Tuesday, 20 February 2018
The Antelope Play (Book #2 in the Donnie Ray Cuinn series)
February 20, 2018
Book Details:
Category: Adult Fiction, 260 pages
Genre: Political Suspense
Publisher: Katherine Brown Press Release date: July 25, 2015
Tour dates: Jan 3 to Feb 28, 2017
Content Rating: PG-13 + M (Some minor cursing.)
Book Description: When Austin native Donnie Cuinn accepts a job as an associate in a Texas Panhandle law firm, his boredom and disdain for Velda, a sleepy Texas town, is forgotten when he gets caught up in a struggle over water rights, possible radioactive contamination of the nation's largest underground fresh water supply, and the violence of an invading Mexican drug cartel. Along the way, Donnie learns to respect the local rancher, whose brother is at the center of the troubles, and to come to terms with the violent death of his young Mexican wife.
My review:-
Fresh,captivating and amazing. I was hooked from the start and this was a one sit read for me. I strongly recommend this book to anyone who loves suspense,thriller and mystery. The topic was unique and different with engaging characters.
Saturday, 17 February 2018
Crossed Fire (Book 2 Crossed Series) by Kim Baccellia
February 17, 2018
Selective focus
Crossed Fire (Book 2 Crossed Series) by Kim Baccellia
Published December 18th, 2017
Genre: YA/Paranormal/Fantasy
Stephanie Stewart is a typical sixteen-year-old girl—she loves hanging out with her friends, going to concerts, and sipping mocha lattes. Yup. Just your average teenager . . . Except for one difference—she can see and talk to the dead. In fact, Stephanie helps dead girls who who’ve been murdered or killed, cross over. Just as Stephanie is getting used to her unique “gift”, her mom stumbles into some dangerous witchcraft that backfires and triggers similar abilities in Stephanie’s best friend Cura, and nemesis Hillary.
Stephanie already has enough trouble trying to maintain a “normal” life between school and her cute boyfriend Dylan, who happens to have a supernatural talent all his own. But now she has to help her friend Cura and her “frenemy” Hillary cope with their new-found powers as well as cross over two murdered cheerleaders and battle an evil demon who wants to use Stephanie’s supernatural strengths as a free pass to The Other Side. And she needs to do it all while still getting her term papers in on time. She’s definitely going to need an extra-large mocha latte for this.
My review :-
Fresh,lovely and captivating. I loved the characters, their witty humour and the engrossing plot. A 4 star read . I can't wait ti read more from the author.
About the Author:
Kim Baccellia has always been a sucker for the paranormal. She blames it on her families’ love for such things as having picnics at cemeteries, visiting psychics, and reading her mother’s copies of the daily horoscope. In middle school, Kim wrote a horoscope column for the school newspaper. It was a huge hit!
A member of RWA, Kim is currently putting the finishing touches on a YA multicultural thriller. She lives in Southern California with her husband and son.
Her website: http://www.kim-
Thursday, 15 February 2018
Hero by Boyd Taylor
February 15, 2018
Book Details:
Category: Adult Fiction, 180 pages
Genre: Political Suspense
Publisher: Katherine Brown Press
Release date: November 9, 2015
Tour dates: Jan 3 to Feb 28, 2017
Content Rating: PG-13 + M (Some slight cursing.)
Book Description:
When budding historian Donnie Ray Cuinn stumbles upon an old letter in the musty bowels of the Texas State Archives, he believes he has uncovered the true story of Sam Payne's valiant, or perhaps not so valiant, capture of Mexican leader Santa Anna during the Battle of San Jacinto. Cuinn's findings are published in a local magazine. But the article eventually becomes fodder in the gubernatorial race between Democratic upstart Bob Braeswood and Republican favorite Sam Eben Payne V, the great-great-grandson of the Texas hero. Braeswood is intent on exploiting the past, while Payne will do anything to suppress it. In the ensuing battle, Donnie finds his beliefs, not to mention his relationships, stretched to the limit in the first novel of the Donnie Ray Cuinn series.
My review :-
Highly entertaining, fresh and imaginative. I loved the unique writing style, the plot twists and the engaging and captivating suspense. Definitely recommended!
The Shepherd's Calculus by C.S. Farrelly
February 15, 2018
When journalist Peter Merrick is asked to write a eulogy for his mentor, Jesuit priest James Ingram, his biggest concern is doing right by the man. But when his routine research reveals disturbing ties to cases of abuse and clues to a shadowy deal that trades justice for power, everything he believed about his friend is called into question. With the US presidential election looming, incumbent Arthur Wyncott is quickly losing ground among religious voters. Meanwhile, Owen Feeney, head of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, is facing nearly a billion dollars in payments to victims of sex abuse. When Feeney hits on a solution to both men’s problems, it seems the stars have aligned. That is until Ally Larkin—Wyncott’s brilliant campaign aide—starts to piece together the shocking details. As the election draws closer and the stakes get higher, each choice becomes a calculation: Your faith, or your church? Your principles, or your candidate? The person you most respect, or the truth that could destroy their legacy? When the line between right and wrong is blurred, how do you act, and whom do you save?
My review:-
This book was a blast of mystery, intrigue and plot twists. A 4 star page turner read that I am sure youbwill enjoy. A really original and engrossing book that leaves you wanting for more,
Monday, 12 February 2018
Duplicity by Jane Haseldine
February 12, 2018
Description
In Jane Haseldine’s new novel of riveting suspense, Detroit newspaper reporter Julia Gooden is up against the city’s most devious criminal—and her own painful past.
Julia Gooden knows how to juggle different lives. A successful crime reporter, she covers the grittiest stories in the city while raising her two young boys in the suburbs. But beneath that accomplished façade is another Julia, still consumed by a tragedy that unfolded thirty years ago when her nine-year-old brother disappeared without a trace.
Julia’s marriage, too, is a balancing act, as she tries to rekindle her relationship with her husband, Assistant District Attorney David Tanner, while maintaining professional boundaries. David is about to bring Nick Rossi to trial for crimes that include drug trafficking, illegal gambling, and bribery. But the story becomes much more urgent when a courthouse bomb claims several victims—including the prosecution’s key witness—and leaves David critically injured.
Though Julia is certain that Rossi orchestrated the attack, the case against him is collapsing, and his power and connections run high and wide. With the help of Detective Raymond Navarro of the Detroit PD, she starts following a trail of blackmail, payback, and political ambition, little imagining where it will lead. Julia has risked her career before, but this time innocent lives—including her children’s—hang in the balance, and justice may come too late to save what truly matters…
“Haseldine has a gift for atmosphere, setting, and suspense, and the many twists and turns will keep readers guessing.” —Library Journal
“Haseldine uses her experience as a crime reporter to bring authenticity to this exciting and gritty tale.” —Kirkus Reviews
Praise for the first Julia Gooden Mystery
THE LAST TIME SHE SAW HIM
“A sharp, breathless thriller. From the opening scene to the last, The Last Time She Saw Him, kept me flipping the pages. I loved it! Jane Haseldine is one to watch!” —Lisa Jackson, #1 New York Times bestselling author
“So visually written and chilling, with such real, believable characters and twists that shocked. A gripping story that I read in one night—I could not put it down...” —Debbie Howells, author of The Bones of You
My review:-
Julia Gooden knows how to juggle different lives. A successful crime reporter, she covers the grittiest stories in the city while raising her two young boys in the suburbs. But beneath that accomplished façade is another Julia, still consumed by a tragedy that unfolded thirty years ago when her nine-year-old brother disappeared without a trace.
Julia’s marriage, too, is a balancing act, as she tries to rekindle her relationship with her husband, Assistant District Attorney David Tanner, while maintaining professional boundaries. David is about to bring Nick Rossi to trial for crimes that include drug trafficking, illegal gambling, and bribery. But the story becomes much more urgent when a courthouse bomb claims several victims—including the prosecution’s key witness—and leaves David critically injured.
Though Julia is certain that Rossi orchestrated the attack, the case against him is collapsing, and his power and connections run high and wide. With the help of Detective Raymond Navarro of the Detroit PD, she starts following a trail of blackmail, payback, and political ambition, little imagining where it will lead. Julia has risked her career before, but this time innocent lives—including her children’s—hang in the balance, and justice may come too late to save what truly matters…
“Haseldine has a gift for atmosphere, setting, and suspense, and the many twists and turns will keep readers guessing.” —Library Journal
“Haseldine uses her experience as a crime reporter to bring authenticity to this exciting and gritty tale.” —Kirkus Reviews
Praise for the first Julia Gooden Mystery
THE LAST TIME SHE SAW HIM
“A sharp, breathless thriller. From the opening scene to the last, The Last Time She Saw Him, kept me flipping the pages. I loved it! Jane Haseldine is one to watch!” —Lisa Jackson, #1 New York Times bestselling author
“So visually written and chilling, with such real, believable characters and twists that shocked. A gripping story that I read in one night—I could not put it down...” —Debbie Howells, author of The Bones of You
My review:-
Artfully crafted with a page-turner and nail-biting plot,this book was full of complex and deep characters, a well built mystery and a tale that will be with you long afyer you finish the book.
Running with Raven ( The Amazing Story of One Man, His Passion, and the Community He Inspired) by Laura Lee Huttenbach
February 12, 2018
Description
The Amazing Story of One Man, His Passion, and the Community He Inspired.
In 1975 Robert “Raven” Kraft, a high school dropout and aspiring songwriter, made a New Year's Resolution to run eight miles on Miami's South Beach each evening. Over 125,000 miles later, he has not missed one sunset.
Along the way, Raven has changed the lives of thousands who have run with him—many of them hundreds of times. From all fifty states and dozens of countries, across all age groups and backgrounds, they come to run with Raven, and in the process find friendship, inspiration—and a nickname.
Among them is author Laura Lee “White Lightning” Huttenbach, who has logged over a thousand miles of Raven Runs. Here she explores the stories of dozens of others about why they started running with Raven—and why they keep coming back. Taxman, an accountant in his mid-60s, has done 1800+ runs. Dizzy, a middle school principal from Cuba, met his wife and his best friend on Raven Runs. Butcher, an ex-convict, credits Raven with saving his life. In an uncertain world Raven shows up, no matter what.
Quirky and appealing, tenacious and magnetic, Raven is a legend of the running world. As he says, “I may be the only thing that hasn't changed around here in the last forty years.” Laura Lee Huttenbach reveals how one man's daily ritual has blossomed into an uncanny gift for weaving people together—and an invaluable reminder that the journey means little without the connections forged along the way.
“Raven left an indelible impression upon me, as he has countless others. I am certain that you will find his story as fascinating and enthralling as I have. Raven, long may you run.” --Dean Karnazes, New York Times bestselling author ofUltramarathon Man
“An inspiring tale of unbreakable discipline and one-of-a-kind endurance.” --Gerald Posner, bestselling author of Miami Babylon
In 1975 Robert “Raven” Kraft, a high school dropout and aspiring songwriter, made a New Year's Resolution to run eight miles on Miami's South Beach each evening. Over 125,000 miles later, he has not missed one sunset.
Along the way, Raven has changed the lives of thousands who have run with him—many of them hundreds of times. From all fifty states and dozens of countries, across all age groups and backgrounds, they come to run with Raven, and in the process find friendship, inspiration—and a nickname.
Among them is author Laura Lee “White Lightning” Huttenbach, who has logged over a thousand miles of Raven Runs. Here she explores the stories of dozens of others about why they started running with Raven—and why they keep coming back. Taxman, an accountant in his mid-60s, has done 1800+ runs. Dizzy, a middle school principal from Cuba, met his wife and his best friend on Raven Runs. Butcher, an ex-convict, credits Raven with saving his life. In an uncertain world Raven shows up, no matter what.
Quirky and appealing, tenacious and magnetic, Raven is a legend of the running world. As he says, “I may be the only thing that hasn't changed around here in the last forty years.” Laura Lee Huttenbach reveals how one man's daily ritual has blossomed into an uncanny gift for weaving people together—and an invaluable reminder that the journey means little without the connections forged along the way.
“Raven left an indelible impression upon me, as he has countless others. I am certain that you will find his story as fascinating and enthralling as I have. Raven, long may you run.” --Dean Karnazes, New York Times bestselling author ofUltramarathon Man
“An inspiring tale of unbreakable discipline and one-of-a-kind endurance.” --Gerald Posner, bestselling author of Miami Babylon
My review
Hauntingly beautiful, compelling and inspiring. The book was a really good and captivating tale of Raven with lessons about life and what really matters. A flowing prose and an engrossing tale make this a great 4 star read!
Books I read in 2017 (part 3)
February 12, 2018
1. Bleed through by adriana arrington
Description
With his schizophrenia under control, life is looking up for twenty-five-year-old Liam Murphy. Independence looms on his horizon, and he’s under the care of a psychologist who understands him. Then he witnesses a murder at the yacht club. He worries it’s a hallucination and sign of regression, but soon becomes convinced that his meds have given him the paranormal ability to see past events and that the murder actually happened.
Attempting to make sense of his new talent, Liam finds an unlikely confidant in Mai Nguyen, a fellow college student and eternal optimist. Though she helps him navigate the unsettling memories threatening to engulf him, the emotional toll of learning terrible secrets he can’t prove pushes Liam to the brink of lucidity.
Desperate to wrest back control of his life, Liam tosses his pills. He spirals into a relapse and captures the killer’s attention as he bumbles through investigating the crime. Hunted by a possibly imaginary murderer, and haunted by self-doubt, Liam must distinguish between hallucinations and reality. If he doesn’t, he risks losing either his hard-won sanity or his life.
Attempting to make sense of his new talent, Liam finds an unlikely confidant in Mai Nguyen, a fellow college student and eternal optimist. Though she helps him navigate the unsettling memories threatening to engulf him, the emotional toll of learning terrible secrets he can’t prove pushes Liam to the brink of lucidity.
Desperate to wrest back control of his life, Liam tosses his pills. He spirals into a relapse and captures the killer’s attention as he bumbles through investigating the crime. Hunted by a possibly imaginary murderer, and haunted by self-doubt, Liam must distinguish between hallucinations and reality. If he doesn’t, he risks losing either his hard-won sanity or his life.
Beautiful, poignant and fresh. I loved the unique voice,the haunting narrative and the complex characters. 5 stars!
2. MRS by Nora Grey
Description
Dear Hope: When my daughter died, my husband of thirty years found solace in religion—and possibly another woman. Help.
Dear Hope: I got fired today and the man that I've been sleeping with left me for his ex-wife. Again. Now I’m a grown woman who lives at home. Help.
Dear Hope: My ex-husband embezzled all of our money and is now rotting in jail. I clawed my way into the life I wanted and now I'm about to lose everything. Help.
Mims, Rory, and Sarah need answers. But beloved Hope Jackson, the world famous love-sex-life columnist, is gone. What will women do without Hope?
Noa Grey’s debut novel MRS follows the intertwined lives of three women whose stories will have you laughing, crying, and wanting more.
Dear Hope: I got fired today and the man that I've been sleeping with left me for his ex-wife. Again. Now I’m a grown woman who lives at home. Help.
Dear Hope: My ex-husband embezzled all of our money and is now rotting in jail. I clawed my way into the life I wanted and now I'm about to lose everything. Help.
Mims, Rory, and Sarah need answers. But beloved Hope Jackson, the world famous love-sex-life columnist, is gone. What will women do without Hope?
Noa Grey’s debut novel MRS follows the intertwined lives of three women whose stories will have you laughing, crying, and wanting more.
Poignant,touching and inspiring. A fresh and unique piece of fiction that will remain with you for a long time . Realistic and deep characters and a powerful prose.
3. After she's gone by Maggie James
Description
Lori Golden’s family have had more than their fair share of troubles. But through it all, Lori and her sister, Jessie, have always supported each other. Then Jessie is killed. And Lori’s world turns upside down.
Devastated, Lori struggles to cope with her loss, and to learn to live in a world without her bright, bubbly sister by her side. Around her, her already fractured family start to fall apart. And, as Lori and her mother try to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives, secrets long thought buried are coming painfully to light.
Faced with the unthinkable, Lori is forced to ask herself how well she really knows those who are left behind…
A page-turner masterpiece with a carefully crafted tale of loss,faith and family skeletons. I loved it and would recommend it to everyone. A 4 star read!
4. Blood and ink by Stephen Davies
Description
Part thriller, part love story, this contemporary YA novel is based on true-to-life events in Mali in 2012 and centers around the power of individuals to take a stand against terrorism.
Kadi is the 15-year-old daughter of a librarian in modern-day Timbuktu. Ali is the son of shepherds and has been conscripted by the Defenders of Faith, an arm of Al Qaeda. When these two teens meet, it's hate at first sight.
Forced together by a series of tumultous events, their feelings slowly but persistently turn into something more, causing Kadi to let her guard down and Ali to discover her family's secret hiding place for the manuscripts her family is tasked with safeguarding. Kadi undertakes a dangerous operation to smuggle the manuscripts out of the city, while Ali and his military commander are soon in pursuit. Ali's loyalties will never be more in question than when Kadi's life is in danger.
Kadi is the 15-year-old daughter of a librarian in modern-day Timbuktu. Ali is the son of shepherds and has been conscripted by the Defenders of Faith, an arm of Al Qaeda. When these two teens meet, it's hate at first sight.
Forced together by a series of tumultous events, their feelings slowly but persistently turn into something more, causing Kadi to let her guard down and Ali to discover her family's secret hiding place for the manuscripts her family is tasked with safeguarding. Kadi undertakes a dangerous operation to smuggle the manuscripts out of the city, while Ali and his military commander are soon in pursuit. Ali's loyalties will never be more in question than when Kadi's life is in danger.
A GREAT ANDFABULOUS SYORYSTORY HAT WILL HOOK YOU TILL THE END! I loved the captivating narrative,the amazing character arches and the well crafted plot. The book was original and fresh with a gr
5. Spirit Quest by Jennifer Frick-Ruppert
Description
Skyco, an Algonquin boy, is heir to the great chief Menatonon, but he has much to learn before he can take his place within the tribe. After helping rescue the tribe's shaman, Roncommock, from a bear attack, Skyco learns that the bear is his spirit animal and will guide him on his quest to become a man.
Roncommock teaches Skyco how to enter the spirit world and communicate not just with the spirits who guide their people, but also how to connect with the animals around them. He steps into the bodies and minds of an ant, a fish, and a bird, and each show him something new about the world—knowledge that he will need to be a great leader.
He also learns other practical skills like hunting, canoe building, and how to start a fire. Learning to properly use an atlatl and a bow are just precursors to Skyco's ultimate test, the husquenaugh, when Skyco is challenged to use his hard-earned skills to survive the harrowing, life-or-death ritual. Can Skyco pass the ultimate test and take his rightful place as heir?
A book of rousing adventure and historical relevance, The Legend of Skyco: Spirit Quest brings to life the world of the Algonquin tribe before the arrival of English explorers.
A perfect read for both children and youngsters with its engaging plot, captivating and intriguing characters and an amazing adventure! I loved it and can't wait to read more from the author!
6. A slim chance by Elizabeth Harrison
Description
Four women meet at a Manchester university party in 1975 and become close friends. Over the following thirty years, their lives are shaped by their childhoods, their relationships with men, and the backdrop of rapid changes in society for women. When one of the four, Linda Hammond, is found dead, suspicion falls on her use of Svelte, a widely prescribed slimming drug linked to numerous deaths. Also in the frame of suspicion is an eminent cardiologist who arranged an illegal abortion for Linda when he was a medical student, the knowledge of which could finish his career. Concerns about the high number of deaths amongst Svelta users are picked up by two investigative journalists. They uncover the manipulation of the clinical trial data on which the drug was licensed and the readiness of Sipher Pharmaceutical to rebut any concern over the drug’s safety. Linda’s death dramatically changes all the women’s lives, laying bare deceit, a lack of personal integrity and corporate greed.
A well developed tale of friendship, fate and family. It's a great thriller with strong women and a well built mystery. 4 stars!
7. Dream me by Kathryn Berla
Description
Zat is a dreamer from the distant future—a time when humans no longer dream and Earth is a desolate wasteland. He dreams of the beautiful Earth of the past, and a fiery-haired beauty named Babe. Against the wisdom of his peers, Zat decides to risk everything to travel back in time and live in Babe’s dreams…
Babe is the perpetual new girl in town. Her father's job frequently moves the family around the country, and Babe just longs for a place to call home. As she settles into the sleepy town of Sugar Dunes, Florida, Babe begins to have strange dreams of a green-eyed boy named Zat. Night after night, Babe shows Zat her world. But the dreams come at the cost of nearly crippling migraines every morning. Babe’s life outside of her dreams pales in comparison to her growing love for Zat and their time spent together.
But the more time Babe and Zat spend together in her dreams, the more Babe’s pain increases, and Zat begins to question the reality of his existence. How can he live a life with Babe, when all they have is her dreams?
Can a dream become a reality?
Wildly imaginative,fantastic and beautifully creative. I loved the book and would recommend it to everyone with its deep,realistic and complex characters, a flowing prose and an amazing story
8. Heartborn by Terry Maggert
Description
Her guardian angel was pushed.
Keiron was never meant to be anything other than a hero. Born high above in a place of war and deception, he is Heartborn, a being of purity and goodness in a place where there violence and deceit are just around every corner. His disappearance will spark a war he cannot see, for Keiron has pierced the light of days to save a girl he has never met, for reasons he cannot understand. Livvy Foster is seventeen, brave, and broken.
With half a heart, she bears the scars of a lifetime of pain and little hope of survival. Until Keiron arrives. In the middle of a brewing war and Livvy’s failing heart, Keiron will risk everything for Livvy, because a Heartborn’s life can only end in one way: Sacrifice. Fall with Livvy and Keiron as they seek the truth about her heart, and his power, and what it means to love someone who will give their very life to save you
Beautifully written and wildly imaginative. The book tugs at the heart of the reader with its amazing and touching narrative ,raw and conplex characters and a beautiful story line. I loved it
9. The Iron Chariot by Stein Riverton
Description
‘The founder of the modern Norwegian crime novel’ – Jo Nesbo
On a blazing hot summer’s day, holidaymakers at a guesthouse on a Norwegian island are shocked to discover a fellow guest has been found murdered out on a desolate plain. The nameless narrator, an author, was the last person to see the victim alive; shortly afterwards, he was disturbed by a noise like ‘a rattling of chains’. A local tells him this is ‘the iron chariot’, which is said to presage death.
Detective Asbjorn Krag is summoned from the capital of Kristiania, and sets about investigating the murder. When a similar death occurs on the plain, it is again preceded by the eerie sound of the iron chariot, which leaves no tracks. Mystery is added to mystery when the victim turns out to be a man believed to have died several years earlier.
Drawn unwillingly into the investigation, the narrator is puzzled by the enigmatic detective’s apparent inaction, and troubled by unfolding events. These begin to take a toll on his mental wellbeing and he sinks into a state of dread, exacerbated by mysterious happenings at the cabin where he is staying.
So profound is his unease that he feels he must leave the island. Then Krag promises to tell him the solution to the mystery…
Voted #2 in a poll of the greatest Norwegian crime novels of all time, The Iron Chariot is a classic of the genre that is now getting a long overdue publication in English.
‘This is a classic Norwegian crime story. It was written over 100 years ago. Riverton is regarded as the founder of the modern Norwegian crime novel and he is a great writer.’ – Jo Nesbo
‘I’ve sketched out a fine new detective novel. Or not exactly a detective novel but a thrilling tale, a sensational tale, the most exciting novel I have ever written. The name of the book will be The Iron Chariot’ – Stein Riverton
Fresh,compelling and captivating. An intriguing plot,captivating and engrossing story along with a well crafted myster make this a 5 star must read!
Always and Forever (An emotional page-turner about love and coming to terms with your past ) by Siân O'Gorman
February 12, 2018
Description
A warm, witty, compelling and emotional novel about love, family and coming to terms with your past. Perfect for fans of Jill Mansell, Jodi Picoult and Diane Chamberlain. How can you find yourself again, when you can’t face what you’ve lost? Joanna Woulfe is looking to get her life back on track after her husband John leaves their family home. Once a high-flying PR Director, Jo now looks after her son Harry and seeks support only from her mother Marietta and her best friend Nicole. But Nicole’s own marriage is facing its greatest ever crisis, and Marietta, too, is distracted by the reappearance of an old flame, ex-Showband-singer and lothario Patrick Realta. Soon Jo enrols with a colourful local amateur dramatics group and begins a flirtation with the handsome young Ronan Forest. But is she really ready to move on from her old life – and from her years of marriage to John? And what was it that happened three years ago that sent the couple into free-fall? Before long Jo will realise that is only by looking back that she will ever truly be able to move forward..
Journey Across the Hidden Islands by Sarah Beth Durst
February 12, 2018
Description
The traditional Emperor’s Journey is meant to be uneventful. But as the princesses Seika and Ji-Lin—twin sisters—travel to pay respects to their kingdom’s dragon guardian, unexpected monsters appear and tremors shake the earth. The Hidden Islands face unprecedented threats, and the old rituals are failing. With only their strength, ingenuity, and flying lion to rely on, can the sisters find a new way to keep their people safe?
My review:-
A perfect read for children with an amazingly engaging story line, realistic characters and an adventure to behold! I loved it. The narrative was flowing and immersive for young readers with a beautiful portrayal of courage,bravery and love.
Books I read in 2017 (part 2)
February 12, 2018
1.Farragut Square by Bette McNicholas
Description
Farragut Square is a small plot of real estate in the heart of Washington, D.C.'s financial district. A crime took place there eight years ago and remains unsolved. Lindsay McCallister is searching for her missing sister. She swaps her tutu for a policeman's standard blue uniform and her ballet shoes for a 9mm Glock.
She's about to meet the one man capable of exposing her secrets and ruining her mission, Sergeant Joseph Dragani, the newly appointed head of the Unsolved Mystery Task Force.
One evening, Lindsay finds Douglas Bly, hiding in her closet. He's an escaped murderer who not only kidnapped her sister, but also has a perverse obsession with virgins.
But Joey Dragani, the street-smart detective, has other plans for Lindsay and is not about to let this murderer strike again...
She's about to meet the one man capable of exposing her secrets and ruining her mission, Sergeant Joseph Dragani, the newly appointed head of the Unsolved Mystery Task Force.
One evening, Lindsay finds Douglas Bly, hiding in her closet. He's an escaped murderer who not only kidnapped her sister, but also has a perverse obsession with virgins.
But Joey Dragani, the street-smart detective, has other plans for Lindsay and is not about to let this murderer strike again...
Thrilling,engrossing and amazing with a masterfully crafted storyline. I loved it and can't wait to read more from the author,. The book ws a one sit read for me with a nail biting plot.
2.Will by Timothy P. Munkley
Description
No one can fathom the friendship between quick-witted Will Mitty, at four foot seven, and quiet, reserved Peewee Kovak, at six foot nine and two hundred and eighty pounds. Peewee has been protecting Will’s wise-cracking ass since first grade.
For the first time in their lives, things get tense when Will falls for a damaged, dark-haired beauty, and introduces her to Peewee.
Will, with a dubious life expectancy, feels an urgency to change the direction the world seems to be heading. “Simple solutions to complex problems,” Will says. But Peewee gets irritated with his little friend’s insistence that he get involved. Peewee just wants to be content and left alone, in peace.
But, Will has a plan to live on—a plan that will change Peewee’s life . . . and the world. Through this story of a quaint and unlikely friendship, Will addresses our most inner human conflicts of love, death, and the legacy we choose to leave behind.
For the first time in their lives, things get tense when Will falls for a damaged, dark-haired beauty, and introduces her to Peewee.
Will, with a dubious life expectancy, feels an urgency to change the direction the world seems to be heading. “Simple solutions to complex problems,” Will says. But Peewee gets irritated with his little friend’s insistence that he get involved. Peewee just wants to be content and left alone, in peace.
But, Will has a plan to live on—a plan that will change Peewee’s life . . . and the world. Through this story of a quaint and unlikely friendship, Will addresses our most inner human conflicts of love, death, and the legacy we choose to leave behind.
Poignant, soulful and creative. A must read with realistic and complex character and an original plot. Beautiful!
3. You can't touch my hair by Phoebe Robinson
Description
A NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLER • "A must-read…Phoebe Robinson discusses race and feminism in such a funny, real, and specific way, it penetrates your brain and stays with you." –Ilana Glazer, co-creator and co-star of Broad City
A hilarious and timely essay collection about race, gender, and pop culture from upcoming comedy superstar and 2 Dope Queens podcaster Phoebe RobinsonBeing a black woman in America means contending with old prejudices and fresh absurdities every day. Comedian Phoebe Robinson has experienced her fair share over the years: she's been unceremoniously relegated to the role of "the black friend," as if she is somehow the authority on all things racial; she's been questioned about her love of U2 and Billy Joel ("isn’t that . . . white people music?"); she's been called "uppity" for having an opinion in the workplace; she's been followed around stores by security guards; and yes, people do ask her whether they can touch her hair all. the. time. Now, she's ready to take these topics to the page—and she’s going to make you laugh as she’s doing it.
Using her trademark wit alongside pop-culture references galore, Robinson explores everything from why Lisa Bonet is "Queen. Bae. Jesus," to breaking down the terrible nature of casting calls, to giving her less-than-traditional advice to the future female president, and demanding that the NFL clean up its act, all told in the same conversational voice that launched her podcast, 2 Dope Queens, to the top spot on iTunes. As personal as it is political, You Can't Touch My Hairexamines our cultural climate and skewers our biases with humor and heart, announcing Robinson as a writer on the rise.
One of Glamour's "Top 10 Books of 2016"
A hilarious and timely essay collection about race, gender, and pop culture from upcoming comedy superstar and 2 Dope Queens podcaster Phoebe RobinsonBeing a black woman in America means contending with old prejudices and fresh absurdities every day. Comedian Phoebe Robinson has experienced her fair share over the years: she's been unceremoniously relegated to the role of "the black friend," as if she is somehow the authority on all things racial; she's been questioned about her love of U2 and Billy Joel ("isn’t that . . . white people music?"); she's been called "uppity" for having an opinion in the workplace; she's been followed around stores by security guards; and yes, people do ask her whether they can touch her hair all. the. time. Now, she's ready to take these topics to the page—and she’s going to make you laugh as she’s doing it.
Using her trademark wit alongside pop-culture references galore, Robinson explores everything from why Lisa Bonet is "Queen. Bae. Jesus," to breaking down the terrible nature of casting calls, to giving her less-than-traditional advice to the future female president, and demanding that the NFL clean up its act, all told in the same conversational voice that launched her podcast, 2 Dope Queens, to the top spot on iTunes. As personal as it is political, You Can't Touch My Hairexamines our cultural climate and skewers our biases with humor and heart, announcing Robinson as a writer on the rise.
One of Glamour's "Top 10 Books of 2016"
Loved it! Hilarious, poignant, touching and truthful. YOU CAN'T TOUCH MY HAIR is a masterfully written tale of serotypes,racism and assumptions. A great 4 star read.
4. For no apparent reason by S.K.Durban
Description
Love in the Middle of Money Laundering and Murder…
Romance has been absent from Madison’s life. She has successfully planned each phase, and is resigned to the fact there will be plenty of time for love after she passes the bar exam—that is until the single act of seeking shelter from a spring downpour dramatically alters the course of her future.
In a quiet family neighborhood, during an unexpected thunder storm, Madison Leigh rushes to take cover on the porch of a nearby home. While waiting, the inquisitive North Carolina law student glances at the mail, and thinks she recognizes the homeowner’s name. Madison suspects him to be the same Samuel Livingston being held for the alleged murder of his wife, Merry. Her suspicions trigger a surge of curiosity and lead to the discovery of an heirloom brooch. Madison is lured away from the security of law school into a world where she learns about the destructive nature of greed.
In For No Apparent Reason Madison is thrust in a maze of money laundering and murder. This clean read mystery follows Madison as she experiences the value of true friendship and witnesses the healing power of love
Outright hilarious, fresh and engrossing. I loved it and would definitely recommend it. The characters were complex with a strong and well developed plot. I can't wait to read more from the author.
5. If the creek don'trise by Leah Weis
Description
A strikingly sincere portrait of a town and its buried secrets from an outstanding new voice in southern fiction.
In a North Carolina mountain town filled with moonshine and rotten husbands, Sadie Blue is only the latest girl to face a dead-end future at the mercy of a dangerous drunk. She’s been married to Roy Tupkin for fifteen days, and she knows now that she should have listened to the folks who said he was trouble. But when a stranger sweeps in and knocks the world off-kilter for everyone in town, Sadie begins to think there might be more to life than being Roy’s wife.
As stark and magnificent as Appalachia itself, If the Creek Don’t Rise is a bold and beautifully layered debut about a dusty, desperate town finding the inner strength it needs to outrun its demons. The folks of Baines Creek will take you deep into the mountains with heart, honesty, and homegrown grit.
In a North Carolina mountain town filled with moonshine and rotten husbands, Sadie Blue is only the latest girl to face a dead-end future at the mercy of a dangerous drunk. She’s been married to Roy Tupkin for fifteen days, and she knows now that she should have listened to the folks who said he was trouble. But when a stranger sweeps in and knocks the world off-kilter for everyone in town, Sadie begins to think there might be more to life than being Roy’s wife.
As stark and magnificent as Appalachia itself, If the Creek Don’t Rise is a bold and beautifully layered debut about a dusty, desperate town finding the inner strength it needs to outrun its demons. The folks of Baines Creek will take you deep into the mountains with heart, honesty, and homegrown grit.
Poignant, beautifully written and amazing. I loved how the writer captured the character's emotion so masterfully with a complex and hones plot. A great 4 star read.
6. Unraveling by Sara Ella
Description
What happens when happily ever after starts to unravel?
Eliyana Ember doesn’t believe in true love. Not anymore. After capturing the Void and saving the Second Reflection, El only trusts what’s right in front of her. The tangible. The real. Not some unexplained Kiss of Infinity she once shared with the ghost of a boy she’s trying to forget. She has more important things to worry about—like becoming queen of the Second Reflection, a role she is so not prepared to fill.
With the Verity intertwined with her soul and Joshua finally by her side, El is ready to learn more about her mysterious birth land, the land she now rules. So why does she feel like something—or someone—is missing?
When the thresholds begin to drain and the Callings, those powerful magical gifts, begin to fail, El wonders if her connection with Ky Rhyen may have something to do with it. For light and darkness cannot coexist. She needs answers before the Callings disappear altogether. Can El find a way to sever her connection to Ky and save the Reflections—and keep herself from falling for him in the process?
Masterfully crafted plot, comlex and realistic characters and an amazing narrative are what make this a great 5 star read! I loved it and would definitely recommend it. The book was fresh and creative in the fantasy genre and I look forward to reading more from the author.
7. How to charm a Beekeeper's heart by Candice Sue Patterson
Description
Weddings are the last thing beekeeper Huck Anderson wants to be associated with, considering his past. So when he inherits a building occupied by a bridal boutique, he aims to evict the failing business and open a sporting goods store. That is until his tenant ends up being Arianne Winters, a woman he's indebted to from a mistake made years ago. When a life-threatening injury derails Huck entirely, Arianne offers a compromise to keep her boutique and her life out of bankruptcy—she'll aid in his lengthy recovery if he'll allow her to remain in his building. But nursing her adversary proves challenging when her adolescent crush resurfaces. Amidst a battle-of-wills, their lives intertwine in unexpected ways, providing opportunity to overcome their pasts and start anew. Will this confirmed bachelor consider holy-matrimony, or will Huck's choices sting them a second time?
A Beautiful tale of love, romance ,courage and faith. I loved it andwould definitely recommend it to any romance lover. The book was a one sit read with a captivating plot and complex characters.
Twisted luck by mia downing
February 12, 2018
Description
"When I told him to go to hell, I never realized it would be a trip for two."
All I wanted was luck—the good kind. I’d lost my job, a jerk hacked my bank account, and I caught my best friend screwing my fiancé. When stood up by my Internet date in a bar, I met the perfect man—tall, dark, and handsome in the most expensive suit. He was out of my league, but I didn’t want forever.
I barely remember the words he whispered under the veil of sin and seduction. I didn’t believe in Satan, God, Heaven or Hell. I thought he was kidding. A figment. A dream.
I was wrong. With one, breathless yes, my fate was sealed.
Businessman by day, demon by night, Leo Weston now owns my soul in exchange for good luck. Time is ticking as he works to secure my mother’s soul, too. Somehow, I have to take him down despite him being so damned gorgeous, glib, and devious. Will my gift of twisted luck be enough to save her and protect my heart?
My review:-
Hilarious, sizzling and captivating. The plot was amazingly engrossing with sassy and strong characters. I loved it. 3.5 stars
If I run by Terry Blackstock
February 12, 2018
Description
Casey Cox has blood on the bottom of her shoes, in her car, on her clothes. But there's no point in trying to defend herself. She just has to run.
Casey didn't kill her friend Brent. She discovered his body, but she'd never try to hurt him. He's the only person she's ever trusted enough to tell the truth about what happened to her father . . . and there's no doubt in her mind that Brent was killed trying to help her prove it. She has to run before they get to her too.
Dylan Roberts was hired to find Casey and bring her back so that justice can be served. As a former Criminal Investigator for the Army, he can't imagine that tracking down one girl will be that difficult.
But the more elusive Casey turns out to be, the more Dylan digs into her past to try to determine what she might be thinking. What he finds there doesn't fit the profile of a killer at all. She's unlike any other fugitive he's ever seen.
The police refuse to discuss any other possibilities. There's something more going on here. Something more to this fugitive who has captured his attention. Now he just has to figure out what it is . . . and Casey just has to stay one step ahead of everyone who's after her.
My review :-
A whirlwind of intrigue,thrill and awesomeness. I loved it and would definitely love to read more from the author. Fantastic!
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