Posts

Encounters With Old Coyote by Laura Koerber – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Encounters with Old CoyoteEncounters with Old Coyote by Laura Koerber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Encounters With Old Coyote is a collection of thirteen short stories featuring Old Coyote that was first introduced in previous books written by this talented author. It has emotion, loss, grief, hope, paranormal elements, magical realism, shapeshifters, and spirits. The story centers around the character of Andrea who found out she had cancer, so she decided to end her life on her own terms and in a location of her choosing. To her surprise, she discovers that she is caught in the afterlife as a spirit and finds herself questioning all she has ever known. As an atheist, Andrea never believed in the existence of God but now she is full of questions about whether God actually exists. She runs into Old Coyote who is in his spirit form and the two begin to talk. She asks him questions about life and death and the existence of God. Old Coyote and Andrea wander and share stories and memories from their past. The scenes were vivid, beautifully written, and pull you into the story. The character of Andrea is one that I felt instantly drawn to and empathized with. This was a poignant and thought provoking read.

View all my reviews@tarab

Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book SeriesDetective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail is a cute story about an eight-year-old boy named Dylan who is super excited about becoming a detective over the summer and solving mysteries. After receiving a parcel in the mail that contains his new Super Sleuth Spy Kit, he sets off with his little sister Emily, that he lovingly refers to as Tattle Tale, and their beloved pet dog, to solve the case of the neighbor’s missing mail. They set off knocking on their neighbor’s doors, asking questions, and gathering evidence such as fingerprints. This was an engaging and fun chapter book that teaches children about teamwork, problem solving, and family. The book contains black and white illustrations throughout that help to bring the story to life and keep the attention of young readers.

View all my reviews@tarab

Murky Murder (A Maid Ivy Cozy Mystery Book) by Hazel Smith – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Murky Murder (A Maid Ivy Cozy Mystery, #4)Murky Murder by Hazel Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Murky Murder is Book Number Four in the A Maid Ivy Cozy Mystery Series. It is a cozy mystery with suspense, mystery, intrigue, drama, and romance. The story centers around the character of Ivy who works at a posh hotel in London as a maid. Things are going well for her, and she has been promoted to Head Maid complete with a new office. Ivy has also been asked out by her boss Mr. Humphrey whom she has admired for awhile. On their first date chaos breaks out over dinner as a hooded stranger suddenly appears in the restaurant wielding a knife. Thankfully, his efforts to cause them harm were thwarted by the quick actions of restaurant staff. Soon after, Ivy starts receiving suspicious and menacing anonymous notes and someone dies in the hotel under mysterious circumstances. Ivy must find who is responsible for both the notes as well as the murder and even those closest to her become a suspect. A tension filled story with quirky, lovable characters that leaves you wondering whodunnit. This book takes a few twists and turns before the culprit is revealed.

View all my reviews@tarab

Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl by Samantha Shannon – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her HowlLuna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Luna The Howling Husky Finds Her Howl is a children’s book designed for kids between the ages of six to ten years of age. The book tells the story of a young Husky puppy that does not seem to fit in with the rest of her siblings. She looks different because her eyes are brown and not blue like all her siblings. Luna also cannot howl at the moon like her siblings are able to do. One day while out playing Luna finds a quiet cat and the two become fast friends. When Luna finds her forever home with a loving family, she is finally able to find her voice. This was a beautifully written story with messages about friendship, love, acceptance, kindness, empathy, family, and finding your voice. The illustrations are bright, bold, colorful, and really bring the story to life. I highly recommend this book for children of all ages.

View all my reviews@tarab

Dark Moon Secrets (The Witch Moon Series Book 1) by Lilliana Rose – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Dark Moon Secrets (Witch Moon #1)Dark Moon Secrets by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dark Moon Secrets is Book One in the Witch Moon Series. It is a paranormal romance with action, suspense, danger, mystery, intrigue, witches, shifters, and secrets. The story centers Tanjie who finds her life turned upside down when she receives an unexpected inheritance. When she goes to claim the inheritance, she makes the startling discovery that not only is she a witch but that she is the hope for the future. Now she is thrown into a completely unfamiliar world and must learn how to accept her birthright and how to use her new powers. A riveting read with exquisitely written scenes that fully immerse you into the story, great characters that are easily relatable, magic, fated mates, secret worlds, and long buried secrets.

View all my reviews@tarab

Secrets at the Café: A Novel of Suspense about Family and Friendship by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Secrets at the CafeSecrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Secrets at the Café is a suspenseful mystery with drama, suspense, secrets, lies, rumors, death, loss, grief, and family relationships. The story centers around the character of Karina who has promised her grandmother that she will look after her café after she passes away. This involves Karina moving back to her small hometown and completely upheaving her life, but she loved her grandmother dearly and will do anything to ensure she follows through on the promise she made. Part of the promise Karina made to her grandmother involves reading a journal her grandmother left behind. However, before she has a chance to read it the journal completely disappears. Rumors are circulating around town about a hidden stash of money so everyone is a suspect. With the list of suspects increasing by the moment, Karina has her work cut out for her trying to determine who stole the journal. A tense, action-filled ride, with twists and turns to keep you reading until the final page. The storyline is intriguing, the characters are admirable, and the secrets the missing journal may contain makes for a compelling read. A great read!

View all my reviews@tarab

Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3) by Rob Bates – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3)Slay It With a Diamond by Rob Bates
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Slay It With A Diamond is Book Three in The Diamond District Mystery Series. It is a cozy mystery with drama, suspense, action, danger, secrets, lies, humor, and witty banter. The story is set in New York City’s Diamond District and centers around the character of Mimi who is an amateur sleuth. Mimi used to be a journalist and loves a good mystery that she can delve into. As she digs into the mystery behind a cursed diamond she uncovers long-buried secrets, family feuds, and scandals that put her life in danger. A great read that takes Mimi into the cutthroat world of diamonds and how sinister it can be. The characters are quirky, and Mimi is someone that can be simultaneously smart and somewhat naive. Her boyfriend seems to help her remain focused and grounded. An entertaining read with twists and turns that will compel you to read to the end.

View all my reviews@tarab

Hope For A New World (Gaia’s Voice Series) by Renee W Peek – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Hope For a New World (The Hope Series Book 1)Hope For a New World by Renee W. Peek
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hope For a New World is Book One in The Hope Series. It is a sci-fi fantasy that contains the underlying message about protecting the environment. The story is told from the POV of several characters that are easy to get emotionally invested with due to their strength, courage, and determination to save mother earth. The earth has been destroyed by power, corruption, greed, and pollution. One group of strong women sets off on a mission to heal mother earth. This book had an intriguing storyline with fantasy, action, suspense, and a strong underlying message about climate change. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading Book Two.

View all my reviews@tarab

Wicked Ends: A Dark College Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Series, Book 8 ) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Wicked Ends (Hidden Valley Elite #8)Wicked Ends by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wicked Ends is Book Eight in the Hidden Valley Elite Series. It is a dark college, enemies to lovers’ story full of loss, angst, passion, romance, revenge, dark secrets, toxic families, and uncertainty. This book wraps up Shane and Winter’s saga. Winter was at a dark place in her childhood, and it caused her to lash out at others. Shane was one of the unfortunate victims of Winter’s bullying during childhood. Her mistreatment of him caused him to consider ending his own life. When Winter resurfaces in Shane’s life years later all his hurt, anger, and resentment towards Winter resurfaces. He decides to exact revenge which puts them both on a path that simultaneously pulls them apart while also drawing them together. They do not trust each other but do not know who else to trust either. A complicated situation to say the least. Winter has changed her life around and is attempting to move forward. Shane is dealing with both past and current trauma. Both are trying to overcome their dark pasts and have a brighter future. Both have a hard time trusting. Both feel the attraction to the other, but can they put past hurts and resentments behind them? Can they have a future together? When Winter receives threatening notes and the danger to her life escalates Shane is the only one, she feels safe with. A tension filled ride full of twists and turns as secrets are revealed and we find out how entangled Shane and Winter’s lives have been through the years. Winter and Shane really developed and grew throughout this book, and we learn that deep down Shane is a nice guy with a heart of gold. Bittersweet to see this series ending and I am hoping the author has more books in store for us!

View all my reviews@tarab

Knight In Peril (A Jorja Knight Private Investigator Mystery) by Alice Bienia – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Knight In Peril (A Jorja Knight Private Investigator Mystery #6)Knight In Peril by Alice Bienia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Knight in Peril is Book Six in the Jorja Knight Series. The story centers around the main character of Private Investigator Jorja Knight. Her recent adventure finds her in Istanbul trying to locate her missing friend who seems to have vanished without a trace. Jorja finds herself trying to search for her friend in a foreign city so large that it is like trying to find a needle in a haystack. As Jorja tries to solve her friend’s disappearance, she is greeted by lies, greed, danger, and corruption at every turn. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat as the tension and suspense escalates and the twists and turns will keep you reading until the end. I loved the exotic location of Jorja’s latest mystery and the bond she had with her friend. Jorja is smart, determined, strong willed, and courageous. This book had action, suspense, mystery, drama, secrets, lies, and corruption. Another great book in this series!
View all my reviews@tarab

Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6)Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Spectral Revelations is Book Six in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. It is a cozy mystery with drama, danger, ghosts, secrets, lies, greed, and corruption. In her most recent adventure Karina finds herself trying to solve the mystery surrounding the disappearance of her aunt. Uncertain if her aunt has disappeared on her accord or if something bad happened Karina delves into the mystery headfirst to see what happened. When she goes to her aunt’s home, she finds a mischievous ghost that seems to be wreaking havoc in her aunt’s home. At first Karina brushes off the ghost’s behaviour but soon realizes that he is leaving her clues to help solve her aunt’s disappearance. As usual Karina learns more than she bargained for when she uncovers secrets, lies, and corruption. Another great read in this amazing series. The author has a way of pulling you into the story and fully immersing you in the mystery until the very end. The characters are unique, quirky, funny, and entertaining. I absolutely loved the addition of the paranormal element and Karina’s ghostly crime solver.

View all my reviews@tarab

Swindler’s Revenge (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 5) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Swindler's RevengeSwindler’s Revenge by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Swindler’s Revenge is Book Five in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. Karina’s newest adventure finds her single after her and her FBI boyfriend Mike broke up. Now he is in a heap of trouble after being accused of taking a large bribe and running away with 1.2 million dollars. On the run as a wanted fugitive only adds to making him look guilty. As his ex-girlfriend, Karina is also someone of interest to the FBI. Although Mike is her ex, Karina does not believe for a second that he is guilty of taking the bribe. It seems that someone dangerous is determined to frame Mike and Karina is equally determined to clear Mike’s name and get to the bottom of who is responsible. The situation becomes intense as Karina delves into the case with the help of some friends. This book had danger, drama, mystery, tension, action, suspense, witty banter, and a bit of romance. I love how feisty, determined, strong, and independent Karina is. Bring on Book Number Six!

View all my reviews@tarab

Pharoah’s Forgery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 4) by Ellen Butler – Review by

Pharaoh's Forgery: Karina Goes on Vacation (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 4)Pharaoh’s Forgery: Karina Goes on Vacation by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pharoah’s Forgery is Book Four in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. It is a cozy mystery following the adventures of Karina Cardinal. In her latest adventure she finds herself in Mexico where she is hoping to relax and soak up the sun. However, the mystery package she has been asked to bring by her neighbor. The seemingly innocent package turns out to be a magnet for all sorts of criminal elements which leads Karina into a world of danger. Karina and her friend Rodrigo find themselves facing certain death and it could mean the end for them both. This book had action, suspense, mystery, drama, danger, suspense, humor, crooks, killers, swindlers, and an ancient Egyptian death mask. The characters are unique, quirky, lovable, and feisty. Bring on Book Five!

View all my reviews@tarab

Diamonds and Deception (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery, #3)Diamonds & Deception by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Diamonds and Deception is Book Three in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. It is a cozy mystery with action, adventure, danger, mystery, suspense, secrets, lies, and a diamond heist. Karina again finds herself in the middle of a mystery when her sister calls her asking for help. Their friend has been accused of stealing some diamonds and Karina and her sister are determined to clear her name. As the two sisters delve into the case, they come face to face with criminal elements that would have been better off left alone. The tension and suspense escalate as the secrets and lies are revealed. The storyline is intriguing and really draws you in because it has been so well written and clearly well researched. The character of Karina is smart, strong, feisty, and determined. I look forward to reading Book Four.

View all my reviews@tarab

Fatal Legislation (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Fatal Legislation (Karina Cardinal Mystery #2)Fatal Legislation by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fatal Legislation is Book Two in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. This is a cozy mystery set in the world of politics. It has action, adventure, murder, drama, danger, intrigue, suspense, and romance. Karina is off sleuthing once again as she tries to solve the murder of a senator. A bit of a tricky situation for her as she is also a person of interest in the case. She also has a budding relationship with her old college friend Mike, whom she became reunited with in Book One. Karina is determined to clear her name and delves deep into the case digging for clues as to who the real murderer is. The story takes some twists and turns as the tension builds. A great storyline with admirable characters. Karin is smart, class, courageous, and feisty. I look forward to book three.

View all my reviews@tarab

Isabella’s Painting (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Isabella's Painting (Karina Cardinal Mystery #1)Isabella’s Painting by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Isabella’s Painting is Book One in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. This book is cozy mystery that centers around the character of Karina Cardinal. Karina is a lawyer and lobbyist working on Capitol Hill. who fancies herself as an amateur sleuth in her spare time. When she goes to a fancy dinner party at the home of her boyfriend’s wealthy parents, she spots something that seems a bit odd. In her boyfriend’s father’s library, she sees what looks like the stolen masterpiece that had been robbed from a museum. Having only caught a glimpse of the painting before it disappeared behind a secret hidden panel Karina is uncertain if this is indeed the stolen masterpiece worth millions of dollars. She wants to investigate farther but is conflicted because not only is this her boyfriend’s wealthy father, but anyone that encounters the painting dies a horrible death. With her every move being monitored, Karina is unsure what to do. A wonderfully written story with an intriguing storyline based on a true event. The character of Karina is smart, strong, independent, determined, and feisty. I look forward to reading book number two.

View all my reviews@tarab

Rise of the Y (The Y Chronicles Book 1) by Angela D. Shelton – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Rise of the YRise of the Y by Angela D. Shelton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rise of The Y is Book One in The Y Chronicles. It is a YA post apocalyptic dystopian novel full of adventure, danger, secrets, and a quest to find the truth. It is set in a world where food has been turned into bland bars because humans are considered too wasteful. Decisions on who to have as your mate, what job you have, and where you live are made for you. These decisions are based on tests and genetics. The story centers around a young girl named Lexi who refuses to live her life under a dictatorship and decides to rebel. She is strong, smart, courageous, and pigheaded to a fault as she does what she wants. An intriguing storyline with interesting characters. I look forward to reading more in this series and see where the story goes.

View all my reviews@tarab

Baking a Bicycle (Invisible Magic Wand Book 7) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Baking a Bicycle: Invisible Magic Wand Book SevenBaking a Bicycle: Invisible Magic Wand Book Seven by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Baking a Bicycle is a children’s book that centers around the character of a young boy named Caspian. When he asks his Grandpa for a bicycle for his Unbirthday he receives a box full of Baking Up Dust. Now Caspian wonders if that will work to bake a bicycle. This was cute story full of magic and fun that children of all ages will find delight in reading. A great way to teach young children how much fun baking can be. The illustrations were bright, colorful, and really brought the story to life. Another great book by this amazing author!

View all my reviews@tarab

Ghost Takes A Vacation (Genie and Adriana Darling Cozy Paranormal Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Carmen Radtke – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Ghost Takes A VacationGhost Takes A Vacation by Carmen Radtke
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ghost Takes a Vacation is Book Two in the Genie and Adriana Darling Series. It is a cozy paranormal story with ghosts, humor, witty banter, adventure, murder, mystery, hauntings, and ghostly escapades. The story centers around the character of Genie who pairs up with the ghost of her deceased great-great aunt Adriana to solve a mystery. In order for Adriana to hold onto her otherworldly powers she needs to hold onto her possessions which requires a quick trip to Tuscany where they have been placed up for auction. While in Italy, Genie and Adriana stumble onto a mystery that involves arson and manslaughter. It is up to the dynamic duo to find the real culprit responsible and clear the name of the man who has been wrongfully accused of the crime. Adriana and Genie get into hi jinx along the way and mayhem ensues. I love the quirky characters and how Genie has her ghostly great-great aunt helping her solve mysteries. The storyline was unique, funny, and had me reading until the end to see what happened next. I look forward to reading more of the adventures of this quirky duo.

View all my reviews@tarab

 

Doombringer by Marcel Liemant – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

DoombringerDoombringer by Marcel Liemant
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Doombringer is a dark fantasy book full of danger, action, adventure, magic, monsters, secrets, lies, and prophecies. The story centers around the character of Oden who has recently lost his wife and has been left to raise his young daughter on his own. His village has been ravaged by war and their future looks bleak, but Oden is determined to do whatever it takes to shelter his daughter from the doom and gloom of the world around them. He uses magic to keep his daughter’s world looking hopeful but each time he does so he slowly loses a piece of himself. When war looms again, Oden is determined to save his daughter and the world. This was beautifully written story set in a dark fantasy realm with vivid scenes that pull you into the world alongside the characters. The relationship between Oden and his daughter is magical and truly heartwarming. This story had war, loss, hope, love, perseverance, and strong family dynamics. I look forward to reading more by this talented author!

View all my reviews@tarab

Sea of Demons (Blood and Sand Book 5) by Heidi Stark – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Sea of Demons: A Dark Enemies to Lovers Mafia RomanceSea of Demons: A Dark Enemies to Lovers Mafia Romance by Heidi Stark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sea of Demons is Book Three in the Blood and Sand Series. This would be the Fifth Book in the series because the Second Book in the series was previously sold separately under three different titles but has since been combined and released under one single title. Sea of Demons is a dark romance with drama, suspense, intrigue, action, danger, murder, mayhem, violence, passion, chemistry, and complicated family dynamics. As the first book that I have read in this series I wish that I had started with the previous books to gain a better understanding of the characters and their backstories. The storyline focuses on the character of Devon who is confronting her abusive father who sold her to pay off debts he had incurred. She was rescued by four brothers who would do anything for her and will go to great lengths to protect her. Each brother is deeply in love with Devon, and she is in a unique relationship with each of the four brothers. After exacting revenge on her father for his atrocities they decide to deal with the man that bought Devon. However, things do not go as planned and their lives are in danger at every turn. This book was action packed and full of twists and turns that kept me hooked until the end. The characters were intriguing, unique, and engaging. Each was smart, tough, brave, and not afraid to confront danger as it came at them. The reverse harem aspect with Devon and the four brothers was unique and it was interesting to read the dynamics between her and each of the brothers. Overall, a great read with some spicy scenes, tense moments, an intriguing storyline.

View all my reviews@tarab

This Egg Won’t Hatch by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

This Egg Won't HatchThis Egg Won’t Hatch by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This Egg Won’t Hatch is a kid’s book designed for children between the ages of four to eight years of age. It tells the story of a Mama Warbler who is waiting for the last egg to hatch in her nest. The first egg was too large and turned out to be a Cuckoo that was laid in her nest. Mama Warbler decide to accept the Baby Cuckoo as her own and treat it as she would if it were one of her own eggs. The last egg, Timid Chick, will not hatch because the baby is too scared to come out of her shell after being told by the Baby Cuckoo that she should stay in her egg because it is no fun inside. One day while Mama Warbler is off getting food to feed her babies the Baby Cuckoo kicks Timid Chick out of the nest. This gives her a whole new outlook on things. Mama Warbler is very patient as she tries to coax Timid Chick out of her shell. This was a beautiful story with cute characters that teach valuable lessons in patience, understanding, love, kindness, family, bullies, confidence, and overcoming fear. The illustrations are fun, bright, colorful, and really bring the story to life.

View all my reviews@tarab

Lottery of Secrets by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Lottery of SecretsLottery of Secrets by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lottery of Secrets is a psychological thriller full of action, suspense, angst, danger, mystery, intrigue, drama, and secrets. The story centers around the character of Lynn who has just won the lottery and is dreaming of how she will start a new life with her winnings. She is currently living in a rundown house with her abusive husband and wants to leave but has been unsure how. When Lynn discovers she has won the lottery she grapples with the decision of whether she should tell her husband or if she should just start a new life somewhere else. Winning the lottery does not change her life the way in which Lynn had hoped and dreamed that it would. Instead, she finds her life spiraling out of control as she receives anonymous notes, and her past comes back to haunt her. This book takes some twists and turns that kept me reading to see what happened next. Lynn is a character that is easily likable and relatable. Suffering from an illness and living with an abusive husband left me hoping she would be able to get the happily ever after she deserved. The book ends with a cliffhanger, and I anxiously await the next book in this series.

View all my reviews@tarab

Porter and Midge (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Porter and Midge: Paws for Safety: A Kid's Guide to Safe Dog Interactions (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series)Porter and Midge: Paws for Safety: A Kid’s Guide to Safe Dog Interactions by Giselle Nevada
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Porter and Midge: Paws for Safety is a children’s book designed for children between the ages of three to twelve years of age. The book follows the adventures of Midge and Porter and their owners, CJ and Lora. Through their interactions children are taught important lessons about how to interact safely with dogs. The text is easy to understand, and the illustrations are bright and beautiful bringing the story and messages to life. Valuable lessons are taught regarding how to safely play with dogs, about being a responsible pet owner, and how to treat dogs with love and respect. This book is a must read for anyone who is considering getting a puppy or even has a dog already. Great for all ages!

View all my reviews@tarab

Wicked Games (Hidden Valley Elite Book 7) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Wicked Games (Hidden Valley Elite #7)Wicked Games by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wicked Games is Book Seven in the amazing Hidden Valley Elite Series. The characters in each book intertwine with the next book and builds on the previous one so I do recommend reading previous books in this series first. This book is full of angst, betrayal, love, deceit, lies, bullies, drama, tension, chemistry, passion, and an enemies-to-lovers romance. It centers around the characters of Winter and Shane and is told from each of their POV. The storyline starts off with intense tension and drama as Shane is pulled into a situation that could result in him going to jail on charges of involuntary manslaughter. Shane is a football player and is strong, smart, intense, dark, and dangerous. As one of the privileged ones of the Elite he has a reputation for playing to win at all costs and not allowing anyone to stand in his way. Winter has just started the semester at Thane University and is trying to put her dark past behind her. Although eight years have passed, she is traumatized by having to return to the place where her father died and where her mother killed her sister. When she runs into Shane at a local coffee shop, Winter is attracted to him and warnings of how dangerous he is fall on deaf ears. Shane recognizes Winter immediately and memories of her from his past come flooding back. Winter tormented him in grade school so horrendously that he wanted to end his life. When Shane has the opportunity to get to know Winter, he initially decides to plot his revenge against her for the years she bullied him. However, once they spend time together, he begins to see her in a new light. Can the two of them move past the hurt, lies, secrets, and dark pasts to have a bright future? This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride and was full of intense twists and turns that kept me riveted until the final page. And that cliffhanger, wow! Cannot wait for the next book in this fantastic series!

View all my reviews@tarab

The Men of Eden Cove Manor by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Men of Eden Cove ManorThe Men of Eden Cove Manor by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Men of Eden Cove Manor is a MM Paranormal Romance with mystery, intrigue, suspense, action, danger, vampires, demons, and supernatural elements. Set around Halloween adds to the spooky, mysterious, creepy vibe of the story which centers around the characters of Lucifer and Mordecai. These two characters had their own unique quirks and personalities, and I was completely drawn into their worlds as they told their story from their own POV. Lucifer is impulsive, bold, reckless, and determined to live life on his own terms. When he hears about a mystery surrounding the men of a local manor he is determined to investigate and find out what all the fuss is about. According to locals, the manor is creepy, and they are terrified to go anywhere near it. Lucifer sees this as a challenge and while the men of the manor are away at a party he decides to break into the manor and explore. As he does so he gets more than he bargained for when he makes a startling discovery. Not only that, but Lucifer does not go unnoticed by Mordecai, one of the men at the manor. Mordecai is dangerous, cunning, and determined to toy with Lucifer as punishment for violating his privacy and trespassing in his home. Neither men are willing to back down from the challenge nor are either expecting to be attracted to the other. The ensuing story is full of blackmail, centuries old secrets, humor, witty banter, romance, and chemistry. Another amazing book by one of my favorite authors!

View all my reviews@tarab

Finding Your Heart by Nadia Han – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Finding Your Heart: A Journal for Discovering Your HeartFinding Your Heart: A Journal for Discovering Your Heart by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Finding Your Heart is a journal where you can unclutter your life by writing your thoughts and feelings. It is full of positive affirmations, creative prompts, and activities that will guide you in practicing love and self care. The exercises contained throughout the book will help you feel empowered and aid in your journey to letting go of past hurt and loss. After reading through this journal and following the exercises I had a different outlook on life and felt ready to move forward past the hurt, loss, abuse, and mistreatment I endured throughout my life. This journal was powerful, inspiring, motivating, and thought provoking. The artwork throughout the journal was stunning and the quotes were relatable. I highly recommend this journal for anyone looking to let go of past hurt and trauma.

View all my reviews@tarab

Fractured Hearts-Prospect (Grimm Wolves MC Book 7) by D.M. Earl – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Fractured Hearts-Prospect (Grimm Wolves MC Book 7)Fractured Hearts-Prospect by D.M. Earl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fractured Hearts is the seventh book in the Grimm Wolves MC Series. If you have not yet read the first books in this series, I highly recommend that you do. Not only is the series amazing, but each book continues from the one prior and the characters overlap from book to book. This book has action, suspense, mystery, drama, romance, humor, passion, romance, bikers, villains, and intrigue. The story centers around the characters of Celee and Dingo who met by chance on a dating app. Dingo is a prospect of the Grimm Wolves MC’s and trying to prove himself to them. He is smart, funny, sexy, strong, and willing to do anything to protect those he cares about. Celee is smart, courageous, sweet, and fun loving. Both characters come from dark and painful pasts that help them to better understand one another and brings them closer. When they meet the chemistry and passion between Dingo and Celee is undeniable and off the charts. The story grabbed my attention from the first few pages as Dingo and Celee are being pursued by some heinous villains who are after Celee and Dingo is determined to protect her at all costs. A high-speed car chase, gunshots, a car wreck, and a new furry companion for the duo happens within the first few pages. From there the tension is palpable as the twists and turns kept me captivated until the final pages. I loved how the characters from previous books came into play and how they all banded together to protect Celee. This was another great book by this talented author! I highly recommend this book, and this series!

View all my reviews@tarab

No Amends by Angela Lam – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

No AmendsNo Amends by Angela Lam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

No Amends is a taut, F/F psychological suspense full of action, drama, mystery, intrigue, suspense, forbidden love, secrets, lies, deception, passion, and raw emotions. This book grabbed my attention from the first few pages and gripped me until the end. The story centers around the main characters of Tang and Dee who meet by chance and start a secret affair. Unbeknownst to Tang, their affair is not the only thing that Dee has been keeping a secret from her. When Tang’s live-in girlfriend, Layla, starts to suspect the affair Tang calls things off with Dee thinking that she can move forward and fix her relationship with Layla. Dee does not understand why Tang suddenly calls things off and refuses to fade into the background. When Dee suddenly ends up dead after a horrific car accident Tang is devastated and consumed with guilt. As it turns out, Dee is not the only one keeping secrets and running from the truth. As the investigation into Dee’s accident continues it starts to unravel secrets and lies that may have been better left hidden. This story was full of twists and turns as it took us into the world of a twisted mind that would do anything for love. A riveting, edge of your seat thrill ride that will keep you hooked until the final pages. I highly recommend this book!

View all my reviews@tarab

Unclutter (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Unclutter: A Survivor's Story (Inner Voice, #1)Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story by Winnie D. Pagora
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Unclutter is Book One in the Inner Voice Series. This is the debut novel by this talented author and was so beautifully written that I anxiously await more novels written by her. This book touches on difficult topics such as abuse and self harm but was done in a way that is realistic and honest yet done in a respectful and empathetic manner. The story centers around the character of an eighteen-year-old girl named Tina who has never felt like she belongs. After a traumatic incident with an abuser young Tina is labelled as a liar, slandered, and bullied. She must find the inner strength and courage to stand up to her abuser and overcome her inner demons. This was a powerful and poignant read about the journey that victims of abuse struggle through and as a survivor of abuse, this story really hit home for me. I know how difficult it is to find the courage to not only move forward but to find the strength to face your bully or abuser. It is imperative to create a support system as Tina did and have those that will support you through the highs and lows. I loved the character of Tina who was vulnerable yet strong, smart, feisty, determined, and resilient. I loved that she found the inner strength she needed to come forward. Unfortunately, society is often too quick to judge and label victims of abuse while allowing the abusers to get away with what they have done. This creates a cycle of revictimizing the victim which adds to the trauma they have already suffered. This book contained themes of trauma, abuse, gaslighting, cover-ups, injustice, friendship, hope, and faith. A great book and I look forward to reading more by this author.

View all my reviews@tarab