would have been intimidated by him and his wealth and power. Melinda was not scared off easily and challenged him. Derek came across as rude, bossy, and arrogant but there ended up being a softer, gentler side to him underneath that gruff exterior. I found myself rooting for Derek and Melinda to be together. 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 Barnes2023-08-08 10:25:532023-08-16 13:50:20Softest Touch by Adina D. Grey – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Love Shots is Book Four of the Bluestone Series. Although it is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone. With that being said, I do recommend reading the series because it is amazing! This is a friends to lover’s romance set in the small town of Bluestone County that centers around the characters of Teddy and Autumn. The book starts out with a bang and grabs your attention from the first few pages as Autumn practically breaks down Teddy’s door in the middle of the night and throws an eight-hundred-dollar bottle of whiskey at his head. She is furious that he has purchased her grandfather’s bar that she has always wanted. He has never seen Autumn so furious but even through the anger he still has a soft spot in his heart for her. When he notices bruises on Autumn’s arms, he knows that somebody has hurt her. She refuses to tell him, but his heart goes out to her and all he wants to do is protect her. Autumn has always been the girl for Teddy, but he has never let her know. This time around he intends to make the girl of his dreams his own. Will Autumn realize her true feelings for Teddy? Will Teddy and Autumn ever be a true couple?
This book had a wonderful storyline and engaging characters. Teddy might seem rough on the surface because of his time with the Navy Seals but deep down he is a sweetheart. He has had a crush on his friend for as long as he can remember but has never acted on his feelings. When Summer returns to town and Teddy realizes that she is in danger he vows to protect her. Summer has only returned home because she is penniless, jobless, and homeless. When she returns home, she is angry that her grandfather’s bar has been purchased by her friend Teddy because it was her dream to own it. When she confronts Teddy there is clearly more to the situation that she is letting on. Teddy realizes that Autumn is being abused but that she is too proud and stubborn to admit it. Teddy wants to protect her and keep her safe from her ex at all costs. My heart broke for Autumn when I thought of the abuse she suffered at the hands of her ex. I found myself rooting for Autumn to realize that Teddy was the man of her dreams, and I so wanted them to experience their happily ever after. This was an emotional read for me, but it was worth the read. 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 Barnes2023-08-08 10:12:592023-08-16 13:50:10Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4) by Isobel Reed – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Lilly Tames Her Worries is a kid’s book designed for children between the ages of six to ten years of age. The story centers around the character of young Lilly who suffers from the heebie-jeebies. Since she was born, she has always had her stuffed rabbit Hun Bun to keep her calm and soothe her worries. While in a hurry one morning Lilly forgets to put Hun Bun in her backpack before she goes to school. Once she is at school the pesky heebie-jeebies return and Lilly becomes stressed. Her palms begin to sweat, her heart starts to beat loudly, and her tummy starts to do flip flops. Not feeling well, Lilly asks her teacher if she can go to see the school nurse. She tells the nurse how she is feeling, and the nurse asks Lilly to try Square Breathing when she starts feeling the heebie-jeebies. When Lilly tries the breathing exercises, she feels better and practices using them throughout the day whenever a situation makes her worried. She also stops to ask herself what about the situation is causing her to feel the heebie-jeebies.
This was a wonderfully written book that helps children learn to manage stress and anxiety in situations that make them feel worried or nervous. The illustrations are bright, colorful, and really help bring the story to life. Although geared towards school-aged children I feel that it has some helpful pointers that adults, such as myself, could use as well. The techniques Lilly used through Square Breathing helped her to not only tame her worries but also helped her to be brave enough to do things that would otherwise be hard for her to do. She learned to ask herself what about the situation made her feel worried. Why was she feeling that way? What was she worried that would happen? Once Lilly tried the breathing exercises and realized why she felt the way she did it helped her to manage her worries and be brave enough to overcome them. This is a great resource for any home or school library to help children who suffer from worry, stress, or anxiety. 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 Barnes2023-08-08 09:58:352023-08-16 13:49:51Lilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Refrain is Book Three in the Off the Record Series. I will have to go back and read the first two books so that I get a better understanding of Spook and the rest of the characters’ backstories. This book is a continuation of Spook’s story and without reading the other books I did not have a full picture of him or his character. Spook has had a rough go of things and his traumatic past has caught up with him. Not only has his darkest secrets been exposed but they have been twisted to make even more sensational stories. Spook decides that it is best to walk away from everything he loves, including his beloved band Black Halo and his girlfriend Alle.
The book really puts the reader through the emotions as it starts off with Spook being found lying in a pool of his own blood by some of his friends. He is rushed off to the hospital and thankfully gets stitched back together but is unable to speak so he cannot say what happened to him. Xane is determined to help Spook and makes it his mission to do so. He wants Spook and Alle to get back together and for Spook to return to the band, Black Halo. Will Spook ever be able to get through the demons of his past and get his happily ever after?
This was a beautifully written poignant, and heart-wrenching story with a riveting storyline. The characters were engaging and relatable. My heart went out to Spook for all that he had been through. I so wanted Spook to be able to move forward in his life and have the happiness he deserves. This book will put you through the emotional wringer and have you reaching for the box of Kleenex. If you have triggers though, this book might not be for you as it discusses difficult subject matter. It contains references to depression, abuse, mental illness, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. It had angst, drama, friendship, trauma, heartache, passion, chemistry, 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 Barnes2023-08-07 12:59:562023-08-16 13:39:01Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Mesmerised is the Second Book in the Hybrid Lovers Series. Although this book is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone. The story centers around the characters of Antoine and Donna and is told from each of their POV. Antoine is an angel/vampire Hybrid whose role has been to protect humans from demons. He has been alone for centuries because he has not been able to find his mate but if he does not find his human mate soon, he is doomed to die. To remain immortal Antoine must find his mate and only together can they destroy a demon completely.
Donna has recently lost everything and has fallen into a deep state of depression. She lost both of her parents in a horrific house fire, lost her best friends, lost her job, lost all her money to a hacker, and then lost her home. Feeling as though she has nothing left to live for, Donna sets off to find a quiet place to end her life. She ends up at the beach thinking it is the perfect place but as she is walking into the water she is rescued by Antoine. He felt her presence, sensed her despair, and felt the connection to Donna. He instantly knows from the intense feelings that he is experiencing that this woman is his mate. When Donna awakens, she is shocked to learn that she was saved and is determined to get away, but Antoine will not allow it. Naturally, Donna feels as though she must have been kidnapped and that this strange man is crazy when Antoine tries to explain to her about the two of them being mates. Donna finds herself drawn to Antoine and feels an instant connection to him as well but cannot explain why. The connection and chemistry between Antoine and Donna is instantaneous, explosive, and undeniable. As the two try to navigate their feelings towards one another the demons are drawing closer. Will Antoine and Donna give in to fate and temptation? Will they realize they are destined to be together? Will they be able to defeat the demons?
This was a beautifully written book with an interesting storyline, engaging characters, and vividly described scenes. I found myself rooting for Antoine and Donna to act on their feelings for one another and be together. Donna had suffered so much loss and grief that I wanted her to find happiness. Antoine was looking for love and wanted someone to spend eternity with. I found myself reading to the end to see what would become of these two. If they would end up with their happily ever after. I needed to see if they together they would destroy the demons. A great read full of loss, sorrow, despair, grief, hope, demons, hybrids, and the power of love. 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 Barnes2023-08-07 11:50:042023-08-16 13:38:49Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers Book 2) by Toya Richardson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Conversations with Tarot is so much more than your basic how-to book on learning to read Tarot cards. In this book the author not only shows the reader how to read the cards but also discusses how she reads the cards every day and how they help to guide her. It is part magic and part divine inspiration that help to guide her. I loved how the author explains that a deck of Tarot cards may speak to you, in a sense and that the deck meant for you will come to you when the time is right. I have had my Tarot cards read to me in the past and have always been a bit intrigued by them. However, I was uncertain what each card meant or how one even begins to read the card that is drawn. This book enlightened me, and I learned that there are different types of decks of Tarot cards. Through this book I learned what each card means when that card is drawn and the symbolism behind the card. I also learned that the process of reading Tarot cards involves the formation of a special relationship or bond with your deck of cards. That it is more in-depth than just flipping the card over and describing what the symbol on the card means. I found this book very interesting and loved how the author uses a combination of stories, messages, and musings to explain the Tarot cards and how they can help guide you. This is a book that I will be reading repeatedly and intend to keep as a handy reference. 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 Barnes2023-08-07 11:30:102023-08-16 13:38:35Conversations with the Tarot by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Leaving No Traces is Book Five in A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome Series. It is an action-packed, fast-paced, crime thriller that centers around the character of Detective Scala. In his newest case, Detective Scala is attempting to solve the mysterious circumstances around a missing woman whose car is discovered abandoned at a service station. Blood splatter on the driver’s seat indicates that the woman has been murdered and Detective Scala is determined to find her killer and bring the person to justice. As he works to unravel the clues and solve the murder, he finds himself deep in the underbelly of the criminal world where lives do not matter. Detective Scala finds himself fighting for survival against an evil villain. The ensuing story is full of action, suspense, danger, murder, intrigue, corruption, criminals, villains, and twists and turns that will keep you riveted to the very end. The storyline is multi-layered and well written, and the characters are engaging. Detective Scala will stop at nothing to solve a mystery and is ruthless in his quest for justice. I love that he follows the clues and found myself following them as well and trying to solve the murder. This book will keep you reading to the end to find out whodunit. 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 Barnes2023-08-04 16:22:132023-08-16 13:26:02Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.
Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.
Essential Website Cookies
These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.
Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refuseing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.
We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.
We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.
Google Analytics Cookies
These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience.
If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here:
Other external services
We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.
Google Webfont Settings:
Google Map Settings:
Google reCaptcha Settings:
Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:
Other cookies
The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them:
Privacy Policy
You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.
Tears into Gold by Cori Cooper
