Review: Noelle

Synopsis:

From the New York Times bestselling author of A Dog Named Christmas comes this heartwarming Christmas story about the power of family and the strength and love that comes from our pets. 

In this installment of the poignant stories of the McCray family and their lovable canines in rural Kansas, matriarch Mary Ann McCray is determined to shake up Christmas by accepting the role as Crossing Trail’s first woman Santa Claus. Mary Ann, always a bit of a rebel, is looking to offer a more progressive voice in the staunchly conservative town at Christmastime and has a few ideas up her red velvet sleeves. 

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Noelle by Greg Kincaid is a sweet holiday tale. One that pulls a family together and reunites them in a way that haven’t been. Happiness comes with time. A dog named Noelle does all the hard work. She’s a pretty Christmas dog that brings cheer everywhere she goes. The family mentioned inside also snatched my heart and soul. Everything felt so real. A beautiful emotional journey told by Greg Kindcaid. It’s memorable. An engaging story that hooks me right from the start. It kept me interested until the very end. Overall, I recommend reading, Noelle. 

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Review: Home All Along

Synopsis:

Charlotte, an Englisher, is living in Amish Country, and she has formed strong and lasting bonds with the people in her new community. She has even fallen in love with an Amish man. But just when she is considering a permanent conversion to the Amish way of life, her world crashes around her. An unexpected death and a mysterious visitor unsettle Charlotte, and she begins to question her faith and her choices.
Daniel loves Charlotte and wants to share his life with her, even it if means leaving the only world he’s ever known. But as he walks alongside of her through her struggles, his own world is turned upside down when a loved one receives a grim medical diagnosis and a prodigal relative returns home. Will Charlotte and Daniel’s relationship succumb to the many pressures around them, or will their faith and the strong community around them allow them to weather the storms of their own lives in order to build a life together?

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Home All Along by Beth Wiseman is sweet. The characters and their circumstances show what life brings and takes away. Struggles are hard to handle. A little faith, patience, and love can lead them where they should be. The entire story was believable. A young woman lost her brother. Somehow finding her way back home. Home being an Amish community. Outside influences threaten her hold on staying there. But what will be will be. I’m an active reader of Beth Wiseman’s books. Each one is heartfelt. This one, is not different. I was able to easily connect with the characters. I felt their doubts, fears, and hopes. Any story that can pull me deeply into its plot, is one worth reading. That’s exactly what Home All Along did for me. Overall, I recommend it to readers worldwide. 

Review: Colors of Christmas



Synopsis:

Celebrate the joyful hope of the Christmas season as characters find healing in the midst of heartbreak.

New from Olivia Newport!

 

Christmas in Blue

In the wake of a personal loss deeper than anyone realizes, Angela plans to bypass as much of the season as possible and get through her duties as the church organist by going on autopilot. Instead, she finds herself in charge of the town’s celebration. After a mysterious young man arrives, townspeople suspect he is the reason that one set of plans after another disintegrate until little is left of their traditions. Yet Angela warms to Gabe because she suspects they share a secret—his real reason for coming to town. Even when all they have to work with is a garish supply of blue Christmas decorations, Gabe helps Angela discover the hidden beauty of hope.

 

Christmas in Gold

After eighty years, change is nothing new for Astrid. By the time she was twenty, she survived the destructive Nazi regime, caring for her family under brutal circumstances, moving to America, and losing her husband. At forty she was widowed again and left to build a new life with her children. Now, when she faces a move into an assisted living community and meets a young woman on the brink of despair, she resolves to stir up hope through tragedy one more time. 

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Colors of Christmas by Olivia Newport were inspiring tales. Two wonderful novellas about finding hope, forgiveness, and joy. Both stories were realistic. Each one featured a woman going through struggles. Real life issues with characters that were easy to connect with on every level. The pacing was steady sometimes felt slow. It felt a little dry in some areas of the plot. I wish there was a bit more of an emotional rollercoaster. Overall, good stories. 

Review: The Beast Within

Synopsis:

Forget everything you have ever read about addiction and substance abuse. The Beast Within unveils the raw truth that addiction lies within us all, ready to take control at any time. 
Ever felt so lost within your own mind that it’s as if someone else is controlling your body?
Ever felt so alone and filled with guilt, grief, that suicide felt like a viable option?
Ever thought that you would be stuck in one terrible moment, forever?
There isn’t much hope for escape. Or is there?
Is redemption really possible?
Author Daniel Thomas, Jr. writes from the heart in his book on overcoming drug addiction and hopes to help others who are seeking peace from The Beast Within.
With his sharp knack for storytelling, Dan shares:
– Why addiction is such a misunderstood issue in our modern society.

– His personal struggles with addiction and recovery.

– How to overcome your own inner demons.

Written in fiction format to protect the identity of real people, The Beast Within will spread bare the life of JT and a soul tormented by his own inner demons. It is a vivid reflection of an addict’s struggle with his own life, while grieving the deaths of friends and loved ones. 

The battle between angels and demons has never been more personal. 
Will JT be saved by the Angels of his faith? 
Will he succumb to the demons that haunt him? 
Will the “Beast Within” ultimately capture his soul or will he overcome his addiction once and for all? 
Is freedom from The Beast Within even possible?

Knuckle down, grab a chair, and find out by getting lost in the following pages.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

The Beast Within by Daniel Thomas Jr. is a dark yet truthful read. A journey most have gone through…yet many never come out of its darkness. Where I live, you wouldn’t think drugs were a huge issue. But they are. We didn’t know that until after we moved to the town. This book, showed everything. From falling into the demons to getting out of them…these paths were discovered. I couldn’t stop reading it. Drugs are an ongoing problem. One that swallows up humans day by day. Frightening words…but realistic. Overall, I recommend this book by this writer. 

Review: Christmas in Kilts

Synopsis:

Tis the season to fall in love! These five bestselling authors bring you great tiding of highlanders and romances this holiday season!

A HIGHLANDER’S HOPE by Terri Brisbin

A village harlot who would never dream she could have a different life meets a Highlander visitor for the holidays who brings with him an offer and hope!

LEFTOVER MISTLETOE by Lavinia Kent

What happens when a highlander finds himself stranded, maybe kidnapped, with an English lady around Christmas… maybe the mistletoe will help answer that question.

A SCOT FOR CHRISTMAS by Bronwen Evans

She’s ready to embrace her life and future as a spinster, he’s trying to have one last hurrah before he gives into his family’s wishes and proposes marriage to his neighbor, but fate has other ideas when the lady and the Scot meet at a holiday house party in the wilds of Scotland.

SWEET HOME HIGHLAND CHRISTMAS by May McGoldrick

A chance encounter between a ship’s captain and a desperate aunt trying to keep custody of her young niece leads to a little magic during the holidays.

A HIGHLAND CHRISTMAS WAGER by Lecia Cornwall

When a snowstorm forces a charming lass hiding a broken heart to take shelter in a castle with three fine Highland lairds just days before Christmas, there’s a game afoot—who will be the first to win a kiss and maybe her heart. 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Christmas in Kilts is a fascinating yet sexy tale full of Highlander romances. Every story was as enticing as the previous one before it. I couldn’t put this book down…too good. Heat, chemistry, and lovable characters. They pulled at my heart strings. Sweet, engaging, and funny, too. These writers have brilliantly captured my heart and soul with every page. 

A Highlander’s Hope by Terri Brisbin was good. Her hero falls for a woman of different standing. One that was considered below everyone in the clan. A herlot. The woman protagonist came from a mother who was a herlot. Her backstory of being rapped broke my heart. I felt sympathy towards her. Despite her position in life, she had good friends who supported her as an equal. That made me like the characters even more. Terri Bisbin created a beautiful heartfelt tale of overcoming obstacles and finding happiness. I recommend her story to all. 

A Highland Christmas Wager by Lecia Cornwall is funny and sweet. A young woman faces her past mistake from the age of eighteen. It haunts her still with the man who stole her virtue. He teases and pushes her in all the wrong ways. However, she’s not interested. The lady has grown up since that encounter. Strong, smart, beautiful and caring as ever…her grandmother is betting on her getting a husband. Yet, she’s determined not to wed. Tha was until a particular laird comes forth. Something about his kind eyes and listening speaks to her. Hishandsome features also make her heart beat faster. A few kisses in and both are wanting each other forever. Only, jealously and other problems get in the way. It was addictive to watch the characters fallhard and fast. I loved it. Lecia Cornwall can write well. Overall, I recommend her tale to all. 

A Scot for Christmas by Bronwen Evans is fun and addictive tale. The woman protagonist leads her own fate. I found that quite interesting. Tired of waiting for what may never come, the lady goes after her heart’s pleasure. It will cost her, her pride and maybe her friendship. But if she’s successful, all may be well. Loving a man whose wife died, is hard. He can’t let go. His wife never loved him and he only lusted after her. Not a great foundation for a marriage. Fate has brought two friends together in a way one of them never expected. Hot, sexy, and charming…Bronwen Evans delivers the most exciting Christmas journey ever. I recommend her story, A Scot for Christmas, to all. 

Leftover Mistletoe by Lavinia Kent is full of innocent love. A young innocent English woman is stranded with a Scot. His large form intrigues her. Thinking he’s asleep throughout the ride, she doesn’t push away from him too much. But little does she know, the Scot is very aware of her and her beautiful frame. His friend ends up bribing the coachmen to leave the pair stranded nearby a cottage filled with food, water, and drink. Christmas is approaching and the Heat intensifies with every page. Sexy, hot, and sweet. Both characters were charming. Their dilemma was interesting. Captivated me from the beginning to end. I couldn’t stop reading it. Lavinia Kent surely knew how to capture my full attention with every word. Overall, it was a perfect romance. 

Sweet Home Highland Christmas by May McGoldrick is a stunning yet hilarious tale. A Scottish soldier and a young woman with her niece are brought together. But it wasn’t by fate…the source that brought them together will surely surprise readers! I couldn’t believe it…it was so cute. I fell in love with all the characters. The good ones anyway. Love, hope, and a lot of laughter are found on these pages. The entire tale made my heart melt. An aunt must marry in order to keep her sister’s child. Or else lose her niece. An arrangement to marry a terrible cousin, she has no choice. Until a certain soldier comes into her life, making her dream of happiness. The niece loves the soldier…

Review: Taerak’s Void

Synopsis:

Taerak’s Void

(Book One of Fantastica)

A new series by multiple award winning author, M. R. Mathias.
After finding a strange medallion and some maps with markings that no one in his village can understand, Braxton Bray decides to take it all to the Hall of Scholars in the kingdom’s capital. But greed is everywhere. Braxton and a tough young female caravan guard named Nixy are forced to run for their lives, for someone else wants what Braxton found and is willing to go to great lengths to take it from him.

With a hefty, kingdom wide, bounty on their heads, not even the great wizards of the Sorcerious can help them. Left with nothing but each other, Braxton and Nixy have no choice but to get on a ship and go on an adventure that will take them places they would have otherwise never imagined. Elves, dwarves, giant gothicans, and trolls, treacherous forests on distant shores, love, death, terror, and magic all await anyone brave enough to go along.

Rating: 5-stars

Review: 

Taerak’s Void by M.R. Mathias is an adventure to behold. This novel, grabbed me by the collar and dragged me in deep. Action, danger, risks, and new worlds full of strange mythical characters…are found on the pages. A fantasy that engages a reader’s senses and leads them on an epic journey. Taerak’s Void is world that opens up to more worlds. I couldn’t believe all of the interesting characters and places discovered here. M.R. Mathias writes well. He had me hooked from the beginning. I also enjoyed following the protagonists as their adventure escalated quickly into a high action paced race. A race against the bad guys. Treasure that all want and only Braxton holds it. He won’t let it go to the wrong hands. Overall, it was the most fascinating tale I’ve read. It was way better than Tresure Island. 

Review: Diary of a Dead Dreamer

Synopsis:

A ghost. A killer. A man.

All three want to be a part of Elizabeth’s life… but for very different reasons.

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Diary of a Dead Dreamer by N.C. Cummings is a dark read. It has a haunting theme. Action, consequences, and evil lies ahead. A young girl goes to college and her life falls apart instantly. Meeting one new girl, could destroy her completely. Elizabeth meets Sadie. There’s a lot of torture involved and many may not like it. Physical, emotional, and mental abuse happens on these pages. Nightmares that felt so real. The characters played their role just like they were meant to…however, I didn’t like them. I couldn’t like the girl who fell victim. Watching as she let her life fall apart was hard to do. I can’t stand characters who are crazy enough to let bad people torture them. The woman was at an age where she knew right versus wrong. Yet, she allowed herself to be hurt in a repetitive fashion. Chilling, frightening, and gruesome are the words I’d use to describe this thriller. As a reader, I couldn’t connect with the victim at all. That put me off from liking this title. Diary of a Dead Dreamer offers everything a thriller should offer. Overall, it was good but not my favorite. 

Review: Love Held Captive

Synopsis:

After the War Between the States, a Confederate officer longs to heal the heart of a beautiful woman—but first he’ll have to right the wrongs that were done to her.
Major Ethan Kelly has never been able to absolve himself of the guilt he feels for raiding a woman’s home shortly before he was taken prisoner during the Civil War. He is struggling to get through each day until he once again crosses paths with Lizbeth Barclay—the very woman he is trying to forget.
Life after the war is not much different for former Captain Devin Monroe until he meets Julianne VanFleet. He knows she is the woman he’s been waiting for, but he struggles to come to terms with the sacrifices she made to survive the war.
When Ethan and Devin discover that their former colonel, Adam Bushnell, is responsible for both Lizbeth’s and Julianne’s pain, they call on their former fellow soldiers to hunt him down. As the men band together to earn the trust of the women they love, Lizbeth and Julianne seek the justice they deserve in a country longing to heal. 

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

Love Held Captive by Shelley Shepard Gray is a beautiful confederate tale. A story full of loss, grief, trouble, and regrets. But somehow, through it all, there is also hope. That built trust between characters. In that something more came between them. Something called love. Love bears all. Troubles, risks, and forgiveness are found on every page. Strong women and men. Suffered from one man…who tormented them. Then, with a newfound courage, they plan to bring their enemy down forever. Death lingers near. Rap, lies, beatings, and war are discovered here. Shelley Shepard Gray has created a realistic story and believable characters. It felt as thought I had traveled back in time. I felt everything the characters felt. Love Held Captive is exactly that. Each character ends up as a captive of their love. Pain and healing are two major themes featured inside this novel. It was heart breaking and heartfelt at the same time. Bittersweet…overall, I recommend this historical book to all. 

Review: The Keeper of Dreams (Volume 2)

Synopsis:

The second volume of The Keeper of Dreams explores questions of morality refracted through the prisms of dreams, the unlikely, and the surreal. “A House Burning” opens upon a crowd of the disaffected watching the ashes of their home smolder. As they turn away, one-by-one, they find their lives torn asunder – and brought into new meaning. “Time Stops For” follows a stoner man-child stuck in a metaphysical and metaphorical timewarp. Inspired by classic Russian surrealism (Nabokov, Bulgakov) and modern sci-fi and absurdism (Douglas Adams, a Kafkaesque Ray Bradbury) these stories and poems ruminate upon the moral decisions made at the human limit, and beyond. 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

The Keeper of Dreams (Volume 2) by Matthew Keefer is an interesting set of poetry. Inside, the poems sweep over me. Sending me further into a darkness. Choices are left to be made. Each poem like the one before it, is addictive. Stunning, entertaining, and fascinating. I fell into this book. I didn’t want to come out…overall, I recommend The Keeper of Dreams to all. Matthew Keefer can definitely write well enough to suck anyone into his work. 

Review: My Interview with Beethoven

Synopsis:

It’s 1826, and young Virginia newspaperman George Thompson leaves his unhappy past for Vienna, “the city of music.” His mission: interview the famous composer, Ludwig van Beethoven. But George wants more than an interview. He wants to get close to Beethoven because he’s been told the musical genius is his natural father. George also needs to know what his mother, Hannah Bekker, had meant to Beethoven. While Beethoven tells George of his rise to fame, his tragic deafness, and the women he loved and lost, George wonders about Beethoven’s intimate relationship with Hannah-and how he is to confess his real reason for interviewing the moody composer. What transpires turns George’s life inside out, and forces Beethoven to reveal a disturbing, personal secret. Inspired by true events, My Interview with Beethoven is about a young man’s journey that leads him to right wrongs, find love in unexpected ways, and heal the deep wounds of those he touches. 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

My Interview with Beethoven by L.A. Hinder Jones is a deep yet beautiful tale. I was instantly swept up in its current. Music, love, and choices. A heady combination making this, the best story I’ve read. I felt my heart pour, tear, and heal whole again. Heartfelt and heart breaking, too. L.A. Hinder Jones is indeed a talented writer. The words came off the pages and came to life. I enjoyed following as one young man goes about finding answers and healing. Love never dies. Overall, I recommend this novel to all. 

Review: Hello Again

 

 

 

 

 

 

Synopsis:

Evelyn Talbot, a psychiatrist at a maximum-security prison in Alaska, studies some of the world’s worst serial killers. But she’s about to meet her most elusive patient at Hanover House yet: Dr. Lyman Bishop, AKA the Zombie Maker given his fondness for performing ice-pick lobotomies on his victims. A brilliant cancer researcher, Bishop is either the most cunning psychopath Evelyn has ever encountered―or he is wrongly convicted.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN A CRIMINAL CAN SEE INTO HER OWN?

When a new ice-pick fatality occurs, it seems Bishop really was wrongly convicted. Except…Evelyn has a personal connection to the victim and that suggests the killer may be someone from her own past: Jasper Moore, her high school boyfriend who tortured her and left her for dead when she was only sixteen. Jasper also murdered three of her friends―and was never caught. Is he trying to send a message with this copycat crime? The only thing Evelyn knows for sure is that if Jasper is on her trail, she might not be able to escape again . . .

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Hello Again by Brenda Novak is the next best installment in this series. Psychopaths, danger, death, and a whole lot of risks. Plus, a serial killer is hunting the main protagonist down….it’s only a matter of time. 

Evelyn Talbots works in a maximum prison where the most dangerous criminals are brought. It’s there thatshe studies all about them unless they make it impossible. Enters, Dr. Bishop. A recent prisoner that has come to Hangover House. He claims he’s innocent and been framed. But Evelyn doesn’t think so…and she isn’t about to let loose a maniac. However, Dr. Bishop might just get his release after all…

Evelyn is still seriously struggling with the past events. Her boyfriend, a psychopath, tortured her almost to death. But she survived. He hasn’t been caught yet….and he’s still after her. 

Things get chiller with every page. Brenda Novak brilliantly makes a frightening reality and turns it into one of the most compelling reads ever. I can’t believe it’s fiction…

Evelyn is in love with her boyfriend, a local trooper. He wants marriage and kids with her. But with a killer like Jasper waiting to kill her again, Evelyn can’t move forward…it’s sad but totally understandable. 

Hello Again is indeed the perfect title. I almost wished Evelyn could have figured it out…one of her worst nightmares is right in front of her! And then, there’s her best prison study case…he’s clever and manipulating. Danger is always in the air. Death waiting in the air. Overall, Brenda Novak still proves to be the best suspense writer around…her book, Hello Again, sends shivers down my spine. Kept me captivated and hooked me right in…I highly recommend this novel to all readers. 

Review: A Chance This Christmas

Synopsis:

Growing up in the Christmas-crazed theme town of Yuletide was fun for fashion designer Rachel Chambers until a family scandal made her unwelcome. Eight years later, she’s home for a friend’s wedding and trying to go incognito… until her old flame spots her.
Snowboarder Gavin Blake wants to make things right with Rachel, and smoothing her way back in Yuletide seems like the best way to do just that. Making Rachel his date for a week of pre-wedding parties is sure to bring them closer. Except he underestimated how long a small town can carry a grudge–or how much the memory of a long-ago kiss could tempt him all over again.
As the wedding approaches, Rachel remembers all she loved about her close-knit, Christmas-loving neighbors. But even if she can win over the town again, will she be able to convince her footloose, mogul-shredding wedding date that they can find happiness beyond the holidays?

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

A Chance This Christmas by Joanne Rock was another brilliant masterpiece. This lady, can write well. I have not once experienced anything but heartfelt tales and unforgettable characters. Immediately, this story swept me off my feet. Sent me straight into the book. I felt everything the characters said and did. 

A lot of past anger, regrets, and a bubbling romance are found here. I was cheering for the protagonists all the way. Their story started at the same time several big depressing events occurred. A young woman returned back home, and faced the past. At first, it wasn’t easy. But with some help, a lot of patience, and some holiday romance, it got better each time. 

Rachel was a young woman when her father embezzled money from their town. When her father did this, her past boyfriend proposed to her publicly. But she declined him. With that the town blamed her for her father’s actions and for hurting the town’s hero. However, that wasn’t all. Rachel was caught kissing her former boiyfriend’s best friend. And he did nothing to help her. Now, after all those years, Rachel has finally come back home. Facing the past, making amends, and then moving forward…until one man from her past jilts her world upside down again. 

Gavin has always liked Rachel. But since his best friend liked her, he stayed away. Until he found out the two weren’t together. But just as he finally got Rachel, all hell broke loose. Not once did he go to Rachel’s side defending her. Now, with Rachel back in town, Gavin planned to win her over and help her face their town. Nothing comes easy…

A Chance This Christmas is a charming tale about mending the past, forgiving, and second chances at happiness. Joanne Rock created characters that were easy to love. I enjoyed following them as they grew. The romance was hot, the chemistry was felt, and the emotions were everywhere. Even the small characters were believable and enjoyable to read. Overall, I highly recommend this contemporary Christmas novel to all. 

Review: Don Quixote Goes to Yale

Synopsis:

Michael has a secret–he knows where the treasure is.

Months away from a Yale degree and blessed with a well-connected girlfriend who is hell-bent on pulling strings for him, Michael should be reveling in his good fortune. Instead, he has made a new friend, Boomie, who is, Michael discovers, a picaresque angel on his shoulder. And there is a tiny hitch to their relationship: only Michael can see and hear him.

Now Boomie hints that the literary treasure Don Quixote is also a treasure map. Abandoning his prospects for a Wall Street job, Michael drops everything to trace Cervantes through La Mancha. Whether he’s on the quest of a lifetime or merely tilting at windmills remains to be seen.

But as Michael is about to learn, he is not the only one with a secret. Powerful people at home and in Spain are watching his every move, and will do whatever it takes to silence him. With only Boomie, Cervantes, and Don Quixote to guide him, Michael will have to keep his wits about him if he wants to find the truth, keep the girl, and . . . live to see graduation. 

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

Don Quixote Goes to Yale by Eytan Halaban is one entertaining novel. He took history and turned it into an intriguing read. I was captivated by the plot. Plenty of humor was emmersed into this journey. From an invisible friend, to love, and a fascinating piece of history come alive on these pages. The main protagonist is a lit major. His personality was easy to like. He dislikes his teacher’s interest in his girlfriend. That was a bit creepy. Michael’s girlfriend, Liz, is another well-liked character. She’s in love with Michael just as much as he loves her. Their relationship was believable. Michael’s quest is to find a treasure, keep his relationship intact, and keep others from thinking he’s crazy. I enjoyed following him along this literary aka historical journey. Eytan Halaban created a crazy yet fun filled adventure that all ages can enjoy. 

Review: Across the Blue

Synopsis:

Set in Edwardian England and ideal for readers who enjoy Julie Klassen novels, this romance about an English aviation pioneer and the girl who falls in love with him is filled with adventure and faith.
Isabella Grayson, the eldest daughter of a wealthy, English newspaper magnate, longs to become a journalist, but her parents don’t approve. They want her to marry well and help them gain a higher standing in society. After she writes an anonymous letter to the editor that impresses her father, her parents reluctantly agree she can write a series of articles about aviation and the race to fly across the English Channel, but only if she promises to accept a marriage proposal within the year. When James Grant, an aspiring aviator, crashes his flying machine at the Grayson’s new estate, Bella is intrigued. James is determined to be the first to fly across the Channel and win the prize Mr. Grayson’s newspaper is offering. He hopes it will help him secure a government contract to build airplanes and redeem a terrible family secret. James wants to win Bella’s heart, but his background and lack of social standing make it unlikely her parents would approve. If he fails to achieve his dream, how will he win the love and respect he is seeking? Will Bella’s faith and support help him find the strength and courage he needs when unexpected events turn their world upside down? 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Across the Blue by Carrie Turansky is an adventure that I shall not forget. It was enticing from page one. Immediately, the writer caught my full attention. The plot was exciting. Tensions rose, said the drama was set, and the intensity of winning the aviation race was fun. 

Across the Blue is a historical tale. One that brought me back to the times women were forced to follow society’s rules. Get married, have kids, and be a wife. However, Isabella Grayson isn’t ready to do all that. She wants more from life than what is expected of her. Her parents force her to choose….and that choice soon became complicated. Fate has a way of knocking a man onto her path. An aviator hoping to win the race. Chemistry sizzles between them. However, his background can’t win her family’s approval. But perhaps the race can help…

I was deeply engaged with this story. The characters were exactly opposites in backgrounds. When it came to adventure, both shared it. Pressure leaned on both protagonists pretty heavily. It was fascinating to watch them both roll with their fate. Intriguing, exciting, and a charming tale overall. I loved it. Both characters were easy to like. Their personalities made them both enjoyable. I highly recommend it to readers worldwide. Action, love, and adventure.

Review: Near Haven

Synopsis:

A forgotten shipyard at the edge of the world. Apocalyptic noise from the black-and-white television. A comet. A controversy. And a cat. 

1987. Tom Beaumont is a rural boat builder looking for reason in an age of blind panic. Even the remote town of Near Haven, Maine, can’t escape the tide of violence following news of a coming, global catastrophe. Doubtful of all but his own future,Tom turns to the sea, hoping to find a meridian separating human fictions from the objective reality beyond.

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Near Haven by Matthew Stephen Sirois is a great apocalypse tale. Dark, haunting, and sad. I got to follow as madness erupted throughout the world. Death, loss, and anger. The plot was fascinating. Sucking me in deeper…the events were horrific. Imagine if those events actually happen one day to us all…it all felt so real. Captivating words. Matthew Stephen Sirois is a talented writer. I recommend his novel to readers everywhere. 

Review: My Four Hollywood Husbands

Synopsis:

Joyce Bulifant has lived the “Hollywood life” for nearly seven decades, and through it, experienced what few outside the entertainment world can imagine. While following the path of her own successful career, Ms. Bulifant managed to navigate the choppy waters of husbands’ alcoholism, codependency and an extended family of four marriages.

James MacArthur played Danno on Hawaii Five-0. Edward Mallory was Dr. Bill Horton on “Days of Our Lives.” William Asher was the famous director-writer-producer of “I Love Lucy”, “Bewitched” and the Beach Party movies. Roger Perry starred in “Star Trek” and over 300 TV shows and films. He has also composed music for Barbra Streisand and Bing Crosby.

Along the way Bulifant managed to command the spotlight for her own accomplishments. As Gavin MacLeod’s wife Marie on “The Mary Tyler More Show”, a concerned mother in the movie “Airplane”, dancing with Fred Astaire, and her reoccurring role on “The Match Game.”

My Four Hollywood Husbands is a rare peek into what happens off the screen. It’s a story of love, a lasting love that is woven through the fabric of the world of entertainment. It’s also a story about perseverance and overcoming obstacles—and that happy endings are indeed possible.

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

My Four Hollywood Husbands by Joyce Bulifant is a memoir that shows how alcoholism can affect the individual and their loved ones. This, was a bit tough to read, because someone I knew died from alcoholism. It’s a real part of life. Scary when it happens someone we all know. The struggles are hard.  The entire book gave an insider’s view to this difficult journey. I also showed the consequences of the alcoholic’s actions on others close to the alcoholic. Then, there was the hope of getting through the addiction. Struggles are a part of life. We just have to battle them, until we get to where we need to be. I liked how Joyce Bulifant demonstrated this in her writing. Overall, My Four Hollywood Husbands is a great read. It’s an eye opener and one that I recommend to others. 

Review: The Han Agent

Synopsis:

A THRILLER NOVEL DRIVEN BY REAL SCIENCE…
In the 1930s, Japanese scientists committed heinous crimes in their quest for the ultimate biological weapon.
The war ended. Their mission did not.
Eighty years later, Japanese-American scientist Amika Nakamura won’t let rules stand between her and scientific glory. When the ambitious young virologist defies a ban on the genetic manipulation of influenza, she’s expelled from the university. Desperate to save her career, she accepts a position with a pharmaceutical company in Tokyo. Soon after, a visit to a disputed island entangles her in a high-profile geopolitical struggle between Japan and China. Applying her singular expertise with bird flu in a risky experiment may be the only way out. Little does she know that Japanese ultranationalists and a legacy of unpunished war crimes lurk in the shadows, manipulating people, politics, and science.
But DNA doesn’t lie. Amika uncovers a shocking truth: a deadly virus is about to put the “gene” in genocide.
PRAISE FOR THE HAN AGENT:

“Amy Rogers’s latest medical thriller, THE HAN AGENT, is as exciting as it is frighteningly realistic. It could be tomorrow’s headline. Here is a story fraught with taut tension, sudden explosive action, and threaded through with scientific accuracy and speculation that will leave you stunned. Read it…if only to prepare yourself for what might soon become true.”

—James Rollins, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Sigma Force series. 

Rating: 3-stars

Review:

The Han Agent by Amy Rogers is a science thriller. The whole synopsis sounds way better than the plot itself. The realistic situation of what the main protagonist does as a scientist is unbelievable. She does things halfway through instead of being thorough. A scientist always likes being thorough whether they’re right or wrong. Another situation was how did Amika, the scientist, get to be the main character…it kept me wondering. It sounded like she was still in the process of learning her field. I didn’t believe that she could somehow stumble against a virus that deadly. Plus, even if she did someone above her would have taken the claim for such a discovery. Last, there’s her personality. Amika isn’t likable to me. She comes across as manipulating and devious. It is only right that she does get entangled into a geopolitical situation. I have to say Amika deserves what she gets. If Amika was created innacting more like a real scientist would her title as a scientist would have been more believable. It was like someone tossed her the job and she just rolled with it. Overall, it sounded better than it actually was. Some changes need to be made, once made, I think this would indeed be a great thriller. 

Review: Moonlight Over Manhattan

Synopsis:

She’ll risk everything for her own Christmas miracle… 
Determined to conquer a lifetime of shyness, Harriet Knight challenges herself to do one thing a day in December that scares her, including celebrating Christmas without her family. But when dog walker Harriet meets her newest client, exuberant spaniel Madi, she adds an extra challenge to her list—dealing with Madi’s temporary dog sitter, gruff doctor Ethan Black, and their very unexpected chemistry. 
Ethan thought he was used to chaos, until he met Madi—how can one tiny dog cause such mayhem? To Ethan, the solution is simple—he will pay Harriet to share his New York apartment and provide twenty-four-hour care. But there’s nothing simple about how Harriet makes him feel. 
Ethan’s kisses make Harriet shine brighter than the stars over moonlit Manhattan. But when his dog-sitting duties are over and Harriet returns to her own home, will she dare to take the biggest challenge of all—letting Ethan know he has her heart for life, not just for Christmas?

Rating: 5-stars 

Review:

Moonlight Over Manhattan by Sarah Morgan is another perfect romance. This, contemporary has all the emotions to suck readers like myself deeper into the tale. From sweet caring characters to crazy matchmaking family members, I enjoyed this book. I laughed so hard and fell in love immediately. The characters both big and small made this enticing. It’s not every time, that I can honestly say, all the characters were amazing. But they were. 

Love has been something both protagonists have put on the back burner. Until recently…Harriet is a fun, kind, warm hearted woman. She works as a dog walker. Both the dogs and the owners love Harriet. After meeting her, I too, liked her. She can cook out of this world. Her personality goes from a shy woman to a woman not afraid of what happens. This, is due to two things. Her challenge Harriet list and the sexy doctor in her life. 

Ethan appears cold and grouchy. But he has a heart of gold. Working as an ER doctor, he has turned off his emotions. Can’t feel anything. Or so he thought. Then, his sister has him taking care of her dog…that’s where Harriet comes to the rescue. At first, their friendship is rocky but soon smoothed over into something much deeper. Love. 

Overall, I highly recommend Moonlight Over Manhattan. It’s the lastest installment by bestselling writer, Sarah Morgan. I don’t know how she does it every time, but she wields magic in her books. 

Review: The Criminalist

Synopsis:

“CSI–Without the makeup.”
A Russian model and a reluctant forensic scientist must join forces to fight a dangerous sex trafficking ring.
Paul Connert, just your everyday forensic scientist, keeps a dark secret as he combs through scenes of violent death. Then his world is rocked by the beautiful and desperate Vika Koslava, a Russian model who arrived in the US with her sister for an erotic photo shoot. When the sister disappears, he must join forces with Vika and use all his skills to stop a deadly sex trafficking ring before she meets a similar fate. The Criminalist is the story of forensic science at its best, and it’s all about teamwork, but can everyone on Paul’s team be trusted?
It’s been five years since PAUL CONNERT’S fiancEe died of a drug overdose and he’s never forgiven himself for not trying harder to help. Now he plans to atone. He seeks a woman who reminds him of his lost love and fantasizes about getting her into rehab, even if by force. But then he meets the feisty, alcoholic, VIKA KOSLAVA, a beautiful Russian model who was sent on an erotic website assignment to Santa Barbara with her heroin-addicted sister. When her sister goes missing, Vika is left homeless. Paul uses a clever means to meet Vika, but his intervention fantasy is quickly busted when he meets her, face-to-face.
Paul and his crime lab friends join forces to protect Vika by enrolling her in a secret clinical trial but also continue the search for her sister. We follow Paul and Vika as they go through their daily routines: Paul as he processes a murder scene, Vika as she is exposed to experimental nanoparticles as a part of her addiction therapy. When they get together and form a powerful alliance to fight the violent members of a sex trafficking ring, he will need to use all his scientific skills to keep her safe.
The Author says, “When I retired from a twenty-five year career as a forensic scientist in southern California, I took home a treasure-trove of story ideas. I’ve been there, I’ve collected that and I’ve weathered the subsequent cross-examination, too. When I cooked up The Criminalist, I wanted readers to feel what it was really like to work in a crime lab. I drew from the colorful personalities I had worked with and blended in scenes from real-life cases. The story includes several strong female leads and a plausible, suspenseful plot. There are a few graphic (but not gory) crime scenes and a dash of courtroom drama. Running throughout is an engaging, romantic thread.”

John Houde, author of the award-winning nonfiction book, Crime Lab: A Guide for Nonscientists, has had a career in forensic science spanning four decades. Now he draws upon his experience to spin an intricately woven adventure in the world of truth and lies, love and hate, science and crime…

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

The Criminalist by John Houde is an interesting crime novel. Forensic science lovers like myself will enjoy this read. Similar to CSI Criminal Minds this novel demonstrates forensic science in a realistic setting. The suspense builds up as I progressed through the pages. The plot was exciting. Crime, drugs, and a disappearance that kept me intrigued. I liked the forensic scientist, Paul Connert. He is a likable character. It is his duty to investigate the case of her missing sister. Intense, frightening, and very believable. John Houde has created a tale that sent me straight into the book. I was hooked. Visa is another main character, that I liked. Her personality is great. The book brought issues like drugs and sex trafficking out in the open. Overall, it stunning, and I recommend it. 

Review: The Proving

Synopsis:

Having left the Amish life for the English world, Amanda Dienner is shocked when she learns that her mother has passed and left her Lancaster County’s most popular Amish bed-and-breakfast. The catch is she has to run it herself for one year, acting as hostess. Amanda accepts the terms, but coming home to people she left behind won’t be easy.

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

The Proving by Beverly Lewis is a beautiful Christian tale. A young Amish woman is to return home. Her mother just passed away recently and she alone has inherited the family bed and breakfast. However, there are conditions she must follow to keep it. After being away for five years, Mandy isn’t sure where she belongs. Being back home, is an emotional journey for her. Faith, love, friendship and new beginnings are featured on these pages. I was deeply engaged from the beginning. Theending was sweet. The plot’s pace was steady. Challenges are hard but here, I got to watch as the main character pursued hers. I enjoyed the hidden messages of wisdom. Beverly Lewis is indeed a great writer. Overall, I recommended The Proving to all. 

Review: Jurassic

Synopsis:

Welcome to the exciting land of Jurassic, a dinosaur graphic novel for all ages one hundred and fifty million years in the making – featuring the triumphant return of the Brontosaurs! For decades the beloved Brontosaurus was thought to have never existed and that its bones belonged to another dinosaur known as the Apatosaurus. In 2015, dinosaur fans were rocked as the paleontology community concluded that the Thunder Lizard (as the Brontosaurus is known) was indeed a species of sauropod! From the mind of Ted Rechlin, author and illustrator of “Tyrannosaurus Rex” comes a thrilling new prehistoric adventure whisking readers along a wild journey encountering many famous dinosaur species. 
Both educational and scientifically accurate, “Jurassic” centers around the survival story of a young Brontosaurus calf trying to maneuver through the golden age of dinosaurs. As deadly mega-carnivores prowl the forests and mighty whale-sized herbivores walk the land, “Jurassic” features illustrations ranging from the monstrous (and hungry) Allosaurus, Ceratosaurs, and Torvosaurus to the massive herbivore Brachiosaurus, the whip-tailed Diplodocus, the tree-top munching Camarasaurus, and the largest land animal in North American history, the Supersaurus.
From wild hunts and a congregation of Jurassic titans, to daring escapes and thrilling battles, witness the resurrected reputation of the Brontosaurus and watch one young calf’s journey to become the Thunder Lizard he was born to be. 
Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Jurassic by Ted Rechlin is a super awesome read. The graphic drawings fit well with the adventure inside…a young dinosaur finds danger everywhere. Survival is a must for these creatures. Their size, color, names were fascinating to follow. Ted Rechlin made this historical journey back to the dinosaurs time, one brilliant adventure. I was excited, entertained, and educated along the way. The plant and meat eaters of this time period were explored. Children can easily enjoy this book. Overall, I highly recommend it to parents, educators, librarians, and to children worldwide. 

Review: Totally His

Synopsis:

Actress Sophie Birch is used to having to look out for herself. So when her theater catches fire and a big guy scoops her up into his arms to save her, she’s going to fight every step of the way. Even if he’s a cop. And really sexy. And his arms feel oh-so-good.
Finn Kelly can’t help but appreciate how good the woman in his arms looks in her sexy pink lingerie. Even if she’s currently resisting arrest. 
But as the two get to know each other, they’re both surprised by the things Finn is willing to do to get closer to her. And when Sophie’s estranged father arrives in town and starts causing trouble, the stage is set for disaster…unless Finn can convince her that, for once in her life, she has someone to lean on. 

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Totally His by Erin Nicholas is another believable tale. The characters really had me sucked into the plot. The pacing was steady. Felt slow in some areas. There were a lot of issues explored in this read. Issues like bad parenting, pathological liars, and anger issues. The main character, Sophie Birch is one I’ll never forget. She was easy to relate to as well as like. Her journey was hard from the beginning and got crazier with every page. I hated her father. He is a character that I’ll never like. If he was written out of the novel by the ending, I would have enjoyed it more. But he wasn’t. Frank Birch was nothing but a constant pain and torment to his only child. I cried for her. Her pain was so real. Erin Nicholas took the reality and unpleasantness of life and brought to life on these pages. I can totally see this novel being a movie. I know without taking a vote that her father is the most unlinked character of them all. Overall, it was a journey. Sexy, sweet, and heartbreaking all at once. I recommend this to all. 

Review: Bits and Peaces

Synopsis:

BITS AND PEACES could leave you thinking that what people believe in their own minds might be more powerful than reality; of course, members of all races and ethnicities are equal; don’t screw with the wrong guy; or it ain’t over till it’s over. 

The first section is comprised of six fiction stories of varying lengths that include primary characters such as Joey, a middle-aged man who believes he is en route to breaking the major league baseball lifetime home run record in softball batting practice; Michael Damsky, a fifty-year-old man pushed out of his twenty-one-year professional job, who continues to catch the same train to work each morning; and Richard Colucci, the retiree who returns to New York for his fiftieth high school reunion, worried whether anyone will recognize him, and if he’ll be asked to recount what he’d done all those years. 

Section II of Bits And Peaces consists of seven fiction stories narrated in first person by a character named Mitchell Graye – the author’s alter ego – each story about an unusual person he meets, his interaction with, and reaction to them. The characters include Amala who dials the wrong number two hours after the ringing in of a new year, seeking her psychiatrist because she wants to kill herself; Mildred, an elderly woman in a White Castle hamburger restaurant who lines up her twenty lipstick cases every thirty minutes, and speaks to nobody; Mel, a man in Panera’s restaurant with a scar down the side of his neck who takes his cell phone outside in any kind of weather each time it rings. 

The third section consists of several essays, including “Mr. Potato Heart,” about how people create their own fantasy version of other people based on what they want or need them to be. This collection of stories is aptly titled “Bits And Peaces,” rather than “Bits And Pieces.” 

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

Bits and Peaces by Mitchell Graye is an interesting book. It’s divided into three awesome parts. Part one, is a series of short fictional stories. Each one providing different kinds of characters. It was addictive to read. Never boring. Always caught my attention. The pages went by pretty fast. Before I knew it, I was already in part two. Here, there were more short stories but told in a different way compared to previous ones. I enjoyed the different point-of-view. A lot of action, emotions, and a variety of characters that gives it a refeshing taste. Last but not least, is part three. This section is a collection of short essays. It’s very deep, thought provoking, and interesting. Mitchell Graye spun a ton of short pieces and brilliantly wrapped them into a great book. I’m not usually into short stories or essays but this one was worth every minute of reading. 

Review: City of Angels

Synopsis:

Michael is a 17 year old amateur boxer living in a group home in East Los Angeles. With the help of his trainer, a former prize fighter and ex-convict named Jerry, Michael has overcome early childhood tragedy to become one of the top amateur boxers in the nation and earned an invitation to the Olympic trials.

As he awaits his final bout, an unforeseen incident forces Michael to move into a new group home where he meets Maria, a house manager with a heart of gold, and Lizzie, a newly arrived 6 year old girl who is struggling to adjust to her new reality. Over time Michael, Maria, Lizzie, and the other residents of the home come together to form what they all want most in life: a family.

Just when everything seems perfect, their world is turned upside down. And this time, Michael can see no way to save himself or the family he has grown to love.

City of Angels is an epic saga that takes you on an emotional journey that will touch your heart. 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

City of Angels by K. Patrick is indeed an epic tale. Heartfelt, inspirational, and engaging. As I started to read, I became hooked. The characters immediately drew my attention toon to their stories. Sad, realistic, and believable. City of Angels is a beautiful novel about surviving and overcoming obstacles. Life isn’t easy nor perfect. K. Patrick has captured the meaning of life and wrote it in way that made me love it. A journey worth reading…

Review: Danny and the Dreamweaver

Synopsis:

Danny is a grumpy video-game junky. He daydreams in school and has a long-standing rivalry with his neighbor.
Yet Danny soon finds himself ensnared in a bizarre dream. Controlling his dream is Nostrildamus, an odd-looking creature with a huge nose and no eyes, yet can oddly see into the future.
Taken on a time-traveling hunt to solve an art-related mystery, Danny meets strange looking artists, like Hippopotamus Bosch and Michelanjello, while Nostrildamus tries to impart subtle pearls of wisdom.
Yet, what does it all mean? And what effect, if any, will all this have on Danny?

Find out in “Danny and the DreamWeaver,” an imaginative adventure of criminal intrigue, time travel, and art history, infused into a bizarre dream that will have you scratching your head and smiling, until the end! 

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

Danny and the Dreamweaver by Mark Poe is one of the most unusual books I’ve ever read. The cover also caught my attention. It was strange looking and made me wonder what it was about…

Inside this intriguing yet fascinating story, was a teen who meet a nose figure in a dream. From there, the main character, a teenage boy, learns a lot about famous artists as well as life. I love art and this story covered it in an interesting way. Mark Poe was creative. His book took me on an adventure. It was part fantasy and part time travel. Educational yet entertaining. I would recommend this book to YA readers everywhere. 

Review: My Nazi Nemesis

Synopsis: 

GOLD MEDAL WINNER International Book Contest.
Jack Goodwin is a clever and cocky CIA agent saddled with baggage. Haunted by a dark past for fifteen years, Jack finally tells all to his daughter Eleanor. 
As an OSS agent during the war, Jack’s traumatic past involved a series of near-death experiences, from failed sorties and secret missions, to a horrifying run-in with Auschwitz, to having met and married Eleanor’s mother, Veronika. But the flames of passion had died when a prying Waffen SS officer, Alois Richter, entered the fray. With an amorous eye for the bride and a suspicious plea to join the OSS, Alois had sent Jack’s world into a dark tailspin with catastrophic results. 
Fueled with revenge, father and daughter join forces to hunt down his long-time nemesis. But when disturbing evidence arises, Eleanor is forced to reevaluate the mission, as intrigue, murder, and suspense abound, leading to a climatic face-off that reaches terrifying and unexpected heights. 

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

My Nazis Nemesis by Rich DiSilvio is now, my new favorite historical WWII novel. His book brings my favorite topic to life. The awful Nazis. Deadly, frightening, and real. This thriller brings the time period when the Nazis were active and creates a suspenseful dark tale. The action is everywhere. Just opening the book, the first page catches readers attention. Like it did with mine. Deadly situation that can be the last, yet the main character seems to make it out…and the plot thickens. Rich DiSilvio has masterfully woven an entertaing war novel. One that both scares and lures me. I feel like a fly landing in the killer plant…only seconds will determine if I fly off to live, or if I’ll die. The same is applied to this novel. Hilarious, romantic, and stunning. My Nazis Nemesis will engage readers from the beginning to end. Rich DiSilvio knows how to draw readers into his book. Captivating. The main characters like Jack are believable. Reading this novel, was like watching the scenes come to life. I would love to see this story made into a big motion picture. Overall, I highly recommend My Nazis Nemesis to readers worldwide. 

Review: A Blazing Gilded Age

Synopsis:

A Blazing Gilded Age is the epic story of a volatile nation burning with ambition, yet bleeding with injustice. It was a time of profound change; boldly transforming from an agrarian backwater into an industrial powerhouse.

Center stage in this turbulent saga, are the Wozniaks; a poor coal mining family struggling to achieve the elusive American dream. Confronted by the evil ways of their ruthless and depraved boss, Archibald Desmond Huxley, the Wozniak family is thrust into utter turmoil, thus igniting a blazing journey of revenge and survival.

During the Wozniaks’ quest, the lavish lifestyle of Huxley and his fellow titans, including J.P. Morgan, Carnegie, Vanderbilt, Teddy Roosevelt, Mark Twain and others, are woven into the story line, thus painting a broad and vivid canvas of 19th century America. Springing to life are legendary figures and historic events that accurately depict an era boiling with bravado, innovation and astounding progress, yet blistering with corporate greed, class warfare, and political corruption. After many unexpected twists of fate (some fortuitous and others heartbreaking), the Wozniaks emerge victorious, thus finally achieving the American dream, yet not without scars.

Both powerful and poignant, “A Blazing Gilded Age” serves as an entertaining and enlightening read of how and why America has gone astray, and why it became a world leader. While on a personal level, it imparts the harrowing, yet triumphant, tale of a family’s struggle to survive in an age that, in many ways, was as dark and rough as coal, and, at times, could be as blazing as Hell. 

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

A Blazing Gilded Age by Rich DiSilvio is a talented writer. His characters both big and small came alive on the pages. The plot was deep, heartfelt, and thorough. History mixed in with fiction. Made this a new favorite. America wasn’t always great…a lot of bad went with the good. Here, inside this tale, I got to explore the depth in which Americans suffered. Suffered for survival. Power, greed, corruption and progress we’re just several themes mentioned in the book. 

One particular family of low class is mentioned in great detail. They’re not famous. They work like slaves. Slaving for the bigger guys. Hard labor, suffering, and agnogy just to make a few pennies to survive…barely surviving. A Blazing Gilded Age is dark, haunting, and heartbreaking. Child labor, poverty, and loss are featured here in great detail. I felt like I traveled back in time to the late 19th century. Overall, Rich DiSilivio’s latest book is a must read for all. I highly recommend it. 

Review: Humanity’s Way Forward

Synopsis:

“The echoes of those scars can clearly be heard in Edge of the Known’s music. But one can also discern, quite distinctly, that other inexplicable thing that is within us all, the undying flame that transcends our wounds and sufferings…” 

Brandon Chane had always seen life through the eyes of an outcast, a misfit, a young man at odds with the world and with himself. Now they’re calling him a wounded healer; a shamanic Pied Piper for the throngs of alienated youth; a thief of fire. 

He wonders if he and his band can escape the claims that the world has suddenly laid upon them. But what about the cherished dream that he’s struggled so desperately to fulfill, the dream that finally seems to be coming to fruition?

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

Humanity’s Way Forward by Seth Mullins is epic. His novel depicts a group of young men wanting to become a famous rock band. Here, I got to watch them bond like family, sacrifice things in order to make their dream come true, and how fame hit them hard. Each character felt real. Their band was good. They worked hard and played hard. Yet, being famous sometimes isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. They soar and fall throughout the pages. The plot was entertaining from the start. I was hooked immediately. It was one emotional rollercoaster ride after another. Seth Mullins did an excellent job in writing this novel. He protrayed humans at their weakest, worst, and best moments. Overall, it’s a worthy read that I recommend to all readers. 

Review: Christmas at Carnton

Synopsis:

A novella to launch a brand new three-book series . . .

In the midst of war and the fading dream of the Confederacy, a wounded soldier and a destitute widow discover the true meaning of Christmas, the cost of love . . . and of loving again.

Recently widowed, Aletta Prescott struggles to hold life together for herself and her six-year old son. About to be evicted, she sees an advertisement for the Ladies Aid Society Auction and applies for a position—only to discover it’s been filled. Then a chance meeting with a wounded soldier offers another opportunity. And friendship. But can she trust him? Is Jake Winston the man he appears to be? Having lost everything once, Aletta is determined to guard not only her own heart, but also her son’s.

Captain Jake Winston, a revered Confederate sharpshooter, suffers a head wound at the Battle of Chickamauga. When doctors deliver their diagnosis, Jake fears losing not only his greatest skill but his very identity. As he heals, Jake is ordered to assist with a local Ladies Aid Society auction. He respectfully objects. Kowtowing to a bunch of “crinolines” isn’t his idea of soldiering. But orders are orders, and he soon discovers this group of ladies—one, in particular—is far more than he bargained for.

Set against the backdrop of the real history of Carnton Plantation in Franklin, Tennessee, Christmas at Carnton is a story of hope renewed and faith restored . . . at Christmas.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Christmas at Carnton by Tamera Alexander is a story of great loss and of great hope. The engaging historical tale was easy to read. I enjoyed following the characters. A woman lost her husband due to war. She’s carrying their second child. The first child is eager for Christmas. But all hope for a good Christmas ends when, Aletta looses her job. Then, the bank gives them two weeks to find a new home. A soldier injured from war returns back home doing work he doesn’t like. But then, fate brings Jake and Aletta into each other’s path. A chance for love, hope, healing, and new beginnings. Christmas approaches the characters and it was exciting to see where their future went.  Christmas at Carnton was believable. Entertaining and sweet. I recommend this novel to readers everywhere. 

Review: A Seaside Escape

Synopsis:

All work and no love can make for a dull life. But cupid’s arrow has a habit of striking when you least expect it… A heartwarming, feel-good romance to curl up with this winter perfect for the fans of Marian Keyes and Veronica Henry.

Mallory Westerman is the successful proprietor of Le Petit Cadeau, a gift shop extraordinaire in thriving Leeds.

Concentrating solely on her business, she has almost given up on finding someone to love. That is until she literally falls into the arms of a handsome, intriguing stranger who becomes her Knight in shining armour.

The whirlwind romance that ensues changes her life-path irrevocably. However, the road to true love is never smooth and things don’t always turn out how you expect…

*Shortlisted for the RNA Contemporary Romantic Novel of the Year 2014*

This book was previously published as A Bridge Over the Atlantic.

Rating: 3.5-stars

Review:

A Seaside Escape by Lisa Hobman is a great read. An emotional journey of a woman losing her loved one. It was easy to relate to her loss, grief, and to understand some of her actions. A heartbreaking tale that felt realistic. I felt sympathy for Mallory. I can’t imagine how hard it was for her. But at the same time, her journey seemed to drag. It was stretching the grief out as though it were a rubber band but without it ever breaking. There had to be an earlier time to let go of her past memories in order to move forward a bit faster. There was also, another main character who suffered the same loss. Their connection was entertaining to follow. Again, I wished she, Mallory, would have realized that sooner. Other than that, the book overall, was good. Heartfelt, sweet, and believable. 

Review: The Right Kind of Rogue

Synopsis:

Can two star-crossed lovers come together—until death do they part?

Viscount Hart Highgate has decided to put his rakish ways behind him and finally get married. He may adore a good brandy or a high-speed carriage race, but he takes his duties as heir to the earldom seriously. Now all he has to do is find the right kind of woman to be his bride—ideally, one who’s also well-connected and well-funded. . .

Meg Timmons has loved Hart, the brother of her best friend, ever since she was an awkward, blushing schoolgirl. If only she had a large dowry—or anything to her name at all. Instead, she’s from a family that’s been locked in a bitter feud with Hart’s for years. And now she’s approaching her third London season, Meg’s chances with him are slim to none. Unless a surprise encounter on a deep, dark night could be enough to spark a rebellious romance. . .for all time?

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

The Right Kind of Rogue by Valerie Bowman is one sensational tale. I loved this journey. Epic, sweet, emotional, and teasing. Valerie Bowman created the right elements when writing this piece of literature. I felt right at home. The scenes were vivid and felt real. The characters were beyond believable. Beautiful souls inside and out…two opposites with a heart of gold. I loved these characters. Meg Timmons and Viscount Hart Highgate are my new favorites. 

Inside this novel, I got to explore one young woman’s journey as she dealt with her parents. Parents who didn’t love her. A father who drinks and gambles everything away. A mother who never liked her own daughter. Then, there was her life as a wallflower thanks to her parents. With no money and everything she owned needing repair, Meg had no chance of scoring a husband. Let alone, one for love. Meg has always loved her best friend’s brother, Hart. Hart stood up for her at her parent’s home. A place where no lady should need rescuing. Yet Hart never hesitated to stand up for her. From the moment onward her heart belonged to him. If only she could make him see her as the lady she is. Only her poor life and Hart’s own sister are preventing from encouraging the two together. 

Hart is a dashing Viscount. His father wants him to marry. Everyone he knows is marrying. Finally, deciding to get it over with, Hart agrees to look for a wife. But despite how rich and beautiful the women of the ton are…none make him want to marry. Then, there’s the kiss he and Meg shared. Hart can’t forget her or that kiss. Soon, choices have to be made…that and Meg is now, pursuing a husband of her own. 

I loved the emotional feelings from both characters. Moments of frustration, lust, love, anger, and fear. Both battle with their inner feelings and what society wants them to do. Being together feels right. The chemistry is there. However, confusion comes between them casting a net of bad feelings. Can these two overcome their obstacles? It was definitely fun to watch as they transformed. The plot was enticing. Humor, romance, and intrigue all wrapped into one marvelous read. I loved it. Overall, Valerie Bowman has satisfied my reading experience and made me hungry for more. The Right Kind of Rogue is a must read for all. 

Review: Pride and Prejudice and Mistletoe

Synopsis:

Pride and Prejudice and Mistletoe from New York Times bestselling author, Melissa de la Cruz, is a sweet, sexy and hilarious gender-swapping, genre-satisfying re-telling, set in contemporary America and featuring one snooty Miss Darcy.

Darcy Fitzwilliam is 29, beautiful, successful, and brilliant. She dates hedge funders and basketball stars and is never without her three cellphones—one for work, one for play, and one to throw at her assistant (just kidding). Darcy’s never fallen in love, never has time for anyone else’s drama, and never goes home for Christmas if she can help it. But when her mother falls ill, she comes home to Pemberley, Ohio, to spend the season with her family.

Her parents throw their annual Christmas bash, where she meets one Luke Bennet, the smart, sardonic slacker son of their neighbor. Luke is 32-years-old and has never left home. He’s a carpenter and makes beautiful furniture, and is content with his simple life. He comes from a family of five brothers, each one less ambitious than the other. When Darcy and Luke fall into bed after too many eggnogs, Darcy thinks it’s just another one night stand. But why can’t she stop thinking of Luke? What is it about him? And can she fall in love, or will her pride and his prejudice against big-city girls stand in their way?

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Pride and Prejudice and Mistletoe by Melissa De La Cruz is a hilarious yet sweet tale. The pages were very entertaining. I couldn’t get enough of Darcy and her nemesis Luke. Real relationship struggles, friendship, and love. A family that has been close grew apart. Now, after so many years they might find some closure. Then, there’s Darcy who doesn’t think she needs a relationship, is highly successful, works like crazy, and only wants to marry for love (if she does marry). Melissa De La Cruz brought a lot of humor to life, here. The banter between best friends and between potential lovers were amusing to follow. At first Darcy seems stand-offish but after exploring her backstory, I can understand her attitude. It seems that coming back home for her mom has set off a lot of events from the past that will now collide with her future.  Watching her transform through the pages was exciting. Everything felt real. I got sucked up into the plot instantly. The other characters only added more depth to the story. Sending sweet emotions to sweep over me. Overall, it was a great read. I recommend it to others. 

Review: The Two of Us

Synopsis:

Heartwarming and Touching New Contemporary Romance from Victoria Bylin.

After two broken engagements, nurse practitioner Mia Robinson is done with dating. From now on, she only trusts herself and God, and she’s focused on her eighteen-year-old sister, Lucy, and caring for patients. Just as she applies to work for an international aid organization, a phone call from Lucy, who’s pregnant and running off to marry her twenty-one-year-old boyfriend, throws a wrench into all of Mia’s plans. 

Jake Tanner may have recovered from the physical injuries he sustained on the job as a police officer, but his heart has yet to heal from losing his former partner in the tragedy. He’s poured himself into starting a camp for the sons of fallen officers and mentoring Sam, the adult son of his deceased partner, who’s asked him to be his best man at his wedding. 

Mia is expecting a mess when she arrives to sort out the situation with Lucy, but she wasn’t expecting Jake. And Jake, who can’t help envying Sam and Lucy, doubts he’ll ever experience their happiness for himself. But maybe Jake’s courage and Mia’s caring spirit are just what they need to bring them a lifetime of healing and a forever kind of love. . . . 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

The Two of Us by Victoria Bylin is a stunning heartfelt piece. Once more, this writer, has created another tale to love. It’s a woman’s tale. Full of surprises and intrigue. Themes of acceptance, trusts, and love are explored. Victoria Bylin’s piece was inspiring, romantic, and a good clean Christian read. I felt excitement as I rushed through the scenes. The pages flew by fast. The plot was well-developed. Characters were great. I was rooting for them with each page. 

The Two of Us features a story of two sisters. The older one went through a rough patch. Her hesitation to love like her younger sister creates friction. A good man, Jake, loves her. But her heart isn’t as ready as I nor Jake would have wanted her to be. But it was understandable. I could easily relate to her inner struggles and sympathize with her. Mia is a tough woman. She handles responsibilities beyond any character I know. The two sisters, Mia and Lucy are wonderful people. Their love is warm and contagious. Many lessons are learned in this tale. Mia and Jake may finally find what they needed and want to have. Overall, Victoria Bylin has done a superb job with this novel. I recommend it to readers everywhere. 

Review: The Sunlight Pilgrims

Synopsis:

The stunning new novel from the highly-acclaimed author of The Panopticon
It’s November of 2020, and the world is freezing over. Each day colder than the last. 

There’s snow in Israel, the Thames is overflowing, and an iceberg separated from the Fjords in Norway is expected to drift just off the coast of Scotland. As ice water melts into the Atlantic, frenzied London residents evacuate by the thousands for warmer temperatures down south. But not Dylan. Grieving and ready to build life anew, he heads north to bury his mother’s and grandmother’s ashes on the Scottish islands where they once lived.
Hundreds of miles away, twelve-year-old Estella and her survivalist mother, Constance, scrape by in the snowy, mountainous Highlands, preparing for a record-breaking winter. Living out of a caravan, they spend their days digging through landfills, searching for anything with restorative and trading value. When Dylan arrives in their caravan park in the middle of the night, life changes course for Estella and Constance. Though the weather worsens, his presence brings a new light to daily life, and when the ultimate disaster finally strikes, they’ll all be ready.
Written in incandescent, dazzling prose, The Sunlight Pilgrims is a visionary story of courage and resilience in the midst of nature’s most violent hour; by turns an homage to the portentous beauty of our natural world, and to just how strong we can be, if the will and the hope is there, to survive its worst.

– NPR “Best Books of 2016” – Family Matters, Identity & Culture, Science Fiction & Fantasy, and Tales from Around the World 

Rating: 3-stars

Review:

The Sunlight Pilgrims by Jenny Fagan was interesting. I thought it might be as epic as The Day After Tomorrow. But it felt flat. The characters were the best part of this book. I liked the whole apocalypse idea except it didn’t seem as threatening in this book as it should have. Instead, it was more focused on the emotional journey of the characters as they lived through the storm. Climate change comes quickly. It’s a topic that nails my attention immediately. Winter storm brewing…into the worst disaster. A doom lingering near but not close enough. Meaning it was happening…the effect just didn’t hit it quite well. The struggles of the characters kept me reading. The plot dragged. This book, was my first impression of Jenny Fagan as a writer. While she had a great idea, I just didn’t feel sucked into it like I should have. I have heard her other books are good, so I will not give up on this writer’s work. If you enjoy reading disasters that are more detailed on the characters internal conflicts, than this is a must read. Overall, The Sunlight Pilgrims was okay. 

Review: Beginner’s Luck

Synopsis:

When three friends impulsively buy a lottery ticket, they never suspect the many ways their lives will change—or that for each of them, love will be the biggest win of all.  

 

Kit Averin is anything but a gambler. A scientist with a quiet, steady job at a university, Kit’s focus has always been maintaining the acceptable status quo. A sudden windfall doesn’t change that, with one exception: the fixer-upper she plans to buy, her first and only real home. It’s more than enough to keep her busy, until an unsettlingly handsome, charming, and determined corporate recruiter shows up in her lab—and manages to work his way into her heart . . .

 

Ben Tucker is surprised to find that the scientist he wants for Beaumont Materials is a young woman—and a beautiful, sharp-witted one at that. Talking her into a big-money position with his firm is harder than he expects, but he’s willing to put in the time, especially when sticking around for the summer gives him a chance to reconnect with his dad. But the longer he stays, the more questions he has about his own future—and who might be in it. 

 

What begins as a chilly rebuff soon heats up into an attraction neither Kit nor Ben can deny—and finding themselves lucky in love might just be priceless . . .

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Beginner’s Luck by Kate Clayborn is a great contemporary tale. A romance that swoops me up and takes me on a rollercoaster ride…never knowing if it will continue, or if it will stop. The pacing is steady. Feels slow sometimes.  Beginner’s Luck is a tile that suits this book perfectly. It defines Kit’s life and her relationship with Ben. I didn’t know what to expect when it came to these two main characters. I wanted their happiness. But I wasn’t sure if it would happen or not. A female lab scientist and a sexy male contractor…two different world colliding into an enjoyable read. I found myself sucked into their story. Overall, I recommend it to others. 

Review: The Scandalous Flirt

Synopsis:

Scandal begins with just one kiss. . .

Aurora Paxton was once the belle of the ball, the most sought-after debutante of the season—until a scandalous mistake ruined her.Shunned by her family, Rory was banished to the country to live in disgrace. Now she’s been summoned back to London by her stepmother, who is being blackmailed by the least likely person Rory can imagine: Lucas Vale, Marquess of Dashell.

Lucas is someone Rory’s known for years—a man as devastatingly handsome as he is coldly disapproving of her. What in the world could he want from her or her family? Rory intends to find out as soon as she comes face to face with her old foe. What she never expects, however, is that the icy aristocrat has a soft spot for her—and a secret plan to redeem her status. Could it be that Lucas has been in love with Rory all along. . .and has finally found a way to win her heart?

The Cinderella Sisterhood series is:

“Beautiful.”—RT Book Reviews 

“Breathtaking.”—Night Owl Reviews

“Magical.”—Once Upon a Romance

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

The Scandalous Flirt by Olivia Drake is an outstanding read. I was impressed with her writing from the start. The characters and their flaws made this piece epic. Scandal, theft, first love…and dire situations can be found within the pages. The heat only intensifies, as the plot thickens. Raw yet believable characters. Aurora Paxton is a tough heroine. She brilliant. I loved her wit. Strong and very outspoken on some matters. That part of her made me like her that much more. Then, there’s the dashing Marquess, Lucas. He’s very easy on the eyes. Makes every woman want to swoon on spot. Yet his never smiling and dark mood may keep the on he really wants away forever. 

Aurora has been cast out of her society due to a man haven taken advantage of her. Now, eight years later, she has returned back home. But it’s not under happy terms. Someone is blackmailing her stepmother. Her sister is forced to marry a rich man old enough to be her father. And she must go under disguise to see if Lucas really is the culprit behind her family’s doom. The Scandalous Flirt takes on a wild ride. The journey was fun, hilarious, sweet, and engaging. I will never forget this tale. 

Olivia Drake has delivered a promising story. The Scandalous Flirt is a must read for all. I loved it. I couldn’t stop reading it. This, was one historical romance that gave me an unforgettable day of excitement. Overall, I highly recommend this novel to readers everywhere. 

Review: Hot Georgia Rein

Synopsis:

First loves don’t last, not like you think they will when you’re in the beginning or middle of them. First loves are fun and painful, giving you the beauty and darkness of life in a single relationship, breaking your fantasies like a twig and making you realize that life is not all sunshine, sparkling fireflies, and rainbows. No, it’s not pretty at all. First loves build you up, and just when you think that life can’t get any better, they shatter into a million raindrops, making you see how life really works. First loves crush you, ruining you for anyone else.

That’s what Ivy Lynn Abney and Henry Lee Rein have battled with since things ended between them three years ago. Neither of them have spoken and are still hung up on what occurred. They both have regrets and the love they once had for each other never really went away. They were young and wanted different things. Have their wants changed enough to allow their love to reignite? Can first loves become second loves even with secrets? 

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Hot Georgia Rein by Martha Sweeney is out of this world. Her new romance novel sizzles with fire. Leaving me in love and completely satisfied with the material presented on the pages. Martha Sweeney has once again lured me deeply into her world of fiction. I have read a variety of genres written by this writer. She has never once disappointed me. Martha goes for something and does it with such raw talent that it leaves readers, like me, wondering how she does it. Magic…that’s the only solution I came up with so far. 

Characterization was well-done. Ivy and Rein are two unforgettable protagonists. Their chemistry and lust runs hot. Here, I got to watch as their last collided with their present lives. I got their backstory. It all made perfect sense. Yet, even with the sides and perspectives in every chapter, I still wasn’t sure how how their relationship was going to work. They could end up together or broken apart again. Martha Sweeney cleverly keep me in suspense throughout the entire book. Until the ending…that’s when I finally got my answer. 

Hot Georgia Rein is both fast-paced and sexy as hell. Ivy and Rein can’t be near each other and keep their hands off each other. Their story was sad, intense, and hilarious. They loved each other more than just bedding each other. Rein and Ivy clicked. Knew when the other was lying or what the other wanted. Yes, their relationship is unconventional. But it worked out for them. Love was raw and fresh in this contemporary romance. I was hoping for the best for them as a couple…so many twists and turns lead me to thinking certain things would never happen between them. Martha Sweeney is indeed a talented writer. I love her work. Her characters…are real. They don’t follow a mold. They break every barrier set by society and still come out rocking. This was an emotional journey I truly enjoyed following. I loved it. Can’t wait to see what comes out next with this writer…overall, I highly recommend reading, Hot Georgia Rein to readers worldwide. 

Review: Justice Buried

Synopsis:

In an effort to get her security consulting business off the ground, Kelsey Allen has been spending a lot of time up in the air, rappelling down buildings and climbing through windows to show business owners their vulnerabilities to thieves. When she is hired to pose as a conservator at the Pink Palace Museum in order to test their security weaknesses after some artifacts go missing, she’s ecstatic. But when her investigative focus turns from theft to murder, Kelsey knows she’s out of her league–and possibly in the cross hairs. When blast-from-the-past Detective Brad Hollister is called in to investigate, Kelsey may find that he’s the biggest security threat yet . . . to her heart.

Crackling with romantic tension and laced with intrigue, this suspenseful story from award-winning author Patricia Bradley will keep readers guessing–and looking over their shoulders.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

 Justice Buried by Patricia Bradley is a stunning piece of literature. A romantic suspense that catches my attention immediately. The plot is fun and engaging. I enjoyed reading this story. Both main characters share an interesting past. Their future is unclear but gets more exciting with every page. 

The past opens up and leaves Kelsey Allen wondering. Theft, murder, and danger all in one perfect tale. Kelsey works in showing others what they’re lacking in security. On one such showing, she is threatened. That’s when she calls in for help. Detective Brad comes to the rescue. Together they work on solving both the past and present crime investigation. 

I haven’t read any of Patricia Bradley’s novels. After reading this one, I can definitely say, I’ll be adding her to my favorites list. Patricia Bradley delivers a promising new adventure. Her characters entertained me from the start.  Felt real…both characters were easy to connect to, as well as liking them. Overall, I recommend this suspenseful book to readers everywhere. 

Review: An Amish Christmas Love

Synopsis:

Winter Kisses by Beth Wiseman
Three generations of Stoltzfus women are all living under the same roof. At twenty-five, Naomi has never been married, and both her mother, Barbara, and her grandmother, Ruth, have recently been widowed. Each nursing broken or lonely hearts, they also each have potential suitors. When a storm on Christmas Eve forces the three couples to take shelter in the basement of the Stotlzfus homestead, secrets are revealed, hearts are opened, and all three potential grooms drop to their knees for very different reasons a proposal, a prayer, and an epiphany.

The Christmas Cat by Amy Clipston

Emma Bontrager is spending her first Christmas alone after her husband of 45 years, Henry, passed away in July. Although the Amish don t normally allow animals in their homes, a big, fat, orange barn cat keeps coming into Emma s house. She shoos the cat away, but it continues to appear in her house, settling on Henry s favorite wingchair. But the cat isn t the only Christmas visitor: a group of young people help bring the Christmas spirit to Emma, reminding her that love and hope abide.

Snow Angels by Kelly Irvin

As a young man enjoying his rumspringa, David Byler gave his heart to an Englisch girl, but he eventually realized he couldn t give up his Plain faith and family for her, so he let her go. He s found a new love in his Bee County Plain community, Molly Shrock. Molly has been patient, waiting for the man she loves to love her back. Just as he is ready to propose, David makes a startling discover: Bobbie McGregor, his Englisch love, is back. Will Molly s prayers for a Christmas love be answered?

Home for Christmas by Ruth Reid

When a misdirected GPS sends Ellie Whetstone to the wrong address, she inadvertently finds herself breaking into the home of Amish man, Ezra Mast. Ellie hopes to fix up the house left by her aenti and sell it quickly, but a series of run-ins with Ezra and his young daughter have her questioning whether a hasty sale is the right move. Could this new place with its slower pace be the right home for Ellie?

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

An Amish Christmas Love is a perfect blend of Christmas tales by four outstanding writers. Each writer has her own unique flavor that only added to this collection of novellas. In Winter Kisses by Beth Wiseman, was about each woman finding courage to love for the first time or to find love again. A granddaughter finds love for the first time, a mother who lost her husband, finds a new love and the grandmother who lost her husband finds courage to love her first love after all the years. The tale was full of hope, love, and laughter. Next, was The Christmas Cat by Amy Clipston. This, story was about an elderly Amish woman who lost her husband after so many years. They never were blessed with kids. Now, faced with a lonely life, the woman finds a cat to keep her company. Then, when she least expects it, she gets more company but in the human form. I thought it was sweet, heartfelt, and beautiful. Third tale, is Snow Angels by Kelly Irvin. A young Amish woman has forever loved a young Amish man from her community. However, he hasn’t always loved her. Now, just as they are engaged, fate brings an unexpected twist. A former Love enters the mix, and from there it’s emotional tug of war. The young man appears confused with both loves near him. But only he has the power to choose which destiny is right. This short novella was full of faith, choices, and forgiveness. Last but not least, the last story in this collection was Home for Christmas by Ruth Reid. Here, a young Amish boy is lead to a community where he was going to work for his Uncle…only to find out that he broke his probation agreement. His uncle takes him back and helps the young man fix his situation. Meanwhile, the young Amish woman who became friends with the young man is devasted that he left. Her heart feels heavy…but this Christmas is full of surprises. Overall, I loved each one of these tales. They were entertaining, delightful, and realistic. It was easy to love the characters. I was rooting for them all. I highly recommend An Amish Christmas Love to all. 

Review: Diamonds Are Not A Girl’s Best Friend

Synopsis:

Who says, ‘Diamonds are a girl’s best friend?’ Don’t believe all those clichés you hear. If you want a friend, get a dog! Trust me, they are more reliable. Want another piece of advice? Trust but verify! In this one, nothing is as it seems, as I end up in a double-blind conspiracy, resulting in a gem of a mystery!

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Diamonds Are Not A Girl’s Best Friend by Peggy A. Edelheit is a great novella. Full of mystery, suspense, and humor. The style of writing is similar to Janet Evanovich’s but better. The protagonist, a woman sleuth, is a joy to follow. This is the eleventh book in this writer’s series. I couldn’t believe that I haven’t read a book of hers until now. The has a cozy mystery vibe. Here, there’s a conspiracy investigation going on…and it’s up the to the main character to solve the case. A fun steady-pace that in entertaining from beginning to end. Like all cozy mysteries, readers will find murder and theft involved. This particular case was interesting in that the stolen object was a cane. And that there’s a cane club. Intriguing with plenty of twists to keep readers guessing along. Diamonds Are Not A Girl’s Best Friend is definitely one that I recommend to readers. 

Review: Half My Age Plus Seven (A Sinful Confession)

Synopsis:

This contemporary, literary romance tells the story of Tara, a 38-year-old East European woman who falls in love with Adrian, a 25-year-old English boy. A psychological tale of mind and heart in a catastrophic collision. Struggles, pain, doubts, desire, guilt, shame, torment, you name it. All human emotions described in detail. But there is more, way more. A novel for soulful people only. Read it and rate it! 

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Half My Age Plus Seven: A Sinful Confession by Cristina G. is an emotional rollercoaster. One that goes wildly crazy. Here, there are two protagonists that are not sure of what they want nor how to go about it. The whole story is surrounded by their weak attempts to make a go of a feeling of attraction. The man hardly puts any effort if at all into loving Tara. So, disappointing. Sad, too. Tara despite her age shouldn’t be so childlike in her responses to their relationship. I barely felt like they had anything to go on…was hoping for better outcomes. Other than that, the plot was believable. It felt real. Not a happily ever after tale like most books. It’s a good read for women. It shows how not to be. Standing up, taking action, knowing what you want and going for it…are lessons taught throughout this piece of literature. 

Review: The Bride Who Got Lucky

Synopsis:

He would do anything to protect her. Even marry her…

The son of a cold-hearted duke, Nicholas St. Mauer isn’t one to involve himself in society…or open his own heart to anyone. But driven by honor, the reclusive Earl of Somerton feels obliged to keep a watchful eye on Lady Emma Cavensham. She possesses a penchant for passions unbecoming a woman that finds Nick in constant peril of losing his well-structured solitude. She even dared kiss Nick once—an utterly unladylike, and delightful, lapse…
Emma can’t deny the appeal of the earl’s attention, and occasional affection, but she has no need for a man. There are worse fates than spinsterhood, as Emma knows too well. She still mourns the loss of her dear friend Lena, and is determined to prove Lena’s husband responsible for her death before he lures another innocent woman into a brutal marriage. But as Emma pursues her prey, a compromising moment upends all her plans. Now, with gossip swirling and her reputation in tatters, Nick may be the only man brave enough to join in Emma’s cause. . .and fight for her heart.

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

The Bride Who Got Lucky by Janna MacGregor is an exciting novel. This, historical romance is one of the most interesting novels I’ve read. The leading female protagonist is a true fighter for women. At first she dreamed of marriage, until other things like a friend falling into a bad marriage…left a sour taste for such dreams. Her new adventure is to create a bank that fianacea just for women by women. That was highly unusual for a historical tale. What a twist! I wasn’t expecting that. Whether she succeeds or not in that endeavor is for readers to figure out on their own. I loved Emma. Her whole personality was bright like a star in a night’s sky. Her gentleman was most intriguing to follow. He hid himself well, left me swooning, and kept me laughing throughout the book. Together they were a powerful match. Luck may just have arrived in time to save both from themselves. Change, love, danger, and new beginnings can be found on these pages. The Bride Who Got Lucky was a spectacular read. Overall, I highly recommend Janna MacGregor’s writing to all. 

Review: Coulrophobia & Fata Morgana

Synopsis: 

In his ninth book and fifth collection of stories, Jacob M. Appel introduces readers to a a diplomats wife who attempts to seduce her chimney sweep through Norwegian lessons, a minister whose dead wife is romantically involved with Greta Garbo and a landlord menaced by a rent-delinquent mime.

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

Coulrophobia & Fata Morgana by Jacob M. Appel is a collection of short stories. Stories that are quite unusual and extraordinary in their own way. Each tale has its way of dragging the reader further onto the pages. Engaging, emotional, and well-done. Jacob M. Appel has a knack for creating the most interesting fictional words I ever did read. His talent has once again left me wonderstuck. These tales are easy and enjoyable to read. They go by so quickly. Overall, Coulrophobia & Fata Morgana is an interesting collection of tales that I recommend to readers worldwide. 

Review: The Amish Christmas Candle

Synopsis:

At the heart of winter’s darkness is the joyous glow of the Christmas season. In this love-filled holiday collection, warm yourself with the peaceful light of Plain gifts. 

SNOW SHINE ON ICE MOUNTAIN

Kelly Long

When staid Naomi Gish’s mischievous father hires strapping Gray Fisher at their candle shop for the season, she’s positive the old man has an ulterior motive. She doesn’t need help–but as Gray learns the craft of candle making, Naomi learns that love is not only possible, but God’s most precious gift.

A HONEYBEE CHRISTMAS

Jennifer Beckstrand

Of all the sacrifices Bitsy Kiem made to raise her three nieces Amish, giving up her Englisch life was the only thing she missed. With the girls married now, she has a chance to kick up her heels this Christmas–unless widowed Yost Weaver can convince her that Plain love is a flame that will never go out.

THE CHRISTMAS CANDLE

Lisa Jones Baker

Blessing those in need at Christmastime is one of Lydia’s favorite traditions. But without her newly married sister’s help this year, the task seems daunting–until handsome Mennonite John King shows her that hands joined to do good may unite hearts, as well. 

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

The Amish Christmas Candle is a great collection. Not my overall favorite. The stories are more modern living than the Amish way of living. I did enjoy how each character found happiness, hope, love, and healing. 

Snow Shine on Ice Mountain by Kelly Long is a sweet yet inspiring Amish romance. Two young people who learn what love really is. Gray realizes love is peace and he’s never felt peace with any other girl except for Naomi. Naomi is a bit older than gray and very plain looking. But her heart, mind, and soul, are worthy of any man’s heart. Gray comes to realize that Naomi is the one. Naomi starts to feel like a wanted woman with Gray. But can she trust her heart to him? Kelly Long’s short story felt believable. It wasnt like other Amish tales I’ve read. Most wouldn’t allow the things that each character did without a chaperone or without some kind of consequence. However, it was sweet, engaging, and heartfelt. Gray not only finds peace but love and healing, too. 

A Honeybee Christmas by Jennifer Beckstrand is another entertaining short story. I liked how one English woman left her way of life to raise her three nieces as Amish women. That took a lot of strength, determination, and power. Imagine leaving the life you have now, to live a plain simple one…I don’t think I could do it. I may enjoy it, but I would miss a lot of things. The writer brought an untraditional tale and still gave it a heart tugging feeling. I warmed up to the main characters. Overall, it was realistic and a great adventure. 

The Christmas Candle by Lisa Jones Baker is the last Amish tale inside this collection. I felt the Christmas holiday sweeping over me. The pages went by quickly. Excitement rushed through me as I read every page. Filling me with a sweetness that I couldn’t let go. The main characters were enjoyable to follow. Both having faith in God. This story was more traditional in the Amish setting than the previous tales before it. I really loved this one. Giving back to the community, learning to trust, and not giving up hope are great themes found, here. Lisa Jones Baker created a piece that I fell in love with…overall, I highly recommend reading The Christmas Candle to all. 

Review: The Best Kind of People

Synopsis: 

Shortlisted for the Giller Prize • A local schoolteacher is arrested for a heinous crime, leaving his family to wrestle with the possibility of his guilt in this exquisite novel about loyalty, truth, and happiness.

The Woodburys cherish life in the affluent, bucolic suburb of Avalon Hills, Connecticut. George is a beloved science teacher at the local prep school, a hero who once thwarted a gunman, and his wife, Joan, is a hardworking ER nurse. They have brought up their children in this thriving town of wooded yards and sprawling lakes.

Then one night a police car pulls up to the Woodbury home and George is charged with sexual misconduct—with students from his daughter’s school. As he sits in prison awaiting trial and claiming innocence—is it possible?—Joan vaults between denial and rage as friends and neighbors turn cold. Their daughter, seventeen-year-old Sadie, is a popular high school senior who becomes a social outcast—and finds refuge in an unexpected place. Her brother, Andrew, a lawyer in New York, returns home to support the family, only to confront unhappy memories from his past. A writer tries to exploit their story, while an unlikely men’s rights activist group attempts to recruit Sadie for their cause.

Provocative and unforgettable, The Best Kind of People reveals the cracks along the seams of even the most perfect lives and the unraveling of an American family.
– Praise from Canada for The Best Kind of People.

“[Zoe] Whittall’s intuitive understanding of human nature makes The Best Kind of People a gripping novel, one that shines a light on family dynamics under extreme pressure.”—The Vancouver Sun

“Whittall’s undisputed talent as a writer shines, as does her understanding into the complexity of our sympathies, our morality, and our humanity. With incredible empathy and undeniable skill this book is sure to spark much-needed dialogue, vital debate, and richly deserved acclaim.”—Stacey May Fowles, author of Infidelity

“The Best Kind of People examines the effects of rape culture on an entire community with rare nuance and insight. Every character is fully rounded, flawed, and achingly human. It puts me in mind of a twenty-first-century Ordinary People.”—Kate Harding, author of Asking for It

“This may just be Whittall’s breakout novel, and deservedly so.”—The Winnipeg Review

“Taut, compassionate and clever.”—Toronto Star

Rating: 4.5-stars

Review:

The Best Kind of People by Zoe Whittall is a stunning piece of fiction. It had the same intensity as the To Kill a Mockingbird and as The Crucible. All three novels were based on false accusations that built up into a nightmare. Destroying many lives. While it wasn’t as bad as The Crucible it certainly held the same kind of trouble. 

Watching how a man went from town hero to a victim of lies. Lies that were set up by young girls. Their lies brought a once closely held family to the ruins. A father sent off to jail, a wife feeling wary about her husband, and a daughter trying to deal with the torments at school. Zoe Whittall shows us, readers, that even the best kind of people can fall victim to cruelty and lies. George Woodbury a fellow teacher, husband, and father is wrongly accused of raping innocent girls. Yet these girls were far from innocent…they were the tormentors. Bullying, drugs, coming out, and marriage are just some of the strong themes present inside this captivating novel. It all felt so real. The pressure built to a point that I felt like all were drowning along with the victim. The whole Woodbury family were victims to slander. Sad, heartbreaking, and believable. This is a must read for all. I recommend this page-turning tale to readers everywhere. 

Review: Reach for the Stars

Synopsis:
When Evelyn Dooley married her high-school sweetheart, James, she thought she was set for life. Now she’s 28, single, and fleeing to Dublin from her small hometown to avoid the gossip surrounding their break-up.
This was not in her five-year plan.
Then a chance encounter with gorgeous musician Danny leads to an unlikely friendship, and soon the pair are running music nights together. Surrounded by new friends and a welcoming community, Evelyn is building a life that she really loves – and sparks are beginning to fly between her and Danny…
But when her savings run out and home beckons, Evelyn has to choose. The safe, comfortable life she left behind, or a new adventure with Danny? Will Evelyn flee back to the familiarity of her ex, or reach for the stars and take a leap into the unknown?
A laugh-out-loud, feel-good story of friendship, second chances, and romance, perfect for fans of Mhairi McFarlane, Lindsey Kelk and Marian Keyes.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Reach for the Stars by Colleen Coleman is the most realistic piece of fiction I’ve read in awhile. The whole story centers around finding finding oneself. The main character, Evelyn, hasn’t found herself. She’s not sure of who she is or what she wants. Currently married to a man due no longer loves, but tried to save what’s left of their marriage led Evelyn onto a new path. From the moment she and her husband found out they were no longer in love, she left to discover what she needed. This journey took her to Dublin. Once there, she gets a job, makes new friends, and even finds herself a new man. It wasn’t intentional. Evelyn even pushed the romance aside. One failed relationship was enough…but fate had other ideas. 

Colleeen Coleman created many ups and downs in this contemporary tale. I felt everything Evelyn did. Like I was inside of her. Her new adventure sets off many positive vibes then comes crashing down upon her. Feeling small and lonely again, Evelyn returns back home. From there surprises await both for her and the reader (me). Hope, family, friendships, and new beginnings are explored throughout the book. Divorced to singlehood and from broke to making a life for themselves…Reach for the Stars was exactly that. Evelyn said, go big or go home. That phrase carried her through this epic yet emotional journey. I enjoyed reading it. Reach for the Stars was heartfelt, believable, and engaging from beginning to end. Overall, I highly recommend it to all. 

Review: Highland Promise

Synopsis:

Five boys destined to become Highland lairds are fostered together as brothers. Darach, Lachlan, Callum, Gavin and Kerr fight for their clans, for each other, and for their own true loves.

When forced to choose between duty and honor…

Darach MacKenzie vowed never again to let a woman near his heart after his betrothed betrayed him. It sparked an intense feud between his clan and the Frasers. With all-out war on the wind, Darach can’t be distracted—not even by a sweet and charming lass who desperately needs his help.

This Highland Laird will find a way to have both…

When Darach rescued Caitlin MacInnes from the clutches of vile Laird Fraser, she vowed to never let men or misery rule her life again. With Darach and the MacKenzie clan, Caitlin finally feels safe. But when Laird Fraser shows up to claim what’s rightfully his, or go to war, Darach will have to use all his brawn and brains to protect Caitlin—even if it means losing his heart.

Rating: 5-stars

Review:

Highland Promise by Alyson McLayne is a promising read. I can’t remember the last time I laughed so hard. The innocence of the female protagonist is amazing. Like a child but inter form a of a beautiful grown woman. Her remarks and questions kept me glued to the pages. Then, there was the other protagonist…Darach MacKenzie. He’s a sexy Scot with a heart of gold. There’s nothing that I can’t like about him. Determined, brave, smart, and strong. Plus, there’s his clan of brothers, adopted, but still bonded so tightly. Their relationship war ed me heart as well. I couldn’t get enough of these beautiful characters. Their stories had me hooked. Intriguing, heartfelt, and entertaining from beginning to end. 

Highland Promise is just that. One highlander makes a promise to a bonny (pretty) lass (lady). He saved her from her tormentors. Ever since that moment she squirmed her way into his heart, mind, and soul. I laughed at Darach’s slight discomfort from the unknowing lass. She wasn’t aware of what her words nor actions did to her beautiful angel…she even called him so in front of his men. Alyson McLayne worked her magic with this book. I became addicted to the plot, the scenes, and to her characters. The emotions her words brought were good. I can’t believe it was fiction. I’m wanting to travel to Scotland one day now….overall, I highly recommend this historical romance to all.

Review: Sugar Pine Trail

Synopsis:

An unlikely attraction brings comfort, joy and unforgettable romance this holiday season! 
Librarian Julia Winston is ready to ditch the quiet existence she’s been living. She’s made a list of new things to experience, but falling for Jamie Caine, her sexy military pilot neighbor, isn’t one of them. Julia’s looking to conquer life, not become the heartbreaker’s latest conquest. But when two young brothers wind up in Julia’s care for the holidays, she’ll take any help she can get—even Jamie’s. 

Happy to step in, Jamie reveals a side of himself that’s much harder to resist. Not only is he fantastic with kids, he provides the strength Julia needs to tackle her list. She knows their temporary family can’t last beyond the holidays, but the closer she gets to Jamie, the more she wonders if things could be this merry and bright forever…

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

Sugar Pine Trail by RaeAnne Thayne is another holiday Christmas tale that I loved. Heartfelt, emotional, and sweet. A young woman, finds surprises like two adandoned boys, who lost their dad and maybe even their mom…a hot man renting a room upstairs from her, and other new experiences. I enjoyed reading this book. I cried, laughed, and was able to connect with all the characters. The main protagonist, Julia, was believable. She’s this clever, kind, sweet, yet shy librarian. However, she does have a bit more to her then what most see. Her sexy crush turns out to be more than she originally thought…a flitter who has a heart of gold. Loss, hope, love, and new beginnings are found here. I recommend this book to readers everywhere. 

Review: The Christmas Room

Synopsis:
The beloved author of the Mystic Creek series gifts readers with a novel of homespun holiday cheer, as two families discover the joy of hope and redemption….

 

Widow Maddie McLendon has uprooted her life to move to Rustlers Gulch with her son and grandson. But as a brutal Montana winter looms on the horizon, contractors have yet to break ground on their new house, leaving them to live in a makeshift camp of trailers, tents, and sheds….

Since his wife died six years earlier, millionaire rancher Sam Conacher has been content to wallow in his grief alone, while keeping a tight rein on his twenty-six-year-old daughter. But now the girl has gone and fallen in love with his foolish new neighbor’s no-good son….
Maddie and Sam will never see eye to eye on anything, until a near-tragedy gives them a true glimpse into each other’s souls. And as the first snowflakes begin to fall, they’ll discover that an open heart is the biggest gift of all….

Rating: 4-stars

Review:

The Christmas Room by Catherine Anderson is a sweet heartfelt tale. One full of surprises. The beginning was sad, intense, and emotional. I laughed, cried, and fell in love. Loss, grief, fear, and hope are just some of the major themes explored on the pages. The plot was steady paced. There was some heat. Overall, it had a clean romance environment. The families involved felt real. The scenes carried me to the last page. I felt like jumping up and down with excitement and hugging the characters. Catherine Anderson created another cozy family holiday tale that was believable. I enjoyed reading this book. I recommend The Christmas Room to all. 

Review: Against A Crimson Sky

Synopsis:

The continuation of the sweeping story of young Countess Anna Maria, introduced in the epic PUSH NOT THE RIVER, as Poland picks up the pieces and joins forces with Napoleon in an attempt to bring down Russia.

 

AGAINST A CRIMSON SKY tells the interrelated stories of four characters in the aftermath of the violent dissolution of Poland in 1794 and culminates in the doomed 1812 winter march into Russia. Countess Anna Maria Berezowska has finally married her true love, Jan Stelnicki, but life is anything but ideal. Not long into their union, Jan takes to the battlefield in the hopes of ensuring a sovereign Poland for his children. Meanwhile, his best friend on the front lines continues to pine for Anna’s cousin, Zofia, but she has her sights set a little higher…on the emperor Napoleon. 

AGAINST A CRIMSON SKY interweaves these tales of intrigue, love and betrayal as one proud nation and one strong family struggle for unity.

Rating: 5-stars 

Review:

Against A Crimson Sky by James Conroyd Martin is a stunning historical read. I loved it. I got to experience the Polish culture and the people of Poland. My grandmother is Polish so, reading this was even more exciting for me. War times are difficult and can bring much sadness. Hope, courage, love, and family life are strong themes inside this novel. A noble woman loses her son and husband to war. Pregnant again, she’s hoping for a girl. Fate has a funny way of bringing a family together and tearing them apart. Intense, well-told, and engaging. I felt like I was inside the protagonist’s shoes. Her life became my own the instant I opened the book. Adventure of a lifetime was waiting for me on the pages. Pages that moved me quickly through the conflict, emotions, and actions from the scenes. James Conroyd Martin brilliantly captured a people and their lives in his writing. Words that became three-dimensional once they were read. Uncertainty, lies ahead but the ending was beautiful. I was happy it ended the way it did. Felt right. Overall, I highly recommend Against A Crimson Sky to readers worldwide.