PUMPKINS AND PROMS is the second book in the Grimm Academy series. Though each book focuses on one couple, this is a continuing series and you will dePUMPKINS AND PROMS is the second book in the Grimm Academy series. Though each book focuses on one couple, this is a continuing series and you will definitely want to read them all and in the order of release.
I devour fairy-tale retellings. I envy any author who can take something so well known and add their own little twist. Laura Greenwood has decided to take all of our favorite princesses and Prince Charmings and put them together in an English Academy (private high school for us Americans). The ladies all know they have a prophecy, most with dire outcomes in their futures.
This is Ella’s story and her “prince” is Florian. The story is sweet with a nice suspense element. They can count on their friends and there are no “mean girl”(or boy) elements, though there is a villain. The evil stepmother has her reasons and they make sense when they are revealed – the most human of reasons.
I like how the other characters lives and stories were interwoven into this one so that the reader is invested in the series. I’m looking forward to reading more, more, more!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via Booksprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: PUMPKINS AND PROMS Series: Grimm Academy #2 Category /Genre: Paranormal Romance, YA Recommended for: 16+ Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused Received from: Laura Greenwood
Merged review:
PUMPKINS AND PROMS is the second book in the Grimm Academy series. Though each book focuses on one couple, this is a continuing series and you will definitely want to read them all and in the order of release.
I devour fairy-tale retellings. I envy any author who can take something so well known and add their own little twist. Laura Greenwood has decided to take all of our favorite princesses and Prince Charmings and put them together in an English Academy (private high school for us Americans). The ladies all know they have a prophecy, most with dire outcomes in their futures.
This is Ella’s story and her “prince” is Florian. The story is sweet with a nice suspense element. They can count on their friends and there are no “mean girl”(or boy) elements, though there is a villain. The evil stepmother has her reasons and they make sense when they are revealed – the most human of reasons.
I like how the other characters lives and stories were interwoven into this one so that the reader is invested in the series. I’m looking forward to reading more, more, more!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via Booksprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: PUMPKINS AND PROMS Series: Grimm Academy #2 Category /Genre: Paranormal Romance, YA Recommended for: 16+ Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused Received from: Laura Greenwood...more
A LOVE SO TRUE is the first book in the Greatest Generation Love Story series. Each of these historical romances set during World War II can be read aA LOVE SO TRUE is the first book in the Greatest Generation Love Story series. Each of these historical romances set during World War II can be read as a stand-alone.
This is a beautiful romance that grows from forced proximity, to friendship, to love. I loved the feeling of living in history and living in the gorgeous English countryside.
I was drawn in from the first page and could not put this down. I only wish there were more stories in this series.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via BookSprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: A LOVE SO TRUE Series: Greatest Generation Love Story #1 Category /Genre: Clean Romance Recommended for: 16+ Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused Received from: Caroline Mickelson ...more
PLEAS OF THE POLTERGEIST is the third book in the Meowing Medium series. These will be best understood if read in the order of release.
First things fPLEAS OF THE POLTERGEIST is the third book in the Meowing Medium series. These will be best understood if read in the order of release.
First things first – I want to visit Colonial Candles and just smell all the wonderful scents and maybe get to watch some candles being dipped.
Second, there was just the right amount of tension – spectral and earthly – to this cozy mystery. The story kept me glued to my kindle far into the night. Who needs sleep when there is a great story to be read?
Last, I agree with the choice of men at the end of the book. When the right man has your back, you know it.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via BookSprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: PLEAS OF THE POLTERGEIST Series: Meowing Medium #3 Category /Genre: Paranormal Cozy Mystery Recommended for: 14+ Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused Received from: Melissa Storm ...more
DEER DUPLICITY is the sixteenth book in the Pet Whisperer P.I. series. These will best be understood if read in the order of release.
When the new neiDEER DUPLICITY is the sixteenth book in the Pet Whisperer P.I. series. These will best be understood if read in the order of release.
When the new neighbor upsets the neighborhood, it’s aggravating for Octocat, Pringle, and Paisley to be confined to the house. However, when that neighbor winds up dead, things go from bad to worse! That’s when Angie and her menagerie of adorable private investigators begin once again to sleuth close to home.
This story is a quick, charming, feel-good, cozy mystery to lighten any dreary afternoon. I love this series and look forward to every installment I can get my hands on to read.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via BookSprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: DEER DUPLICITY Series: Pet Whisperer P.I. #14 Category /Genre: Paranormal Cozy Mystery Recommended for: 14+ Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused Received from: Melissa Storm ...more
WISTERIA WEDDING is the fourteenth book in the Wisteria Witches series. You will definitely want to read the previous books to best understand all of WISTERIA WEDDING is the fourteenth book in the Wisteria Witches series. You will definitely want to read the previous books to best understand all of the characters.
Narration: Tiffany Williams once again gives a superb performance of old characters and new. She is the best narrator in this universe or the alternate one!
One of my favorite new characters is T.O.A.D.E. (The Oracle at Dragon’s End). He’s no nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is, a little grumpy-old-man, and yet entirely loveable and human…. Err toad. Even though he’s in the parallel universe, I hope we get to see him again!
This story actually starts out dark. When a wedding becomes a wake, you know it can’t be good. That is only one of the surprises in this story. There is a baby on the way; death is not forever when djinn are involved; and then there is the ending. I won’t give anything away, but don’t miss this ending! A new beginning!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted audiobook copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: WISTERIA WEDDING Series: Wisteria Witches # 13 Category /Genre: Paranormal Cozy Mystery Recommended for: 14+ due to situations Listenability: OK for all ears Received from: Angela Pepper (as an Audible gifted copy)...more
CRITTER CALAMITY is the thirteenth book in the Wisteria Witches series. This is a paranormal mystery short story with magic and supernatural creaturesCRITTER CALAMITY is the thirteenth book in the Wisteria Witches series. This is a paranormal mystery short story with magic and supernatural creatures in a quaint small town.
This is a perfect Christmas gift to those of us who are long-time readers of the Wisteria Witches series. However, it can also be a great introduction for new readers – just know that you will have spoilers before you go back and read the previous hijinks.
Of the critters that inhabit Zara’s home, my favorite has to be Boa (the cat). Now, every time I want to make lunch, I find myself imitating Tiffany William’s voice as Boa. “Haaam.”
I love the Wisteria Witches series. This story is no exception – plenty of snark, family, sweetness, funny, and a dose of mystery in a clean read. This time we get to enjoy a bit of Christmas.
Narration: Tiffany Williams is always wonderful, and she is THE voice for these beloved characters.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted audiobook copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: CRITTER CALAMITY Series: Wisteria Witches #12.5 Category /Genre: Paranormal Cozy Mystery Recommended for: 14+ due to vocabulary Listenability: OK for all ears Received from: Angela Pepper (as an Audible gifted copy)...more
KEEPING KATIE is the fourteenth book in the multi-author Gold Coast Retrievers series. Each is a stand-alone story of romantic suspense.
This is a wondKEEPING KATIE is the fourteenth book in the multi-author Gold Coast Retrievers series. Each is a stand-alone story of romantic suspense.
This is a wonderful, feel-good story. It feels good because of the therapy dog, Rosie. It feels good because of the romance between Katie and Anton. It feels good because of the devotion that Katie has towards her sister, Veronica. It feels good, because at the end I had all of my happy endings.
I would gladly spend a week reading nothing but Golden Retriever stories and then beg for another week. Who doesn’t want a friendly, sweet, devoted dog to help you navigate life’s troubles? I’m looking through my TBR pile to see if I have another book from this wonderful series…. See you soon!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via BookSprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: KEEPING KATIE Series: Gold Coast Retrievers #14 Category /Genre: Sweet Romance, Suspense Recommended for: 14+ Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused Received from: Stella Quinn ...more
MERLIN KILLS A ZOMBIE is the third and final book in the Merlin the Magical Fluff series. Each release builds on the previous stories, so I recommend MERLIN KILLS A ZOMBIE is the third and final book in the Merlin the Magical Fluff series. Each release builds on the previous stories, so I recommend reading them in the order of release.
Another fun, simple, easy-to-read adventure with the cat(s) in charge. I may not like zombies – truly, who does? – but how can you miss the antics of zombie squirrels!? I was glued to my kindle from beginning to end. Honestly, who needs sleep when there are kitty-witches and their familiar to enjoy?
Though this trilogy is done, the good news is that we have been introduced to many wonderful characters who will soon have their own series. I’ve already read two of the Paranormal Temp Agency books and I’m looking forward to Drake’s and Jake’s series.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via BookSprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: MERLIN KILLS A ZOMBIE Series: Merlin the Magical Fluff #3 Category /Genre: Paranormal Cozy Mystery Recommended for: 14+ Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused. Received from: Melissa Storm
MERLIN FIGHTS A GHOST is the second book in the Merlin the Magical Fluff series. Book two picks up where the first left off and many plot elements areMERLIN FIGHTS A GHOST is the second book in the Merlin the Magical Fluff series. Book two picks up where the first left off and many plot elements are a direct consequence of things that happened previously, but you’ll be brought up to date. I still recommend reading in the order of release.
This series is so clever. The human is the familiar and the cat is the witch. There is feline romance, potions, ghosts, and lots of pumpkin spice.
I loved this feel-good, easy-to-read, fun, and funny kitten-cozy with lots of cat-itude. I love the mellow drama (as opposed to melodrama!). I’m looking forward to Killing a Zombie!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via BookSprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: MERLIN FIGHTS A GHOST Series: Merlin the Magical Fluff #2 Category /Genre: Paranormal Cozy Mystery Recommended for: 14+ Grammar/editing: book received as an unedited ARC / errors excused Received from: Melissa Storm...more
THE BLUEBERRY SWIRL WALTZ is the seventh book in the multi-author One Scoop or Two series. Each story is a stand-alone romance with the connecting theTHE BLUEBERRY SWIRL WALTZ is the seventh book in the multi-author One Scoop or Two series. Each story is a stand-alone romance with the connecting theme of an ice cream shop. This story is a historical romance set in the 1950s with a long-standing crush awakened years after high school.
So many historical romances are set in Regency England or the Antebellum South or maybe during World War II. This was refreshingly different. There was no war acting as a second rogue. There were two hearts working towards each other, overcoming obstacles, and facing the challenges of life in a small mill town. That’s what made this story so much different from other historical novels and what made it one of my favorites of this year.
I loved Katie from the moment she twirled on her toes in the opening scene. She’s sweet, feisty, determined, loyal, and strong. She’s also a hopeless, hopeful romantic. She and her family deserve everything good in life.
I’d love to see follow up stories placed at this Ice Cream Shop as Katie’s sisters realize their dreams… and maybe mom too!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via BookSprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: THE BLUEBERRY SWIRL WALTZ Series: One Scoop or Two #7 Category /Genre: Historical Romance (50s) Recommended for: 16+ Grammar/editing: A – near perfect Received from: Maria Imbalzano (as an ARC gifted copy)...more
ROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL is the first book in the Baker Street Neighborhood Romances series. I expect that each story will stand on its own in tROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL is the first book in the Baker Street Neighborhood Romances series. I expect that each story will stand on its own in this series.
This was a lovely sweet romance between a bad boy (motorcyclist) and a good girl (flower shop girl). The characters are interesting, fun, quirky, and very likeable.
Great conversations, easy and fun banter, and a few laugh-out-loud moments. I loved listening to this story and look forward to more of the series.
Narration: Tiffany Williams has always voiced the Wisteria Witches series and it was fun to hear her doing a different set of characters…. And just as well! I love Tiffany Williams as a narrator.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted audiobook copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: ROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL Series: Baker Street Neighborhood Romances #1 Category /Genre: Romantic Comedy Recommended for: 16+ Listenability: OK for ears Received from: Angela Pepper (as an Audible gifted copy)...more
GIFTS OF THE GHOST is the second book in the Meowing Mediums series. Each book in this series will stand on its own, but why deny yourself?
I love thisGIFTS OF THE GHOST is the second book in the Meowing Mediums series. Each book in this series will stand on its own, but why deny yourself?
I love this series, and this story was wonderful. I love the touch of Revolutionary History and the secret room reminded me of my love of the old Nancy Drew stories.
I would have loved to have seen more of the cat, and Maggie the ghost, but there is a new ghost, a new villain, and a new mystery to solve.
This was a great read, highly entertaining, fun, exciting, and a bit of romance. We all know it si the romance that does it for me! Romance and a cute animal, plus a touch of paranormal – all of my boxes have been ticked.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via BookSprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: GIFTS OF THE GHOST Series: Meowing Medium #2 Author: L.A. Boruff & Molly Fitz Publisher: L.A. Boruff Publish Date: 01.19.2022 Category /Genre: Paranormal Romance Recommended for: 16+ Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused. Received from: L.A. Boruff...more
KARMA'S SENSE is the fifth book in the Mystic Hollow series. This short would stand on its own and as a great introduction to who Deva is in the MystiKARMA'S SENSE is the fifth book in the Mystic Hollow series. This short would stand on its own and as a great introduction to who Deva is in the Mystic Hollow group of besties.
When I think of my grandmother, I think of snickerdoodles. To me, love has a smell and a taste. It is cinnamon; it is my gramma’s snickerdoodle cookies. There was magic in her kitchen. That is what I remembered when I read about the magic in Deva’s cooking. Deva just has a bit more magic… maybe.
In this wonderful short story, it’s nearly Valentine’s Day, and she’s wondering if she’s ready to start dating again. Of course, her friends already know the answer, they know the gentleman, and when we look back to the end of her marriage, we find that she does too, subconsciously. He’s been there all along. While I was angry with her ex-husband, I found the support of her friends and her future to be heart-warming and sigh-worthy. I loved it!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via BookSprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: KARMA'S SENSE Series: Mystic Hollow #4 Category /Genre: Paranormal Romance Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content. Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused. Received from: L.A. Boruff Goodreads link: Karma’s Sense...more
MOOSE BE LOVE is the first book in the Sunset Ridge series. Each story in this series will stand on its own, but for maximum enjoyment I recommend reaMOOSE BE LOVE is the first book in the Sunset Ridge series. Each story in this series will stand on its own, but for maximum enjoyment I recommend reading them all.
The title clues you in. This story is as cute as the title. It must be love…. Umm, it MOOSE be love. A window licking moose at that! Now, if you’re reading this review trying to decide if you want to read it and you’re thinking “window licking moose???” trust me… it’s funny!
This moose owns Sunset Ridge and wants all of its residents to be as happy as a moose munching blueberries.
He has his antlers honed in on Cadence and Ford. He knows they both need to loosen up and learn to live for themselves as much as they do for everyone around them.
I’ve fallen in love with everyone in Sunset Ridge. If it wasn’t in Alaska – you know, that place with snow – I might want to live there too!
MY FAVORITE MOOSETAKE is the second book in the Sunset Ridge Sweet Romance Series. Each will stand on its own, but I have fallen in love with these sisters (and this town) and want to know all of their stories.
Tessa and Liam’s story is all about second chances and a love that has existed since they were in high school. For Liam, he believed that “if you love something you must let it go.” He had to allow Tessa to become the person she needed to be as an adult, before she could know what she truly wanted. Because love is wonderful, but she had big dreams that had to be nurtured. Liam is my hero. He allowed them to both experience a small hurt (yes, it lasted ten years), for the sake of the assurance of both of their hearts.
This is a wonderful, sweet, small-town romance with a perfect happy ending. One of my favorite characters never says a word – his name is Ed and he is a moose. I think he’s part Cupid.
ANONYMOOSELY YOURS is the third book in the Sunset Ridge series. Each is a wonderful, stand-alone, contemporary romance.
Ed the Moose is back!! He’s even helping to make one special little girl’s birthday even more magical.
That little girl’s mom, Sophie, is training for the annual marathon! In addition to being an awesome mom and helping to run the lodge with her sisters. This woman is amazing! Is it any wonder that she has caught the eye of Denver?
Now say what you will, but I’m going to bet that any woman would love to be wooed the way that Denver has dreamed up. His secret admirer plan is so personalized and sweet. Plus, I love that her sisters – and Ed – are rooting for him!
Now for the best news… The three sisters may have their men, but the fun is not over. Ed the matchmaking moose is not done, and we will be returning to Sunset Ridge, Alaska for LOVE & MOOSECHIEF. I’m looking forward to it!
Note: While I received this boxed set as a gifted ARC via BookSprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: SUNSET RIDGE #1 - 3 - BOX SET Series: Sunset Ridge #1 - 3 Category /Genre: Contemporary Romance Recommended for: 16+ Grammar/editing: A – near perfect Received from: Jacqueline Winters (as an ARC gifted copy)...more
TINY HOUSE, BIG MYSTERY is the first book in the Southern Midlife Cozy Mystery series. Though each will be a stand-alone cozy mystery, there is an on-TINY HOUSE, BIG MYSTERY is the first book in the Southern Midlife Cozy Mystery series. Though each will be a stand-alone cozy mystery, there is an on-going story that will make it more enjoyable to read them all and in the order of release.
I have read (or listened to) many, many books from Ms. Potts other nom de plumes. I have enjoyed them all. I love her family-friendly writing and have often mentioned that these could be shared books. That continues with this new pen name. What’s new is that Hannah is middle aged, divorced, and feels more mature than past leading ladies. I like Hannah, a lot!
The tiny houses that are being raffled off are featured prominently in the story and add a great point of interest. Add in that Hannah is a private investigator and there is the beginnings of true intrigue. She also has a great friend to bounce things around with and a possible new love interest to spark her life after that divorce. Yes, things just may be looking up for Hannah.
I’m looking forward to more in this series!
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: TINY HOUSE, BIG MYSTERY Series: Southern Midlife Cozy Mystery #1 Category /Genre: Cozy Mystery Recommended for: 16+ Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused Received from: M.Z. Potts...more
The first portion of this bundle is 108 pages of Interesting Facts for Kids.
Let me preface my next statement by admitting that I LOVE trivia.
There iThe first portion of this bundle is 108 pages of Interesting Facts for Kids.
Let me preface my next statement by admitting that I LOVE trivia.
There is great variety to the types of facts that are included and they are intriguing. For example, did you know that anatidaephobia is the fear of being watched by a duck! How about: “History’s shortest war carried on for just 38 minutes.” Now that one, I would have liked a little follow up: who was at war? Why? How was it resolved so quickly? One last one, that I have personally seen happen: “do not eat too many carrots as it may turn your skin orange.”
Next up is Knock-knock jokes for kids. Great fun that will keep you and your kids in stitches! What’s your name? There is probably a joke just for you. My first name is Mary. Here’s mine: Knock Knock Who’s there? Mary. Mary who? Mary Christmas.
But, they’re not all names, and some of the funniest aren’t! Knock Knock Who's there? Cargo. Cargo who? No, car go "beep beep"!
The third portion of the book is Would You Rather… questions. This is a fun bit of thinking. Try not to laugh as you and your family and friends discuss philosophical questions like, “Would you rather have teeth that glow in the dark OR hair that glows in the dark.”
Altogether, this boxed set can provide hours of giggles, learning, and memories with your family.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: FUNNY KIDS BOOK SET Series: N/A Category /Genre: Children’s / Jokes & Riddles Recommended for: 6 – 12 years old Grammar/editing: A – near perfect Received from: Sheryl Green (as an ARC gifted copy)...more
PAWSITVELY YOURS FOR CHRISTMAS is the third book in the Christmas in Snowy Falls series. Each story in this series will stand on its own, but I wish IPAWSITVELY YOURS FOR CHRISTMAS is the third book in the Christmas in Snowy Falls series. Each story in this series will stand on its own, but I wish I had read them all.
Beautifully described scenes made me feel like I was truly there as Janie takes over planning the event that will make her dreams come true.
Will is dedicated, supportive, and helplessly in love with Janie. His actions remind me of one of my favorite Christmas stories of all time - “The Gift of the Magi” by O. Henry. He will do absolutely anything to make Janie happy.
Reading this felt like a Christmas gift and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I only wish I had read the other books in this series! I look forward to Christmas 2022 and another visit Snowy Falls.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via BookSprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: PAWSITVELY YOURS FOR CHRISTMAS Series: Christmas in Snowy Falls #3 Category /Genre: Contemporary Romance Recommended for: 16+ Grammar/editing: A – near perfect Received from: Jacqueline Winters (as an ARC gifted copy) ...more
This would be a great resource book for an Elementary or Middle School English teacher. It would also make an awesome gift to a child who has said, “WThis would be a great resource book for an Elementary or Middle School English teacher. It would also make an awesome gift to a child who has said, “When I grow up, I want to be an author!”
What you get is four sections, each has encouragement, tips, and Story Starters. Three of the four also have writing exercises to get the imagination and the writing flowing.
While it is all wonderful, the true magic is in the Story Starters. There is a short paragraph to give your imagination a jump start on what your story will be about. Then there are questions along the way to keep you thinking and to keep your imagination running.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: ONCE UPON A TIME (Story Starters for Kids) Series: N/A Category /Genre: Journal, Children’s, Activity Book Recommended for: 8 – 12 years old Grammar/editing: A – near perfect Received from: Sheryl Green (as an ARC gifted copy)...more
ROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL is the first book in the Baker Street Neighborhood Romances series. I expect that each story will stand on its own in tROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL is the first book in the Baker Street Neighborhood Romances series. I expect that each story will stand on its own in this series.
This was a lovely sweet romance between a bad boy (motorcyclist) and a good girl (flower shop girl). The characters are interesting, fun, quirky, and very likeable.
Great conversations, easy and fun banter, and a few laugh-out-loud moments. I loved listening to this story and look forward to more of the series.
Narration: Tiffany Williams has always voiced the Wisteria Witches series and it was fun to hear her doing a different set of characters…. And just as well! I love Tiffany Williams as a narrator.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted audiobook copy, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: ROMANCING THE FLOWER SHOP GIRL Series: Baker Street Neighborhood Romances #1 Category /Genre: Romantic Comedy Recommended for: 16+ Listenability: OK for ears Received from: Angela Pepper (as an Audible gifted copy) ...more