Thursday, February 27, 2020

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: The Land Beneath Us (Sunrise at Normandy #3) by Sarah Sundin

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two.

This week I'm featuring The Land Beneath Us (Sunrise at Normandy #3) by Sarah Sundin.

About the Book
In 1943, Private Clay Paxton trains hard with the US Army Rangers at Camp Forrest, Tennessee, determined to do his best in the upcoming Allied invasion of France. With his future stolen by his brothers' betrayal, Clay has only one thing to live for--fulfilling the recurring dream of his death.

Leah Jones works as a librarian at Camp Forrest, longing to rise above her orphanage upbringing and belong to the community, even as she uses her spare time to search for her real family--the baby sisters she was separated from so long ago.

After Clay saves Leah's life from a brutal attack, he saves her virtue with a marriage of convenience. When he ships out to train in England for D-day, their letters bind them together over the distance. But can a love strong enough to overcome death grow between them before Clay's recurring dream comes true?
 

Book Beginning
Most men woke in a cold sweat when they dreamed of their own deaths, but not Private Clay Paxton.

Friday 56
Down the length of the room, Frank Lyons met Clay's gaze without smiling, and a chill ran through Clay. Something about that man. Nothing definitive to report to Rudder, just a needling suspicion.

Hosted by Billy @ Coffee Addicted Writer

Tomorrow is Leap Year. Name one book being released in 2020 that you would prefer to skip.

I don't know. I can't think of a book I'd like to skip. Although, I can think of way too many that I would love to have.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Cry of the Raven (The Ravenwood Saga #3) by Morgan L. Busse

About the Book
Lady Selene Ravenwood has come into her full power as a dreamwalker just as the war with the Dominia Empire begins. Working with the other Great Houses, Selene and Damien use their gifts to secure the borders and save those devastated by the war. But conflict, betrayal, and hatred begin to spread between the Great Houses, destroying their unity as the empire burns a path across their lands. At the same time, Damien Maris starts to lose his ability to raise the waters, leaving the lands vulnerable to the empire's attacks.

The only one who can unite the houses and restore her husband's power is Selene Ravenwood. But it will require that she open her heart to those who have hurt her and let go of her past, despite the one who hunts her and will do anything to stop her power.

Will Selene survive? Or is she destined to fall like the dreamwalkers before her?


My Thoughts

I was so excited for Cry of the Raven. The Ravenwood Saga has been the best fantasy series I've read in recent years and I was so eager to find out how it would all conclude. Not gonna lie, I was a little sad too. I didn't want to say goodbye to these wonderful characters or end this epic adventure. But I have to say, it was an absolutely brilliant, beautiful, and perfect ending. It soared past my high expectations and was beyond anything I could've hoped for.

To think of where Selene started in the first book and to watch her journey and growth as a character. To see where she ended up in this finale, coming out of the darkness and fully embracing the Light. Wow, just, wow! So powerful.

I can't recommend this series highly enough. The spiritual message was so impactful, so striking, so powerful. There were times it took my breath away. I loved it.

Five Stars

Tuesday, February 25, 2020

Can't Wait Wednesday: Always You: A Murphy Brothers Story by Jennifer Rodewald

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Always You: A Murphy Brothers Story by Jennifer Rodewald releasing March 3.

About the Book
They made a pact of friendship. Love was not supposed to be part of the deal.

Lauren is desperate to escape the massive shadow of her father’s and sister’s political careers.

Matt is running from the biggest disappointment of his life.

After a messy meeting in a snowbound airport, they launch a new friendship, founded on a mutual love for the Lord and an agreement of respect. They find themselves working together at the Lake Shore Resort, thankful to have each other as they each carve out a fresh start. But as the winter season wears on, and through a few interesting predicaments, one begins to feel more, and the other...well. Maybe neither knows what they really want. Already wounded from the things they’ve left behind, Matt and Lauren wrestle with what comes next. Afraid to move forward. Not wanting to go back.

Each must face a dilemma that only the hand of the Potter can smooth into a hopeful, promising future. Can they surrender past hurts, as well as their future hopes and plans and trust the good intentions of the God they both love?


Why I Need It
Jennifer Rodewald never disappoints. So you can be sure when she has a new book coming out, it goes to the top of my TBR. This one sounds great! I always a enjoy a good friends-to-lovers romance.

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Monday, February 24, 2020

Review: Midnight Strike (Cyber Division #2) by Vannetta Chapman

About the Book
Terrorists are targeting Dallas, Texas. Nora Brooks and Randall Goodwin have until midnight to stop an unprecedented cyber attack.

Who would want to bring about the collapse of the nation’s ninth largest city? And if they succeed, what is their next target?

Nora Brooks has a new partner--Randall Goodwin is young, confident, and a computer genius. He thinks he wants out from behind the desk at the agency’s headquarters, and so he joins Nora in pursuing cyber terrorists. When Dallas, Texas is hit with a coordinated attack, Nora and Randall board a C-20 Gulfstream Naval Jet bound for the Lone Star state. At risk are four different sectors--transportation, utilities, medical, and infrastructure. If allowed to proceed, the toll on the 1.3 million population will be devastating. Nora and Randall arrive at the Dallas command center to discover they’re facing a coordinated attack from four different cyber terrorists, and at least one of them is on the inside.

Midnight Strike is book 2 in Vannetta Chapman’s Cyber Terror series. The journey begins with Fading Into the Night, a novella set in the Amish community of Shipshewana which first appeared in the Summer of Suspense Anthology.


My Thoughts

Midnight Strike was a quick, fast paced, and compelling read. It's book two in the series, but can be read as a standalone.

It's scary to think about how easy it'd be for a cyber criminal to cause all kinds of trouble. In this novella, we see what might go on behind the scenes to stop a coordinated cyberattack targeting the main forms of infrastructure in a big city like Dallas.

I wished this story had been a little bit longer, but all in all, I really enjoyed it. It shines a light on a serious threat. I'm looking forward to book three.

I won this book in a giveaway and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

Four Stars

Thursday, February 20, 2020

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Cry of the Raven (The Ravenwood Saga #3) by Morgan L. Busse

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two.

This week I'm featuring Cry of the Raven by Morgan L. Busse, the conclusion to The Ravenwood Saga.

About the Book
Lady Selene Ravenwood has come into her full power as a dreamwalker just as the war with the Dominia Empire begins. Working with the other Great Houses, Selene and Damien use their gifts to secure the borders and save those devastated by the war. But conflict, betrayal, and hatred begin to spread between the Great Houses, destroying their unity as the empire burns a path across their lands. At the same time, Damien Maris starts to lose his ability to raise the waters, leaving the lands vulnerable to the empire's attacks.

The only one who can unite the houses and restore her husband's power is Selene Ravenwood. But it will require that she open her heart to those who have hurt her and let go of her past, despite the one who hunts her and will do anything to stop her power.

Will Selene survive? Or is she destined to fall like the dreamwalkers before her?

Book Beginning
Numb. So numb.
The only thing Selene could feel was the dull thump of her heart beating as she sat beside the window in the guest chambers the next day.

Friday 56
Damien blinked, his body feeling as though it had turned to stone. He knew he needed to run, find shelter from the arrows, but he was unable to move.

Hosted by Billy @ Coffee Addicted Writer

What is your go-to recommendation for someone who doesn’t read often?

I don't have a go-to recommendation. I think it just depends on the person. I usually have a different pick for everyone.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: The Tea Chest by Heidi Chiavaroli

About the Book
Boston, 1773
Emma Malcolm’s father is staunchly loyal to the crown, but Emma’s heart belongs to Noah Winslow, a lowly printer’s assistant and Patriot. But her father has promised her hand to Samuel Clarke, a rapacious and sadistic man. As his fiancĂ©e, she would have to give up Noah and the friends who have become like family to her—as well as the beliefs she has come to embrace.

After Emma is drawn into the treasonous Boston Tea Party, Samuel blackmails her with evidence that condemns each participant, including Noah. Emma realizes she must do whatever it takes to protect those she loves, even if it means giving up the life she desires and becoming Samuel’s wife.

Present Day
Lieutenant Hayley Ashworth is determined to be the first woman inducted into the elite Navy SEALs. But before her dream can be realized, she must return to Boston in order to put the abuse and neglect of her childhood behind her. When an unexpected encounter with the man she once loved leads to the discovery of a tea chest and the document hidden within, she wonders if perhaps true strength and freedom are buried deeper than she first realized.

Two women, separated by centuries, must find the strength to fight for love and freedom. . . and discover a heritage of courage and faith.


My Thoughts

The Tea Chest was an amazing and breathtaking read. It held me captive from beginning to end. It was a definite page-turner that was almost impossible to put down. I can't say enough good things about it.

I was pulled right into the story, into these characters lives. The real world faded away. I was no longer sitting in my bedroom, but was right beside Haley before and during her SEAL training and back in Boston with her investigating the history of the tea chest. I was right there back in 1773 with Emma during the Boston Tea Party and the years that followed. It's rare that a book can so completely pull me in, but this one did just that.

Both timelines were compelling, though I did find myself drawn just a little bit more to the past. I found it really interesting learning more about the Boston Tea Party and what followed. The struggles, triumphs, and hardships. The challenges they faced. Things I never knew before.

I admired both ladies. Their strength and courage. It was a different kind of strength they each had, but I think that by the end of the story, it actually became the same kind of strength. I don't know if that makes sense, but I really enjoyed watching their journeys and their growth.

I didn't want The Tea Chest to end. In fact, I read it slower than I normally would. I took my time with it and savored it just so it would last longer. So I could spend more time with these wonderful characters. This was my first time reading anything by Heidi Chiavaroli, but it definitely won't be my last. I'm very much looking forward to checking out her previous books and am eager to see what she comes out with next. She's found a spot on my insta-buy list.

Five Stars

Tuesday, February 18, 2020

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Traitor's Pawn by Lisa Harris

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring The Traitor's Pawn by Lisa Harris releasing March 31.

About the Book
When FBI agent Jack Shannon arrives in Corpus Christi, Texas, he is focused on one thing: find the man who has been selling encrypted government secrets to the Chinese through online birding chat rooms. But when a senator is shot during a hunting trip and the woman he was with is abducted, Jack agrees to join the search--especially when he discovers that the kidnapping victim is Aubrey Grayson, a woman he was once in love with.

As the search continues, it becomes clear the senator may not have been the intended victim--and Aubrey may be connected to the other case Jack is supposed to be working on. Can Jack untangle the knots before it's too late? And when he learns the truth, will it be too painful to get past?

Join the hunt for the truth--and a traitor--in this tension-laden story of secrets, betrayal, and second chances


Why I Need It
My mom is a big fan of this author and is constantly telling me I need to read one of her books. This one sounds really exciting and I'm eager to try it.

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Monday, February 17, 2020

Review: Accidental Sire (Half-Moon Hollow #6) by Molly Harper


About the Book

In Molly Harper's newest paranormal romantic comedy, Ben, Gigi's old boyfriend, must find a way to save his new love after a freak Ultimate Frisbee accident. But will she want to live after she finds out how Ben had to save her?

In this exciting addition to Molly Harper’s beloved Half-Moon Hollow series, the focus is on Gigi’s ex-boyfriend Ben. When his new girlfriend is killed in a freak Ultimate Frisbee accident, he’s determined to save her, no matter the cost, even if it means bringing her into the darkness of vampire life!


My Thoughts

Meagan dies, well, almost dies, in a freak Ultimate Frisbee accident and the only way to save her is to turn her into a vampire. What follows is a series of unfortunate events and the hilarious journey of learning what it is to be a vampire.

I needed a good laugh and this book provided plenty. I can always count on Molly Harper to put a smile on my face. I love the way she writes. It flows along nicely which always makes for an easy and fun reading experience.

The synopsis for this book doesn't really do it justice, but to say much else would spoil some pretty entertaining and unexpected things. If you're a fan of paranormal romance, I definitely recommend this series.

NOTE: This book does contain some bad language and a steamy scene.

Four Stars

Thursday, February 13, 2020

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: The Tea Chest by Heidi Chiavaroli

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two.

This week I'm featuring The Tea Chest by Heidi Chiavaroli. I can't say enough good things about it. It's so, so good! 

About the Book
Boston, 1773
Emma Malcolm’s father is staunchly loyal to the crown, but Emma’s heart belongs to Noah Winslow, a lowly printer’s assistant and Patriot. But her father has promised her hand to Samuel Clarke, a rapacious and sadistic man. As his fiancĂ©e, she would have to give up Noah and the friends who have become like family to her—as well as the beliefs she has come to embrace.

After Emma is drawn into the treasonous Boston Tea Party, Samuel blackmails her with evidence that condemns each participant, including Noah. Emma realizes she must do whatever it takes to protect those she loves, even if it means giving up the life she desires and becoming Samuel’s wife.

Present Day
Lieutenant Hayley Ashworth is determined to be the first woman inducted into the elite Navy SEALs. But before her dream can be realized, she must return to Boston in order to put the abuse and neglect of her childhood behind her. When an unexpected encounter with the man she once loved leads to the discovery of a tea chest and the document hidden within, she wonders if perhaps true strength and freedom are buried deeper than she first realized.

Two women, separated by centuries, must find the strength to fight for love and freedom. . . and discover a heritage of courage and faith.
 

Book Beginning
Naval Special Warfare Center
Coronado, California

The bell was beautiful.

Friday 56
The call to arms came in the dark of night before dawn on the nineteenth of April. A rider came barreling through our streets, shouting.

Hosted by Billy @ Coffee Addicted Writer

Which genre do you like the most?

I read, and like, all kinds of different genres, so it's hard to say which one I like the most (especially since I'm such a mood reader). But the one I always go back to, and can never seem to get enough of, is Urban Fantasy. There's just something that's so fun about it.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Dark Water (Lantern Beach Blackout #1) by Christy Barritt

About the Book
A FORMER NAVY SEAL HAUNTED BY HIS PAST

Colton Locke can’t forget the black op that went terribly wrong. Desperate for a new start, he moves to Lantern Beach, North Carolina, and forms Blackout, a private security firm. Despite his hero status, he can’t erase the mistakes he’s made.

A WIDOW WITH SECRETS

For the past year, Elise Oliver hasn’t been able to shake the feeling that there’s more to her husband’s death than she was told. When she finds a hidden box of his personal possessions, more questions—and suspicions—arise. The only person she trusts to help her is her husband’s best friend, Colton Locke.

THE FIGHT FOR JUSTICE

Someone wants Elise dead. Is it because she knows too much? Or is it to keep her from finding the truth? The Blackout team must uncover dark secrets hiding beneath seemingly still waters. But those very secrets might just tear the team apart.


My Thoughts

Dark Water is the start to a brand new series by Christy Barritt set in the familiar town of Lantern Beach. And what a great start it is! Featuring cameos from favorite characters from previous Lantern Beach stories, it's sure to appeal to new and old fans alike.

With danger lurking around every corner, nonstop action, and a confounding mystery, Dark Water was an unputdownable read.

It was great being back in Lantern Beach. It's one of my favorite fictional places to visit. I really liked the Blackout guys and am excited to get to know the rest of them better in upcoming books.

Four Stars

Tuesday, February 11, 2020

Can't Wait Wednesday: Children of the Stars by Mario Escobar

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Children of the Stars by Mario Escobar releasing February 25.

About the Book
From international bestselling author Mario Escobar comes a story of escape, sacrifice, and hope amid the perils of the second World War.

August 1942. Jacob and Moses Stein, two young Jewish brothers, are staying with their aunt in Paris amid the Nazi occupation. The boys’ parents, well-known German playwrights, have left the brothers in their aunt’s care until they can find safe harbor for their family. But before the Steins can reunite, a great and terrifying roundup occurs. The French gendarmes, under Nazi order, arrest the boys and take them to the VĂ©lodrome d’Hiver—a massive, bleak structure in Paris where thousands of France’s Jews are being forcibly detained.

Jacob and Moses know they must flee in order to survive, but they only have a set of letters sent from the south of France to guide them to their parents. Danger lurks around every corner as the boys, with nothing but each other, trek across the occupied country. Along their remarkable journey, they meet strangers and brave souls who put themselves at risk to protect the children—some of whom pay the ultimate price for helping these young refugees of war.

This inspiring novel, now available for the first time in English, demonstrates the power of family and the endurance of the human spirit—even through the darkest moments of human history.

Why I Need It
Auschwitz Lullaby was one of the best books I read in 2018, so when I saw this new book from the same author I immediately added it to my wish list.

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Monday, February 10, 2020

Review: Mercury on Guard (Mercury Hale Book 1) by Steve Rzasa

About the Book
Mercury Hale is not a hero. Not in his mind.

He's happy spending his late nights slicing his way through monstrous astral fiends, using a weapon imbued with a mysterious power, at the behest of the secretive Procyon Foundation. It's a strange way to earn a paycheck, but hey, he's good at it.

The problem is, things are getting worse.

More attacks. More public exposure. None of which Procyon wants.

When he tries to get to the bottom of the mess, Mercury is confronted by a tightly-guarded secret about Procyon - its true purpose, and what that means for the fate of the world.

Worse, Mercury is not who he thinks he is.

And he's not alone.


My Thoughts

This was just flat-out, crazy good fun! I knew from the first line that it was gonna be a good one.

Mercury is a snarky and sarcastic leading man. Sometimes that kind of hero can get on my nerves, but it worked for Mercury. I ended up really liking him. He definitely kept things lively while protecting the city from astral fiends.

The action starts right off the bat. We're thrown straight into all the craziness, so it took me just a minute to get my bearings. But once I did, I was all in and completely invested. It kept me on my toes, that's for sure. I never knew what to expect next and was constantly being surprised. I love when that happens.

Mercury on Guard was a refreshingly unique read. I had so much fun with it and can't wait to find out what happens in the next book.

4.5 Stars

Thursday, February 6, 2020

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Dark Water (Lantern Beach Blackout #1) by Christy Barritt

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two.

This week I'm featuring Dark Water (Lantern Beach Blackout #1) by Christy Barritt.

About the Book
A FORMER NAVY SEAL HAUNTED BY HIS PAST

Colton Locke can’t forget the black op that went terribly wrong. Desperate for a new start, he moves to Lantern Beach, North Carolina, and forms Blackout, a private security firm. Despite his hero status, he can’t erase the mistakes he’s made.

A WIDOW WITH SECRETS

For the past year, Elise Oliver hasn’t been able to shake the feeling that there’s more to her husband’s death than she was told. When she finds a hidden box of his personal possessions, more questions—and suspicions—arise. The only person she trusts to help her is her husband’s best friend, Colton Locke.

THE FIGHT FOR JUSTICE

Someone wants Elise dead. Is it because she knows too much? Or is it to keep her from finding the truth? The Blackout team must uncover dark secrets hiding beneath seemingly still waters. But those very secrets might just tear the team apart.

Book Beginning
Elise Oliver jolted upright in her bed, imaginary critters scrambling over her skin. What was that sound? Was someone inside her house?

Friday 56
Colton remained low, watching his every step so as not to give away his location. But he knew the reality was that whoever was out there had already seen him. This person had probably been watching this whole place, just waiting for the sun to go down so he could make his next move.

 Hosted by Billy @ Coffee Addicted Writer

What were some of the most memorable books you read as a child? What made them memorable?

I'd say probably the Alice in Bibleland books. My parents read them to me at bedtime and it was always something I looked forward to every day. Plus, those books were such a fun and creative way to learn about the Bible.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: On Wings of Devotion (The Codebreakers #2) by Roseanna M. White

About the Book
All of England thinks Phillip Camden a monster--a man who deliberately caused the deaths of his squadron. But as nurse Arabelle Denler watches the so-dubbed "Black Heart" every day, she sees something far different: a hurting man desperate for mercy. And when their paths twist together and he declares himself her new protector, she realizes she has her own role to play in his healing.

Phillip Camden would have preferred to die that day with his squadron rather than be recruited to the Admiralty's codebreaking division. The threats he receives daily are no great surprise and, in his opinion, well deserved. What comes as a shock is the reborn desire to truly live that Arabelle inspires in him.

But when an old acquaintance shows up and seems set on using him in a plot that has the codebreakers of Room 40 in a frenzy, new affections are put to the test.


My Thoughts

This book, y'all! It was so, so good! It's Roseanna White at her finest.

Ara and Camden were wonderful characters. Ara was an admirable lady. She had such a giving and selfless heart. She was so quick to offer forgiveness, even to those that had wronged her or the ones she loved. I also thought it was really sweet that she prayed for Camden even before she knew him. She glimpsed a hurting soul and wanted to help him. If only the world could be more like her.

I have a hard time resisting a broody leading man and that's exactly what Cam was. I was drawn to him right from the start. I hurt for him, though. The guilt he felt for something that happened to his squadron, tore him up inside. He was devastated, but hid it behind charm, bravado, and jests.

I could gush about this book forever, but I know there's no way I'll be able to do it justice. I'll just end by saying, go grab yourself a copy. You don't want to miss out on this gem.

Five Stars

Tuesday, February 4, 2020

Can't Wait Wednesday: Mortal Sight (The Colliding Line #1) by Sandra Fernandez Rhoads

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Mortal Sight (The Colliding Line #1) by Sandra Fernandez Rhoads releasing April 14.

About the Book
When Worlds Collide, Shadow Wrestles Light

Seventeen-year-old Cera Marlowe wants a normal life; one where she and her mom can stop skipping town every time a disturbing vision strikes. But when a girl she knows is murdered by a monster she can't explain, Cera's world turns upside down.

Suddenly thrown into an ancient supernatural battle, Cera discovers she's not alone in her gifting and vows to use her visions to save lives. But why does John Milton's poem Paradise Lost keep interrupting her thoughts?

In a race against time and a war against unearthly creatures, will decoding messages embedded in the works of classic literature be enough to stop the bloodshed and protect those she loves? 

Why I Need It
I'm always looking for new urban fantasy, so when I saw this one it went straight to the top of my wish list.

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Monday, February 3, 2020

Top Ten Tuesday: Books I Predict Will Be 5-Star Reads


Top Ten Tuesday was created by The Broke and the Bookish in June of 2010 and was moved to That Artsy Reader Girl in January of 2018. It was born of a love of lists, a love of books, and a desire to bring bookish friends together.

This week's topic is Books On My TBR I Predict Will Be 5-Star Reads. Some of these are newer books, but quite a few of them have been on my TBR for awhile now. I've heard fantastic things about all of them and am hoping to read them all this year.

_______________________________________



About the Book
There's a price on her head, and it has everything to do with the brand on her arm.

Tertian Space Coalition has blessed every planet in the quadrants with high technology, save one: Drosero. But in spite of their tenuous treaty with the ruling clans, TSC has plans for the backward planet. And they're not alone.

After a catastrophic explosion, Kersei Dragoumis awakens in a derelict shuttle, alone, injured, and ignorant of the forbidden technology that has swept her into a nightmare. The brand she's borne since childhood burns mysteriously, but the pain is nothing to that when she learns her family is dead and she is accused of their murders.

Across the quadrants, Marco Dusan responds to the call of a holy order—not to join them, but to seek a bounty. Gifted—or cursed—with abilities that mark him a Kynigos, a tracker sworn to bring interplanetary fugitives to justice, Marco discovers this particular bounty has nothing to do with justice and everything to do with prophecy. One that involves the hunter as much as the hunted.

_______________________________________



About the Book
When investigator Gabriel Chavez had his cover blown by an aggressive reporter, the silver lining was being able to rejoin the dive team. The downside? Dive team captain Anissa Bell--a woman who both fascinates and frustrates him.

Anissa grew up as a missionary kid on the Micronesian island of Yap and always planned to return after college. But she remained stateside, determined to solve the case that haunts her--the murder of her best friend and the disappearance of a three-year-old child.
When Anissa's fractured past collides with Gabe's investigation into the tragic shooting death of a teenage boy in Lake Porter, they'll have to put their complicated history with each other aside in order to uncover the identity of a killer. What they'll discover is that revenge has no statute of limitations.

Award-winning author Lynn H. Blackburn closes out her nail-biting Dive Team Investigations series with a story that will have you wondering how long you can hold your breath.

_______________________________________



About the Book
Lady Selene Ravenwood has come into her full power as a dreamwalker just as the war with the Dominia Empire begins. Working with the other Great Houses, Selene and Damien use their gifts to secure the borders and save those devastated by the war. But conflict, betrayal, and hatred begin to spread between the Great Houses, destroying their unity as the empire burns a path across their lands. At the same time, Damien Maris starts to lose his ability to raise the waters, leaving the lands vulnerable to the empire's attacks.

The only one who can unite the houses and restore her husband's power is Selene Ravenwood. But it will require that she open her heart to those who have hurt her and let go of her past, despite the one who hunts her and will do anything to stop her power.

Will Selene survive? Or is she destined to fall like the dreamwalkers before her?

_______________________________________



About the Book
Once London's top thief, Barclay Pearce has turned his back on his life of crime and now uses his skills for a nation at war. But not until he rescues a clockmaker's daughter from a mugging does he begin to wonder what his future might hold.

Evelina Manning has constantly fought for independence, but she certainly never meant for it to inspire her fiancé to end the engagement and enlist in the army. When the intriguing man who saved her returns to the Manning residence to study clockwork repair with her father, she can't help being interested. But she soon learns that nothing with Barclay Pearce is as simple as it seems.

As 1915 England plunges ever deeper into war, the work of an ingenious clockmaker may give England an unbeatable military edge--and Germany realizes it as well. Evelina's father soon finds his whole family in danger--and it may just take a reformed thief to steal the time they need to escape.

_______________________________________



About the Book
In the shadow of the nation's capital, Kate Livingston holds a respectable position as a government statistician when she encounters a rival from her past, the insufferable Trevor McDonough. A Harvard-trained physician, Trevor never showed the tiniest flicker of interest in Kate, and she's bewildered at the way he suddenly seeks her out. Surprising even herself, Kate agrees to Trevor's entirely unexpected and risky proposal to work side-by-side with him in his quest to rid the world of tuberculosis, a contagious and deadly disease.

As Kate begins to unlock the mysteries of Trevor's past, she realizes there is much more to him than she could have imagined. His hidden depths may fascinate her, but his most closely guarded secrets and a shadowy enemy lurking in the background carry a serious threat to their future.

When the truth of the past comes out, threatening to destroy everything they hold dear, how will Trevor and Kate ever overcome all that stands in their way?

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About the Book
In 1943, Private Clay Paxton trains hard with the US Army Rangers at Camp Forrest, Tennessee, determined to do his best in the upcoming Allied invasion of France. With his future stolen by his brothers' betrayal, Clay has only one thing to live for--fulfilling the recurring dream of his death.

Leah Jones works as a librarian at Camp Forrest, longing to rise above her orphanage upbringing and belong to the community, even as she uses her spare time to search for her real family--the baby sisters she was separated from so long ago.

After Clay saves Leah's life from a brutal attack, he saves her virtue with a marriage of convenience. When he ships out to train in England for D-day, their letters bind them together over the distance. But can a love strong enough to overcome death grow between them before Clay's recurring dream comes true?
 

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About the Book
Thor Norgaard hasn’t spoken to anyone in his twenty-eight years, but when the young widow he loves crosses an ocean to live on his Appalachian farm, this reclusive alcoholic will brave much more than words to heal her heart.

When Aven Norgaard leaves Norway to serve as housekeeper to her late husband’s cousins in Appalachia, she expects lads in need of care, not three grown men—each in need of a wife and bound by a powerful brotherhood. As the men carve out a living by brewing artisan liquor, young Haakon’s pursuit tempts Aven’s lonely spirit . . . but it is his deaf brother, Thor, whose silent strength shows her the depths of real love.

Unable to speak to any woman, Thor Norgaard never anticipates Aven will befriend him, let alone treat him as her safe harbor. Though hard cider is their livelihood and his greatest talent, he fights his way to sobriety with Haakon’s help, defying the bottle for Aven’s hand—only to face a battle of the heart that tests even the strongest bonds of brotherhood.

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About the Book
Anna O'Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across a baffling mystery of a ship disappeared at sea. She is thwarted in her attempts to uncover information, but her determination outweighs her shyness and she turns to a dashing congressman for help.

Luke Callahan was one of the nation's most powerful congressmen until his promising career became shadowed in scandal. Eager to share in a new cause and intrigued by the winsome librarian, he joins forces with Anna to solve the mystery of the lost ship.

Opposites in every way, Anna and Luke are unexpectedly drawn to each other despite the strict rules forbidding Anna from any romantic entanglement with a member of Congress.

From the gilded halls of the Capitol, where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for themselves?

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About the Book
Anne Norris moved to Savannah, Georgia, for a fresh start. Now her pirate-tour business is flagging, and paying the rent requires more than wishful thinking. When she discovers evidence of a shipwreck off the coast of Tybee Island, she knows it could be just the boon she needs to stay afloat. She takes her findings to local museum director Carter Hale for confirmation, but she runs after a disastrous first meeting.

Carter has been searching for the location of the wreck detailed in the worn pages of an 18th-century diary, the discovery of which could open the door to his dream job at a prestigious museum. But convincing Anne to help him fill in the missing pieces of the puzzle is no easy task. And working with Carter means that Anne will have to do the one thing she swore she'd never do again: trust a man.

Finding a monetary backer and sticking with a search that's turning up nothing will take all their dedication--and every secret they've tried to hide. If they can find the lost ship, they may discover a treasure worth more than all the pirate gold in the world--love.

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About the Book
This combat veteran is fighting a new battle--the homefront!

Former Navy SEAL Max Jacobs is one such hero, and now his war is for his family. Post-traumatic stress disorder, brought on from his times in battle, has ravaged his emotions. Rage explodes out of him with no warning and it’s destroying his marriage.

All his wife Sydney wants is the man she married back. But he’s lost, buried deep beneath his anger. Sydney files for separation and throws herself into her work as a journalist.

But when Sydney hunts down the soldiers behind a string of heroic interventions, she starts getting death threats. Finding the perfect ending for her story might get her perfectly killed. Max realizes what Sydney has entangled herself in and will stop at nothing to save her, but even he might not be able to rescue her from a world of intrigue and danger that she cannot imagine.

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Have you read any of these books? What did you think of them? Were they 5-Star reads for you?

Review: Between Homes (The City Between #5) by W.R. Gingell


About the Book
G'day. I'm Pet. Not, not Pet--I am a pet.

Well, I was a pet: I used to belong to two fae and a stroppy vampire. Now I'm homeless. I mean, I was always technically homeless, but this time it's different.

I just got used to having some kind of family, and now we're back to everyone wanting to kill each other--and guess who the weak link is?

I'll give you a hint: it's not the vampire, and it's sure as heck not the fae.
 


My Thoughts

It seems like every new book in this series gets better and better. I don't know how the author does it, but my goodness, it's fantastic and inching ever closer to being right up there with the October Daye books as my favorite urban fantasy series.

After the ending of the previous book, I was super curious about how things would play out now that Pet's not living at home with her “three psychos”. Not gonna lie, it was a little weird, but super interesting and kinda nice to see Pet out of her element. The psychos still make their appearances, and one of them in particular seems to be missing her a lot. Pet still has a deep connection with the house and we find out even more just how deep that connection is.

I love how much Pet's character has grown. She's really come into her own and come a long way since the first book. I'm quite proud of her. And I've gotta say that this book firmly cemented my complete and total adoration for JinYeong. He's annoying as all get out, but my goodness, I can't help but love that annoyingness. There's something so endearing about him. Even when he's trying to rile Pet up. Maybe even especially then, lol.

I want to say so much more, but it would all be spoilers, so I'll go ahead and end with a huge recommendation for this series. It's weird and wacky and so much fun. I can't get enough of it. If you're a fan of urban fantasy, you'll love it.

Five Stars