Posts

Children of the Wild (Children of the Wild Series) by Krysta Tawlks – Review by Emily H

Children of the WildChildren of the Wild by Krysta Tawlks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Young Elbert has been having unusual occurrences happening to him. Elbert finds out that that the strange things happening to him are escalating and that he will need to make a choice, because he has a gift of magic and he can follow that path or reject it altogether. Which path will Elbert take?

I thought this was written in such a way that you could easily visualize what was happening. I enjoyed the story and was eager to figure out what was happening with Elbert. I think young adults will be thrilled with Children of the Wild.

View all my reviews

Unclutter (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora – Review by Tanya Wall, December 2023

Unclutter: A Survivor's Story (Inner Voice, #1)Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story by Winnie D. Pagora
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story, the first book in the Inner Voice series by Winnie D. Pagora, is a rollercoaster of emotions that dives deep into overcoming trauma and finding your way back. The story is heavy and gritty, tackling sensitive topics like sexual abuse, mental health, and domestic violence. There are trigger warnings because it’s no light read. Truth is – I wasn’t sure I was going to enjoy it.

Tina’s journey is shockingly heart-wrenching, but you get to see her grow and overcome, adding a layer of depth to the story. Despite the heaviness, there are touching moments, true friendships, and resilience that balance it out. Pagora nails the realism without falling into stereotypes, and the relationships in the book feel authentic and nuanced.

Sure, it’s a bit wordy, and the heavy stuff slows it down, but that doesn’t take away from the overall impact. “Unclutter” pleasantly surprised me. It’s not your typical contemporary, but it’s a genuine, slow-paced exploration of recovery and relationships. It might lag a bit in the middle, but if you’re patient and up for a deeper dive, it’s definitely worth a read.

View all my reviews

Seraphina (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Kerry Baker

SeraphinaSeraphina by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have loved this series from the moment I started reading and I think this one has to be my favourite so far. Seraphina is a fantastic character. I connected with her so much more than I expected I would and I loved to see how she developed throughout the book. And Seth was just the perfect pairing with Seraphina. They were brilliant together and highly entertaining.
This author really knows how to create fantastic stories. Everything I read by her I thoroughly enjoy and I love that they are all so different. This book was brilliant to read and I am excited to see what else this series has to offer.

View all my reviews

Unclutter (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora – Review by Tonya Merritt

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

This story was really hard to get through as a survivor of abuse. It is a wonderful story. Pagora wrote the book in such a manner that will gather all emotions available and bring them out of you. This story will allow you to heal and help you understand so much that survivors go through. Definitely recommend this to anyone.

View all my reviews

The Uncrowned King (The Blood Prince Series) by Ayla Marie – Review by Darla Yocom

The Uncrowned King (The Blood Prince, #2)The Uncrowned King by Ayla Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Anytime a mercenary reveals he is a prince, the story is going to get interesting. I’m a new reader to this author but I was hooked immediately with this book. The cover art is great and the synopsis is intriguing. So I dove into the story of Leo who we learn never knew his parents. He travels to the lands of his royal bloodline to find a safe place for him and his siblings to live without the constant fear of being killed or exploited due to his true identity.

Leo is an interesting character and admittedly it took me a bit to warm up to him. By the end of the book, I think he may be one of the best characters yet.

When he’s initially faced with the idea of taking his rightful place on the throne, he immediately rejects the idea. Then he and his family try to learn everything they can about royal family, their ways. Most importantly, they need to learn who they can trust, who they should watch and how they can keep themselves safe.

I enjoyed the pace of the storyline and the complexity of the characters. I think YS fantasy fiction fans will be entertained.

View all my reviews

Unclutter (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora – Review by Nakyshia Leger

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

I was nervous to read and unpack this story due to past experiences of my own.. however, I found the journey beautifully healing. Tina is a complex soul just trying to survive the world that broke her. The experiences are raw and emotional, and all too real. The author did not hold back and while some may find that triggering, I appreciate it. Tina’s healing journey was emotional and heart wrenching, but everything I needed to experience with her. There were a lot of loose ends in the story, but I know that leaves rooms for other characters to develop and the story to continue which I am SO here for!

View all my reviews

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

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

Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D. Pagora- 5 out of 5 stars

This story hits my heart really close to home. Tina is in pain, traumatized, lost a part of herself that she can never get back, and yet she fights through it all because she is a survivor. I wanted to jump into the pages so bad to give Tina a big momma hug. That being said, this author does a beautiful job at dealing with such a delicate subject. I highly recommend but please take in account your mental health.

View all my reviews

Seraphina (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Jules Herbert

SeraphinaSeraphina by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This 4th book in the series is as fun and quirky as the rest and will have you laughing out loud and turning page after page with joy as you follow along with Seraphina and all her antics as she tries to help Seth a Cocky, full of himself Hockey player. Seraphina definitely has more Sass than the rest and I absolutely loved that about her! With this assignment she needed that for sure! I truly love this author and her creativity. I am a fan and always will be.

View all my reviews

Malayeka (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Jules Herbert

Malayeka (Heartstrings Book 3)Malayeka by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book 3 of this super fun and quirky series brings us Malayeka when she is given her next assignment to help Billie and Leo who are actually friends but have to keep their friendship a secret due to feuding families. Yet again this amazing author gives us a fun storyline filled with wonderful characters who I was cheering on right from the start. Bring on the next book because I am having so much fun I need more!

View all my reviews

Faida (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Jules Herbert

Faida (Heartstrings Book 2)Faida by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This wonderful author brings us yet another fun and quirky tale with this second book of the series. Faida, our cupid featured in this book definitely has a difficult assignment ahead of her with Robert a single devoted Dad. They all weaved their way into my heart, especially Roberts daughter Alice. I can’t wait to see what is in store for us with the next book of the series

View all my reviews

Aiko (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Jules Herbert

Aiko (Heartstrings #1)Aiko by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Aiko is basically known as the screwup! She is taken off suspension, given her first assignment in many years and right from the start you know it’s not going to be easy but it is going to be so much fun! LOL This is a fantastic start to what I just know will be a fun series from this wonderful author!

View all my reviews

Seraphina (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Juls Dick

SeraphinaSeraphina by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Seraphina is the 4th book in the Heartstrings series by Brooke May. Although this is part of a series this is the first book I have read by this author and was able to read as a standalone. Seraphina is a cupid, sent by the actual Cupid to take on cases on earth and help two people find their love. When she is tasked with helping hockey player Seth, she finds herself facing a familiar challenge. She has attempted to help Seth twice before without success, but she is determined to get it right this time. She just needs to take the right approach. I liked this book; it was a fun premise and easy to read. I felt it could have been longer as it seemed that the characters personality switched really fast, but I was a fun romance story.

View all my reviews

Unclutter (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora – Review by Lucy Machard

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

This book was absolutely amazing. I took my time reading it, and it was honestly a hard book to read. Surviving through abuse is such a hard thing to manage, and from personal experience, I want to give major props to the author for how well this was done. I’m so proud of the main character’s fight and resiliency; and I can’t wait to see more from her.

View all my reviews

Grave Digger Academy II (Grave Digger Academy Book 2) by C.A. King – Review by Shannen Kern

Grave Digger Academy IIGrave Digger Academy II by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Grave Digger Academy Series and I loved this one even more than the last! Makayla is now in her second year at the Grave Digger Academy, but somehow the beginning of the school year throws a lot of curveballs at her. With plenty of mischief, friends, drama, and surprises, there’s no way this year will be boring. I flew through this book so quickly because I was not going to be interrupted! There is definitely something weird about the school this year, but will they be able to figure it out and stay safe? I highly recommend this series, but I would start with book one so that you can get the full backstory!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

View all my reviews

Grave Digger Academy (Grave Digger Academy Book 1) by C.A. King – Review by Shannen Kern

Grave Digger AcademyGrave Digger Academy by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have read other books by this author before, so I knew I was going to enjoy this one. I didn’t have any idea how much I would love it though! I really enjoy the supernatural fantasy genre, so this was right up my alley. Makayla ends up at Grave Digger Academy after being denied at all of the other schools she applied to. The curriculum they learn at Grave Digger Academy is quite interesting and not the same as the definition of gravedigger we know. The flow of the story was great, as were the characters. I had a difficult time putting this one down because I loved getting lost in their world. I highly recommend if you love the supernatural!

Reviewed by @shannlynn
View all my reviews

Grave Digger Academy II (Grave Digger Academy Book 2) by C.A. King – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Grave Digger Academy IIGrave Digger Academy II by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Grave Digger Academy series. I would recommend reading the first before starting this one. Following on from the previous book, Makayla returns to school to news of the inter-academy competition bringing with is more problems for Makayla and her friends.
This is a short but fun read nonetheless. I enjoyed finding out more about the way the academies run e.g., funding, as this added a little extra to the story and made for an interesting storyline. I was happy to reconnect with old characters and find out more about them as they develop throughout the competition.
As with the first book, I only wish it had been longer. But the author has done a good job and I am sure I will enjoy the next book in the series.

View all my reviews

Grave Digger Academy (Grave Digger Academy Book 1) by C.A. King – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Grave Digger AcademyGrave Digger Academy by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Grave Digger Academy series. This is a series that I’ve been wanting to read for a while now, so I was happy to finally get the chance. Although short, this was still a fun, enjoyable read.
I enjoyed the plot and felt the overall story was written well, creating a magical world to get sucked into. I liked the characters, particularly Makayla. I felt for her when she started school at a place she had not intended and starts off so isolated. Starting with disappointment is was interesting to see what would happen as the role of the Grave Digger was revealed. I can see a lot of potential in this series, and book 1 was a good introduction into the world.
I only wish the book was longer and went more in depth in some areas, but overall considering the length, the author did a good job and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.

View all my reviews

Unclutter (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora – Review by Ashley Sugar

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

The shocking turns were definitely shocking. My gosh this book had me feeling so many different emotions! Sadness, anger, hopeful…all of it. The topics in this book are rather dark and heavy. Tina has gone through quite a bit of stuff in her life and I feel for her so much! As much as this book made me sad and upset, I did enjoy it. Definitely kept my attention.

View all my reviews

Unclutter (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora – Review by Carrie Cross

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

“Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story” by Winnie D. Pagora is a powerful and inspiring memoir that takes readers on a journey of resilience, self-discovery, and ultimately, healing.
Pagora’s writing is raw and honest, inviting readers into her world and sharing her experiences with authenticity. The author’s storytelling ability is commendable, as she navigates through difficult and traumatic events while providing insights and moments of reflection.
The book delves into the depths of trauma and its impact on one’s life, but it also shines a light on the strength of the human spirit and the power of healing. Tina’s journey from victim to survivor is both heartbreaking and inspiring, and her courage in sharing her story is evident throughout the pages.
What sets “Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story” apart is its focus on the process of self-healing and personal growth. The book provides valuable lessons and practical advice for readers who may be facing their own struggles, making it not just a memoir, but also a guide towards finding inner strength and moving forward.
Although the subject matter can be difficult and heavy, Pagora’s writing is imbued with hope and resilience. This creates a balance in the narrative that allows readers to connect with the author and find solace in her words.
In conclusion, “Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story” is a powerful memoir that sheds light on the journey of healing and resilience. Winnie D. Pagora’s ability to share her story with vulnerability and grace makes this book a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration, understanding, and hope in the face of adversity.

View all my reviews

The Uncrowned King (The Blood Prince Series) by Ayla Marie – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Uncrowned King (The Blood Prince, #2)The Uncrowned King by Ayla Marie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is book 2 in The Blood Prince. First, you will want to read book 2 if you haven’t. It is best read in order. The author sets things up in book 1. This book is terrific. The author continues the saga with adventure, drama, so many twists and turns. I found this story so intriguing because of it. It is billed as a YA/Fantasy but anyone would love it. It’s one of those books that you can’t set down once you start. It’s really got a bit of everything for you. The author is still in HS and shows such great talent as writing this. I can’t wait for book 3 to see what’s coming next. I’ve been on the edge-of-my-seat-so-far and I’m sure I’ll be again for the next one. Again, you should check this series out.

View all my reviews

The Uncrowned King (The Blood Prince Series) by Ayla Marie – Review by Jennifer Reimer

The Uncrowned King (The Blood Prince, #2)The Uncrowned King by Ayla Marie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book to the series, and this is one series you’ll want to start from the beginning. I feel if you dot read the first one you will be lost. This story was just as good as the first one. It held me from the beginning, it as action packed, and filled with so much drama, and twists and turns that it was hard to put down. I was so into this book that it was hard for me to out down. The story flooded so will and went really well together that I didn’t feel like I was missing something or skipping anything. I really enjoyed the character development in all the kids in this book. This book was captivating from the beginning, I highly recommend it.

View all my reviews

Seraphina (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Barbara Bohls

SeraphinaSeraphina by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the fourth book in the series and you don’t have to read the other books before this one to understand what is going on. This is the first one that I have read in this series and it was such a cute quick read for me that I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series. I really like the idea of Cupid’s helpers and the whole romanticized idea that Cupid brings. This story has amazing characters that are quick witted, have a bit of a temper, and have growth for what is needed in this book. This book is realistic in the way that bot everything happens properly the first time and it might take a couple tries to get it right. I didn’t how much I would like that when it isn’t instant. This book was a really quick read for me as I couldn’t put it down because I needed to know what happened next. I highly suggest thus book if you are looking to just sink into a book and escape for a few hours. You won’t be disappointed in this choice.
Reviewed by: @bbohls

View all my reviews

Seraphina (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Bobbi Wagner

SeraphinaSeraphina by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an author that I never hesitate to pick up. I enjoy her writing skills that make her stories come to life on every page. Her characters are written with a lot of spunk and heart. This book is no different. This is a well written story about Seraphina and a hockey player that she has failed a couple of times in the past. She is determined not to fail him a third time. This is a great romance story that is fast paced and hard to put down. A story where the author used details to make the story realistic which I had no problems picturing myself in this story. The characters are relatable and add so much to the story. They have great growth and chemistry throughout. They pull you into their story with ease and keep you there until the end. I really enjoyed this book and I think you will as well. I highly recommend this book.

View all my reviews

Review by @bjwagner

The Uncrowned King (The Blood Prince Trilogy Book #2) by Ayla Marie – Review by Angela Hayes

The Uncrowned King (The Blood Prince, #2)The Uncrowned King by Ayla Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

The Uncrowned King is the second book in The Blood Prince Trilogy by Ayla Marie. This follows on from the first book, so I highly recommend reading The Blood Prince before starting on this instalment. There is a lot of important information, character details, and backstory contained there that you will want to know in order to fully appreciate this book.
It is another engrossing YA story which had me intrigued and invested in- right from the get-go. The story is an action-packed adventure with danger, dramatic developments, twists, powers, agendas, and much more. A really well-woven story with superb world-building and interesting characters.
I need to know what happens next so bring on Book #3- I can’t wait.
Happy Reading!

Thank you, Ayla Marie!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

View all my reviews

Seraphina (Heartstrings Series Book #4) by Brooke May – Review by Angela Hayes

SeraphinaSeraphina by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

Seraphina is the fourth book in the Heartstrings series by Brooke May. Even though this is the fourth book in the series, you don’t have to have read the first three books in order to enjoy this one. Each book in the series focuses on one of ‘Cupid’s’ chosen ones- we follow as a member of his team helps humans find love. But, in saying that, each book is a great read in its own right, and reading the entire series helps to build a better understanding and appreciation of the stories.
We have met Seraphina in the previous books, and to be quite honest from those ‘interactions’, I really wasn’t sure I was going to ‘like’ her enough to enjoy this story or be able to ‘invest’ in it. But I need not have worried as Ms. May ensured that she won me over- as did Seth and Marron- Seraphina’s assignment.
I love how Ms. May has crafted such wonderfully quirky characters who each have their own unique personalities, quirks, and flaws. Seraphina was so much more than she first appears- which made this story all the more fun to follow.
This is a fairly light-hearted and fun paranormal romance with cupids, drama, chemistry, connection, redemption, and emotion. Will Seraphina succeed in finding a love match for a scandal riddled hockey player? You really should read all the engrossing developments for yourself.
Looking forward to Book #5!

Thank you, Brooke May!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

View all my reviews

Seraphina (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Emily H

SeraphinaSeraphina by Brooke May
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Seraphina has had it with her task of cupid and her target Seth Maxwell. He is a tabloid nightmare and more difficult to match then she thought possible. Seraphina has a plan though to make the perfect match, will Seth find his happily ever after or will Seraphina fail at the match?

Fun read. I liked that Seraphina was different then than what you would expect from Cupid. Seth is an entertaining bad boy who is not happy with the changes he has to make. Great read for the holidays.

View all my reviews

The Uncrowned King (The Blood Prince Series) by Ayla Marie – Review by Ayla Phipps

The Uncrowned King (The Blood Prince Book 2)The Uncrowned King by Ayla Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Illena is nothing without its people. I have eagerly awaited book two in this unique world for over a year and it’s finally here. The author, Ayla Marie, does not disappoint with book two of the Blood Prince series. Yes, this is a book that reading book one first is a must as this is a continuation of the first book. Three perspectives as the previous book did Leo, Cael, and Elana.
Leo, Cael, Byrne, and the kids have fled Wate with great loss, but they did it they found the bay. Arkezo, Leo’s place of origin, or at least where his father is from. He’s found his Bloodline and the family that comes with it. Cael always at Leo’s side shares in the unease of the change from the shadows to the finery of royalty and holding on to who they are and not letting their values be influenced. Elana is still in Wate, suffering still under fear of her father, Cassien. But she’s only remained for a purpose a life thought lost to Leo, Cael, and their siblings. Elana can’t leave until the timing is right to get him out too. Leo and Elana hold each other in a sacred place in the others’ souls a light to keep going until they can be reunited. Leo finds several new titles amongst the people of Illena, that make him feel inhuman and uncomfortable as he fights against the rigid lifestyle he’s forced into. Discovering he has a cousin, Ares, that helps them understand this new lifestyle, Leo refuses to turn his back on the people of Illena as the other bloodlines do. After he and Cael save a family from a house fire in the Riv, the slums of Arkezo, things begin to take a more rapid shift. Leo proves that his blood is not more important to him than the blood of the people. A country is made of its people not the other way around. Everyone is listening, and when the truth is revealed, Leo is left with a dark choice.
Will Leo succeed in finding peace for his family to live in? Can Ares and the other Bloodlines be trusted? The world grows and seems to come full circle for the Heal siblings as they find themselves in similar situations as before. While the world grows darker and the people more twisted, Leo and his siblings find small moments to steal smiles and giggle with each other, to share an unspoken hope of peace. Left speechless by the events and yet not surprised as Leo seeps into your soul and you know what his decisions will be before they happen. He lives to protect those that he loves. Now it’s Elana’s turn to go in search of who she loves. I am already waiting for book three for the grand finale of this unique and all-consuming series that is The Blood Prince.

View all my reviews

Seraphina (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Beverly Finnie

SeraphinaSeraphina by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’m very familiar with this author, so I didn’t hesitate to give this book a shot. Seraphina is a sweet story. A bad boy finding his way again. With some romance thrown in.
How would you feel if Cupid/a Cupid helper ended up on your doorstep?
Well that’s exactly what happens in this story.
Seraphina ends up on the doorstep of the one man she’s tried to help twice and failed.
Is the 3rd time the charm?
Seth is a hockey bad boy. He’s constantly receiving bad publicity. He only cares about himself. He is a selfish teammate. Yet these are all qualities he’s developed over the years. He was never this guy when his grandmother was alive.
Can he be reformed?
Mallen is one of the many who helps keep Greater Chances up and running. For kids that don’t have the same advantages due to their families social/financial standing in society. So one day when a hot shot hockey player comes in from the local pro-team she has every reason to be skeptical. What is he getting out of this?
It wasn’t until Cupid’s Helper revealed herself that she learned the true purpose of what’s in play.
However, is that enough?
Can the character’s in play keep their ego in check for the greater good of the story?
You will just have to read and find out!

@placexba
View all my reviews

Seraphina (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Jennifer Ramos

SeraphinaSeraphina by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Seraphina (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Jennifer Ramos
I’ve read a few of Brooke May’s previous books and really enjoyed them. This series did not disappoint! It was such a cute and funny story. Quick and enjoyable read! Another of Cupid’s helper is Seraphina, quick to anger and thrown into quite a challenge for her next assignment. A popular hockey play for all the wrong reasons. Seth does a much better job at finding trouble rather than finding love. Quite a comical journey to getting to where he is at to where he needs to be.

View all my reviews

Malayeka (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Jennifer Ramos

Malayeka (Heartstrings Book 3)Malayeka by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ve read a few of Brooke May’s previous books and really enjoyed them. This series did not disappoint! It was such a cute and funny story. Quick and enjoyable read! Definitely to read books in order to make better sense of tidbits along the way. Another one of Cupid’s helpers, Malayeka, has been helping with matching her humans with such an impact that its effects are still felt two centuries in a small village dealing amongst feuding families. Reminds some of the essence behind a pair of a famous pair of star crossed lovers. In the midst of this feuding, there is a pair of strong heartstrings that are strongly connected but is Malayeka up to the challenge to bring them together?

View all my reviews