Posts

Etched in this Moment (Etched Series Book 1) by Calla Zae – Review by Trish Ann

Etched in this Moment (Etched, #1)Etched in this Moment by Calla Zae
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this story. I do wish that some of it was expanded a little because it felt like a rush throughout to me. I would have liked a slower burn for Theo and Tia. I feel that she gave up her trust too easily especially with all she sustained. I liked Theo’s character and how he handled the situation once he was given all the information. I would definitely read more by this author.

View all my reviews

The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Trish Ann

The MesmeristThe Mesmerist by Claire Luana
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book was good and different than my usual reads. It was a bid lagging and slow in terms of plot for me because some parts were information overload. I was captivated by Adrijana’s quest for innocence. She also was a character you connect with because we all have doubts and second-guess ourselves. I like when stories have me keep guessing.

View all my reviews

A Hundred Wishes (Band of Sisters) by Marianne Rice – Review by Trish Ann

A Hundred Wishes (Band of Sisters)A Hundred Wishes by Marianne Rice
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed the story of Gina and Bryce.  She was a very likable character and was easy to connect to.  I loved the development of her relationship and how they grew together despite their insecurities.   The tight knit relationships with her band of sisters was heartwarming especially with all that she endured in life.  I saw that this is book 3 of the series and it really read well as a stand-alone.  I usually feel like I’m missing something when it’s the second, third or fourth book even though the stories aren’t completely connected.  I would definitely like to read others in the set!

View all my reviews

Exiled South by Harriet Cannon – Review by Trish Ann

Exiled SouthExiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was definitely different than the books I’ve been reading lately. The woven history and surprises on the international front were inventive.   Lizbeth’s character development was good but I would have liked to see a little more learning on her behalf but it was interesting to watch how she faces the impossible things she was faced with.  I would have liked to see more of the present day and some of the story felt scattered to me.  I did find the story interesting but could see where this could have been made a series so some areas could be deepened.

View all my reviews

Savage Secrets (Mafia Elite, book 4) by Amy McKinley – Review by Trish Ann

Savage Secrets (Mafia Elite, #4)Savage Secrets by Amy McKinley
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Being the 4th in the series, I would have liked to have read the prior books for the backstory on those characters. This mafia sub genre is not one that I normally read but I did enjoy the intensity between the characters.  I’ve read other books by this author and I appreciate the way she connects her themes and advances the plot line- this book was no exception.   The chemistry between Elena and Marco was good but I think I would have been more invested if I read the others first.

View all my reviews

Sinful Vow (Dark Mafia Sins, book 1) by Emily Bowie – Review by Trish Ann

Sinful Vow (Dark Mafia Sins, #0.5)Sinful Vow by Emily Bowie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The mafia genre is not one of my comfort zone reads. With that said, I did enjoy this book.  I liked the protective nature of Luca and Aly’s fierce independence.  I thought the back and forth between the families was confusing at times but that could also be due to not being used to this particular genre.

View all my reviews

Imperfectly Yours (Titans of Manhattan Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Trish Ann

Imperfectly Yours (Titans of Manhattan #2)Imperfectly Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a really good book. I thought that the story was beautifully written despite the heartbreaking things that happened. I felt myself going back and forth between being on team Elsa and on team Anton in certain parts. The deep battles that were fought really made this story deep. It was very relatable and engaging.

View all my reviews

Unlikely to Stay (Parker Lake) by Olivia Sherwood – Review by Trish Ann

Unlikely to Stay (A Parker Lake Novel Book 3)Unlikely to Stay by Ashlie Knapp
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the third book in this series and I was not disappointed. The chemistry between Brant and Colleen was sweet. I love the meddling old folks in the small town as it adds to the charm and the adage of what it is like to live in one. I found the characters to be easy to relate and connect with which helped move the story for me. I am definitely looking forward to more books from this author!

View all my reviews

Unlikely to Stay (Parker Lake) by Olivia Sherwood – Review by Trish Ann

Unlikely to Stay (Parker Lake Book 3)Unlikely to Stay by Ashlie Knapp
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the third book in this series and I was not disappointed. The chemistry between Brant and Colleen was sweet. I love the meddling old folks in the small town as it adds to the charm and the adage of what it is like to live in one. I found the characters to be easy to relate and connect with which helped move the story for me. I am definitely looking forward to more books from this author!

View all my reviews

Holiday Hope (Holiday Express Book 1) by Shanna Hatfield – Review by Trish Ann

Holiday Hope (Holiday Express Book 1)Holiday Hope by Shanna Hatfield
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story was different than the usual holiday romances I read due to it being a period piece. I really liked the characters in this story and the slow burning romance as well. Being set in 1884, it was interesting the idea of a mail order bride and the way of life during this time. I also appreciated her formed friendship with Ann. This book definitely had some charm and I’m glad I picked it up to read.

View all my reviews

Black Canvas by Laura Rossi – Review by Trish Ann

Black CanvasBlack Canvas by Laura Rossi
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book was a good read but definitely much darker and twisted than other books I usually read. I was drawn in by the synopsis. The connection between the characters especially Ivy and Aria was interesting for sure. There were some parts that definitely surprised me. I wasn’t expecting the Mattias angle or Gabriele part either. I did have a hard time staying engaged in the story but that could be just because it wasn’t something that I could connect with. Overall, I’m glad I read it but it definitely was different than I was expecting.

View all my reviews

A Cold Creek Christmas (Reigning Hearts, Book 5) by KG Fletcher – Review by Trish Ann

A Cold Creek Christmas (Reigning Hearts, #5)A Cold Creek Christmas by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely adore books by this author and this one did not disappoint! I am so glad that this book was my first read of December. What a sweet love story between Amber, Gio and essentially Talia as well. The story was short and flowed very nicely. It wasn’t burdened with unnecessary drama to take away from the true intention of the story. The ending was beautiful and the overall arc of the story was well done. I cannot wait to read more stories by this author, I haven’t been disappointed yet!

View all my reviews

Whatever Tomorrow Brings (Embrace Tomorrow Duet Book 2) by Amy Argent – Review by Trish Ann

Whatever Tomorrow Brings (Embrace Tomorrow #2)Whatever Tomorrow Brings by Amy Argent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a powerful conclusion to the duet! The rollercoaster ride this duet took the reader on was- woah! I was drawn in from the beginning and went through many tissues throughout the end. Will and Tori were crafted so beautifully in this. I look forward to reading more by this author. This book was emotionally draining in the best of ways.

View all my reviews

Conveniently Yours (Titans Of Manhattan BOOK 1) by Anise Storm – Review by Trish Ann

Conveniently Yours (Titans Of Manhattan #1)Conveniently Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoy books of this genre. Caspian is one of those alpha males that you love to hate. Usually, the alpha redeems his behavior but that didn’t really happen with this book. That is something different and I’m not completely sure how I feel about it. Especially since I loved Paisley so much. I would definitely read more by this author and would love to see where other storylines fall in this series.

View all my reviews

A Sweet Christmas: A Sweet Confections Novella by Nicole Richards – Review by Trish Ann

A Sweet ChristmasA Sweet Christmas by Nicole Richard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a sweet holiday read that gave the right feels for the holiday season. I really enjoyed the chemistry between Thea and Ben. It was nice to read a story that focused on positives without added drama or unnecessary plot points. I would definitely read more by this author in the future and would be interested to see the care of detail in a work that is longer. This one definitely did hit the mark for a holiday read.

View all my reviews

Unlikely to Fit (Parker Lake) by Olivia Sherwood – Review by Trish Ann

Unlikely to Fit (A Parker Lake Novel Book 2)Unlikely to Fit by Olivia Sherwood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I am definitely glad that I read book 1 already since it made me feel more connected to the book. I really enjoyed Breckin and Griff’s story. The story was very relatable and engaging as well as easy to connect to. Meemaw was definitely one of my favorite characters in this book. I really look forward to reading Book 3.

View all my reviews

Christmas Cookies on a Cruise Ship (The Perfect Pairing Series Book 1) by Parker Fairchild – Review by Trish Ann

Christmas Cookies on a Cruise Ship (The Perfect Pairings Series Book 1)Christmas Cookies on a Cruise Ship by Parker Fairchild
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a light, sweet holiday read. It would definitely make a cute Hallmark Christmas movie for sure. The interactions between the characters with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus was a unique touch. I really thought it was crafty that Jace actually exists and that Olivia was truly meant to meet him. That piece for the pairing was really sweet and different. There were some details that I felt kind of took away from the main story but overall I definitely enjoyed it.

View all my reviews

The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Trish Ann

The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria, #1)The Elements of the Crown by Kay L. Moody
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This started out slow for more me but as I got more involved, it really picked up for me. I enjoyed the elemental magic as well as the competition and strategy. There were several plot twists which really helped keep the hook that initially piqued my interest. This book felt like others I have read in this genre but with its own unique twist. I read this with the mindset of the target audience and I think that is what helped me feel connected when reading it. Overall worth the read.

View all my reviews

Spoilsport (Pierce Brothers Book 2) by Belinda Williams – Review by Trish Ann

Spoilsport (Pierce Brothers, #2)Spoilsport by Belinda Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love books like this one. I read the first one and fell in love with the Pierce Brothers. This story was no different. I really loved Luke and the way he go Nadia to turn around. Nadia bothered me in the first story as Chelsea’s best friend. This story I got to understand her a little more which made her come around for me a little more. If I didn’t enjoy the story and Luke as much as I did, I would have probably only given it 4 stars since it really took a lot for me to get around Nadia’s attitude and almost immaturity. The back and forth between Nadia and Luke was fun to see unfold as renovations went on. I hope that there will be more in this series with the other Pierce brothers.

View all my reviews

Cross-Country Christmas (A Silver Buckle Brides Romance) by Laurie Lewis – Review by Trish Ann

Cross-Country Christmas (Silver Buckle Brides #1)Cross-Country Christmas by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

There is great chemistry between CC and Reese. This was a good mix of romance with life lessons along the way. It gave a good picture of why it is important to not let the past hold you back from moving towards your future. I liked the part that Emmie and Carlos played in the story and the setting was a bonus for the story. This was a cozy Christmas read for sure. I would definitely read more by this author.

View all my reviews

The Groomsman (Unexpected Series – Book 2) by Marina Hanna – Review by Trish Ann

The GroomsmanThe Groomsman by Marina Hanna
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I absolutely enjoyed this book! I loved the chemistry between the two characters from the moment they met until the end. While I guessed parts of the story (which annoyed me yet I understand that Lauren did not), I found it really well put together. I felt at times that some of the immature/mature behaviors between Mark and Lauren got in the way of the flow even though I understand as a reader why they were built that way. I appreciated the arc their relationship had and I liked the way their outside friendships/relationships played a part in their development, too. I would definitely read other books by this author.

View all my reviews

CADE (DEFAULT DISTRACTION #3) by A. S. Roberts – Review by Trish Ann

Cade (Default Distraction #3)Cade by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this book.  Their intensity was palpable and fierce.  I did feel like I was missing something from the beginning since I didn’t read book 1 or 2 first.  It was a little angsty compared to what I usually read but I enjoyed it.  The haunts of the past really play really deeply into their relationship development. I look forward to reading the next book.

View all my reviews

LUKE (DEFAULT DISTRACTION #4) by A. S. Roberts – Review by Trish Ann

Luke (Default Distraction #4)Luke by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this book a little more than Cade but that could be because I was more connected to it having read part of the series.  I really appreciated seeing how they managed and coped despite the issues they had as well as encountered.  I liked the single parent angle and adored Brielle. This one had me edgy because I wanted to see if they made it work.  Definitely a good bow to tie up the series.

View all my reviews

Love’s Reverie (The Stardust Duet, Book 2) by KG Fletcher – Review by Trish Ann

Love's Reverie (The Stardust Duet, #2)Love’s Reverie by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was beautiful! I loved the first one and the second one did not disappoint. Watching Phillip navigate and be the focus was a good way to tie up the story. Definitely need to read them in order!
The love between the two of them is palpable, timeless and transcending. K.G. Fletcher did a beautiful job with this series setting love to music. “Their love was the beginning and the end- of everything.” That is indeed the truth.

View all my reviews

Snowflakes & Stockings (A Wilton Hills Christmas Book 4) by Marianne Rice – Review by Trish Ann

Snowflakes & Stockings (A Wilton Hills Christmas, #4)Snowflakes & Stockings by Marianne Rice
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely loved everything about this book. A perfect fit of this genre. The sweet building romance, the large loving family and holiday traditions both open and secret. Sawyer and Liberty had great chemistry. How could you not fall in love with Sawyer? He is thoughtful considerations and ability to assimilate into the Johnson family despite his tragic history was beautifully crafted. I am so glad with how the ending transpired. I definitely will be reading the other books in this series when it gets closer to December. This book was a cozy, holiday romance perfect for those that love this genre.

View all my reviews

Kingdom of Embers (Kingdom Journals Book 1) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Trish Ann

Kingdom of Embers (Kingdom Journals #1)Kingdom of Embers by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book a lot. I love vampire lore and this book had some different mythological aspects to it. Brining in the significance of the solstice as well as a trinity of players was a really interesting touch. I really liked the fiesty creature that Alena is and how she searching for answers to the questions she is not yet privy to have resolution for. I like her relationship with Hunter and really thought the twist at the end was good. I would love to dive more into her story, her relationship with her mother and what’s to come in the next 6 months as she prepares to turn 18. I would definitely read more by this author.

View all my reviews

Come Back Tomorrow (Embrace Tomorrow Duet Book 1) by Amy Argent – Review by Trish Ann

Come Back Tomorrow (Embrace Tomorrow, #1)Come Back Tomorrow by Amy Argent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I had a hard time putting this down.  My heart broke the whole time watching their story unfold.   It really emphasizes that hope and love are truly necessary when facing unfathomable obstacles.   Their connection was palpable and it made me so sad the pain they endured.  Will is a very lovable character and it saddens me that he is suffering so much at such a young age.
This book reminds me of Lurlene McDaniels books I used to read as a kid.   I cannot wait to read the second book and others by this author.

View all my reviews

Fool Me Twice by Gledé Browne Kabongo – Review by Trish Ann

Fool Me TwiceFool Me Twice by Glede Browne Kabongo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book. I thought the concept was interesting and the details were woven well. There were some parts that I did not really find were necessary particularly the relationship between Abbie and Ty. Also, I felt the ending was abrupt. While I understood the need for closure in that scene, I felt like the book just ended. I even went back because I thought I was missing something.

Overall, the story kept moving and held my attention. I would definitely read more by the author.

View all my reviews

Wrong for Him (The Love Lottery Series Book 3) by Christi Barth – Review by Trish Ann

Wrong for Him (Love Lottery, #3)Wrong for Him by Christi Barth
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

It took me a little bit to get into the story. While I ended up liking it, I had a hard time connecting with the characters. I did like how Amelia and Teague’s friendship developed into a romance despite the obstacles they had as well as their history. I think the depth of their background together added an interesting dimension to the group dynamic as well. I would definitely read more books by this author and possibly the first two in the series. Even though books like these are standalones, I always feel I’m missing something when I don’t start from book one.

View all my reviews

The Bastard Prince (It’s Raining Royals) by Alix Nichols – Review by Trish Ann

The Bastard Prince (It's Raining Royals, #2)The Bastard Prince by Alix Nichols
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed the partnership of Sasha and Arnaud. They were well suited and deficits in their character was often filled by the other. Sasha’s medical issues was an interesting character development which gave some depth to her fierceness as a leading lady. I also enjoy the secrecy of Mont Ever and the hunt for the keys. The details of the family his also something well done in these books. The pain the characters experiences prior to meeting one another fuels the need to work together for finding the answers they seek. The overall story itself is good and I look forward to seeing how this storyline continues to unfold.

View all my reviews