This is the first book I’ve read by this author. I like reading mysteries from time to time and thought this would be an interesting read as it takes place in Chicago in the 1880’s. Although I haven’t read the prior books in the series, I was able to figure out how all the characters connected. I’m sure the book would be even better if I had read the first two books in the series. In this book, Emma finds out that sh is inheriting a large sum from a prior client. With help from her team of friends, Emma steers her way through danger, intrigue, and so much more. I really enjoyed getting to know the characters and found aspects that I could relate to. I think I will be reading the first two books in this series soon.
This book was a pleasant surprise from start to finish. Not usually a fan of science fiction I was instantly hooked into a story line that kept my attention from start to finish. While I would say this is geared towards young adult, it was an enjoyable read for anyone! Highly recommend if your looking for the right story to bring you in to science fiction.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kay Striteskyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKay Stritesky2022-03-18 20:24:072022-03-19 07:14:21Seven Strengths: A Tale from Turaset (The Industrial Age) by P.L. Tavormina – Review by Kay Stritesky
I’m not sure what caused me to pick this book because not only is the cover art creepy, I knew the story included clowns, and not just happy clowns but scary clowns. I’m definitely a person who can clearly say scary, creepy clowns are not my forte but the reviews associated with this book are incredible and I cannot pass up an incredible story.
Abbey is the main character, a teenager, student who has enrolled in a new school, but before the first day arrives, her father, a journalist, asks the family to join him by visiting the visiting circus as he gathers intel for his next big story on the history of clowns. As a typical teenager, Abbey wanted to pass on joining any family function if it included visiting the circus of all places, but she ultimately chose to go along. While there, she watches the entertainment, then roams around behind the scenes. When she comes across a crowd of clowns chatting about someone, out walks Rellik, the creepiest, scariest clown she had ever seen. When he looked into her eyes, as he walked by, fear riddled her body and she could feel goosebumps on her arms. Little did she know, her future would hold a lot more clowns and danger.
I wasn’t sure if I would be able to get through this book and believe me there were times, I thought the creepy factor was going to get to me, but the book is so good and so well written. I loved the way Abbey constantly thought of specific 80’s songs throughout the story which made the book have a bit of a soundtrack, which was unexpected. She often felt older than your typical teenager, seeing as how she handled her special “gift” and the drama that came with it.
The author did a great job making the villain someone you could feel disdain for and hope he would have a strike of bad luck.
I loved how Abbey started to learn about teamwork and the love that you can enjoy by joining a team, a sisterhood of her fellow soccer players. They go through a lot while dealing with clowns invading the school and the disappearance of a few friends but in the end, I think the entire situation brings them all closer together.
I enjoyed this story, even with the creepy clowns and look forward to reading more from the author. This was very well written, easy to read and follow along and kept me intrigued and on edge from the very beginning.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Darlahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDarla2022-03-18 20:19:262022-03-19 07:13:46Class Clown (Ghost Girl Series) by Allan Evans – Review by Darla Yocom
I was pleasantly surprised by this novel. As I read the synopsis of the story I thought although it was not my normal cup of tea but what the heck I will give it a shot and I am happy I did. Abbey’s story is unique and I found it interesting. The story had adventure and surprises, I could not put it down until I finished. If you enjoy ghost stories with a twist then I highly recommend this series to you. I look forward to reading more from him.
The Notebook Mysteries series is an intelligently-written set of novels set in the 1880s, with a smart feminist protagonist. Emma runs her own business, employs workers, solves crimes, and supports those in need of help. When she is given the opportunity to help even more people, with the help of a large inheritance, she expands her network to handle the responsibilities of that role. But there is more than enough excitement beyond that – mysteries to solve, trouble to set right, and even working out how to be with the man she loves without the bonds and limitations of marriage and children. It is great to see a series about such a smart capable woman living her best life, especially in the late 19th Century. A good YA mystery novel with elements of many genres, I think this story has wide appeal for lots of readers.
Class Clown by Allan Evans is the second installment in this set (The first is Abnormally Abbey). I have not read the first book, but had no issue getting into this one and did not feel like I was missing information, so it can be read as a standalone. After reading this one, I will be going back and reading Abnormally Abbey (and others by this author) as it was exceptionally interesting to me, and different than your “typical” ghost story. Abbey is your average 14yr old high school girl….or is she? She can see and communicate with spirits, but this is not always as fun as it may sound. This time, she has piqued the interest of a clown at the traveling circus that has come to town…and he seems pretty intent on following and harassing her. But that is only where it starts, now her new-found soccer teammates are starting to come up missing…Is it all connected? If THAT doesn’t catch your attention, there are TONS of 80s music references in here to keep all of us “old people” in a nostalgic head spin. I can’t give away TOO much, but this was definitely worth the read. Reviewed by @zoltrixes
This book had such a flow to it, that I couldn’t put it down! The title alludes to a children’s song in the book, and characters harken back to it periodically through the novel. Who can’t relate to the heroine, a reluctantly dutiful daughter who wants the freedom to make her own decisions about her life? Readers confront the effects of technology. So-called civilization is juxtaposed against rural life. Ultimately, the protagonist must decide how she wants to live her life, something we all must do at some point.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Alison Risherhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAlison Risher2022-03-18 17:13:552022-03-19 07:05:11Seven Strengths: A Tale from Turaset (The Industrial Age) by P.L. Tavormina – Review by Alison Risher
I like finding new authors and I like to check out different genres from my norm. I found that the author had a refreshing plot and a unique story. I found that the story had enough drama and action to really keep the reader’s attention. I felt as though I was there right in the thick of the action.
I really enjoyed the the fantasy/sci-fi aspect of this story. I am quite sure that the actual given audience for this book would really enjoy this book. The author has a story that will engage the reader. I would definitely read more from this author in the future.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Caralee Loonathttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCaralee Loonat2022-03-18 16:26:012022-03-19 07:04:17Seven Strengths : A Tale from Turaset ( The Industrial Age) by P.L. Tavormina – Review by Caralee Loonat
In this book the author transported me back in time to Chicago 1885 and what a wonderful story it was. I really enjoyed this book and found it so engaging to read, I really did feel like I was on this journey with the main character Emma trying to solve the mystery with her. The author really managed to grab my attention from the very beginning with her wonderful descriptive language and fabulous story telling. I haven’t read the first two books in this series and I absolutely will be doing so, it may just help me get to know and understand the characters a little better but I can honestly say I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read more from this author!
I always love enjoy a good academy series. I know you shouldn’t judge a book by it’s cover but shhhh because I always do. The covers for each of these books are absolutely gorgeous. Maddie Hawthorne is a powerful with from a legacy family. Aiden is a wolf shifter, together their dynamic is so perfect. These books are very well written, the details are flawless. I just love everything about these books.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jasmin Slaglehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJasmin Slagle2022-03-18 12:16:572022-03-19 06:57:04The Thunderbird Academy Trilogy Box Set by Valia Lind-Reviewed by Jasmin Slagle
I love Abbey, she’s got all the sass. I didn’t know there was another book about her. I’ll have to go back and read it too. Abbey sees and talks to creepy clown ghosts all day at school. But, when students start going missing, she knows it’s up to her to find out why.
This book was a quick read and was so good. It sucked me in from the first page and I actually forgot it was a novella. When it ended I wanted more. The story was original and I can’t wait to read the other books from this world. It’s also a great reminder that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Johnson2022-03-18 11:03:382022-03-19 06:54:03Seven Strengths: A Tale from Turaset (The Industrial Age) by P.L. Tavormina – Review by Ashley Johnson
I love a good mystery. I enjoyed the fact that the female characters were making important life decisions for themselves, such as employment, romantic entanglements, and whether or not to marry. In a time period where women were beginning to assert themselves, it is interesting to read a story where characters actually do things that women of today take for granted. I liked the fact that most of the male characters were supportive and encouraging of their female counterparts. The author brings varied themes to her tale.
Emma Evans is back to solve more mysteries. Now 18 years old our heroine is ready to take on bigger more dangerous crimes to solve. This book is charming and intriguing. While you should probably start with the first book in the series, I feel you can probably catch on rather well if you start with this one. I loved Emma’s friends and family and her ability to take on more dangerous adventures. There are also a lot of exciting plot twists and turns that I greatly enjoyed. A very engaging book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00La Toya Lewishttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLa Toya Lewis2022-03-18 08:27:142022-03-18 08:27:14Notebook Mysteries ~Decisions and Possibilities (Notebook Mysteries Book 2) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by La Toya Lewis
Once again the stakes are raised for Emma. Changes and Challenges definitely rose to the occasion. I really enjoyed how we saw Emma and Jeremy navigating their relationship during this time period. Just as charming and intriguing as the previous book, this book has Emma put all of her talents to use to solve her latest mystery. This is a well-written adventure with historical facts woven in. It was also great to see old friends pop up. I really enjoyed the latest addition to the Notebook Mysteries series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00La Toya Lewishttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLa Toya Lewis2022-03-18 08:09:452022-03-18 08:09:45Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges (Notebook Mysteries Book 3) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by La Toya Lewis
This YA paranormal read pulls you right in! First I loved all the 80’s music references! Now this isn’t your typical paranormal read. There is actually nothing typical about this book. Clowns have always been creepy to me so to read about them I definitely wanted the lights on! I love Abbey’s thought process about everything that’s happening at Pine Ridge. Also really enjoyed the side story with Peter! I look forward to reading more from this author especially when I found out there’s a first book about Abbey!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Carlahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCarla2022-03-18 07:58:512022-03-18 07:58:51Class Clown ( Ghost Girl Series ) by Allan Evans – Review by Carla Clemmons
A very interesting cozy mystery. When I first saw the cover of this cozy mystery and having read the previous two books I just knew that I had to read it. That being said if you haven’t read the previous two books in this series, I wouldn’t recommend starting with this one. While it could be read as a stand alone you might find it hard to understand the characters and the setting if you start here. But trust me when I say you won’t be sorry if you read the whole series. The writers story is highly original, the characters are amazing, and this cozy mystery has everything that a girl could ask for. So if your looking for a great new mystery to read this weekend then pick this one up today.
This book finds Emma and her cohorts involved in several mysteries! She finds out she has come into a significant inheritance that she, with the help of her teammates, decides to put to charitable use. As they set up the fund, there are several hurdles that they encounter. New friends are made, and new buildings are acquired for their purposes. Good news abounds for her sister and Emma finds herself in a bit of a medical emergency. The bad guys keep coming and adventures always seems to find her wherever she goes. After they set up their charitable agency, an old enemy tries to thwart their plans. Will the team be able to track him down before disaster strikes?
This is a most enjoyable series! There is always something going on mystery-wise. Emma solves one and the next one seems to find her without her even trying! I like how she always seems to be in the right place at the right time to solve everything, but it is through her observations that she figures it out. I feel like anyone could take a page out of her notebook and learn to observe others before responding!
Having read and enjoyed the previous two books in this series I was looking forward to this third novel and was definitely not disappointed. It was good being back with Emma Evans as her adventures with solving crimes and mysteries continued, in this enjoyable and engaging YA novel. Set in Chicago, in 1885, Emma is contacted about the reading of a will involving a prior client, she has to determine if this inheritance is a good thing or not. On a trip to New York City, Jeremy and Emma become closer and their relationship deepens, so much so that they want to stay together on their return, but there are limited choices for a young couple in 1885. A new case soon becomes complex involving, kidnapping, murder, drugs and hidden plots, luckily Emma has a team of both old and new friends to help her solve this. However, the case becomes personal when secrets are exposed about Jeremy and Emma’s personal life, and loved ones are put in danger. Emma also agrees to meet Tony in Paris as he needs help, but Jeremy has an ulterior motive when he convinces her to go alone. The authors descriptive narrative brings the settings and era vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the story. The exciting storyline and plot twists kept me hooked from start to finish, and I liked ‘catching up’ with old friends from the previous books. This can be read as a standalone story, but for more of an understanding of Emma’s backstory, I would recommend reading the series in order. I hope there will be a fourth book in this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-03-18 07:50:282022-03-18 07:50:28Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges (Notebook Mysteries Book 3) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Jennifer Gordon
This book was amazing, I could not put it down. This book really kept me on the edge of my seat, guessing what was going to happen next. I had to really keep reminding myself that the characters were only teenagers, but they were amazing. The creativity the author made with this story was just phenomenal. I was pulled into his world and did not want to leave. I always enjoy a story to with back stories or flash back it really makes you understand the characters like Vanessa better. I really recommend this book to read. Cant wait to read the next ones
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Reimerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Reimer2022-03-18 07:42:592022-03-18 07:42:59Shock of Fate (Anchoress Series Book 1) by D.L. Armillei – Review by Jennifer Reimer
This is book three in this exciting young adult historical mystery series. As with the previous two books, I thoroughly enjoyed this one as well. Then again I am into historical books, so this was a no-brainer for me to pick up to read. And it picked up right where the previous book ended. I must admit I always love when series books do that because it is easier to keep up with. This one took place in Chicago which I am very familiar with as I have family that lives there so it was fun to read a mystery taking place there in the 1800’s. I love these characters. And the author does a wonderful job with the mystery and suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat. I enjoyed it just as much as the previous books. I can’t wait to ready book four.
Praise for the character development in Apocalypse! Seth, Miriam and the whole crew are going through a good deal of emotional growth not to mention an Apocalypse at the same time! Thank you, Theresa for writing such fascinating characters. One of the best Young Adult novels I’ve read in a while. The Epic tale of good vs. evil feels so appropriate in the Garden of Edenia. I look forward to the next installment and future works by this author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Victoria Trifuhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngVictoria Trifu2022-03-18 07:40:012022-03-18 07:40:01Apocalypse (Guardians of the Garden Book 2) by Theresa Pocock – Review by Victoria Trifu
Notebook Mysteries- Changes and Challenges is the third instalment in the Notebook Mysteries series by Kimberly Mullins. This story picks up a soon after the events in books two- so I would recommend reading the previous book/s before starting on this one, as I feel that knowing what happened previously will give you a better understanding and appreciation of the characters, motivations, and foundations of the story- which in turn will enhance your reading experience of this book. Emma Evens is once again thrust into intrigue and mystery which brings a whole new set of changes and challenges. With crime and investigation, suspense, drama, danger, adventure, and a little romance- this quirky historical mystery is my favourite of the series, so far. Looking forward to seeing what Emma (and the team) get up to in ‘Unexpected Outcomes’, Book #4 in the series. Happy Reading!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2022-03-17 08:04:222022-03-17 08:04:22Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges (Notebook Mysteries Book 3) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Angela Hayes
Uhm. I hate clowns. With a passion. But this book, oh gosh it was so so good. Abbey is a force, and at only 14, I sure wouldn’t be messing with her. This was my first book from this author, 10/10 stars for you! It was hard to leave it and I really want a second book…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ember Daleyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmber Daley2022-03-17 07:57:432022-03-17 07:57:43Class Clown (Ghost Girl Series) by Allan Evans – Review by Ember Daley
3.5 stars The third book in this cozy mystery series sees Emma once again ensconced in murder and mayhem. You need to read the first two books as they follow on from each other. In doing so you get to know the characters in more depth and have a better understanding of where they have been and what shaped them. We meet up again with old friends and dig our way through suspense and mystery, kidnapping and drugs. Our strong-minded sleuth is not one to step away from a challenge. So, stepping up to handle a charity is just what she will do and do well to help those in need. Add in a trip to Paris and a romance where they want more and the adventure ramps up.
OMG I freaking love this book! It was definitely different than I was expecting even with the cover. I started reading it and it kept me reading more and more. I’m not a very big fan of clowns at all and when the ghost clowns happened I almost stopped but couldn’t. I had to finish the book. I’m so glad I did because it was so good. Abbey is such a wonderful character and heroine of the book. I truly hope that the author makes a second book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kristinehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKristine2022-03-17 07:53:192022-03-17 07:53:19Class Clown (Ghost Girl Series) by Allan Evans – Review by Kristine Solano-Witucky
This series is amazing to say the least! I love the sleuth Emma and her adventures she goes on I love the atmosphere the books take place on as well! I love how the mystery takes time to unravel and you have to use your own sleuth skills to figure out what the “culprit is”
Something I do love about this author, is they have created a wonderful heroine you can not help but love! I love Emma and her mind. She is bright as they come I would say. What I love about Emma is she never leaves her mind far from the truth. I also love how descriptive the author is when they are writing. I feel as if I am transported to a different time. The book was nothing short of amazing. Loved it, and I was just left wanting more. I loved the book, the characters, and how things led up to the end!
Amazing book, that truly is a ride of enjoyment! Love the author as well! I love their writing skill truly. I highly recommend this book, this author and this series! A must read!
I read Class Clown because of the clown apocalypse. I have always enjoyed a dystopian fantasy read and adding something like clowns was super intriguing. The term apocalypse was a bit overstated for this book, as the clowns Abbey keeps seeing are ghost. Abbey has a unique ability to see and is a self titled spook magnet. Abbey begins at a new school and on a whim joins the girls soccer team. She makes fast friends but she also started the year off by going to a circus with her family, where the clowns have connected to her and now are following her. Abbey if faced with weird occurrences and her friends start going missing. Abbey now has the mission to face these clowns and find her friends before it is too late. This was a quick read and actually fun to get into. I would recommend for a fun, paranormal read. Just don’t take it as a literal apocalypse about to occur.
This book is not my usual genre to read. I find stories like this too much for me sometimes, but I thought I’d give it a go. I’m glad that I tried it because it was a fantastic story following a 14-year-old Abbey and her paranormal abilities.
I did not realise that this story was one in a series, so I am glad to know that I can go back and read what happened before this part of her life. Before I found this out, I did feel like there was a few gaps at the beginning – but it can still be read as a first if you want to!
I enjoyed her ‘side story’ through sports too. A weird thing to point out? Maybe, but not enough stories for the younger reading age has girls doing sports! The realistic high school drama was the thing that grounded the story for me.
Like many others, I enjoyed reading about the different characters, but feel that there is definitely more to explore!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christina Simpsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristina Simpson2022-03-17 07:42:322022-03-17 07:42:32Class Clown (Ghost Girl Series) by Allan Evans – Review by Christina Simpson
I have followed this series from the start and this is a great continuation of the story. I have loved the originality of the series and this book is no different. You are transported straight back into the characters and their lives. It is so easy to connect with them again as they embark on yet another adventure. The story is fast paced and exciting and has a lot going on. It took no time to fly through it as I was enjoying the story so much. This is a great book and great series and I cannot wait to see what comes next.
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