How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them is a cute children’s book that is based loosely off the Jack and the Beanstalk fairytale. The story is told from the POV of the Giant who tells us how he intends to capture little boys so that he can eat them. The Giant seems to have it all figured out and even has it planned out step-by-step. He makes it easy for the boys to steal from him so that they continue to come back and is careful not to scare them because this will ruin their flavor. When Jack meets the Giant, he offers to do an infomercial for the Giant so that he will have more little boys climbing up the Beanstalk to the Giant’s home. What the Giant does not realize is that Jack might have more to his plan than he is letting on. I loved this retelling and found it cute, funny, and whimsical. I loved that Jack ends up tricking the Giant and that the Giant never saw it coming. The illustrations were bright, colorful, and really brought the story to life.
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 Barnes2023-07-21 15:40:242023-08-03 13:26:58How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
The Secrets They Hide is Book Two in A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome Series. It is a crime thriller that is set in Rome, Italy, and centers around the character of Detective Scala. When a body turns up dead in the cemetery it sends Scala into a world of corruption, and he discovers other unsolved mysteries could be connected to the man in the cemetery. When his family comes in harm’s way, he is determined to protect his family from a crazy psychopath who is intent on causing them harm. Detective Scala is smart, ruthless, and relentless in his pursuit of the person responsible for terrorizing his family. He does not back down from a challenge and continues to follow the clues until he solves the mystery. I loved how determined his character is and enjoyed trying to solve the mystery alongside him. He is a lovable character that I found myself rooting for in his quest for truth and justice. This book had action, suspense, drama, intrigue, mystery, murder, mayhem, and some good old sleuthing in the quest for justice.
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 Barnes2023-07-20 15:22:522023-08-03 12:41:31The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
The Secret Humankind is Book One in The Discoveries of Julia Xero. It is a fast-paced, occult, urban fantasy thriller that centers around the character of Julia who is an orphan trying to find solace in her chaotic and stressful life. Her work environment is toxic at the best of times but suddenly she finds herself facing aliens who try to force her into silence by implanting her with a bomb. Julia now finds herself struggling to survive as she battles against the forces intent on destroying her. Along her journey Julia makes discoveries about herself that come as a bit of a surprise. This was a great read with a blending of the real world and the supernatural world melding together. Julia was an interesting character that one can easily relate to. Wanting a less stressful life and trying to make the best of things made her very relatable and easy to root for. This book had action, suspense, mystery, magic, mayhem, aliens, otherworldly creatures, and a few twists and turns that will captivate you until the end.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-07-20 14:58:312023-08-03 12:41:12The Secret Humankind (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Love Bites More is part of The Darkness and Light Duology, and the Love Bites World. Although it is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone. It is a M/M/M Paranormal romance story about fated mates that centers around the characters of Arwyn, Elan, and Hassan. Elan and Arwyn have been friends for a lifetime but have never taken their attraction for one another to the next level. Not until Hassan enters the picture and becomes attracted to Elan. Before long the passion and chemistry between the three men becomes undeniable and they are in a sizzling hot, threesome. This book was well written, had wonderful characters, and was entertaining. I loved that the author did not feel the need to hold back with the cuss words throughout which added an extra element to the book for me. This book had sizzling hot chemistry, passion, friends to lovers, fantasy, romance, paranormal, adventure, action, and magic.
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 Barnes2023-07-20 14:30:112023-08-03 12:40:55Love Bites More (The Darkness & Light Duology, and the Love Bites World) by TL Clark – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Tempting Fate is Book One in the Black Shamrocks MC: Australia trilogy, but the second book in the series. This book is dark, angsty, romantic, steamy, and intense. It centers around the character of Lily who has worked hard to reclaim her life and move forward. Lily is strong, ferocious, smart, determined, and refuses to back down or play the part of a victim. After fighting for her life and finally beginning to see a bright future her past comes back to haunt her. Lily has Zeke/Venom by her side to protect her and look out for her, but her family and MC world seem to be crumbling. Lily loves her MC family and will do anything for them, but will they have her back when she needs it? I loved the character of Lily and how ferocious and strong she was. Her and Zeke were well matched, but it was such a rocky road for them because there always seemed to be something or someone getting in their way. This book had passion, chemistry, romance, drama, suspense, grief, trauma, betrayal, and will take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Warning: It also contains subject matter that may be a trigger for some so please read the author’s warning prior to choosing to read this.
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 Barnes2023-07-19 17:53:192023-08-03 12:32:20Tempting Fate (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book 1) by Bella Faust – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Flowers of Evil is Book One in the Hani’s Daughter Mysteries Series. The story centers around the characters of Bener-ib and Neferet who have set up a medicinal dispensary for the poor people of Egypt. Unfortunately, they discover that nobody trusts them, and their business is failing. When a dying man is brought to them for care Neferet and Bener-ib realize he was murdered. Neferet becomes determined to solve the mystery of the man’s murder and ends up involving her family in something far more sinister than she was anticipating. This book was well written and the author’s attention to detail about ancient Egypt and its culture really drew me in. The characters were relatable, likable, and I found myself rooting for them throughout the story. This was a great historical cozy mystery and I look forward to reading more in this 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 Barnes2023-07-19 16:56:462023-08-03 12:30:58Flowers of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Shadowed Obsession is Book One in the Shadow Defense Security Series. It is a fast-paced, action-packed, gripping psychological thriller that will surely give you goosebumps and leave you on pins and needles. Keira is a PR Specialist who prides herself on being smart, successful, independent, and strong but when she starts receiving photos anonymously on her phone of her, she becomes on edge. At first, she attempts to ignore the photos until she starts receiving ones taken of her while she is at home. Keira realizes that it is obvious that she is being stalked and that she can no longer ignore what has been happening. She enlists the help of her new neighbor, Cade, who is a private security operative and together the two try to determine her stalker’s identity. The problem is that the obsessed stalker always seems to be one step ahead of Cade and his team. Will they be able to save Keira from her stalker?
I loved the writing in this book and thought that the story flowed nicely. I was pulled into the story from the first pages and became fully immersed in the life of Keira. The characters of her and Cade were done wonderfully, and they were engaging and relatable. Keira was a force to be reckoned with in the world of PR and was determined, feisty, and strong. Cade was charming, sweet, kind, smart, and strong. The two together had amazing chemistry and seemed perfectly suited to one another. I was riveted until the end as I anxiously read to see who Keira’s stalker was, if they would be caught, and if the chemistry between Keira and Cade would develop into more. A fantastic read full of action, suspense, mystery, intrigue, romance, and twists and turns that will keep you reading until the very 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 Barnes2023-07-18 18:22:502023-07-19 08:58:46Shadowed Obsession (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1) by Mavery Ellscott – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
The Silent Woodsman is Book One in The Olympic Peninsula Series. It is an unlikely romance story that focuses on the characters of Ali Ryan and Joe Bob Blade. Ali has gone to the woods to seek solace after the loss of her brother. She gets caught in a bad storm and falls on the deck of a cabin in the woods. The owner of the cabin, JJ, takes her in and the two spend the next couple of days getting to know each other. The tricky part is in the fact that they can only communicate by writing because JJ is recovering from a serious surgery. What Ali does not know is that JJ is really a famous country music singer. Over the course of their time together Ali and JJ begin to develop feelings for each other. Unfortunately, they both must return to their lives in the real world. Is there any hope for Ali and Joe Bob to find their way back to one another and have a relationship? This was a beautifully written story that fully immerses the reader in the lives of the main characters of Ali and Joe Bob, while also introducing us to other characters for future stories. The author writes in vivid detail that makes you feel as though you are there in the story along with the characters. This book will pull you in from the beginning and have you hooked until the end.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-07-17 18:59:312023-07-19 08:55:17The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Oathbreakers Anonymous is a fantasy adventure filled with action, adventure, fun, fantasy, mystery, and great characters. The story centers around the character of Marluck who is on a journey to redeem himself. He gathers a ragtag group of unlikely heroes and heroines to help him gain back everything that he has worked so hard for after an unfortunate fall from grace. The ensuing journey teaches them all some valuable lessons. The storyline was intriguing, and the setting was described so vividly that it immerses you fully into the fantasy world of the world of the characters. The characters were endearing, and I found myself rooting for the ragtag group to overcome the obstacles thrown at them and come out on top. A great read with some twists and turns that will pull you in and have you reading until the end.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-07-17 18:30:112023-07-19 08:55:05Oathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Ladies of the Links #2 is part of the Ladies of the Links Series. It is a Sports Romance story that centers around the characters of Christy and Ryan. Christy’s job as pool manger allows her to spend extra time with her twin girls. As a single mother she loves being able to work while also being able to raise her children in a safe environment. When the club gets a new member by the name of Ryan, Christy’s life suddenly becomes very complicated. There is a chance that Ryan could expose the secret that she has been hiding for years. Especially since Ryan becomes suspicious when he looks at the twin girls who not only bare striking similarities to himself, but each girl bares his namesake. He quickly realizes that this must be more than pure coincidence and suspects that he is the father to the twin girls. This was an interesting storyline and I had to continue reading to see what would happen to Christy and Ryan. I became very invested in their lives, in their backstory, and in their future. I needed answers to all the questions that came to mind. What will become of Christy if her secret is revealed? What will Ryan think of her? Will she ever be able to live down the gossip? Would Christy and Ryan rekindle whatever it was that they once had? I enjoyed how the story flowed almost as though it was written as a diary, and I was getting inside someone’s most personal thoughts and feelings. I highly recommend!
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 Barnes2023-07-15 19:38:092023-07-17 07:59:37Ladies of the Links (Ladies of the Links Book 2) by Haley Rhoades – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
A Toast for Laurent is a second chance romance novel that centers around the characters of Laurent and Phoebe and told by each of their POV throughout. Nearly twenty years ago Phoebe took off from Laurent’s life and broke his heart. Now she has suddenly reappeared and is expecting him to make good on a promise that he made one night nearly twenty years ago. Laurent certainly never took the promise seriously nor did he expect Phoebe to reappear and expect for the two of them to get married. Of course, he is reluctant because he no longer knows who she is or anything about her after the two went in different directions with their lives. Laurent wants to hate Phoebe for breaking his heart, but he is still intensely attracted to her. Can the two rekindle what they once had, or has too much time gone by? This was a beautifully written book with an interesting storyline and characters whose lives you become invested in. It was apparent that Phoebe and Laurent once had more than a fling and were deeply in love. I had to read through to the end to see why Phoebe took off and if the relationship between them could be rekindled. A great read that I highly recommend!
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 Barnes2023-07-15 19:02:482023-07-17 07:59:19A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley Book 1) by Theresa Paolo – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Notebook Mysteries Parisian Intrigue is Book Six in the Notebook Mysteries Series. It is a Historical Crime novel set in 1889 and centers around the character of a young girl named Emma. I have read all the books in this series and am always impressed by the author’s writing style. I love how the author takes inspiration from actual crimes that took place between 1881-1890. Emma’s latest adventure takes place with the beautiful backdrop of Paris when Emma is invited to attend the 1889 Paris Exposition. She sets out on a fun-filled, leisure-filled, trip with close friends but it does not take long before she finds herself immersed in new mysteries. Emma finds herself trying to solve two mysteries at once and one of those mysteries could affect the Paris Exposition. The author has done a wonderful job of creating interesting storylines, against the beautiful backdrop of Paris, with fantastic characters that one becomes easily invested in. I have loved the character of Emma since the first book. She is smart, feisty, determined, tenacious, and well ahead of her time. This was a great book full of action, suspense, danger, intrigue, and mystery. I highly recommend!
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 Barnes2023-07-15 18:41:462023-07-17 07:59:13Notebook Mysteries ~ Parisian Intrigue (Notebook Mysteries Book 6) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Broken is Book Two in the Green St. Girls Series. After reading the first book I immediately dove into reading this one. I became heavily invested in the Green Street Girls and was anxious to read more about them. This story centers around a character by the name of Indigo who is part of the Green Street Girls. She has worked hard to give herself a good life but all of that is threatened when she starts receiving threats for a software she is developing. Her friend, and roommate, Gideon, steps up to help Indigo and protect her from whoever has been threatening her. In doing so, he realizes that his feelings for her are stronger than just friendship. Although Indigo has allowed her wall to come down enough to form a friendship with Gideon can she truly trust him? This book was beautifully written with a storyline and characters that I became heavily invested in. Indigo is strong, smart, and ambitious but because of her past has developed trust issues. Gideon is sweet, kind, and a good friend to Indigo. He wants to love her, protect her, and be there for her. Gideon does his best to prove to Indigo that she can trust him, but will he be able to penetrate the wall she has formed to protect herself? A great read full of drama, intrigue, danger, friendships, angst, love, romance, and hope. I highly recommend!
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 Barnes2023-07-14 20:14:542023-07-17 07:45:36Broken. (Green St. Girls Series) by N.D. Jackson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Bared is Book One in the Green St. Girls Series. The story centers around a character named Athena who has had a hard time trusting anyone because of her past. She becomes a bit of a loner in a sense until she meets Tru who also has a hard time trusting anyone. The attraction between them is intense but having a relationship may be out of the question due to their trust issues. Athena makes friends with a group of girls who all have had hardships in their past. The girls call themselves the Green Street Girls and act as a support network for one another. Through tough times the girls lean on each other and help one another survive. I loved how the Green Street Girls helped one another through the hardest of struggles. Their friendship gave one another hope and a will to go on which I found endearing. I loved each one of the girls’ individual characters and felt their stories resonate with me. This book was beautifully written, and I could not help but feel an emotional connection with each of the Green Street Girls. I found myself cheering them on to find happiness, love, and a good 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 Barnes2023-07-14 19:05:432023-07-17 07:45:29Bared. (Green St. Girls Series) by N.D. Jackson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Tequila Midnight is a fast paced, action-packed, nail-biting, edge-of-your-seat, crime novel that will keep you riveted until the very end. The story centers around a tough as nails character named Jessica who works as a broker making real estate deals across the border. She has built hard walls around herself and has a hard time letting go of the painful past she had. Jessica’s trauma has affected her life and caused her to have a hard time moving forward. When she is asked to look for the missing daughter of a Mexican crime lord her true strength is put to the test. She finds herself having to rely on her strength, courage, and wits to survive the challenges that get thrown at her as she searches for the missing girl.
The storyline was engaging, the backdrop of the story was intriguing, and the character of Jessica was one that I found myself rooting for. Jessica’s past was painful, and because of her lack of love from her parents it affected her ability to love anyone as an adult. She learned to put up walls and be tough because she was given no other choice. This book had action, suspense, drama, danger, intrigue, love, loss, angst, betrayal, and twists and turns that will keep you reading until the end. I highly recommend!
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 Barnes2023-07-14 18:31:512023-07-17 07:45:09Tequila Midnight (Southwest Suspense Novels Book 1) by Kathryn Dodson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Planting Hope is a contemporary romance that centers around the characters of Holly and Kit. Holly is a nurse who is trying to move on after witnessing the murder of a colleague. The experience has left her feeling unsettled so she is living as a free spirit, choosing to work or volunteer where she can. Kit lives his life as a bit of a recluse with his attention focused on his garden. He believes that gardening can have healing powers and can help someone heal from experiencing trauma. As a child, Kit witnessed domestic violence and now wants to help other children heal through creating a garden. He needs a nurse to help him research the project and gets introduced to Holly. With her colorful hair Kit is a bit leery of trusting her but as the two-work side by side in the garden their friendship grows and the attraction between them builds. This was a beautifully crafted story with an engaging plot and wonderful characters. Kit and Holly have both witnessed their share of horrific violence and now find themselves wanting to help children who have witnessed domestic violence. Although their pasts still haunt them, they are not afraid of doing the work involved in helping children heal from trauma. A great read full of hope, love, trauma, passion, and empathy.
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 Barnes2023-07-12 17:41:172023-07-17 07:26:20Planting Hope by Jennifer Raines – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Guarding The Crease is Book Ten in The Playmaker Series. It is a steamy sports romance that centers around the characters of Wyatt and Serena. Wyatt is a famous NHL goaltender who is a bit self-centered, egotistical, and used to getting his own way. Along comes Serena, a tough cookie in her own rights who is fierce, smart, strong, and determined. As PR Director of the Colorado Blizzard’s, she needs to be driven and not put up with any flack. She also knows Wyatt’s reputation so when he needs her help, she does not expect to empathize with him or his situation. However, as the two start to spend time together she sees another side to him. Serena now sees why Wyatt acts the way he does and before long the two are falling hard for each other.
This book was well written with an interesting storyline and great characters. Wyatt initially comes across as a bad boy, and an unlovable jerk. As his story unfolds, we see the reasons behind his behavior and start to see another side of him. Serena is to credit for some of his changes because she does not put up with his irresponsible behavior. She is tough as nails, strong, feisty, and did not back down from any challenge. It was easy to root for Wyatt to wise up and change his ways because of the love of a good woman. I wanted Serena to be the one he realized was going to be there for him and not give up on him. This book was full of angst, drama, hope, second chances, passion, 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 Barnes2023-07-12 16:54:032023-07-17 07:25:55Guarding the Crease (The Playmakers Series Hockey Romances Book 9) by G.K. Brady – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Sage Advice is a YA Romance that centers around the character of a teenage girl named Pyper. Pyper is a bubbly, fun-loving, kind, and compassionate teenager who wants to help others and she fiercely protects those she loves. As the girl who writes the advice column for her high school newspaper, Pyper generally has all the answers. She is good at helping others solve their problems but when it comes to her own life, she seems unable to find the answers to her own problems. Pyper is worried about her upcoming prom and when she gets asked by Landen to go with him, she is reluctant. Pyper has been hurt before and now sees all teenage boys as immature. Landen wants to prove that he is sincere and not like the other boys, but Pyper is reluctant to let her guard down. Will Landen be able to break through the barriers Pyper has put up? This was a beautifully written, and realistic, look at first love and romance. The characters were relatable, lovable, and I found myself rooting for Pyper to give Landen a chance to show her he was not going to break her heart. 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 Barnes2023-07-12 15:55:152023-07-17 07:25:23Sage Advice by Cori Cooper – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Love Is What It Is was the first book that I read by this author, but it will not be the last. It is a contemporary romance full of passion, chemistry, romance, angst, bitter ex-lovers, rivals, and drama that all unfolds in a tropical location. When Toni goes on vacation with her new, not quite boyfriend, Clive, that she has only been seeing for three weeks she is expecting fun in the sun as well as between the sheets. Instead, she ends up in a dive of a motel with dirty sheets, broken bedsprings, and creepy crawlies skittling across the floor. Added to that Clive is being a total jerk to her and she regrets agreeing to go on vacation with him. Deciding to make the most of her trip alone, she leaves Clive sleeping and finds classier accommodations. While enjoying the new hotel she runs into Mickey, a drop-dead gorgeous guest staying at the hotel who comes to her rescue when Clive confronts Toni. Mickey and Toni are instantly attracted to one another and are enjoying each other’s company until his ex decides to interfere and ruin things for them. Toni falls hard for Mickey, but he is not keen on doing the love thing which breaks her heart. Can Toni and Mickey have any chance at a future together?
This was a great read with a beautiful tropical setting and characters that are easy to become invested in. Both Toni and Mickey have less than perfect track records with past relationships and the whole love thing. Past relationships also seem to be part of the present, interfering in any chance they have for love or a future together. It was interesting to see how Toni and Mickey navigated through these issues that popped up as they were getting to know one another. I loved this author’s writing style and the dash of humor that was sprinkled throughout. A great read that I highly recommend!
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 Barnes2023-07-11 15:47:172023-07-17 07:20:24Love Is What It Is by Marina Hanna – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Sliding Into Home is Book Three in the Playing for Keeps Series. This story centers around the characters of Kia and Jeff. Six years ago, they met and hooked up for a one-night stand. Afterwards Kia discovered that she was pregnant, but she was unable to find Jeff to tell him. Jeff went onto to pursue a career in major league baseball which explains why he could not be found. Kia did not let this deter her from having a future and she moved forward with her life becoming a successful tattoo artist. She is determined, smart, hardworking, feisty, and a great mom to Max. When she runs into Jeff at her son’s baseball game she is surprised and knows that she needs to tell him that Max is his son. Jeff is now Max’s baseball coach, and he is just as surprised to see Kia after all these years. When Kia tells Jeff the news that he is Max’s father the two must navigate through how they will co-parent Max as well as work through all the external forces that seem determined to create unnecessary stress in their lives. Jeff could have easily walked away but he is determined to be a good dad to Max as well as be there for Kia. As Kia and Jeff spend more time together, they begin to develop intense, undeniable feelings for one another. A well written story with a fantastic storyline and great characters. This book will draw you in and have you rooting for Jeff, Kia, and Max to get their happily ever after story that they all deserve. A great read full of family, drama, stress, love, passion, hurt, jealousy, lies, 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 Barnes2023-07-10 16:35:002023-07-17 07:05:23Sliding into Home (Playing for Keeps Book 3) by Lauren Fraser – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Taz is Book Three in the Devil’s Handmaidens MC Series. The series focuses on strong, feisty, smart, bad arse women who do not back down from a challenge. The women are part of a motorcycle club, and each has their own backstory that has led them to be part of the club. This story focuses on Taz, who was running with her young son Teddy from her abusive ex when she ran, literally, into Shadow. Shadow offered her and her son protection and the club took her under their wing. Taz first became a prospect, and then a member of the Devil’s Handmaidens and now is their accountant. Taz will do anything to protect her son Teddy from being hurt and so will the members of the club. When Taz’s ex comes back into the picture and enlists the help of a white supremacist club Taz and the Devil’s Handmaidens enlist the help of a male MC club known as the Intruders. Together they fight to protect Teddy and take down the white supremacist group.
This was another superbly written book in this series with a strong cast of characters and an amazing storyline that pulled me in from the very beginning. Taz was a colorful character with her multi colored hair and looked tough on the exterior but was a bit of a nerd deep down. When it came to protecting her son, she was fierce. The Devil’s Handmaidens and the Intruders were made up of strong men and women who believed in protecting their loved ones and bringing justice to those who deserved it. Travis, AKA the Enforcer, was willing to protect Teddy at all costs. This book was full of drama, action, suspense, danger, angst, intrigue, and 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 Barnes2023-07-10 15:57:272023-07-17 07:04:57Taz (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter Book 3) by D.M. Earl – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
When Magic Calls is a collection of fantasy paranormal fairy tales that will surely sweep you away to magical places that are a bit out of the ordinary. This collection will have you looking at things differently and wondering if perhaps there is magic all around us in our everyday lives, in the ordinary things we overlook. Places like a magical museum for instance, that almost seemed to appear out of thin air because nobody could remember it being constructed. Ordinary tales that have taken a bit of a darker twist into something paranormal. This collection was beautifully written with wonderful characters and interesting stories that draw you in and compel you to keep reading. The author did a fantastic job of creating modern fairytales that combine creativity with fun while adding a spooky element to them. 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 Barnes2023-07-08 19:45:272023-07-17 06:59:28When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
The House of Arsceneaux is part of the Servants of Morrigan: Immortal Creatures series. It is a vampire paranormal story that centers around the story of fated mates Caitlin and Evariste. All Caitlin wants to do is go on holiday, but her boss has other plans for her. He insists that she cut into her personal time for a meeting at a property that could mean a huge business deal. The owner is a no-show because he is not interested in selling the property. Caitlin meets Evariste, the owner of the property, at a dinner party being given by his sister and he immediately believes that she is the reincarnation of his late wife. She has no recollection of her past, but he insists that she is his soul mate that he was separated from centuries ago. Evariste encourages Caitlin to travel back in the past with him so that he can show her that they were indeed soul mates that were hopelessly in love. Caitlin is uncertain if she should trust him but if she does not then she risks losing out on the possibility of being reunited with her one true love. I loved the overall love story of Caitlin and Evariste and how it is a testament to true love overcoming being torn apart by time and distance. The characters were ones that I felt a connection to, and I found myself rooting for them to be together after being separated years ago. This was a great read full of action, suspense, danger, drama, secrets, lies, vampires, and love through the centuries.
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 Barnes2023-07-08 16:24:592023-07-14 11:19:59House of Arsceneaux (Servants of Morrigan: Immortal Creatures) by Caterina Novelliere – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
A Way Out is Book Two in the Rock Star series. It is a contemporary romance full of angst, passion, love, drama, family, friendships, dreamers, and of course a fledgling rock star. Maria is trying to bounce back from a bad divorce to a man that she only married because her mom approved. With nowhere to live and a need to get away for a bit she decides to leave town to visit her sister. When she arrives at her sister’s house, she discovers that her sister is in another state preparing to get married. A sexy stranger named Oz is in her sister’s home and Maria cannot help but be attracted to this fledgling rockstar. Both Oz and Maria are going to attend her sister’s wedding, so they decide to travel together. Along the way the attraction grows, and somehow Maria finds herself agreeing to fund Oz’s fledgling rock band. Now she is technically his boss and business and pleasure never mix. The problem is they are attracted to one another. Can they have both business and pleasure, or will they have to choose? A well written story with emotional ups and downs and great characters that you immediately feel a connection to. Oz has a heart of gold and will do anything to support his family. Maria has been through a tough marriage and she and her daughter have been kicked to the curb after a bad divorce. Their stories really tug at the heartstrings, and you find yourself rooting for things to work out for both Maria and Oz. 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 Barnes2023-07-08 14:43:132023-07-14 11:19:02A Way Out (Rock Star Book 2) by Tami Lund – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
The Misery House is Book One in The House on the Hill Series. It is a sinister psychological thriller that will grab your attention and keep you reading until the end. The author does a superb job of keeping the reader’s attention throughout the story as the suspense and tension builds. He then takes us on a series of twists and turns that keep you riveted until the final pages.
The story is set in a small town and is told from different points of view of the Woods family. It starts off innocently enough as we are introduced to Cliff who is attending his son, Nate’s baseball game. Then comes a mysterious fire that takes place where two dead bodies are discovered. As strange things begin to occur, the townsfolk have noticed that strangers have arrived in town, which in itself is odd because no outsiders generally choose to live there. Cliff’s daughter Kaia’s best friend had just gotten married when her and her husband mysteriously disappeared. Then there is the creepy old house on the hill that must somehow be involved because of its reputation as being haunted.
This book grabbed my attention and kept me reading until the end. I loved the spine-tingling vibes that gave me goosebumps a few times. The characters were well written, and the small-town setting was done superbly. The townsfolk, being so unwelcoming and weary of strangers was dark, mysterious, and creepy in its own respect. If you were not born there, it would be almost impossible to be accepted, which was weird and odd. Any newcomers were viewed as suspicious, and the townsfolk were standoffish in their behavior towards them. Throw in a haunted house and I was seriously hooked! I cannot wait to read the rest of this 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 Barnes2023-07-07 18:59:192023-07-14 11:17:34The Misery House (The House on the Hill Book 1) by David Kummer – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Smooth Hoperator is Book Two in the Love on Tap series. It is a contemporary romance that focuses on the story of Sunny and Carter, who are complete opposites but somehow find their way to one another. Sunny is a librarian who is all sunshine and lollipops with a wardrobe as colorful as her personality. She loves helping people and has a heart of gold. Carter has recently moved back to town after leaving his political career behind under suspicious circumstances. He is a bit broody but very protective of his loved ones. Sunny and Carter meet at the library that he frequents, and he catches Sunny’s eye, but Carter thinks she is too colorful and not his type. That is, until he spends a bit of time with her, and she manages to make an impression on him that leaves him wanting more of her in his life. As the two spend time together the chemistry between them grows.
This was a beautifully crafted opposites attract romance story with wonderful characters. Sunny was like a little ray of sunshine that did what she could to help those she loved. Although on the surface Carter appeared to be broody and detached, he too had a heart of gold. On the surface they appeared to be complete opposites but were well suited for one another. I loved the character of Sunny’s grandfather and the situations he got himself into, like the love column in the newspaper that he took over writing responses for. The letters and responses had me chuckling out loud and I could not stop laughing out loud whenever I read one. 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 Barnes2023-07-07 18:21:202023-07-14 11:17:11Smooth Hoperator (Love on Tap Book 2) by Sylvie Stewart – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Hole in the Rock is a book for kids between the ages of 10 to 14. Although intended for a younger audience I feel that it is a story that anyone could enjoy. The story centers around the character of Lizza, a twelve-year-old girl living in Moab, Utah. Lizza is smart, funny, fun-loving, and a huge lover of animals which can sometimes get her in trouble. She often rescues animals that are abandoned or injured and brings them home. Lizza even brought home a tarantula, much to her mother’s horror once it got loose in the house! When her dad decides to become a Taxidermist Lizza is horrified and determined to save the animals, so she sabotages his billboard that advertises his business. Then things get even worse for Lizza when her dad moves their family into a cave that is a tourist attraction and has strangers constantly wandering through her home. Lizza is determined to live in a real home again so she involves environmentalists and animal rights groups thinking that they can help. What Lizza did not expect is for matters to become worse for her family and for her actions to have unintended consequences. This was such a fun read as Lizza manages to get herself into one humorous situation after another. 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 Barnes2023-07-05 10:06:362023-07-14 11:11:16Hole in the Rock by Rebecca Bischoff – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
The Book of Hours is Book Two in the Coin/Hours Duology. This book is an intense, psychological thrill ride full of twists and turns that will keep you riveted to the end. Gabriela is a woman who seems to have nothing but bad luck which often leaves her feeling trapped within her past. She is stuck with the cycle of bad thoughts that run on a loop in her head, wanting to move forward, but something always seems to keep her from finding happiness. Her one true love is Richard, but surely after all the years that have passed, he will not still be waiting for her. Fear prevents her from pursuing the matter farther until he comes back into her life suddenly after hearing about mysterious accidents that keep happening to her.
Richard is still head over heels in love with Gabriela and vows to protect her from the man who is ruthless in his pursuit of Gabriela’s newest work. This man is determined to obtain The Book of Hours and will do anything to acquire it. The plot thickens and the suspense builds as Gabriela and Richard are faced with danger that lurks around every corner. With their entire future at stake can Gabriela and Richard stop the madman determined to acquire The Book of Hours? Can they find love through the chaos?
I really enjoyed this book and found the writing to be done wonderfully. The storyline, setting, and characters pulled me in, and I became completely invested in the outcome of their story. Gabriela and Richard are wonderful characters who I find myself rooting for as they fight to be together through distance, through bad relationships, and through all the chaos life throws at them. A love story of epic proportions as two people find a way to love unconditionally no matter what obstacle gets thrown in their way. 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 Barnes2023-07-03 17:47:112023-07-14 10:57:03The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Duology Book 2) by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
The Finding is the first book in the Berrycreek Heights series. It is a YA thriller that centers around the characters of Victoria and Logan and told from each of their POV. The two first met when Victoria was five years old, and Logan was aged seven. The two were neighbors and became fast friends, spending almost all their time together. Victoria’s mom passed away when she was young, and she was left with her abusive, alcoholic stepfather Zach. As Victoria got older, she reminded Zach more and more of her mom and he became increasingly more violent towards her. Logan swore to protect her but when the unthinkable happens he feels tremendous guilt, sadness, and remorse for being unable to protect Victoria when she needed him the most. Twelve years go by, and Logan has never stopped thinking about Victoria or what happened to her. He has never stopped looking and vows to seek out justice for those responsible. Will Logan ever find out what really happened to Victoria?
The author did a phenomenal job with this story, and it captured my attention from the first few pages. I was riveted by the storyline and unable to put it down until I completed it. The characters are wonderfully written, lovable, and relatable. Victoria is sweet, kind, loving, smart, and courageous. The abuse that she suffers at the hands of her stepfather and numerous others is deplorable and unimaginable. It made me cringe to read as she was subjected to horrific things that no person should ever have to endure. Yet, despite it all she never gives up and continues going. Victoria is a fighter who never gives up hope and looks to a brighter future away from the abuse and cruelty. Logan is sweet, kind, loving, and courageous. He has loved Victoria since practically the first moment he met her. He made it his mission to protect her from harm and keep her safe. When Logan feels that he failed at that he vows to find out what happened to her. After twelve years he never gives up, even though many others would have given up searching for answers. It was heartbreaking to think about how helpless Logan felt to protect the woman he loved and how he felt that he had let her down. It is heartwarming to see that the love between Victoria and Logan still holds strong no matter the time or distance. Their story really pulled at my heartstrings, and it took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Their story was filled with love, loss, betrayal, grief, sorrow, abuse, tragedy, drama, and suspense. I seriously cannot recommend this book enough! Looking forward to reading more by this author!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-07-01 16:47:382023-07-11 12:01:28The Finding (Berrycreek Heights Series Book 1) by A. M. Porto – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Cruel Start is part of the Hidden Valley Elite series. If you have not read the rest of the books in this series, I highly recommend that you do. Each previous book lays the foundation for the ones after it and introduce characters as it gives their backstory. This one is a new adult romance, enemies to lovers, story that centers around the characters of Aspen and Phoenix.
Phoenix and Aspen are heading off to college soon and trying to make the most of their summer. After a steamy night of passion together between Aspen and Phoenix after a party, Aspen discovers that she is pregnant. She feels obligated to tell Phoenix but tells him that she will accept responsibility of the baby and he can move forward and live his life. Neither of the two have had ideal role models in their parents so they have no example to follow. Aspen’s parents chose to get married to do the right thing and have had a miserable marriage. Phoenix’s dad walked away when he learned of Phoenix’s mom becoming pregnant with him. With these kinds of role models in their lives neither know what love or a healthy relationship is so both Phoenix and Aspen have sworn off relationships. Whatever choice they make will forever alter the course of their young lives. Will they choose to work together to raise the child? Will they each choose to go their separate ways?
As with all the books in this amazing series this was well written, with descriptive scenes, wonderful characters, and a storyline that pulls you in from the first pages. The characters of Phoenix and Aspen are ones that you feel yourself rooting for. Both have baggage from growing up in toxic environments so neither really know what love or a healthy relationship is. For that reason, they have chosen to remain single. However, fate intervenes when the attraction they feel at a party is acted upon and Aspen becomes pregnant. The two are faced with some difficult decisions at a young age that affects the bright futures they both had laid out for them in college. The author takes the reader on a rollercoaster ride of emotions with lust, passion, drama, bullying, dysfunctional families, angst, heartache, sorrow, secrets, lies, betrayal, and a teen pregnancy. I cannot wait for the next book in this 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 Barnes2023-07-01 15:53:322023-07-11 12:00:53Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
