The Ex She Feared By J.C. Moore, A Book Review

 

This was a quick read. A story that’s based on a victim of domestic violence no longer having the normal, so-called protection in a functioning society due to an event, possibly global, that cuts the power, phones, and electronics. I say ‘so called’ because the protections offered in normal life are not even close to real protection for these victims. Anyway, the story is written to feel like you are in it with them. Looking over your shoulder, not trusting anyone, walking softly, quietly, observing everything. Crazy, and yet so real.

The characters are tuned to the current situation they are in. Few references are made to their past lives or their future goals. The present details and what is happening occupy their minds and actions almost 100 percent. So you can’t predict too much but wonder just the same. That does not bring me into their world to know, understand, or hope for them greater than the situation they're in.

The story was interesting, and one of the reviews made me wonder whether the reviewer had even read the book. None of what they said was true; it was just one of those people posting a low rating for their fun. It’s sad when I see that.

There were times when I had to go back and reread a part because I thought I had missed something. I didn’t; the story just skipped information. Not vital information, but for the flow, it was needed.

If you like psychological thrillers, you will like this story. Except for the skips, it was well done. But because of the skips, I could only give this book 4 out of 5 stars.

An Ear For Secrets (The Apex Kingdom #2) By LC Whitehouse, A Book Review

 

This, of course, is the second book of this series, and definitely not the last. Another interesting and fun story to read, and it pushes my need to get the next one when it’s published.

The characters, even though I feel I really know them from the first book, held some surprises in this one. The tender love between the two main characters keeps you glued to their trysts of thievery for the sake of justice and humanity. Rooting for them. Laughing with them. Enjoying their banter.

The loyalties amongst the group will keep you fixed in one direction, until you aren’t. The beliefs in them that emerge suddenly get questioned. Never assume - is the lesson here.

You will wonder what happens next, what lies hidden beneath each character's façade, and how they will each get through to the end. It’s a laid-out plan that never goes as planned and keeps you turning the pages to see what is next.

Another well-done story that thumps your heart and flutters your soul. I gave this 5 out of 5 stars.

A Taste For Lies (The Apex Kingdom #1) By LC Whitehouse, A Book Review

 

This story surprised me with its creative flair. Sometimes when the setting is outside normal reality, the authors have a hard time conveying the scene and emotions well enough for the reader to comprehend and dig into what is transpiring. Also, implanting thoughts or motions that hinge, enlighten, or prophesy other parts of the story are key to keeping the story a discovery.  These opportunities often get missed. Thankfully, this author did not disappoint. I think it was well done every time, from the beginning right to the end of the book.

The characters were developed, showing their past and present emotions with solid moves, thoughts, and conversations. Their interactions were realistic enough to evoke concern, irritation, and adoration, mixing these emotions at many levels, supporting the different scenes in the story. It kept me interested and glued to the story, compelling me to read the next book in the series. Which I will.

Well done, LC Whitehouse!

The Crimes of Colleen O’Byrnes By Jennie L. Morris, A Book Review

 

This is a story of surprise and worth reading. The main character, Colleen, was too aloof for me to fully understand or predict, and purposely so, I believe. It was a story that moved at a good pace, kept you guessing and trying to predict the next move, making it a mystery to solve.

The ending was totally unexpected because I thought I had a grasp of the characters’ psyches, but alas, I was mistaken.

It’s a quick read, if you like crime and suspense, that keeps you in the story throughout. I gave this 4 stars.

Allie’s War: Episode 1 by J.C. Andrijeski, A Book Review

 

I purchased this book some time ago, as a quick read to see if I would enjoy the author’s writing and storytelling.

The story was interesting, but I had a hard time following the action. I believe the characters went into other dimensions, or the ether, or something. I never quite figured it out. The characters had some depth established, but their connection to each other was not yet revealed, meaning you would have to continue to the next book for resolutions.

Moving forward was not a compelling thought for me, because I had such a hard time grasping the story in this short read, so I will not be moving to any other books at this time. I could only give this book 3 stars.

Rimrider(Rimrider Adventures-Book1) By L.A. Kelley, A Book Review

 This book was fun. I had adventure, creative aspects and sceness, laughable moments, and even a little romance. I enjoyed the whole story, and actually want to read more by this author, including the sequels to this book.

I did not know about this author or any of the other books she wrote before reading this one, so I didn’t know what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised. This novel is great, and not a run-of-the-mill sci-fi so many now are.

The characters were engaging and emotionally felt from start to finish. The main characters were wonderfully real, and their emotions and actions felt like they were right there beside you. I found myself smiling, sad, laughing, and rooting for them as their adventure unfolded. Great job.

I will be noting this author in the future; she’s a good one. I gave this 5 out of 5 stars.

Moon City By Martin van Balkom, A Book Review

 This was a fun read. The story was an adventure with punctures of realities that aren’t too far-fetched. In some instances, harsh and real possibilities, if history and current events of people and their nature are any indication.

Even though thoughts of ugly truths ring in your ears at times, the story still entertained. Going to the moon as easily as the story writes is probably not so far off the mark. The set on the moon is believable and then not. Using guns for control, ripping holes in the containment system, you know, so people can still breathe and live in a vacuum environment, wouldn’t be the smartest move. But then again, I felt like the book is showing just how dumb and self-absorbed people are, can be, and may very well rise in the worst of times.

Next, we have the normals and intellectuals who rise above the chaos but won’t escape the destruction caused by the controllers. There are always controllers in these situations.

It was sad, exasperating, and yet entertaining throughout the book. A lesson on people is what I took away, and the facts and creations from the exploration and colonization of the moon were all fun and interesting.

I really enjoyed the story, and I believe any sci-fi person would like it as well. Although I didn't expect the ending, it is intriguing. For the entertaining story, and clean writing, I gave this book 5 our of 5 stars. 

Closure By Charles Brass, A Book Review

 This was not my type of story, but it is listed on Amazon as contemporary fantasy, so that is what I had expected. I feel this is more of a horror, paranormal book. The story is darker and grittier than usual and depicts disturbing sequences, albeit without ill intent. It just wasn’t my cup of tea.

Aside from that, the story read well, with no skips or holes, and was creative to a degree beyond the norm. The characters were described well enough to get a sense of their being, but none of them grabbed me to fight for or against. The deep emotion did not connect for me.

I’d like to say this was a new area of work to read for me. I am not compelled to try another, though. For those who like darker tales, you may enjoy this story. I could only give this 4 out of 5 stars because I believe it is in a category not correctly representative of its nature.

Harleigh Sinclair and the Raiders of the Lost Ankh By Tamara Grantham, A Book Review

 This was an interesting story. I really like stories tied to ancient mysteries and lore, especially when there seems to be a tinge of truthful possibility ringing in the air. It’s just fun to imagine and ride the creative weaving lines written. 

The story was short and sweet, but don’t worry, there are more books for the main character and her heart-stopping comrade. And of course there is a catch, yet to be revealed, why he can’t or won’t let them be together. Keeps the saga interesting, intriguing, and enticing to read the next book. I’m in. Always attracted to the love stories inside of other stories. 

I didn’t find any story skips or plot holes, and the characters were developed to keep you invested. Knowing other books follow, I am sure they will be developed even deeper emotionally, keeping you enthralled with each one of them. 

The theme of ancient artifacts, I believe, runs through each book, as this story actually continues to the next find. I am invested now and will be reading the others. Great job, Tamara. I gave this 5 out of 5 stars.

The Prince and the Fool By John Cronshaw, A Book Review

 I thought this was the last book in this series, but no, it is just the last one published so far. So, my sought resolutions to the story are not to be had yet. That did not take away from the story, though, at all.

I really enjoy this series. I hate when people do dumb stuff all the time in stories and movies, meant to create chaos or drama, and it is only irritating to me. Certainly not insightful or entertaining. That doesn’t happen with this author, so it was fun and interesting to read each and every book. 

I like the author’s style and his creative plots. I will definitely be reading more of his books, and I would recommend them to everyone who likes a creative series set in early times, as in a stone's throw from Neanderthal times. Kidding. Somewhat. I had to give this 5 out of 5 stars; it is well deserved.

The Knight and the Rebel By John Cronshaw, A Book Review

 This is the third book of the series, and again the saga continues, keeping pace with the first two, driving the reader to keep turning the pages. It is yet to be continued in a fourth book, which I have now purchased to see what the ending brings.

The story doesn’t appear to stray from its path, yet it introduces concepts that create more conflict, more intrigue, and prompts thoughts about how to resolve them all.

As expected from the first two, the story was well written and detailed, creating pictures of it all in your mind and immersing you in the scenes as if you were really there. The two main characters again are presented with real and individual personalities that mesh with their world of upbringing and future ambitions to right the world as they believe it should be. Then we have the current conditions and episodes of fate that alter their views or actions to propel the story in more ways than imagined.

The two characters still don’t know what the other is doing, but they are forging their own paths as they feel is best. It can only culminate at some point in the final book, and that will be very interesting to read. I gave this 5 out of 5 stars. A wonderful gift to read.

The Wolf and the Wyvern By John Cronshaw, A Book Review

The second book of this series does not disappoint my expectations from the first book. The storyline continues without revealing the whole plot, keeping you turning the pages, enjoying the chapters, one after the next.

The era setting is, of course, once again, with swords, daggers, castles, and a little magic that brings a very different reality to life that the reader can totally immerse themselves in for a little escape from the norm, since it is a continuation of the first book.

The two main characters, Maja and Ragnar, win the favor of the reader for their wit, compassion, and love for their lost home. The need to see them succeed is strong and compelling. Without giving the story away, the fight to regain their home, not knowing yet what either of them is doing to that end, captures your heart and imagination through the whole book.

Wonderfully written, with details that not only immerse you into the story, but also create a new reality which gives you pleasant sights and smells, dark and dangerous passages heightening your senses, and feelings of connection to the characters. I gave this 5 out of 5 stars and believe everyone would enjoy this series.

The Fall of Wolfsbane by Jon Cronshaw, A Book Review

 This is a story made into a series with a lot of twists, turns, and unexpected action that keeps you turning the pages for the battle outcomes, character connections, and story resolutions. I enjoyed the story, the characters, and even the not-so-nice ones.

The era setting is also one, with swords, daggers, castles, and a little magic that brings a very different reality to life that the reader can immerse themselves in for a little vacation from the norm.

The book’s ending is a ‘must read the next one’ tide pulling you out to the next book, so you can return to the comfortable new reality and find out what else happens. Yes, I did just that. I am now on the third book as I am writing this review.

There are some issues with flow or story holes: I had a clear sense of what was happening to each character as I was reading, but then something is stated that creates a whole different scene for that one character. I backpedal, thinking I missed a passage or something, but no, I didn’t. So, I just accept the new view and keep moving. Other than that, this is a well-written, detailed, and sagacious story.

I would recommend this book to any parent looking for a great adventure, with a fairly clean discourse. I gave this 5 out of 5 stars for being clean and well-written, and a good-paced story. How anyone can give this story a 1,2, or even 3 stars is outside of my comprehension unless they were expecting something beyond the age group it was intended. What an unfair shot to the author. 

Melody:A First Contact Techno-Thriller By David Hoffer, A Book Review

 First off, I think the book should have been named Danica, because Melody is actually Danica, and I’m partial to that name. Oh well, he spelled her name with a k too. But still.

Anyway, the story was interesting. Being a Sci-Fi book, it is not beyond the realm of possibility since that has been proven time and again in other Sci-Fi books. The author's explanation of the concepts, though, was a little tougher to follow in some parts. Is it because I don’t have a totally scientific brain, or too much of one, which leads to boxing creative flow or dimming the understanding? I don’t know, but suffice it to say, I had a hard time in some parts. It just didn’t flow with ease for me.

This book has a sequel, and I was really curious to see where the second book goes until I read the blurb. Now I have to think about that for a bit. It seems like a second-time-around kind of story, and I’m not sold on that right now.

For the first book, for the reader who meets sci-fi, it was great, and for the reader who knows and is used to sci-fi, it is still good. This book kept me engaged to the end. The story answered all the questions, maybe not the way I would have written it, but I didn’t have any holes from a lacking plot. I would recommend this book for any readers who like sci-fi with twists. It was a fun read and had interesting concepts. I gave this 4 out of 5 stars.

Psychotic Obsession (The Edge Of Darkness Trilogy) By Leigh Rivers, A Book Review

 This is an afterthought of the trilogy, because I think it was written after the series was complete, to further show the interaction between the main character, Kade’s mother and father. It untangles the intricacies of Kade’s mental development and, hence, how it all started. I am glad she wrote it because the series left a lot of questions unanswered that this book supplied.

Some slow-moving parts weren’t done in the other books, but it still hit the suspense and shock at times that the other books did. And, thankfully, the questions were answered, and I enjoyed the story.

If I had known this book was out, I would have liked to read it first. It doesn’t propel you to read the next one with a hanging ending. But the storyline is still there, moving to the next generation, and it is intriguing.

I recommend the whole series if you like intrigue, suspense, or just sexy, steamy scenes. Fair warning, for those who don’t like explicit, these books definitely are explicit, both sexually and dark, graphic murder, and even torture. I gave this 4 out of 5 stars.

Restitution (The Edge Of Darkness Trilogy) By Leigh Rivers, A Book Review

 This is the third book of this series, and thankfully, I was satisfied with the ending. I have to say, though, reading through, I wasn’t sure if it was going to make it. This author is really great at making you wonder and shocking you with twists you don’t see coming. The psychological aspect is unbelievable and gripping.

I enjoyed the series, although it should also be under the horror genre, because some of it was really in that category. I am not a real fan of graphic horror, but the author’s ability to develop her characters and craft a realistic, suspenseful tale keeps you engaged. It makes you want to fight for them and turn every page to make sure they win in the end.

There is now a fourth book, which is really a back to the beginning of how this all started book, that I have now started reading. I am quite certain there will be twists I don’t see coming, and characters developed that again keep me turning the pages.

I would recommend the series, just warning of the explicit sex, which is expected in this genre, and also some very graphic and horrific things that stomp on your brain. I just read past it and keep going. If you, as a reader, can do that, then the story and characters will be an enjoyable read you won’t soon forget. I gave this 5 out of 5 stars.

Voracious (The Edge Of Darkness Trilogy) By Leigh Rivers, A Book Review

 I enjoyed this book even more than the first. Explicit sex scenes, but I didn’t feel any of them were used as filler this time, and the story was great. This is a trilogy, and it didn’t disappoint, leaving the reader no choice but to get the final book after completing this one.

The characters were created and well written, giving the reader a solid footing to enjoy, and even hate and cry for them and the events that happened as the story developed. It was a great read, and most people will enjoy it. The scenes showed a very strong and heartfelt love between the main characters that no matter what happened, Stacey and Kade could not lose or have taken away from them. 

It is touching, loving, heartbreaking, shocking, and emotional throughout, keeping the pages turning and the story engaging without fail. Everyone would enjoy this romance even though parts of it are dark. It shows light and love triumph, which keeps our hearts pounding, and curiosity plunges us forward to read the end. 

This book doesn't just propel you to the next book; it demands it. Truly, you have no choice but to read the final book unless you want to dwell on suppositions about the ending forever. I gave this 5 out of 5 stars.

Insatiable (The Edge Of Darkness Trilogy) By Leigh Rivers, A Book Review

 I was surprised. The book was promoted as a Young Adult book, and reading the ad caption, I thought it would be interesting. It was interesting all right, and now I want to find out what happens next, but I was totally unprepared for the content.

It is definitely not a YA book. When I went to Amazon to post a review, I looked to see what category it is in: Romantic Erotica. So, I am sure you now realize, it is completely explicit sex and some romance, but also suspense, and twists of a tale book.

I can read pretty much anything, but I don’t like thinking a book is one thing and realizing it is something else entirely. I did enjoy the story, but I thought the sex scenes were much more than necessary. It felt like filler sometimes, to add more pages, but it didn’t enhance the plot. Well, maybe to some it does. But for me, it stole time from the story's progression, stalling the plot.

I did enjoy the characters, though, which made it much more interesting and fun to read. Of course, now I have to read the second book because I am so curious as to where the author is going to take this. 

If you like to read steamy and explicit sex scenes with romance, you will enjoy this book. The story was well thought out and enticing you to read the next book as well. I gave this 4 out of 5 stars.

The Day We Destroyed Earth By S.K. Apollo, A Book Review

 This story is apocalyptic, but the characters and the writing of the events make it seem real. Living it with them, turning the pages to stay in the story, was my reaction. I found it a great story and a fun adventure.

There are times in the book where I didn’t like parts, like spiders. I hate spiders, and I really don’t want to read about them, but it was still real and engaging enough to keep me reading. There were some writing issues, but nothing that would deter me from completing the book and thoroughly enjoying it.

The characters were interesting and actually true to real-life actions, mentally, emotionally, and physically. I could believe it from every angle. The parts about our and the world governments are so true, it is disturbing. Then the passages of what we, the people, need and must do are also true to a frightening degree.

I would suggest reading this book for numerous reasons, but the first is that it is a great story you will enjoy, and it will leave you thinking about it even after it's read. More than once. I gave this 5 out of 5 stars.

Passionate Magic By Dawn Addonizio, A Book Review

 This was a fun, fantasy romance with a little mystery stirred in.

The characters were fun and emotionally developed to grant a feeling of camaraderie with the reader. This being a fantasy, you, of course, had some unrealistic events, but that made it a pleasant and entertaining venture.

If you like romances, fantasy, or not, you will enjoy this book. 

Into The Storm: Evidence Under Fire By Rachel Grant, A Book Review

 This book is gripping action from start to finish. And, truth be told, it is also a churning romance, the ups and downs of a roller coaster ride.

Audrey an archeologist, is in a dangerous military exercise during a outrageous winter storm.. Xavier is a military officer, and the other part of the romance/frenemy. A training exercise that brings about surprises and entertaining events that you will enjoy reading..

The pace of this story with the two protagonists work together to exit their situation is suspenseful and complete with a sexual tension between them that keeps you turning the pages. I love that in stories, it is such fun to read.

If you like romances and suspense, you will enjoy this book..

 

Welcome to Antioch College: Book One of The Antioch Adventures By Mitch Goth, A Book Review

 Now I know this is a series, but this first book didn’t capture my interest enough to prompt me to continue to the next book.

The characters weren’t developed enough to grab me emotionally. There probably wasn’t enough writing to do that, but even so, I didn’t get attached at all. Then the plot wasn’t strong enough to keep me turning the pages, anxious to see what happened next. Again, was there not enough story written in the first book?

I am not sold on this series, so sadly, I have no desire to continue to the next installment. I guess I am too conditioned to getting the whole story or at least a big portion of it, to be propelled to the next part. I could only give this 3 out of 5 stars for effort

The Bloody Key: A Bluebeard Retelling By L.J. Thomas, A Book Review

 L.J. Thomas writes the whole story as each main character records their thoughts and antics in their diaries. I really enjoyed that. It gave you each character’s perspective of what happened, but also what the other characters saw and felt about the others in their entries.

The story is well written, compelling you to turn the next page as the events unfold, to find out what happens next. Since this is a retelling, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But I was pleasantly surprised and really enjoyed the telling. If you like the fantasy/fairytales/folklore stories, you will definitely enjoy this one. The story is well done and done well in the historical time frame.

The Headmistress Of Rosemere (Whispers On The Moors, #2) By Sarah E. Ladd, A Book Review

I love reading romances, especially those that are subtle and yet stirring. This book is set in the early 1800’s with factual support of true life at that time. The story is fun. An entertaining read.

The characters are kept in the personalities Sara Ladd created, which are realistic and nonapologetic. They are who they are, and each portrays their flaws as well as their gifts. That builds a bridge of emotional connection to each of them.

The story is simple because living in that era is unbelievable compared to today's technological state, so it keeps you wondering how they survived the cold or isolation, with no electricity and little communication, and many other things we take for granted now. Reading a book like this is an escape back to a calmer, slower time in those days, and it is fun, interesting, and peaceful.

I really enjoyed this story, and now I want to read Sarah’s other books. If you like romances, you will find this a fun read.

 

The Silver Shadow By Liz Tolsma, A Book Review

 Despite the murder aspect, this was quite a pleasant story to read. The characters are enjoyable, their personalities open and inviting or open and intriguing. The plot created a guess-who-did-it chase, and it was fun.

Based on a true crime story, it was an interesting and shocking read, realizing the crime actually happened. Real people suffered the acts and felt the dire emotional impact.

The writing was well executed, maintaining a consistent pace, intrigue, and emotional connection that were enjoyable. I am quite certain anyone reading this book will enjoy it and any other book Liz writes.

House of Lights By Natalie Banks, A Book Review

 

This was a great story. It kept me turning the pages to find answers to the questions it raised throughout the chapters. It started strong and kept the pace up until the end.

The characters were well developed, so you could understand and relate to their turmoil, emotions, and joys. I surely didn’t want to live their lives, but it was interesting enough to want to hear all the details. The main character, Kate, was a normal person, just in the wrong place at the right time, causing her to question everything, including her own sanity.

The writing easily creates pictures in your mind with details that sharpen the images and enhance the emotions attached. I enjoyed not just the story, but the imagery she created. Anyone who likes thrillers, psychological thrillers, or mysteries will enjoy this book. I gave this book 5 our of 5 stars.

Village E3: Survival of the Human Spirit (Village E3, #1) By James Holler, A Book Review

 

An interesting story, with an ending that confused me somewhat. This is the first of a series, so now it makes me want to see how the second one goes.

The writing was simplistic, and I wondered if it was due to the target age group. I am not sure. The descriptive writing gave a vision of what was happening, but again, it was a basic structure for me. I am used to the weaving details that keep your mind moving to the next scene without a stutter or stop, breaking the connection. It did, however, give you the full picture of who, what, and where, with keen interest, just with a different style of writing.

I did like the story. It kept the interest and questions of what happened ongoing throughout the book. There were three main characters in the story, starting with one, then introducing the other two. There were gaps in the storyline that I thought should be there, though, such as the backgrounds of the characters. Getting past that, the rest was enough to keep the plot intact, keeping you reading.

Although I had more questions that didn’t get answered, hopefully they will be revealed in the second book. I think readers would enjoy this story. I gave this book 4 out of 5 stars for the interesting concept outweighing the issues I had with the writing.

KARA: Seeds of the Universe (Astrex #2) By Peter Beard, A Book Review

 This is the second book of this series, and I really enjoyed the first one. So I expected the second one to be as good, but it had some moments that drew me into a faded view.

The start of this book was very confusing and beyond most understanding. The words didn’t fit together in the overall picture. I felt like it was fluff, allusions to what the story was about, instead of a real, solid read of the story. So that thwarted my enthusiasm, and I actually had to put the book down and read another for a bit.

The rest of the story went pretty well, though, and I did enjoy it. I am hesitant to read the next one when it is available, even though I do want to find out what happens next and how. I do understand now what the author was saying in the first part of the book, but it only happened after reading much more of it. Maybe that part should have been after the next part, look back. I don’t know, but it complicated things for me.

The whole story of the two books is interesting, and I am glad I read them. I believe, without revealing any of the great parts, that others would enjoy the story too. The characters are explored, developed, and lovable, keeping you in the whole plot. The sci-fi part is also engrossing, which I particularly like because it is a world you can create and develop however you like. It is fun and exciting to see the creativity, as long as it doesn’t go beyond the believable.

I would recommend this series so far to any of the sci-fi fantasy readers who want action, steady, or fast-paced stories that you can connect to and thoroughly enjoy. I rated this 4 out of 5 stars.

Out Of The Box Everlasting-Book 3 of the Out Of The Box Series By Jennifer Theriot, A Book Review

 After reading the second book of this series, I had to immediately read the third. From my reactions of the first book, to the happy findings in the second, I had to read the finishing saga in the third to complete my quest for answers.

I am content, satisfied with the family events and all the emotional baggage and trauma that came with it. It felt real. Exciting. Disappointing. Sad. All the things real life is, and you were crying, excited, and rooting for each member of this family.

I really enjoyed each book, each event they endured or celebrated, and I was sad to see them go. Writing well pulls the reader into the story so deeply that the characters become part of your life. This saga does just that.

Out Of The Box Regifted-Book 2 of the Out Of The Box Series By Jennifer Theriot, A Book Review

 

This is the second book of this series, and I wrote the following about the first book. ‘I was disappointed in the holes and doubts the characters' personalities created. I think it should be tweaked and revised to bring the reader into the story to root for and hope for their great moves to successful growth, not just happiness because of others’. As for the saying: if wishes were horses, beggars would ride, this book puts a solid stamp of thank you on my first book thoughts. In other words, the characters’ development is all it should be, and takes the reader along with it, every step. The truth of emotions is, you are never on a linear path, and this one is pleasantly no exception.

I enjoyed this book even more than the first, and there is one more to read, which, of course, I will.

The story revolves around a family of older and young adults, who are living their lives as best and happily as they can. As with any life, there are things they don’t see coming, and things they don’t like, but pulling together in tragedy and celebrations, keep them strong and deliberately loving to weather and enjoy each day they have together.

The emotions are strong, every single time, so enjoy each page. I did.

Kara: The Astrex Series, Book 1 By Peter Beard, A Book Review

 

A book that grabs you from the first page, holding you tight through the very last one.  I was excited from the start. I knew this was going to be a great book from the very first page.

There aren't many books that can do that. I was so happy to have found another one. Peter writes with emotion, even in his hard-hitting action scenes. It keeps you in the present and enduring all the twists, turns, and hits that his characters experience.

As I said, it is gripping. It is exciting, and the pace is flying like the wind. There is no boredom or thinking hurry up, because you are already into the next twist or turn. I can’t imagine anyone not finishing this story and eagerly reading the next.

Kara is a character who seeks to learn who she is, who her parents really are, and what her purpose is. She is deeply loyal and protective of her close circle of friends. She doesn’t have any biological family alive, or does she? She always thought she was alone in that realm, so she sought answers from anywhere she could. The answers were dangerous, but they had no clue why.

Reading this book was a breeze because you quickly became engrossed in the story, reading many chapters before you even thought to take a drink from your cup. I gave this story 5 stars out of 5 for the story itself, and the writing was so enveloping, you couldn’t and didn’t want to escape. Loved it.

The Wrong Family By Tarryn Fisher, A Book Review

 

It was confusing at first, trying to figure out what was going on, but I’m certain that was intended. Then it was chilling, and again, intended. As the story slowly slid into place, it was clear that not everything can be discerned from clues. Sometimes you need cold, hard facts, no matter how disturbing they may be.

Winnie, Nigel, Sam, and Juno have all struggled to live a happy, good life. Why each did what they did, though, most likely can’t be understood or put into logical order, especially for a reader who wouldn’t do what they did. But the comprehension of people’s actions cannot be reasoned out very often, so pull your thoughts tight and move on. This is what made the story disturbing, and it could very well be true. Who’s to say with what was presented? It made for an interesting read just the same.

It isn’t a can’t-put-down book, an unstoppable page-turner, but it keeps you reading just the same as you try to figure it all out. I liked the story because it wasn’t dull, slow, or crazy impossible. It was a sad story with troubled characters who are believable because the writing justifies their actions and keeps you reading.

I would recommend this to others. I only gave it 4 stars out of 5 because in my world, I need to know more. I want the characters to be understood and felt to the core, especially by the end of the book. There were too many unanswered questions for me, but I still enjoyed it.

Outworlder: A Star Wanderers Novelette By Joe Vasicek, A Book Review

 

This story was a quick read, of course, because it is a novelette, some would believe. But, in truth, some novelettes aren’t quick because the story is too poor to keep reading it, or it’s undeveloped, making it impossible to follow, or even want to.

This story was done well. The characters were developed as realistically as possible due to the space available, so I enjoyed them. Had this been a longer story, and the characters even more revealed, I would have loved them.

This book is a good, fun, and quick read. I am sure you will enjoy this one. I gave this 5 out of 5 stars

The Exception By Vi Keeland, A Book Review

 

I have read other books by Vi Keeland, and I have enjoyed every one of them. They are real stories, emotionally strong, and interesting. They aren’t written just to be explicit romance. Many of the more explicit romance books don’t have well-formed stories that embrace romance for the sake of romance and love. Hers are full of emotion, romance, and a great story to boot.

This story is no exception to the quality of her books. Well written, engrossing, and highly emotional, all of which lead to a great romantic story you’ll enjoy. The characters, Sutton and Jagger, are well-developed and enjoyable. They get tripped up on things from their past, which keeps the story interesting and endearing.

I enjoyed this book a lot. There are explicit sex scenes, so beware if you prefer less descriptive content. I would recommend all books by Vi Keeland, if you like romance, great stories, and a fun read. I gave this 5 out of 5 stars.

Slivers of Memory )Chosen Legends, #0) By A. J. Dasher, A Book Review

 

This was a fun read. The action and intrigue were non-stop. A page turner that didn’t end on the last page. Now I have to buy the sequel. Probably all of them.

The characters were being developed page after page, but leaving you wondering and yearning for more information. I love this type of writing. It keeps you glued to each page until there are no more to read.

Arctic, what a great name for this character. Once you read about him you will understand why. River, another awesome name for her. I have nothing bad to say about this book. The story, the writing, and the characters are all wonderful.

Buy this book if you like fantasy and intrigue. You will enjoy it. I gave it 5 out of 5 stars.

Year Of The Lynx By Lizze Lane, A Book Review

 

This was a long book for me. The story was interesting, but I felt like it took too long to get to the end. There were a lot of things happening, but it didn’t hold my feet to the fire, a must-see what happens next feeling. Maybe the love interest should have started sooner, I don’t know.

The main character, Morcant, I came to enjoy and feel for. But it took a long time to get there. Lizzie wrote the characters well; you knew how they thought and what they felt for the most part. They were woven into the story well, also, so I am not sure what exactly slowed me down from staying deep into it, anxious to know what would happen next.

I did enjoy the story overall; it is a good read, and others will certainly enjoy it. The writing is done well, the story is constantly moving, and history abounds, so it is an interesting read. History buffs would certainly love it. Due to the second sentence above, I gave this 4 out of 5 stars.

Dark Secrets By Ruth Milligan, A Book Review

 This story was surprising. The characters, scientists, worked at a lab in an advanced future that had destroyed our planet. That travesty caused mutations that normally occur to be amplified in animals and transferred to humans. Finding the cure was a race and fraught with ill intent, psychological trauma, and dedication to do what is right, humane and urgently needed to save lives.

Surprising, because I expected the characters to be more explored, or exposed, might be a better word. I wanted to root for them, but I didn’t have a character identified enough that I loved and cheered for. Maybe a more in-depth creation would have helped that. Anyway, if I were asked about Adam or his fellow scientists and what made them tick, I couldn’t really tell you.

It is a good story, but I feel it glides over the top of the details that would draw one into the center of it, making it memorable and wanting more. It is a page turner because you want to see if they succeed in their mission, and the pace is well done. And there is a character you instinctively dislike; writing about her was not mistaken or questioned, really.  How Ruth set the adversary up is how she should do the others.

I would still recommend reading the book; it is a good story and as I said, a page turner. I gave this 4 out of 5 stars.

Out Of The Box Awakening By Jennifer Theriot, A Book Review

 

This story is a romance novel with the older generation, but it didn’t dampen or dull the senses due to the age of the characters; it woke them up. I felt it was sometimes patronizing of the elderly, as if age mattered concerning emotions. We put the limits on what people of certain ages can or should do, so I wasn’t in favor of that subtle nuance.

The main character was lovable and fun, but almost too much. Her new companion was a great person, and a little too perfect. Together, they were fun to follow, but left me doubting it could ever be true, believable, which taints the story a bit. I want happy endings, fun lives, and exciting adventures, but real life just doesn’t walk that easy path. So I wavered. My faith in the story, the characters, and the path became questions and doubts. Olivia was strong-willed, but without the confidence to venture forth alone, no matter what she thought about it. Some of the steps in the story were left unresolved, which piled onto the already questionable actions. Ash, the compliment to Olivia, was a little too perfect. With no flaws, he became a fairytale, one you couldn’t even see in the ending as real.

I did enjoy the story mostly, but I was disappointed in the holes and doubts the characters' personalities created. I think it should be tweaked and revised to bring the reader into the story to root for and hope for their great moves to successful growth, not just happiness because of others. I felt as if the character couldn’t have accomplished this on her own; she needed the perfect Ash to get her there. It was a dependent resolution, and that was unfortunate. The writing, overall, was good, though, so I still gave it 4 stars out of 5.

The Siege of Baradesh By Brad Stucki, A Book Review

 

A story to learn from and a delight to read. The book is well-written, well-versed, and told in a way that keeps you reading and your mind engaged with many thought-provoking ideas.

Reading the author’s notes at the end gripped me, making the story even more stunningly important. This book tells a story, a lesson we all should heed, learn, and practice. What a different society and culture we would have today if we had and did heed the lessons of the story.

Caleb, the heir, is not only brave and intelligent, but he also absorbed the knowledge given and utilized the keys to wisdom that Silas, his guardian, taught him. Recognizing the tragedies of the past is one thing, but creating a better future with wisdom is quite another. This story is not only entertaining, it is also a valuable lesson for everyone to learn, and hopefully, wisely, enact.

This is a timeless tale that everyone should read, and all will thoroughly enjoy.

Winter Star in the Scottish Highlands Book 2, By Lizzie Lamb, A Book Review

 Lizzie Lamb is an author who never disappoints. Another ‘hit it out of the park’ book that you enjoy too much to put down. This is the second book in this series; the first one is ‘Dark Highland Skies’. At the end of this book, Lizzie says Tor and Halley are her two favorite characters, and she’s not ready to let them go yet. I don’t want her to let them go yet either, but there are only these two books in the series, so…I will have to deal with that.

The writing is so involved, showing intrigue, passion, truths, deceit, and even contrition, giving the characters depth and relevance on each page. I can’t get enough of her novels, so I am sure you will see another review of another one of her books soon. If you read one, you will read another. Enjoy.

My Darling Bride (The Darlings, #1) By Ilsa Madden-Mills, A Book Review

 

What a fun read. The story was a pleasure to dive into and enticing without fail, page after page. The pace was constant, void of boring pauses, and the characters were lovable. That keeps you reading even if the story is not very good. Thankfully, it was a great story and entertaining.

There is some explicit sex, but not the whole book, for those who don’t read explicit romances. The characters shine in Lisa’s writing, leaving you with a sense that you really know them in real life. There are funny parts I had to laugh out loud at, and even exasperating parts that actually felt real, meaning my friends or I would have done that sort of thing.

A lot of romance novels are predictable and tried-and-true, with nothing new or fun. This book hits the mark; I would recommend it to everyone who likes romances. You will enjoy the story Lisa weaves.

Awakening, Book 2 of TheFortress Series By Lisa M. James, A Book Review

The second book was well worth the time to read. The pace was good with no downtime to let my mind wander. The ending was also great, and answered the many questions from the first book. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

The score is settled for Isaac and Kiatra, with their love on display for everyone to see. It was a story not lost in the weeds of deception as the two braved the turbulence of power and greed in their lives, fighting for justice and peace with love as the hidden truth. They both want to be secure, safe in their place in life, and free to love and enjoy the normal life easily afforded to others. Getting the courage to show their truth of love and hope was a long, hard road, but they did get there, and it was a breath-expelling moment of relief. They made it, and while they are all the better for it, it also soothes your soul.

If you read the first book, you can’t miss this second one. It completes the circle of questions with answers. There is a large leap from a depth of despair to a love from which the true heart and soul of faith resides. It’s a great story with an ending that calms the emotional heart-wrenching events, to a comforting and soothing peace and contentment.

 

The Riddle of Prague By Laura DeBruce, A Book Review

A story like the scavenger hunt game, with a riddle to solve and the discovery of whom to trust. It is a non-stop, moving story with questions galore, wondering who is who in the big picture, and how it will all end.

I did enjoy the story and kept turning the pages to find out what would happen next, and I was not disappointed. There were many characters, but they were essential to the story and all its twists and turns.

I don’t want to give anything away about the story and possibly ruin your fun of guessing and discovery. So, suffice it to say, this was fun to read, and I would read the sequel. 

Premonition The Fortress, #1 By Lisa M James, A Book Review

 

Premonition is just that, a sight of the future that one young man could see. It is a great story, without dead zones, waiting for the story to move forward. That made the story easy to read, quickly.

The characters stayed true to their initial depiction, evolving a little, but still staying true to their core being. So you knew what to expect of them, and wanted to emotionally coax them to ‘get it together’ sometimes, too. The pace and details were involving and entertaining. There were some scenes that I didn’t like, or maybe prefer is a better word, but they seemed to be needed for historical relevance.

Isaac was tormented by his gift and lived life hiding it. He also suffered family issues because of it. Kiatra was a priestess, set on discovering all Isaac’s secrets while ruling the kingdom without appearing weak or showing favoritism toward Isaac.

I really enjoyed the story. It was different, well-paced to keep me reading, and written to draw you in and keep you there. I liked it so much, I just bought the sequel, so I can find out what happens next. If you want a good, fun, engaging read, get this book.