tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20986047184958807032024-03-28T00:00:30.853-05:00The Rustic Reading GalAshley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.comBlogger1703125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-46723510117184395322024-03-28T00:00:00.023-05:002024-03-28T00:00:00.469-05:00Review: Lake Shore Awakening(Redemption Shores #4) by Jennifer Rodewald<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwImU4I53ggRV7pNo28aghJhCgZ5jpJKtXTX1t9m-RbWq0N5rGXI4GGoyuQGFWsSGZnk8HtMmsy-0Bx93FqQeAehVzp-ANE2VHxGWm7jNWwog4fAgJZ0V5ZkCLtMZMQ1VkoMBqj1BBUTKMbKTR3e2RFq2lff_0sAnmU4ZPRYnw2hJMAYypx_vj3MgYOQ/s1500/Lake%20Shore%20Awakening.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="938" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwImU4I53ggRV7pNo28aghJhCgZ5jpJKtXTX1t9m-RbWq0N5rGXI4GGoyuQGFWsSGZnk8HtMmsy-0Bx93FqQeAehVzp-ANE2VHxGWm7jNWwog4fAgJZ0V5ZkCLtMZMQ1VkoMBqj1BBUTKMbKTR3e2RFq2lff_0sAnmU4ZPRYnw2hJMAYypx_vj3MgYOQ/s320/Lake%20Shore%20Awakening.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b><div><b>Will love endure even through these challenges?<br /></b><br />Hazel loves Bennett and wants to be happy with him, but she doesn’t believe in marriage. Bennett wants the promise, or he can’t see a future for them. If they can’t resolve their differences in worldview, their relationship will die, and Hazel might lose all hope for a life beyond her isolated existence.<br /><br />There doesn’t seem to be a solution either can accept.<br /><br />Meanwhile, Hunter and Janie are euphoric, planning their wedding and looking forward to their life together at the Splendor Lodge. But when a stranger wanders into Janie’s Café with a life-altering claim, Janie isn’t sure she can navigate through the truth.<br /><br />Will Hazel become the bitter, lonely woman she sees in her future? Or can she and Bennett overcome all that threatens the unexpected love that they’ve found? And will Hunter and Janie work through the sideways shift in their world?<br /><br /><b>Come back to the majestic beauty of Elk Canyon Lake, a remote and breathtaking wonder hidden in the stunning Montana Mountains. There you'll find unexpected romance, the redemption of broken pasts, and hope dawning anew.</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CTKVJ2YB/" target="_blank">Amazon</a> / <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/206284435-lake-shore-awakening" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Available in Kindle Unlimited at time of posting</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>MY THOUGHTS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>Oh my goodness, what a soul-stirring addition to this series! I'm having a hard time putting into words just how much I loved it. I’ve enjoyed every book in the series, but this is my favorite. I absolutely loved the spiritual message. I felt God's presence woven into every single page. I’m in awe and almost in tears. <br /> <br />I’ve truly enjoyed getting to know these characters. They’re realistically flawed, but I love how authentic they are. It’s been refreshing to read about characters who aren’t perfect. I’ve enjoyed watching them grow and experience new things, as well as seeing their mistakes and triumphs. This book brings a lot of change to the characters’ lives. They’re stretched and tested in new ways. I’ve loved watching their transformations and seeing them discover God’s love. It’s truly inspiring. I’ve been cheering them on from the beginning, and it’s been awesome to witness their growth. <br /> <br />I can’t say enough good things about this book or this series. It’s been such an inspiring experience. I highly, highly recommend it. This is not a standalone, so be sure to start with book one. You won't be disappointed. <br /> <br />I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion. <div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>FIVE STARS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-44376561980158922192024-03-26T23:00:00.024-05:002024-03-26T23:00:00.282-05:00Can't Wait Wednesday: Loyally, Luke by Pepper Basham<b>Can't Wait Wednesday </b>is a weekly meme hosted by <a href="http://www.wishfulendings.com/"><b>Wishful Endings</b></a> 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 <b>Waiting on Wednesday</b>, hosted by Jill at <a href="http://breakingthespine.blogspot.com/"><b>Breaking the Spine</b></a>.<br /><br /><b>This week I'm featuring <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/180352002-loyally-luke" target="_blank">Loyally, Luke by Pepper Basham</a> releasing May 14.</b><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemEImvpGjso1N5yaFuiEhAyutcFVIBhmVHajDhlnxpco7vhkNO2rnoVHkADsexSbGs_WdyxHeF0r_UsP9eOVQNAhyQKrBjb1_3EA9ll5iQdsZMFL6vsVRB5YXF0T2Kze0Muibu5Wb5enmHO9SYFPArE0P2MieNu2Ao7eccxezotFpzYyGRi4HInbC2Q/s1500/Loyally%20Luke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="986" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhemEImvpGjso1N5yaFuiEhAyutcFVIBhmVHajDhlnxpco7vhkNO2rnoVHkADsexSbGs_WdyxHeF0r_UsP9eOVQNAhyQKrBjb1_3EA9ll5iQdsZMFL6vsVRB5YXF0T2Kze0Muibu5Wb5enmHO9SYFPArE0P2MieNu2Ao7eccxezotFpzYyGRi4HInbC2Q/s320/Loyally%20Luke.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b></div><b>Sometimes love means embracing the good, the bad . . . and even the impossible.<br /></b><br />Dear Reader,<br /><br />My name is Luke Edgewood, and there are few things in life that I require. Mainly black coffee. And flannel. And lots of solitude. And my dogs, Chewy and Indie. What I don’t need is romance, so I have no plans to change my thirty-year-old bachelor status anytime soon.<br /><br />But my youngest sister thinks that by accepting a short-term construction job in the small European country of Skymar, I’m going to follow along in her footsteps and discover my own romantic adventure. Nope. Bah humbug. The End. This time, her rom-com-movie senses are totally wrong.<br /><br />Or maybe not. Because I’ve met a Grace Kelly look-alike who is annoying . . . until she isn’t. But she is impossible. As in, nothing can happen between us because she is a literal princess. Even though that’s easy to forget when we’re working together to restore a castle-like orphanage in a secluded mountain town and “forced proximity” includes a small closet, a secret one-hundred-year-old journal, and the tactile memory of an off-limits royal in my arms.<br /><br />Basically, the whole situation has turned into an ooey gooey magical snow globe of romantic tropes complete with cute kids and an actual ball. Now, even my sentences are starting to sound like mush. Ugh. Send high levels of testosterone my way—I’m going to need it.<br /><br />Loyally,<br /><br />Luke<div><br /></div><div>What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?</div><div><br /></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-10377898583297308302024-03-25T00:00:00.034-05:002024-03-25T00:00:00.137-05:00Review: My Lucky Charm (Holidays With Hart) by Courtney Walsh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBumjT5sMMo5-NjEdrkGwYHtaFu571H-7qlKs9Xgjq3ae4qaNqN9dmE-gz5kq-B6sXEBUte-c5MgvTMKsa-pm9IHQq19OdTifFcPShosahL_nc2z-g5PTw2k6ohSAc2apf41iuFaKwGQU8dfiHuXAIRvEo9lHk8sdW2RAY0QcJX_Lg6VTLgNdhxiztfA/s1500/My%20Lucky%20Charm.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="967" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBumjT5sMMo5-NjEdrkGwYHtaFu571H-7qlKs9Xgjq3ae4qaNqN9dmE-gz5kq-B6sXEBUte-c5MgvTMKsa-pm9IHQq19OdTifFcPShosahL_nc2z-g5PTw2k6ohSAc2apf41iuFaKwGQU8dfiHuXAIRvEo9lHk8sdW2RAY0QcJX_Lg6VTLgNdhxiztfA/s320/My%20Lucky%20Charm.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b><div><b>A humiliating break-up leads to an impulsive New Year’s Kiss with a complete stranger.<br /><i>What could possibly go wrong?</i></b><br /><br />It’s no secret that I love life. And Dr Pepper. But also, I love a challenge. . .<br /><br />So when the coach of the Chicago Comets gives me the opportunity to help their star player, newly traded to their team, acclimate to life in Chicago, I'm all in.<br /><br />I have to be. After my last job went up in flames, I have something to prove.<br /><br />It turns out that the player, Grayson Hawke, is the rudest, most off-putting, reclusive guy I’ve ever met.It also turns out that <i>he</i> is the beautiful stranger I kissed on New Year’s Eve.</div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i>I can do this job. I can do this job. I can do this job.</i><br /><br />And I can. Really well.<br /><br />I can make Gray’s life easier, show him all the reasons to fall in love with this city, and in the process, hopefully completely forget that the amazing kiss ever happened.<br /><br />How hard can it be? We’re total opposites anyway.<br /><br />I love people . . . and all their stories. Gray loves hockey . . . and nothing else.<br /><br />I love to talk. Gray only stares.<br /><br />I’m happy-go-lucky. Gray’s all work and no play.<br /><br />There’s just one problem. The more time I spend with Grayson Hawke, the more I start to see that underneath his bristly, standoffish exterior, he’s nothing like the man everyone thinks he is.<br /><br />And suddenly, all the reasons for keeping my distance, staying professional, and not falling for someone again. . .are impossible to remember.<br /><br /><i>My Lucky Charm </i>is a grumpy/sunshine, sweet hockey romance with all of the sizzle but none of the steam. It's the second in the Holidays with Hart series, but <i>My Lucky Charm</i> can be read as a stand alone.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CTGJHB51" target="_blank">Amazon</a> / <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/206111785-my-lucky-charm" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Available in Kindle Unlimited at time of posting</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>MY THOUGHTS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>This was such a fun and sweet story! I was in the mood for a happy book, and this fit the bill perfectly. I had a smile on my face for the majority of the book. The grumpy/sunshine trope is my favorite, and it was done so well here. <br /> <br />I loved both Gray and Eloise. Gray sure was crabby, but, I’ve gotta say, he’s the swooniest grump I’ve ever read about. There was more to him than first met the eye, and I loved getting to know him better and seeing different sides of him. Eloise was sunshine personified. She always saw the good in everybody and every situation. Sometimes to her own detriment, but her kindness, joy, and positive attitude were part of what made her such a special person. <br /> <br />This was a joy to read. I highly recommend it to fans of Emma St. Clair, Becky Wade, and Melissa Tagg. I can't wait for the next book in this series!<div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>FOUR STARS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-22299591177729866532024-03-21T23:00:00.039-05:002024-03-21T23:00:00.159-05:00Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: One Last Shot (Alaska Air One Rescue #1) by Susan May Warren<b>Book Beginnings </b>is a weekly meme hosted by <a href="http://www.rosecityreader.com/"><b>Rose City Reader</b></a> that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at <a href="https://readingismysuperpower.org/"><b>Reading is My Superpower</b></a> for <b>First Line Friday</b>. <b>Friday 56</b> is hosted by <a href="http://www.fredasvoice.com/"><b>Freda's Voice</b></a> 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. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at <a href="https://headfullofbooks.blogspot.com/"><b>My Head is Full of Books</b></a> has taken over in the meantime.<br /><br /><b>This week I'm featuring <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/182095473-one-last-shot" target="_blank">One Last Shot (Alaska Air One Rescue #1) by Susan May Warren</a>.</b><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglMC0PUEbhQpSA8FEYHprW-wze01BJHu2aOarNlaT4Fy-VEAYo-XBrN99GFg86ol3gTNh7YRQ6DptiAkBsYpAdVkYUVXRwCCKX_hiVQ1sw95OgTgq9F2tGYQa8TpTPLBW7KgrSqrg4muadGN8vL656L8bxHXvgHUI3Yv5rxl7epeeTx6qn-0ucY7qR3A/s1500/One%20Last%20Shot.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="971" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglMC0PUEbhQpSA8FEYHprW-wze01BJHu2aOarNlaT4Fy-VEAYo-XBrN99GFg86ol3gTNh7YRQ6DptiAkBsYpAdVkYUVXRwCCKX_hiVQ1sw95OgTgq9F2tGYQa8TpTPLBW7KgrSqrg4muadGN8vL656L8bxHXvgHUI3Yv5rxl7epeeTx6qn-0ucY7qR3A/s320/One%20Last%20Shot.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b></div>When country music star Oaken Fox joins survivalist Mike Grizz's new adventure show in the Alaskan wilderness, he just wants to boost his fan base. But when tragedy strikes, and Air One Rescue must save them, Oaken just wants to quit. Too bad his producer has other plans—signing him on with Air One Rescue as a recruit and making a reality show...<br /><br />EMT Boo Kingston did not join Air One Rescue to train a celebrity. But she's a rookie to the team, so yes, she'll train Oaken and keep him alive and not for a minute pay attention to his charm...<br /><br />And then five women go missing from a resort during a bachelorette weekend gone south. Now, Air One and the rescue team will have to use all their skills--and manpower, including Oaken--to find them before a blizzard settles in. But can they work together before tragedy strikes?<div><br /></div><div><b><u>Book Beginnings / First Line Friday</u></b></div><div><blockquote>Boo couldn't think of a worse way to die.</blockquote></div><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div><b><u>Friday 56</u></b></div><div><blockquote>"When you row a boat, you're in charge of everything - the work, the direction, going against the waves... You gotta learn to sail, bud. The sailor rigs the sails and puts them up, has to know how to use them, but he depends on God for the wind. You show up for your part, but God is in charge of the power, and the direction of the wind."</blockquote></div><div></div><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div>What have you been reading lately?</div><div><br /></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-22097950715227932024-03-21T00:00:00.024-05:002024-03-21T00:00:00.139-05:00Review: Nobody's Hero: The Superhero Publicist 1 by Janeen Ippolito <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU5_FGYmMGzCjr_Vcb4P-9zOW7JSeMp3URvCEHLcqx7DWAKu1Jth2vRvKRaSBmrPdJ0oDDkqIsjeVyiU4tOWNxmdKprWg9npQod19NdATZDB7UMo2o2W_gTKikHw34teqbtcJV_-yMvkt15UaPZyXaa1VwXmCWJzhBSZiwypA866cUPaxpMMR9MSEo4g/s1500/Nobody's%20Hero.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="980" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU5_FGYmMGzCjr_Vcb4P-9zOW7JSeMp3URvCEHLcqx7DWAKu1Jth2vRvKRaSBmrPdJ0oDDkqIsjeVyiU4tOWNxmdKprWg9npQod19NdATZDB7UMo2o2W_gTKikHw34teqbtcJV_-yMvkt15UaPZyXaa1VwXmCWJzhBSZiwypA866cUPaxpMMR9MSEo4g/s320/Nobody's%20Hero.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b><div><i><b>She’ll change his image—if they can both stay alive.<br /></b></i><br />Cassie Robinson, junior representative of Power-Up Publicity, is just trying to keep her head down and her career moving. Not easy when she’s required to work with supervillains for the first year of her contract...or else.<br /><br />But when a new villain client, Mick, announces he’s switching sides, maybe things are looking up. Even if she has to leave her job a bit earlier than the contract and trust a thieving speedster.<br /><br />Then the heroes find Mick—including the relentless Snailman. And her bosses seem absurdly focused on getting Cassie back.<br /><b><br />Caught between the hovering heroes and her menacing company, Cassie must team up with the villain who literally swept her off her feet and whisked her away to his secret lair.</b><br /><br />Speaking of which, that lair could use some redecorating…<br /><br /><i>A fast-paced superhero story with banter, action, a pinch of slow-burn romance, and yes, the infamous Snailman.</i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CPHFPZCW" target="_blank">Amazon</a> / <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/203584738-nobody-s-hero" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>MY THOUGHTS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>This was so much fun! It’s fast-paced, exciting, and unpredictable. I haven’t read many superhero books, but this one makes me want to devour them all. <br /> <br />The characters were great. Cassie had to deal with a lot as a publicist for supervillains. She was cautious, but I admired how calm she was in some pretty intense situations. I know I would’ve been freaking out. I liked Mick a lot. He was a complex character, a supervillain with a conscience who's ready to turn over a new leaf.<br /> <br />I was also very intrigued by Power-Up Publicity. It was obvious from the beginning that something fishy was going on, and I was so eager to figure out what exactly it was.<br /> <br />I didn’t want this book to end! I’m so glad it’s the start of a series. I can’t wait to see what happens next. <br /> <br />I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion. <div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>FOUR STARS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-26091156824335023612024-03-19T23:00:00.028-05:002024-03-19T23:00:00.256-05:00Can't Wait Wednesday: Love in Tandem by Becca Kinzer <b>Can't Wait Wednesday</b> is a weekly meme hosted by <b><a href="http://www.wishfulendings.com/">Wishful Endings</a> </b>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 <b>Waiting on Wednesday</b>, hosted by Jill at <a href="http://breakingthespine.blogspot.com/"><b>Breaking the Spine</b></a>.<br /><br /><b>This week I'm featuring <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/197885741-love-in-tandem" target="_blank">Love in Tandem by Becca Kinzer</a> releasing April 2.</b><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigfVG4kQTGzTx9hrc4D-iia8pizq43DjpuG3I5353ej7k5sadkRXrdUkUCC5nNDE-R49co-5VdW3VOMwsTFG_RppzIvAmfYvOxZtEjpNa-cLxTSlmYaIR63NW_BITs-yc9LisAdw79-fz09jclZTCvA1h3umzQGkMzErut6ALowzsIdbeb54bZDhFmzw/s1500/Love%20in%20Tandem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigfVG4kQTGzTx9hrc4D-iia8pizq43DjpuG3I5353ej7k5sadkRXrdUkUCC5nNDE-R49co-5VdW3VOMwsTFG_RppzIvAmfYvOxZtEjpNa-cLxTSlmYaIR63NW_BITs-yc9LisAdw79-fz09jclZTCvA1h3umzQGkMzErut6ALowzsIdbeb54bZDhFmzw/s320/Love%20in%20Tandem.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b></div><b>She’s perfectly content leading a quiet life in her small hometown. He’s an adventurer with unquenchable wanderlust. The two couldn’t be any more opposite if they tried. But a tandem bicycle and a 500-mile road trip just might change all that.</b><br /><br />After a failed engagement and her mother’s battle with cancer, Charlotte Carter’s life is finally turning around now that she’s landed a dream job teaching music. What she didn’t see coming was the imminent closure of the school’s music program. She’s determined to save it, even if it means getting creative. There’s no way she’s chalking this up as just another failure in her book of recent embarrassments.<br /><br />Zach Bryant is back in town just long enough to see his brother Ben get married and then he’s off traveling the world again. He never imagined he’d run into Charlotte Carter, his brother’s ex-fiancé, or that everyone would believe he and Charlotte are an item. He certainly didn’t dream he’d end up riding a tandem bicycle hundreds of miles with her in an attempt to raise funds for a defunct music program, but how can he say no when the prize money would help him out of his financial predicament too?<br /><br />Charlotte is sure she can set aside her differences with Zach long enough to cross the finish line and win the giant cash prize . . . can’t she? A few hundred miles in, she’s questioning her deeply held assumptions about Zach and wondering if maybe tandem biking is only the start of their biggest adventure yet.<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?</div><div><br /></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-62201164492610132012024-03-19T00:00:00.020-05:002024-03-19T00:00:00.241-05:00Review: Water Horse (The Nightmare Saga #1) by Katie Hanna<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2DyAJLGzgrgL6bPj3WAguxV_LvWcKJCQqLN1NaqxH9lU2EnTIzgCzWOrqHf8f64hs5Onc3zjtywVKBtFEmMQPQgHODgPh1qcocDMvkqu8OXsWtia3S0s8tt0U9k0cYJAu3ntmlBAbWH2HirmoqIhcL3sqUEy652aKMvEuVhkGvjrfBCnR73JcYvIyqg/s1500/Water%20Horse.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="938" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2DyAJLGzgrgL6bPj3WAguxV_LvWcKJCQqLN1NaqxH9lU2EnTIzgCzWOrqHf8f64hs5Onc3zjtywVKBtFEmMQPQgHODgPh1qcocDMvkqu8OXsWtia3S0s8tt0U9k0cYJAu3ntmlBAbWH2HirmoqIhcL3sqUEy652aKMvEuVhkGvjrfBCnR73JcYvIyqg/s320/Water%20Horse.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b><div><b>A girl on the run. A rancher with a shadowed past. An immortal bent on magical domination.<br /></b><br />Meg O’Shea just wants to escape the nightmares that have chased her across the Atlantic. After breaking out of the Colorado State Lunatic Asylum, Meg finds refuge in marrying a local landowner… but her new husband has his own ranch-load of problems.<br /><br />George Calhoun is a rancher, not a detective. When one of his cowboys is murdered, he’s thrust into an unfamiliar world of danger and deception. Throw in a failed first marriage and a new wife with plenty of secrets of her own, and George is in way over his head.<br /><br />Sigurd Mahres has one goal: to rule the world through nightmares. But his key source of power has just run off to the Wild West…and gotten married. To hunt her down, Sigurd calls on a reluctant ally: a band of Irish water horses freshly arrived in the Colorado mountains.<br /><br />In this deadly chess game, the winner must unlock the secrets of the new magic seeping into the Wild West… before that magic consumes them all. If you love ancient Irish legends and rip-roaring Western adventures, you won’t want to miss <i>Water Horse</i>.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CR4C6CV8" target="_blank">Amazon</a> / <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/204465025-water-horse" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>MY THOUGHTS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>I absolutely loved this book! It’s one of the best I’ve read this year. The prologue instantly hooked me, and I was engrossed in this fascinating story until the very last word. I enjoyed the writing style. I was pulled right into the story, and the real world faded away. The worldbuilding was superb. Familiar, but so much more. Magical and terrifying and exciting. <br /> <br />I’ve never read anything like this. It’s an excellent mix of fantasy and western combined with Irish legend. I’m not usually a big fan of westerns, but I loved this one. It’s such a unique take on one, and I enjoyed every second of it.<br /> <br />The characters were intriguing and three-dimensional. The good guys were easy to like and root for, and the bad ones fit the role of villain to perfection. I liked the fact that there were three different POVs. And I loved that they were each so distinct. When I had to stop in the middle of a chapter to tend to real life, I was able to identify the narrator almost instantly, which isn’t usually the case, especially when they’re written in first-person POV. <br /> <br />I can’t say enough good things about this book. If you’re looking for a unique historical fantasy that will keep you glued to the pages, you’ll love this story. I highly recommend it!<br /> <br />I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.<div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>FIVE STARS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-68164291693053005652024-03-14T23:00:00.047-05:002024-03-14T23:00:00.146-05:00Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: My Lucky Charm (Holidays With Hart) by Courtney Walsh<b>Book Beginnings</b> is a weekly meme hosted by<b> <a href="http://www.rosecityreader.com/">Rose City Reader</a></b> that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at <a href="https://readingismysuperpower.org/"><b>Reading is My Superpower</b></a> for <b>First Line Friday</b>. <b>Friday 56</b> is hosted by <a href="http://www.fredasvoice.com/"><b>Freda's Voice</b></a> 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. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at <a href="https://headfullofbooks.blogspot.com/"><b>My Head is Full of Books</b></a> has taken over in the meantime.<br /><br /><b>This week I'm featuring M<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/206111785-my-lucky-charm" target="_blank">y Lucky Charm (Holidays With Hart) by Courtney Walsh</a>. This was such a fun and sweet romance! I really enjoyed it. </b><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp8u63laEx6n9od3HWeFO2ZcGv9EMnl0Pgunnk50G4O3638a8PAfb_HPbJt-RnvSFcSwqnVKlehDebuTy4fkkqp1y6hAiIoVuCTOJeAvUAwL1hqi5FVhUv1lSu0wZh23i99JNcdl3n8oYNJPXzUviR3tJ_VsRQq4QZxjXPNde-yKCM9dR4PN__AVMQCA/s1500/My%20Lucky%20Charm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="967" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp8u63laEx6n9od3HWeFO2ZcGv9EMnl0Pgunnk50G4O3638a8PAfb_HPbJt-RnvSFcSwqnVKlehDebuTy4fkkqp1y6hAiIoVuCTOJeAvUAwL1hqi5FVhUv1lSu0wZh23i99JNcdl3n8oYNJPXzUviR3tJ_VsRQq4QZxjXPNde-yKCM9dR4PN__AVMQCA/s320/My%20Lucky%20Charm.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b></div><div><div><b>A humiliating break-up leads to an impulsive New Year’s Kiss with a complete stranger.<br /><i>What could possibly go wrong?</i></b><br /><br />It’s no secret that I love life. And Dr Pepper. But also, I love a challenge. . .<br /><br />So when the coach of the Chicago Comets gives me the opportunity to help their star player, newly traded to their team, acclimate to life in Chicago, I'm all in.<br /><br />I have to be. After my last job went up in flames, I have something to prove.<br /><br />It turns out that the player, Grayson Hawke, is the rudest, most off-putting, reclusive guy I’ve ever met.It also turns out that <i>he</i> is the beautiful stranger I kissed on New Year’s Eve.</div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i>I can do this job. I can do this job. I can do this job.</i><br /><br />And I can. Really well.<br /><br />I can make Gray’s life easier, show him all the reasons to fall in love with this city, and in the process, hopefully completely forget that the amazing kiss ever happened.<br /><br />How hard can it be? We’re total opposites anyway.<br /><br />I love people . . . and all their stories. Gray loves hockey . . . and nothing else.<br /><br />I love to talk. Gray only stares.<br /><br />I’m happy-go-lucky. Gray’s all work and no play.<br /><br />There’s just one problem. The more time I spend with Grayson Hawke, the more I start to see that underneath his bristly, standoffish exterior, he’s nothing like the man everyone thinks he is.<br /><br />And suddenly, all the reasons for keeping my distance, staying professional, and not falling for someone again. . .are impossible to remember.<br /><br /><i>My Lucky Charm </i>is a grumpy/sunshine, sweet hockey romance with all of the sizzle but none of the steam. It's the second in the Holidays with Hart series, but <i>My Lucky Charm</i> can be read as a stand alone.</div><b><br /></b></div><div><u><b>Book Beginnings / First Line Friday</b></u></div><div></div><blockquote><div>I've never kissed a stranger in my life.</div><div></div></blockquote><div><u><b><br /></b></u></div><div><u><b>Friday 56</b></u></div><blockquote>"Okay. So. Story time." She's over-gesturing, which reads as nervous, and I wonder what Eloise has really gotten me into.<div></div></blockquote><div><br /></div><div>What have you been reading lately?</div><div><br /></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-90992263518047385012024-03-12T23:00:00.024-05:002024-03-12T23:00:00.130-05:00Can't Wait Wednesday: Night Falls on Predicament Avenue by Jaime Jo Wright<b>Can't Wait Wednesday</b> is a weekly meme hosted by <a href="http://www.wishfulendings.com/"><b>Wishful Endings</b></a> 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 <b>Waiting on Wednesday</b>, hosted by Jill at <a href="http://breakingthespine.blogspot.com/"><b>Breaking the Spine</b></a>.<br /><br /><b>This week I'm featuring <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/182094493-night-falls-on-predicament-avenue" target="_blank">Night Falls on Predicament Avenue by Jaime Jo Wright</a> releasing April 9.</b><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzajrUAegE7yprAQebFi8gVKhYb22enphP0IfXtCW9uzTFUWi4RKwbjmbbiIqEY1QFpy538s_Apy0KCqh5xD9tLoISPQpAty0o8ILnFrWSeUkbMwxbUjzHysgYBdxCEbPoXzAazCrkTqNCccZa3-GPKvhcfOGIF6aSH0zjSG1SlnSCcvXdoW9bng7Xjw/s1500/Night%20Falls%20on%20Predicament%20Avenue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="971" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzajrUAegE7yprAQebFi8gVKhYb22enphP0IfXtCW9uzTFUWi4RKwbjmbbiIqEY1QFpy538s_Apy0KCqh5xD9tLoISPQpAty0o8ILnFrWSeUkbMwxbUjzHysgYBdxCEbPoXzAazCrkTqNCccZa3-GPKvhcfOGIF6aSH0zjSG1SlnSCcvXdoW9bng7Xjw/s320/Night%20Falls%20on%20Predicament%20Avenue.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b></div>In 1910, Effie James is living a dream for two. Her younger sister is harboring a secret that has left timid Effie determined to fulfill her daring sister's grand plan of seeking out adventure in their small Iowa town. When a British gentleman arrives, disrupting their peace with efforts to find the wife many claim lived her final days at the now abandoned house at 322 Predicament Avenue, Effie is thrust into intrigue she couldn't have prepared for. But what she finds inside will forever link her to the scandal staining the house's walls and to a woman whose secrets promise a curse.<br /><br />A century later, Norah Richman is living out her late-twin's dream of running their great aunt's bed-and-breakfast on Predicament Avenue--a place Norah believes nothing good can come out of after her sister's abduction and murder thirteen years ago. Her first guest is a crime historian and podcaster, and Norah resolves to stay far away from the charming and enigmatic man--until another guest is found dead. As they dig deeper, something sinister unfurls that will reveal an ominous unknown far greater than the possibility of death itself.<div><br /></div><div>What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?</div><div><br /></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-45895475651539687212024-03-11T00:00:00.034-05:002024-03-11T00:00:00.145-05:00Review: The Gorgon Agenda (SPI Files #8) by Lisa Shearin<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3yBQLChqLUr-69zddQMxQi5VhwqSJKpGGJQNGOFsGmf7m7DW4YjxjGMAVD5gHLqC6WATju2K5hvlVi6Q7mHYYoPkSdZXyV4-AkztNF5pyqrn3z321_ijWnYutKaVvSeAHEpAMUGbjIrb4BEAXsKiKjpz0ROTE2VJ611Y_D8OCm0sbdyo6K2B1fsWqng/s1500/The%20Gorgon%20Agenda.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="939" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3yBQLChqLUr-69zddQMxQi5VhwqSJKpGGJQNGOFsGmf7m7DW4YjxjGMAVD5gHLqC6WATju2K5hvlVi6Q7mHYYoPkSdZXyV4-AkztNF5pyqrn3z321_ijWnYutKaVvSeAHEpAMUGbjIrb4BEAXsKiKjpz0ROTE2VJ611Y_D8OCm0sbdyo6K2B1fsWqng/s320/The%20Gorgon%20Agenda.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b><div><b>A planet-killing weapon, sinister sisters, and immortal monsters.<br />All in a day’s work for the agents of SPI.</b><br /><br />I’m Makenna Fraser, seer for SPI (Supernatural Protection & Investigations). I knew SPI protected some of the world’s most dangerous relics, but I didn’t know our draconic founder, Vivienne Sagadraco, kept them in a vault deep below Manhattan.<br /><br />Until the most lethal relic of all was stolen.<br /><br />The Aegis is the shield once wielded by Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war. The center of the Aegis contains the head of Medusa, making it the ultimate weapon. All who look on it or its reflection are instantly turned to stone.<br /><br />Old enemies and new adversaries have descended on New York—and one of them now has the Aegis:<br />Tiamat—Babylonian goddess of chaos, and Vivienne Sagadraco’s sister<br />Stheno and Euryale—Eight-foot-tall, snake-haired gorgons, granddaughters of the Titans, and Medusa’s sisters<br />The Sisterhood of Medusa—An ancient gorgon military order<br />The Cabal—A supernatural terrorist organization<br /><br />Those behind the theft have declared war on humanity, with a hatred that was millennia in the making, and a heist that was centuries in the planning.<br /><br />Our mission is simple yet impossible: Retrieve the Aegis and save the world. But we can’t do it alone. We’ll need our friends, family, and some unexpected new allies if we’re to stop this ancient evil once and for all</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BSFZZGBW/" target="_blank">Amazon</a> / <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/78815066-the-gorgon-agenda" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>MY THOUGHTS</b></div><br /><blockquote><i>Fairy tales are fairy fact.<br />Magic exists. Monsters are real. Fighting the forces of evil is a full-time job.</i></blockquote><div><br /></div><div>What a wild ride! This was intense right from the get-go. Danger seemed to be coming from every direction. An old enemy returned with some seriously powerful and scary backup. The final clash had the potential for world-ending consequences. <br /> <br />I was so nervous for these characters. The odds were stacked against them, and I didn’t see a solution where they’d come out unscathed. I was turning the pages as fast as possible, hoping for the best but preparing for the worst. <br /> <br />I don’t want to say too much because of spoilers, but wow! This was an excellent addition to the series! I’m so eager for the next one. If you’re an urban fantasy fan, you’ll love this series. Be sure to start with book one, and you’ll be hooked. <div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>FOUR STARS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-5064462762143930272024-03-07T23:00:00.040-06:002024-03-07T23:00:00.137-06:00Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: The Gorgon Agenda (SPI Files #8) by Lisa Shearin<b>Book Beginnings</b> is a weekly meme hosted by <a href="http://www.rosecityreader.com/"><b>Rose City Reader</b></a> that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at <a href="https://readingismysuperpower.org/"><b>Reading is My Superpower</b></a> for <b>First Line Friday</b>.<b> Friday 56</b> is hosted by <b><a href="http://www.fredasvoice.com/">Freda's Voice</a> </b>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. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at <a href="https://headfullofbooks.blogspot.com/"><b>My Head is Full of Books</b></a> has taken over in the meantime.<br /><br /><b>This week I'm featuring <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/78815066-the-gorgon-agenda" target="_blank">The Gorgon Agenda (SPI Files #8) by Lisa Shearin</a>. This is a really fun urban fantasy series. </b><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaoG-uJZ7puKfRNVyWHqtlUx_iVg35NPEHalnXXmblDRaVwXexEOIuzjmMYUXKSfi2MK60utz3AmdmUWl3TmLeZMdlwXr09Qq3b7Dv2o-5jnc8ioByA9hmj4n0PZJvq1em821sfSFFxs3wjg7_2yksQyk8AM-dL3j7jCwy-CJO1JCI1qzSRUfqNA6nA/s1500/The%20Gorgon%20Agenda.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="939" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaoG-uJZ7puKfRNVyWHqtlUx_iVg35NPEHalnXXmblDRaVwXexEOIuzjmMYUXKSfi2MK60utz3AmdmUWl3TmLeZMdlwXr09Qq3b7Dv2o-5jnc8ioByA9hmj4n0PZJvq1em821sfSFFxs3wjg7_2yksQyk8AM-dL3j7jCwy-CJO1JCI1qzSRUfqNA6nA/s320/The%20Gorgon%20Agenda.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b></div><div><b>A planet-killing weapon, sinister sisters, and immortal monsters.<br />All in a day’s work for the agents of SPI.</b><br /><br />I’m Makenna Fraser, seer for SPI (Supernatural Protection & Investigations). I knew SPI protected some of the world’s most dangerous relics, but I didn’t know our draconic founder, Vivienne Sagadraco, kept them in a vault deep below Manhattan.<br /><br />Until the most lethal relic of all was stolen.<br /><br />The Aegis is the shield once wielded by Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war. The center of the Aegis contains the head of Medusa, making it the ultimate weapon. All who look on it or its reflection are instantly turned to stone.<br /><br />Old enemies and new adversaries have descended on New York—and one of them now has the Aegis:<br />Tiamat—Babylonian goddess of chaos, and Vivienne Sagadraco’s sister<br />Stheno and Euryale—Eight-foot-tall, snake-haired gorgons, granddaughters of the Titans, and Medusa’s sisters<br />The Sisterhood of Medusa—An ancient gorgon military order<br />The Cabal—A supernatural terrorist organization<br /><br />Those behind the theft have declared war on humanity, with a hatred that was millennia in the making, and a heist that was centuries in the planning.<br /><br />Our mission is simple yet impossible: Retrieve the Aegis and save the world. But we can’t do it alone. We’ll need our friends, family, and some unexpected new allies if we’re to stop this ancient evil once and for all.<b><u><br /></u><br /></b></div><div><b><u>Book Beginnings / First Line Friday</u></b></div><div></div><blockquote><div>Did you ever get the feeling you were being watched?</div><div></div></blockquote><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div><b><u>Friday 56</u></b></div><div><blockquote>Knowledge was the ultimate weapon. Always had been, always would be. You could have the biggest army and the best weapons, but without accurate knowledge of your enemy, they'd only do you so much good.</blockquote></div><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div>What have you been reading lately?</div><div><br /></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-84416101982035003322024-03-07T00:00:00.019-06:002024-03-07T00:00:00.149-06:00Review: Leave the Lights On (True Crime Junkies #5) by Christy Barritt <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9xJMN7V4H1fOAr7o1eU6CdX8pyQXPhnsN5KET8Q3kERG9R2UYEpiLyGoGFiUTX9pJMa_aR0deWgNtxn3uxRbvR6HUViZ6VPvAx4M6jaZlM7GeWin1hHxY3IzNr8-oI0UiOXRexMGBkrFndcL-WYjfqXc6QMH4X6RwCLBLDFr21nXRZyZNwKLTU24cKQ/s1500/Leave%20the%20Lights%20On.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9xJMN7V4H1fOAr7o1eU6CdX8pyQXPhnsN5KET8Q3kERG9R2UYEpiLyGoGFiUTX9pJMa_aR0deWgNtxn3uxRbvR6HUViZ6VPvAx4M6jaZlM7GeWin1hHxY3IzNr8-oI0UiOXRexMGBkrFndcL-WYjfqXc6QMH4X6RwCLBLDFr21nXRZyZNwKLTU24cKQ/s320/Leave%20the%20Lights%20On.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b><div><b>First the lights go out . . . then they die.<br /></b><br />The body count is rising. Six murder victims. The only connection? An X carved into the dead person’s chest. When the family of one of the victims asks the Artic Circle Murder Club to investigate, the team dives into their toughest case yet.<br /><br />Stopping the murders isn’t the team’s only challenge. When Duke McAllister sees his teammate Andi Slade dodging the cops, he knows she must be in deep trouble. But Andi isn’t the only one on her team on thin ice. Trouble seems to be following them all.<br /><br />With more murders making the headlines, the threat level reaches an all-time high. The end game has begun. The clock is ticking, and disaster looms near. Will they stop the killer before the deadly grand finale? Or will the lights go out one final time?</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CP1QM7DV" target="_blank">Amazon</a> / <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/202729189-leave-the-lights-on" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>MY THOUGHTS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>This was another exciting and hard-to-put down book by Christy Barritt. This whole series has been great, but this is the most suspense-filled and fast-paced one of the bunch. At one point, I could hardly catch my breath; the danger was imminent, and I didn’t know how they were going to get out of the situation unscathed. <br /> <br />The Arctic Circle Murder Club is called in to help solve a perplexing case in Anchorage. Seven people have been murdered in the past twelve days. One of the only things they have to go on is the fact that the killer cuts the power to the victim’s house before killing them. The victims don’t seem to have anything in common. They’re all from different social standings. They're of different ages and ethnicities. What’s the connection? What’s driving the killer to commit these murders? The Lights Out Killer had the whole town on edge and living in fear, and that fear seeped through the pages and kept my anxiety high. <br /> <br />This series is perfect for anyone who enjoys a fast-paced, character-driven thriller. While this book could technically be a standalone, I’d still recommend starting with book one. There’s a lot of history between these characters, and some ongoing mysteries from the beginning play a big part here. There’s quite a bit of development in one of those mysteries. There’s still some questions, but I was happy about the progress. And while I wouldn’t classify the ending as a cliffhanger per se, I’m very eager to see where things go with the Arctic Circle Murder Club next.<div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>FOUR STARS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-5775399948313934332024-03-05T23:00:00.001-06:002024-03-05T23:00:00.246-06:00Can't Wait Wednesday: Never Fall Again (Gossamer Falls #1) by Lynn H. Blackburn<b>Can't Wait Wednesday</b> is a weekly meme hosted by <a href="http://www.wishfulendings.com/"><b>Wishful Endings</b></a> 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 <b>Waiting on Wednesday</b>, hosted by Jill at <a href="http://breakingthespine.blogspot.com/"><b>Breaking the Spine</b></a>.<br /><br /><b>This week I'm featuring <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/182092951-never-fall-again" target="_blank">Never Fall Again (Gossamer Falls #1) by Lynn H. Blackburn</a> releasing March 12. </b><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxrB-PWRKugGrhAxDNlYrba6hXhM9zldkrll4MQC9whW8_MY81j66ZMWBpe4HjzAcGJlznjZCzLHNp4_8FE7UonJZ20VbSNZCSU9_3XQ1_0I_frmdjJ8XYkNhSb4dULFhsGnTj5lJViA6Whs0ApBpp5JVeel_EFsao6a2_9PgNupaBdEQeJhdK30VPkw/s1500/Never%20Fall%20Again.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="971" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxrB-PWRKugGrhAxDNlYrba6hXhM9zldkrll4MQC9whW8_MY81j66ZMWBpe4HjzAcGJlznjZCzLHNp4_8FE7UonJZ20VbSNZCSU9_3XQ1_0I_frmdjJ8XYkNhSb4dULFhsGnTj5lJViA6Whs0ApBpp5JVeel_EFsao6a2_9PgNupaBdEQeJhdK30VPkw/s320/Never%20Fall%20Again.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b></div>Landry Hutton has spent three years rebuilding her life behind the secure gates of The Haven, an exclusive resort on the outskirts of Gossamer Falls, North Carolina. As the artist-in-residence, and with her pottery prized by The Haven's guests, Landry is finally ready to settle in permanently. She wants to give her daughter, Eliza, a safe home to grow up in and hires former Marine Callum Shaw to handle the construction.<br /><br />Cal grew up in Gossamer Falls and always knew he would someday join his family's business. He longs for a family of his own but has almost given up on that ever happening. Landry is funny, gifted, and everything Cal could ever want in a partner, but he vows to keep his distance. Landry has a daughter and a past. Cal has been down that road before and barely survived when the woman he loved left, taking her two sons with her. He can't bear to lose like that again.<br /><br />Before construction on the house can begin, Landry's pottery is destroyed in a suspicious fire. It soon becomes clear that Landry and Eliza are in grave danger--but because of whom? But, after losing one relationship, he is hesitant to try again.<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting? </div><div><br /></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-44257346216518750252024-03-04T00:00:00.033-06:002024-03-04T10:25:08.365-06:00Review: Conflicting Loyalties: My Life as a Mob Enforcer Turned DOJ Informant by Aiden Gabor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBPWZhlnK5Nas5LRdA9R-1439QP-QcXyc7cnCEbiIcH6FAdK7g3wdbwK9Ale2lnlhTjGeOJUGn19rIeHsd2HpRBrL6w6pAdmLWOQVYr-Hb_2oki8wVdOLvLS9IfzgR8v32myU8a5I-GKg_9c2P0Ugz5ZA118EfvNcZf9ly2X7LDO8EpchT0Wgbsrdm3A/s1500/Conflicting%20Loyalties.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1003" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBPWZhlnK5Nas5LRdA9R-1439QP-QcXyc7cnCEbiIcH6FAdK7g3wdbwK9Ale2lnlhTjGeOJUGn19rIeHsd2HpRBrL6w6pAdmLWOQVYr-Hb_2oki8wVdOLvLS9IfzgR8v32myU8a5I-GKg_9c2P0Ugz5ZA118EfvNcZf9ly2X7LDO8EpchT0Wgbsrdm3A/s320/Conflicting%20Loyalties.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b><div><b>A memoir of a double life as a Mafia enforcer and a DOJ informant taking down corrupt cops and politicians.<br /></b><br />Aiden Gabor was still a teenager when Department of Justice agents approached him with an ultimatum: spend his life in prison for racketeering, embezzlement, extortion, and conspiracy to commit murder, or become an undercover agent.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Conflicting Loyalties</i> is a sharp, honest memoir in three parts: the bloody life of a mob soldier from outside <i>la famiglia</i>; the death-defying, paranoid existence of an informant bringing down corrupt politicians and police departments from the inside; and unexpectedly finding peace late in life through the Baha’i faith while coping with an ALS diagnosis.</div><br /><i>Conflicting Loyalties</i> is a visceral tale of a man who gambles with his own life in order to save it, dodging his fate while searching for an identity, a father, and a family. It is for readers of Gianni Russo’s <i>Hollywood Godfather</i>, Joe Pistone’s classic <i>Donnie Brasco</i>, and anyone interested in mob life, police and political corruption, and finding peace after a life of violence.<div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CB1RMP32/" target="_blank">Amazon</a> / <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/182598261-conflicting-loyalties" target="_blank">Goodreads</a> / <a href="https://www.hoopladigital.com/ebook/conflicting-loyalties-aiden-gabor/16029024" target="_blank">Hoopla</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>MY THOUGHTS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>This was an incredibly fascinating story! It’s not something I’d normally pick up, but I’m so glad I did! It was a gripping read. I enjoyed the engaging and snappy writing style. There was something very conversational about it that pulled me right in. I didn’t want to put it down. <br /> <br />I was completely engrossed in this memoir by Aiden Gabor. I enjoyed reading about how he went from working for the mob to being an informant for the DOJ. It was very interesting to read about his time as a police officer and how he brought down corrupt cops. The things Gabor went through and the things he did! And to come out on the other side of it the way he has! Wow! Inspiring!<br /> <br />This was an enlightening read that I highly recommend. To say it was compelling is an understatement! <br /> <br />NOTE: This book contains strong language.<div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>FIVE STARS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-70024694015524599232024-02-29T23:00:00.056-06:002024-02-29T23:30:27.605-06:00Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Leave the Lights On (True Crime Junkies #5) by Christy Barritt <b>Book Beginnings</b> is a weekly meme hosted by <a href="http://www.rosecityreader.com/"><b>Rose City Reader</b></a> that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at <a href="https://readingismysuperpower.org/"><b>Reading is My Superpower</b></a> for First Line Friday. <b>Friday 56</b> is hosted by <a href="http://www.fredasvoice.com/"><b>Freda's Voice</b></a> 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. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at <a href="https://headfullofbooks.blogspot.com/"><b>My Head is Full of Books</b></a> has taken over in the meantime.<br /><br /><b>This week I'm featuring <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/202729189-leave-the-lights-on" target="_blank">Leave the Lights On (True Crime Junkies #5) by Christy Barritt</a>. Yep, ANOTHER Christy Barritt book, lol. I've really been enjoying this series. It's suspenseful and full of twists. </b><div><b><br /></b><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0ibGxU-jXDwjs566TYj3GZsb32KdmhynycPjAThlLtyc2ysyLoV7Dz2JqyVYbieLGJ9qWpgBlhjf_K-FUnCzJOQ7xI_h5X5UZsNM7KI7J-eSuIwBgaFDkTQXopppSo3tlg_R5kQ_IdNDCRufM0Ts8UAh9vY3njPyG-jCGryr8Cw6IC9J0JyIJbIQzA/s1500/Leave%20the%20Lights%20On.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw0ibGxU-jXDwjs566TYj3GZsb32KdmhynycPjAThlLtyc2ysyLoV7Dz2JqyVYbieLGJ9qWpgBlhjf_K-FUnCzJOQ7xI_h5X5UZsNM7KI7J-eSuIwBgaFDkTQXopppSo3tlg_R5kQ_IdNDCRufM0Ts8UAh9vY3njPyG-jCGryr8Cw6IC9J0JyIJbIQzA/s320/Leave%20the%20Lights%20On.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b></div><div><b>First the lights go out . . . then they die.<br /></b><br />The body count is rising. Six murder victims. The only connection? An X carved into the dead person’s chest. When the family of one of the victims asks the Artic Circle Murder Club to investigate, the team dives into their toughest case yet.<br /><br />Stopping the murders isn’t the team’s only challenge. When Duke McAllister sees his teammate Andi Slade dodging the cops, he knows she must be in deep trouble. But Andi isn’t the only one on her team on thin ice. Trouble seems to be following them all.<br /><br />With more murders making the headlines, the threat level reaches an all-time high. The end game has begun. The clock is ticking, and disaster looms near. Will they stop the killer before the deadly grand finale? Or will the lights go out one final time?<b><u><br /></u><br /></b><div><b><u>Book Beginnings / First Line Friday</u></b></div><div><blockquote>Nicole Windsor paused in the bathroom.</blockquote></div><div><blockquote>She'd just started running water in the tub, but it took forever for the water to warm.</blockquote></div><div><blockquote>As she waited, the sound of liquid rushing through the pipes roared so loudly it nearly obstructed any other noises.</blockquote></div><div><blockquote>Nearly.</blockquote></div><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div><b><u>Friday 56</u></b></div><div><blockquote>She wasn't sure what tomorrow was going to look like.</blockquote></div><div><blockquote>But this wasn't going to be the end of her. She promised herself that.</blockquote></div><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div>What have you been reading lately?</div><div><br /></div></div></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-23997707609740710122024-02-27T23:00:00.021-06:002024-02-27T23:00:00.132-06:00Can't Wait Wednesday: One Last Shot (Alaska Air One Rescue #1) by Susan May Warren<b>Can't Wait Wednesday</b> is a weekly meme hosted by <a href="http://www.wishfulendings.com/"><b>Wishful Endings</b></a> 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 <b>Waiting on Wednesday</b>, hosted by Jill at <a href="http://breakingthespine.blogspot.com/"><b>Breaking the Spine</b></a>.<br /><br /><b>This week I'm featuring <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/182095473-one-last-shot" target="_blank">One Last Shot (Alaska Air One Rescue #1) by Susan May Warren</a> releasing March 5.</b><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8G1z_dT_a6OAmkz3C88sF5RT2UUCgYVY_BH_bT2wQsScS5-VKlFMJ4UBgnOfTBrVrdj68li61wRtQ6tm-WA5ONl2UZvy6q7LE5dAsoOq_9X7AzCjyRckS8ZBNiwoKMyzJsANZgJBivpDayNd5RWofj1C38QLvNO99hl71rMBiKroD_ROaRmU-HswlXA/s1500/One%20Last%20Shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="971" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8G1z_dT_a6OAmkz3C88sF5RT2UUCgYVY_BH_bT2wQsScS5-VKlFMJ4UBgnOfTBrVrdj68li61wRtQ6tm-WA5ONl2UZvy6q7LE5dAsoOq_9X7AzCjyRckS8ZBNiwoKMyzJsANZgJBivpDayNd5RWofj1C38QLvNO99hl71rMBiKroD_ROaRmU-HswlXA/s320/One%20Last%20Shot.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b></div>When country music star Oaken Fox joins survivalist Mike Grizz's new adventure show in the Alaskan wilderness, he just wants to boost his fan base. But when tragedy strikes, and Air One Rescue must save them, Oaken just wants to quit. Too bad his producer has other plans—signing him on with Air One Rescue as a recruit and making a reality show...<br /><br />EMT Boo Kingston did not join Air One Rescue to train a celebrity. But she's a rookie to the team, so yes, she'll train Oaken and keep him alive and not for a minute pay attention to his charm...<br /><br />And then five women go missing from a resort during a bachelorette weekend gone south. Now, Air One and the rescue team will have to use all their skills--and manpower, including Oaken--to find them before a blizzard settles in. But can they work together before tragedy strikes?<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?</div><div><br /></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-82926357984114006242024-02-27T00:00:00.021-06:002024-02-27T00:00:00.144-06:00Review: Trapped in Yosemite by Dana Mentink<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MDmgwprjbBJgTkOnAjwyHIjHIXJNLDd1Z1PXcgqFjVt7iCRedepXuJYv6BC0H8cLlvd5ww0G_AfH-e9J_Do4crEbj-NY7PTM_v-bZ1iDO0n1gKbycSwd_lrvl7HgigzVYlVkIQqsaOGeBBXGaSjG3OPpb071Zddx4t_FNYepoYiby9wzBHz1XLR72A/s1500/Trapped%20in%20Yosemite.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8MDmgwprjbBJgTkOnAjwyHIjHIXJNLDd1Z1PXcgqFjVt7iCRedepXuJYv6BC0H8cLlvd5ww0G_AfH-e9J_Do4crEbj-NY7PTM_v-bZ1iDO0n1gKbycSwd_lrvl7HgigzVYlVkIQqsaOGeBBXGaSjG3OPpb071Zddx4t_FNYepoYiby9wzBHz1XLR72A/s320/Trapped%20in%20Yosemite.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b><div><b>When a massive earthquake levels the region, secrets and unknown dangers are exposed…</b><br /><br />The ground in still-icy Yosemite National Park isn’t stable, and K-9 handler Von Sharpe fears the worst. But his worries are pushed aside when he sees an SUV viciously forced off the road…with his ex-fiancée at the wheel. It’s only when Stella Rivers steps out of the vehicle that the very ground under their feet cracks and breaks with the onslaught of a terrifying earthquake.</div><div> <br />When her meeting with a mysterious client is ambushed, Stella witnesses the man being gunned down by a sniper and becomes a target herself. With the threat of aftershocks triggering landslides and floods, the new mom has no choice but to run to save her baby girl—even if it means teaming up with the man who has no idea he fathered her child.</div><div><br />Trapped in a dangerously unstable wilderness with a killer closing in, Von and Stella are running out of time to get to safety. And every fissure reveals a new secret that will shake them to their foundation…</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C4LN9F9F" target="_blank">Amazon</a> / <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/150352859-trapped-in-yosemite" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>MY THOUGHTS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>What an exciting and action-packed story! I was hooked right at the beginning and couldn’t read fast enough. Danger was coming from every direction. It seemed like anything that could go wrong did go wrong. Whether it was a massive earthquake, powerful aftershocks, freezing temperatures, a snowstorm, or a murderer, there was never a dull moment. My anxiety was high and just kept climbing. <br /> <br />I liked Stella and Von. They were realistically flawed, and while they had a lot to overcome regarding their past relationship, I was rooting for them to work things out. It was obvious that they still cared for each other. I thought Bear was awesome, and I really enjoyed seeing the bond between him and Von. I hope this is the beginning of a series because there are a couple of characters I’d love to read more about. <br /> <br />I really enjoyed the vivid descriptions of Yosemite. I’ve never had a chance to visit, but now it feels like I have. I love when an author can transport me to a setting like that. <br /> <br />This was a thrill ride from start to finish, and I enjoyed every second. If you’re a fan of action-packed romantic suspense, you’ll love this book. I highly recommend it!<br /> <br />I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.<div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>FIVE STARS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-30646599841125588442024-02-22T23:00:00.048-06:002024-02-22T23:00:00.134-06:00Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Trapped in Yosemite by Dana Mentink<b>Book Beginnings</b> is a weekly meme hosted by <a href="http://www.rosecityreader.com/"><b>Rose City Reader</b></a> that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at <a href="https://readingismysuperpower.org/"><b>Reading is My Superpower</b></a> for <b>First Line Friday</b>. <b>Friday 56</b> is hosted by <a href="http://www.fredasvoice.com/"><b>Freda's Voice</b></a> 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. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at <a href="https://headfullofbooks.blogspot.com/"><b>My Head is Full of Books</b></a> has taken over until Freda returns.<br /><br /><b>This week I'm featuring <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/150352859-trapped-in-yosemite" target="_blank">Trapped in Yosemite by Dana Mentink</a>. I was lucky enough to read an advanced copy of this book, and I loved it. It releases Tuesday, and I'll have my review up that day too. </b><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM8VTlZfOmv965M12KqrOevfJJX5VWrhPVwi9S2GFetlEmZzXl_Ss8l2yYDKSOt9f7c_MzQmZ3Jt9B83Y-O2rd2vApFcOh6D0aYClyEy1B2gT8bn4GjQCh6Yu70oXJ9NFhjmkWy_AGR0dDVNa-Cap-fM8Hk5k2ijf6YkauCIt164blQ0U3lXL7tWHekA/s1500/Trapped%20in%20Yosemite.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM8VTlZfOmv965M12KqrOevfJJX5VWrhPVwi9S2GFetlEmZzXl_Ss8l2yYDKSOt9f7c_MzQmZ3Jt9B83Y-O2rd2vApFcOh6D0aYClyEy1B2gT8bn4GjQCh6Yu70oXJ9NFhjmkWy_AGR0dDVNa-Cap-fM8Hk5k2ijf6YkauCIt164blQ0U3lXL7tWHekA/s320/Trapped%20in%20Yosemite.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b></div><div><div><b>When a massive earthquake levels the region, secrets and unknown dangers are exposed…</b><br /><br />The ground in still-icy Yosemite National Park isn’t stable, and K-9 handler Von Sharpe fears the worst. But his worries are pushed aside when he sees an SUV viciously forced off the road…with his ex-fiancée at the wheel. It’s only when Stella Rivers steps out of the vehicle that the very ground under their feet cracks and breaks with the onslaught of a terrifying earthquake.</div><div> <br />When her meeting with a mysterious client is ambushed, Stella witnesses the man being gunned down by a sniper and becomes a target herself. With the threat of aftershocks triggering landslides and floods, the new mom has no choice but to run to save her baby girl—even if it means teaming up with the man who has no idea he fathered her child.</div><div><br />Trapped in a dangerously unstable wilderness with a killer closing in, Von and Stella are running out of time to get to safety. And every fissure reveals a new secret that will shake them to their foundation…</div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><u>Book Beginnings / First Line Friday</u></b></div><div><blockquote>Stella Rivers scoured the dense shrubbery like she'd been doing for the past hour as if the branches might somehow reach out and snatch her van off the mountain road. Ridiculous, but the isolation raked her nerves.</blockquote></div><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div><b><u>Friday 56</u></b></div><div><blockquote>Von woke at the sound of a baby crying in between bursts of gusting wind. He pulled himself from the cot, his muscles feeling every inch of the fire escape ladder the day before.</blockquote></div><div><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div>What have you been reading lately?</div><div><br /></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-7630749742119113252024-02-22T14:00:00.049-06:002024-02-22T14:00:00.132-06:00Cover Reveal: Elite Guardians: Savannah<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGNwfJ3dnoIp1zXTAsRnazOIp7wGJEYMtSBseuzQFxkin8tHyzwvBwKKKh_eg9xbLoX8QoFaxaeIjwinr84uOfb9VriUns18OFHXAoZnGak9hV4DbWp3CVjav9uuWTpmiXrjC9Ij4cV2zx_GpjTJRSl7UCXuunkjn7GgpxaQM3d4DXoob7BuXn6JwKg/s1080/AljVIADg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioGNwfJ3dnoIp1zXTAsRnazOIp7wGJEYMtSBseuzQFxkin8tHyzwvBwKKKh_eg9xbLoX8QoFaxaeIjwinr84uOfb9VriUns18OFHXAoZnGak9hV4DbWp3CVjav9uuWTpmiXrjC9Ij4cV2zx_GpjTJRSl7UCXuunkjn7GgpxaQM3d4DXoob7BuXn6JwKg/w400-h400/AljVIADg.png" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><b>Elite Guardians: Savannah</b><div><br /><div>Book 1: Vanishing Legacy by Kate Angelo (releasing April 9)</div><div>Book 2: Hunting Justice by Sami A. Abrams (releasing May 21)</div><div>Book 3: Guarding Truth by Kelly Underwood (releasing October 15)</div><div>Publisher: Sunrise Publishing</div><div>Pre-order sale price: $4.99 each (ebooks) </div><div>Retail price after release: $7.99 each (ebooks) </div><div>Available in ebook, print, and audiobook</div><div><br /></div><div><b><u>PREORDER</u></b></div>Sunrise Shop: <a href="https://sunrisepublishing.myshopify.com/collections/elite-guardians-savannah">https://sunrisepublishing.myshopify.com/collections/elite-guardians-savannah</a> <br />Amazon: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRMPQ37T">https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CRMPQ37T</a><div><br /></div><div><b>Elite Guardians: Savannah series synopsis</b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>This exciting new romantic suspense series takes Savannah by storm. </b></div><div><br /></div><div>In each story, these fiercely capable female bodyguards have to shield their important clients from looming threats, all while grappling with simmering feelings for the ones they protect. Between heart-pounding foot chases down River Street, daring underwater exploits off Tybee Island, and climactic showdowns at Forsyth Fountain, these Elite Guardians pursue justice, keep secrets safe, and sacrifice everything for the sake of those they’ve sworn to protect. </div><div><br /></div><div>With mystery, pulse-pounding action, and swoon-worthy romances in every book, this edge-of-your seat series is totally addicting from start to incredibly satisfying finish.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>About the Authors:</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><b>Lynette Eason</b> is the best-selling, award-winning author of over sixty books. Her books have appeared on the USA TODAY, Publisher’s Weekly, CBA, ECPA, and Parable bestseller lists. Shehas won numerous awards including the Carol, the Selah, the Golden Scroll and more. Her novel, Her Stolen Past was made into a movie for the Lifetime Movie Network. Lynette can be found online at www.lynetteeason.com <div><br /></div><div><b>Kate Angelo</b> is a Publishers Weekly Bestselling Romantic Suspense author, minister, and public speaker from Southwest Missouri who works alongside her husband championing stronger marriages and families through their nonprofit. As Mom to 5 adult children, she's fluent in both sarcasm and eye rolls. Kate is a coffee addict, tech enthusiast, productivity guru, expert knitter, summer lake fanatic, prayer warrior, dog lover, avid reader, and a known klutz—just ask her doctor. Having aged out of foster care, a unique perspective to her writing, breathing life into flawed characters who find hope and healing amidst danger. Subscribe to her newsletter to hear about her pet lion at https://kateangelo.com/</div><div><br /></div><div>Award-winning, bestselling author <b>Sami A. Abrams </b>grew up hating to read. It wasn’t until her30’s that she found authors that captured her attention. Now, most evenings, you can find her engrossed in a Romantic Suspense. In her opinion, a crime with a little romance is the recipe for a great story. Sami lives in Northern California, but she will always be a Kansas girl at heart. She has a love of sports, family, and travel. However, a cabin at Lake Tahoe writing her next story is definitely at the top of her list. Visit her at http://www.samiaabrams.com.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Kelly Underwood</b>’s favorite things are reading, writing, and drinking coffee. She was born in New Hampshire, but don’t ask her about snow, because she’s been a Florida girl since she was twelve. She writes book reviews for her blog bestinsuspense.com and is an active member of the Central Florida chapter of the American Christian Fiction Writers. She’s a sucker for a good suspense novel, the kind you have to read cover-to-cover until the mystery is solved and the bad guys are in handcuffs. If you’re looking for her, she’s probably on her back patio with a Kindle in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other. Visit Kelly at kellyunderwoodauthor.com</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi73_024-tJ-fOEbWiwfZmKa6CtODyyC0DhdL3IyeiVg98nyL5IRzpBd1PCKk367B4ObyzHylE0D-r0Mn0P8IcpHvYCWG7DVhYJYP97AgKtH_6oH_JMC-YigBQmIGGj1NWluH6IWD9orQ5KWlmzftyzsaWoUy4KXuoM74Htzm3n4vo83lWhTNX5tagPQ/s2782/xcIJnlGg.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2782" data-original-width="1800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi73_024-tJ-fOEbWiwfZmKa6CtODyyC0DhdL3IyeiVg98nyL5IRzpBd1PCKk367B4ObyzHylE0D-r0Mn0P8IcpHvYCWG7DVhYJYP97AgKtH_6oH_JMC-YigBQmIGGj1NWluH6IWD9orQ5KWlmzftyzsaWoUy4KXuoM74Htzm3n4vo83lWhTNX5tagPQ/w259-h400/xcIJnlGg.jpeg" width="259" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><b>Vanishing Legacy by Kate Angelo</b></div><div><br /></div><div><b>For this Elite Guardian, protecting her client’s daughter just got personal. </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div>Elite Guardian Alana Flores, former LAPD underwater dive detective, just wants a fresh start in Savannah, Georgia, with her son. Hoping to repair their broken relationship and provide him a safer life, nothing could wreck her hopes more than finding a terrified, autistic child in her shed. </div><div><br /></div><div>Enter Cash Thomas, a widowed trauma surgeon struggling to raise his autistic daughter, Penny. He’s put his wife’s disappearance and presumed death behind him...until someone tries to kidnap his daughter. Terrified of losing Penny to the same cartel that supposedly killed his wife, he turns to Alana and the Elite Guardians.</div><div><br /></div>But is Sonia really dead? Or is she behind the kidnapping attempts? Suddenly, Cash and Alana must keep their children safe, uncover the truth about Sonia, and find a way to outsmart the cartel before it's too late.<div><br /><div>And what about the spark between them? Could this be the fresh start they both long for? But when their worst fears happen, will they lose everything?</div><div><br /></div><div>With heart-pounding foot chases on River Street, underwater thrills off Tybee Island, and a climactic showdown at Forsyth Fountain, <i>Vanishing Legacy</i> will leave you breathless.</div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSKJsYEgYzA_yXZaQmFfvrRmyLHUG8zRxj8oF6NkhuRYUwgujS7oXb2Afo31FeMPhpqrYp5nkl1Ii42Eep-18dYTHfNSoEvo3ipl3jRuH2Makl8W_lD5Q3vX9lUtUQyzxOMtvq8yvr-7R2lv-T0pIK1_gX_cwgpSL0909PfzSEBA3iEer5BpdjU4kXg/s2782/1QlP2HWA.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2782" data-original-width="1800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioSKJsYEgYzA_yXZaQmFfvrRmyLHUG8zRxj8oF6NkhuRYUwgujS7oXb2Afo31FeMPhpqrYp5nkl1Ii42Eep-18dYTHfNSoEvo3ipl3jRuH2Makl8W_lD5Q3vX9lUtUQyzxOMtvq8yvr-7R2lv-T0pIK1_gX_cwgpSL0909PfzSEBA3iEer5BpdjU4kXg/w259-h400/1QlP2HWA.jpeg" width="259" /></a></div><div><br /></div><b>Hunting Justice by Sami A. Abrams </b><div><br /></div><div><b>A dark secret puts them in the crosshairs of a relentless killer...</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Ex-detective and current Elite Guardian Noelle Burton survived a horrifying attack by a serial killer as a child. Now, determined to put the scars of her past behind her, she’s helping the Elite Guardians set up shop in her hometown of Savannah, Georgia.</div><div><br /></div><div>More, she’s wondering if her friendship with Dr. Jonas Harris, an ex-ER doctor turned medical examiner, might be more. But he has his own demons to fight—namely guilt over the death of his wife.</div><div><br /></div><div>When the sudden death of a colleague rocks his world, Jonas knows there's more to the incident than meets the eye. In fact, he may have been the intended target. Now he needs Noelle... not just as a friend, but as a protector. </div><div><br /></div><div>Together, they’ll have to unravel the threat that stalks Jonas. Clues lead them down a dark path, and when they stumble upon the chilling possibility of a serial killer lurking in the shadows, all Noelle’s nightmares come back to life. And when their friendship becomes something deeper, it’s clear they have everything to lose. </div><div><br /></div><div>Don’t miss this gripping story of resilience, trust, and the power of love in the exhilarating second book of the Elite Guardians: Savannah.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4QOtpOuQot8RpUhfv3SnyAzD1yQ2DsSIchxbUi76neHRj9AvyqobqImcF_iXbpnRkwqjSeWWoeHKBHUhj-bYC6WSOhJSuXORRqz1bM-KKyI8S30pdfB_as2746pBwvDPqIDLEm1BSYtWea6PwpGn1XBpBNHCB6IxnijB5C0XI4ql7tELOHky08dBafQ/s2000/UPCtScQw.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1294" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4QOtpOuQot8RpUhfv3SnyAzD1yQ2DsSIchxbUi76neHRj9AvyqobqImcF_iXbpnRkwqjSeWWoeHKBHUhj-bYC6WSOhJSuXORRqz1bM-KKyI8S30pdfB_as2746pBwvDPqIDLEm1BSYtWea6PwpGn1XBpBNHCB6IxnijB5C0XI4ql7tELOHky08dBafQ/w259-h400/UPCtScQw.png" width="259" /></a></div><div><br /></div><b>Guarding Truth by Kelly Underwood</b><div><br /></div><div><b>The truth might destroy them both...</b></div><div><br /></div><div>Former Army Ranger turned elite bodyguard Juliette Montgomery never forgot fellow solider Caleb Styles—or her feelings for him. But when the guy saved her life, it cost them their relationship.</div><div><br /></div>Now, years later, Caleb hasn’t forgotten her either. But he has no idea she also lives in Savannah, Georgia, where he’s the guardian of his niece, Ivy, after her parents were killed.<div><br /></div><div>Then he discovers that his brilliant niece’s computer skills have attracted a notorious hacker group. More, when Ivy tracks the hackers, she endangers Caleb's cyber-security company. Enter his need for the Elite Guardians.</div><div><br /></div><div>The very last person Juliette thought she’d see again—let alone be assigned to protect—is Caleb. But no matter the attraction between them, she can’t afford to let her heart take over. Her focus has to be on protecting Caleb and Ivy. After all, they need all their wits about them to find the hackers and unravel their plans. </div><div><br /></div><div>When they discover the hackers’ true intent, it becomes a race against time. But it too late to protect their hearts from the truth?</div><div><br /></div><div>An electrifying blend of suspense, chemistry, and unbreakable bonds, this romantic thriller is a must-read for fans of the Elite Guardian series.</div></div><div><br /></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-81108104572744193752024-02-22T00:00:00.023-06:002024-02-22T00:00:00.347-06:00Review: Radiant (Color Theory #2) by Ashley Bustamante<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi84pO86H2MPlMB6Xm5ZnvC9kAhamoPn_BTxhrUGablpB3Xgm8hS1l3J9v4GDxF5mN7fgZohmAX5vCL5hQtu9MNt3AR_THCchBJ_Fs97-MqHpxYclrM-8apBSbTxx8cPueQCH4dLAIklDUVUw-ff2cHiaRI1DPmAfhgjpoGwZZH2WsdcrDq2CnmAoS7A/s500/Radiant.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="329" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi84pO86H2MPlMB6Xm5ZnvC9kAhamoPn_BTxhrUGablpB3Xgm8hS1l3J9v4GDxF5mN7fgZohmAX5vCL5hQtu9MNt3AR_THCchBJ_Fs97-MqHpxYclrM-8apBSbTxx8cPueQCH4dLAIklDUVUw-ff2cHiaRI1DPmAfhgjpoGwZZH2WsdcrDq2CnmAoS7A/s320/Radiant.jpg" width="211" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b><div><b>Secrets Come in Every Shade</b><br /><br />After the introduction of Yellow magic in a society accustomed to only Red and Blue magic, the world inside the barrier has become more complicated than anyone imagined. Ava, Elm, and the former students of Prism navigate life in hiding. They face discord, secrets, betrayal, and danger that looms ever closer as the Benefactors narrow in on their hideaway.<br /><br />Ava is determined to keep everyone protected, even at the cost of her own safety. She explores dangerous aspects of her new Mentalist abilities—against Elm’s dire warnings.<br /><br />Tensions escalate when a new visitor arrives claiming to know a way out of the barrier. While this may be the only way to escape the Benefactors, what awaits them on the outside? Will they gain allies or make an entirely new set of enemies?</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BXHF72TK" target="_blank">Amazon</a> / <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63868668-radiant" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>MY THOUGHTS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>I devoured this book. It was compelling, unique, and fast-paced. It's been well over a year since I read Vivid, book one, so while it took me a little while to get my bearings, once I did, I was fully invested and glued to the pages. <br /> <br />I enjoyed seeing the characters’ growth, and I loved that the worldbuilding became even more fleshed out. A lot happened in this book. There were some big revelations and twists that I didn’t see coming. I was surprised multiple times by the turn of events, and I was shocked by that cliffhanger ending. The next book can’t come out soon enough! This isn’t a standalone, so be sure to start with book one. <div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>FOUR STARS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-84991458330114532682024-02-20T23:00:00.004-06:002024-02-20T23:00:00.137-06:00Can't Wait Wednesday: Hybrid (The Hybrid Series #2) by Candace Kade<b>Can't Wait Wednesday</b> is a weekly meme hosted by <a href="http://www.wishfulendings.com/"><b>Wishful Endings</b></a> 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 <b>Waiting on Wednesday</b>, hosted by Jill at <a href="http://breakingthespine.blogspot.com/"><b>Breaking the Spine</b></a>.<br /><br /><b>This week I'm featuring <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/197509593-hybrid" target="_blank">Hybrid (The Hybrid Series #2) by Candace Kade</a> releasing March 5.</b><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKGiHc8jPZJRBrHqFGNf_PvFCOQ6ZybW-9l2nztS9Hezx7NQ_TWkNKtoeO6lPVak_tB1fKoh8oqhwz3BvydlTHngp8hqgX-j4mONCm5JRJbs0qsDBwk1r4TU1682Z7tTTKCoHB85aFv6Q1a6Isd7G7bJD7T6zt-5R8nFPx988H6wcFkb-VWecDqohLQ/s1500/Hybrid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1004" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiKGiHc8jPZJRBrHqFGNf_PvFCOQ6ZybW-9l2nztS9Hezx7NQ_TWkNKtoeO6lPVak_tB1fKoh8oqhwz3BvydlTHngp8hqgX-j4mONCm5JRJbs0qsDBwk1r4TU1682Z7tTTKCoHB85aFv6Q1a6Isd7G7bJD7T6zt-5R8nFPx988H6wcFkb-VWecDqohLQ/s320/Hybrid.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b></div><b>Lee Urban's search for truth could destroy everything.<br /></b><br />After narrowly surviving several attempts on her life, Lee Urban retreats into hiding, seeking refuge with her family for the Lunar New Year. But the relaxing holiday turns into a heist when someone crashes the party with intel on the hybrid’s identity.<br /><br />Driven by desperation, Urban accepts a position within the elite Dragons AI team, a high-stakes gamble that will propel her into the heart of the turbulent West. As she follows the elusive clues to the hybrid, the journey takes her closer to uncovering the truths about her own origins and the odd circumstances surrounding her adoption.<br /><br />Tensions between the Enhanced and Naturals grow increasingly violent, and the Western Federation teeters on the brink of civil war. Urban's choices threaten to tear her family apart, and the secrets she unearths just might shatter the delicate balance of society.<br /><br /><div><br /></div><div>What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?</div><div><br /></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-6457249332971152812024-02-15T23:00:00.041-06:002024-02-15T23:00:00.138-06:00Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Radiant (Color Theory #2) by Ashley Bustamante<b>Book Beginnings</b> is a weekly meme hosted by <a href="http://www.rosecityreader.com/"><b>Rose City Reader</b></a> that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at <a href="https://readingismysuperpower.org/"><b>Reading is My Superpower</b></a> for <b>First Line Friday</b>. <b>Friday 56</b> is hosted by <b><a href="http://www.fredasvoice.com/">Freda's Voice</a> </b>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. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at <b><a href="https://headfullofbooks.blogspot.com/">My Head is Full of Books</a> </b>has taken over until Freda returns.<br /><br /><b>This week I'm featuring <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63868668-radiant" target="_blank">Radiant (Color Theory #2) by Ashley Bustamante</a>.</b><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY_QlxxAaA2S7DuWO2P8BbCtflOYEVQ3PB3XJe4SZA4pxp2HPJZkr0Xg1_6RMClCtaHkWYODMA1czDAD-KtlHtUqL8-7HWmjIrQj520fraDeGahB-kJkYnwCfbjW6Hp1EsdH8fR7JXT81W38liKQinE8ttdFHxTbzgA3R12-XUN-qJR-5q1Bq_EZn2jg/s500/Radiant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="329" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY_QlxxAaA2S7DuWO2P8BbCtflOYEVQ3PB3XJe4SZA4pxp2HPJZkr0Xg1_6RMClCtaHkWYODMA1czDAD-KtlHtUqL8-7HWmjIrQj520fraDeGahB-kJkYnwCfbjW6Hp1EsdH8fR7JXT81W38liKQinE8ttdFHxTbzgA3R12-XUN-qJR-5q1Bq_EZn2jg/s320/Radiant.jpg" width="211" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b></div><b>Secrets Come in Every Shade<br /></b><br />After the introduction of Yellow magic in a society accustomed to only Red and Blue magic, the world inside the barrier has become more complicated than anyone imagined. Ava, Elm, and the former students of Prism navigate life in hiding. They face discord, secrets, betrayal, and danger that looms ever closer as the Benefactors narrow in on their hideaway.<br /><br />Ava is determined to keep everyone protected, even at the cost of her own safety. She explores dangerous aspects of her new Mentalist abilities—against Elm’s dire warnings.<br /><br />Tensions escalate when a new visitor arrives claiming to know a way out of the barrier. While this may be the only way to escape the Benefactors, what awaits them on the outside? Will they gain allies or make an entirely new set of enemies?<div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>Book Beginnings / First Line Friday</u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><blockquote>"They're like locusts, aren't they?"</blockquote></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u style="font-weight: bold;">Friday 56</u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><blockquote>We all exchange uneasy looks. I don't think any of us are ready yet to relive our experience for an audience.</blockquote></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">What have you been reading lately?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-47609573029836720812024-02-15T00:00:00.027-06:002024-02-15T00:00:00.152-06:00Review: Rocky Road (Sons of Scandal #2) by Becky Wade<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4G5pOmsU2QnxrjY7Fsxs53VG_YkVb2LbKDrkIsIDDkyQUIHN0t_aJU5_klCNSQIWgmIl4rPeJrM0PXcaqnZ0dR6PvtUCvefW-Tkl0YfgOEGLKv4AKAdi6iMubg22BHZsAph__DJr7GDA_hMTIthyphenhyphenQKLBnRKPvRIwRN4kFv4WqQTMOzqp7CN7CCQp_QQ/s1500/Rocky%20Road.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="967" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4G5pOmsU2QnxrjY7Fsxs53VG_YkVb2LbKDrkIsIDDkyQUIHN0t_aJU5_klCNSQIWgmIl4rPeJrM0PXcaqnZ0dR6PvtUCvefW-Tkl0YfgOEGLKv4AKAdi6iMubg22BHZsAph__DJr7GDA_hMTIthyphenhyphenQKLBnRKPvRIwRN4kFv4WqQTMOzqp7CN7CCQp_QQ/s320/Rocky%20Road.jpg" width="206" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b><div><b>Christy Award Hall of Fame Author<br /></b><br />FBI Agent Jude Camden handles every aspect of his job with by-the-book professionalism. There's no reason why his latest assignment—which calls for him to pose as the boyfriend of perfumer Gemma Clare—should be any different.<br /><br />Except <i>Gemma</i> is different. She's creative, bold, and feisty. And as soon as she meets Jude, she wants to loosen him up, wrinkle his perfect shirts, and test every ounce of his towering self-control.<br /><br />The FBI has an iron-clad rule against romances between those working together on operations. Jude's never met a rule he didn't respect. But adhering to this one is going to be tough because, as time goes by, he finds Gemma more and more irresistible.<br /><br />Buckle up! It's going to be a rocky road.<br /><b><br />Escape to Maine for this swoon-worthy "fake romance"! Banter, humor, perfume, and a mystery from the past intertwine in this sweet Sons of Scandal love story.</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0CH1WJN57" target="_blank">Amazon</a> / <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/198335268-rocky-road" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>MY THOUGHTS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>What a great fake dating romance! This was one of my most anticipated releases of the year. I adored the first book, and this sequel did not disappoint. It features wonderful characters, strong family dynamics, lots of laughs, some serious moments, suspense, mystery, and so much more! I enjoyed it so much! <br /><br />I loved Jude. He’s a serious, no-nonsense, rule-following kind of guy who has a heart of gold. He’s the grumpy to Gemma’s sunshine. Their first meeting was a hilarious misunderstanding that had me literally laughing out loud. I liked Gemma instantly. She had a joyfulness about her that was contagious. Even when things were tough, she kept a level head, which I admired. I really enjoyed getting to know her family. I especially loved, and was completely invested in, the mystery surrounding her great-grandmother. <br /><br />I had such a great time reading this book and am very much looking forward to the next in the series. This could technically be read as a stand-alone, but I’d still recommend starting with book one. <br /><br />I received a copy of this book via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion. <div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>FOUR STARS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-42921264523133756132024-02-13T23:00:00.027-06:002024-02-13T23:00:00.148-06:00Can't Wait Wednesday: Writer on the Wall: A Suddenly Sadie Adventure by Joanne Bischof<b>Can't Wait Wednesday </b>is a weekly meme hosted by <a href="http://www.wishfulendings.com/"><b>Wishful Endings</b></a> 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 <b>Waiting on Wednesday</b>, hosted by Jill at <a href="http://breakingthespine.blogspot.com/"><b>Breaking the Spine</b></a>.<br /><br /><b>This week I'm featuring <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/201915177-writer-on-the-wall" target="_blank">Writer on the Wall: A Suddenly Sadie Adventure by Joanne Bischof</a> releasing February 20.</b><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjocvwUo86lxT8qNxysa0Jt02WSBMRPiYVG9DXOdhE5WFwx5CZy7Z7AaOjnLVcJJSjctCJgIWdWZb5AV1RYmkhDGQeQwLUN3Wm-vsSpVm2P9g-P_JagPSvD8BCAMmhqAvCwvHxMmI25srySaKBKNYKbKxuH6e8Y-7AwmdKZVnAwZW9W3eyZv89u5VEsDA/s1500/Writer%20on%20the%20Wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="938" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjocvwUo86lxT8qNxysa0Jt02WSBMRPiYVG9DXOdhE5WFwx5CZy7Z7AaOjnLVcJJSjctCJgIWdWZb5AV1RYmkhDGQeQwLUN3Wm-vsSpVm2P9g-P_JagPSvD8BCAMmhqAvCwvHxMmI25srySaKBKNYKbKxuH6e8Y-7AwmdKZVnAwZW9W3eyZv89u5VEsDA/s320/Writer%20on%20the%20Wall.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b></div><b>An uplifting series for women who come for the friendships and stay for the views.</b><br /><br />Ever since training for her first indoor rock climbing competition, writer and editor, Sadie McGillis has embraced a new love of the sport and the confidence of trying something new. And now that this Colorado book-lover is writing her first novel about these adventures on the wall, and in the single life—the pressure is on!<br /><br />So begins the second book in the Suddenly Sadie series, where a single woman continues her quest for joy. Along the way, she’ll discover new-found friends, unexpected challenges, a rugged and kind rock climbing instructor, and the faith to make sense of it all. A light-hearted inspirational read about overcoming our fears, and embracing the challenges God has placed before us. Both in life . . . and in the pages. A celebration of adventures for Christian single women, the Suddenly Sadie series is great for women of all ages and walks of life!<br /><br /><b>Don’t miss book #1 “Sadie on the Rocks” -- where hope is found at all new heights.</b><div><b><br /></b></div><div>What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?</div><div><br /></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2098604718495880703.post-993012680883926302024-02-13T00:00:00.021-06:002024-02-13T00:00:00.152-06:00Review: While the City Sleeps by Elizabeth Camden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioX-zFufZY1hyAVzlzaTNwn44Xrvz6uskSWv4Tj0OJoEp3D0QpA9i9AYbIFxe90_SwJa2T40c4OzdUYFd1f5Sq1zFtimStYmaKnro9KUQh5Y3HGomLGAzD2I0VZmxBOokZqJvpi1T_LCaOhSVB-BpK_Ky3KOoERPId-ZjnkGCtvtzRWVCKQp4CDlttEQ/s1500/While%20the%20City%20Sleeps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="971" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioX-zFufZY1hyAVzlzaTNwn44Xrvz6uskSWv4Tj0OJoEp3D0QpA9i9AYbIFxe90_SwJa2T40c4OzdUYFd1f5Sq1zFtimStYmaKnro9KUQh5Y3HGomLGAzD2I0VZmxBOokZqJvpi1T_LCaOhSVB-BpK_Ky3KOoERPId-ZjnkGCtvtzRWVCKQp4CDlttEQ/s320/While%20the%20City%20Sleeps.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><b><u>About the Book</u></b><div><b>Amid the hushed city, two hearts must navigate danger and deception, bound by a love that outshines the stars.<br /></b><br />Katherine Schneider's life as a dentist in 1913 New York is upended when a patient reveals details of a deadly plot while under the influence of laughing gas. As she is plunged into danger, she seeks help from the dashing Lieutenant Jonathan Birch, a police officer she has long admired from afar.<br /><br />Jonathan has harbored powerful feelings toward Katherine for years but never acted on them, knowing his dark history is something she could never abide. Now, with her safety on the line, he works alongside her through the nights as they unravel the criminal conspiracy that threatens her . . . even as he keeps his deepest secrets hidden at all costs.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C9RNNHT6" target="_blank">Amazon</a> / <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/182094843-while-the-city-sleeps" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>MY THOUGHTS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>I never would’ve thought that a book featuring a dentist would end up being one of the best I’ve read in recent memory, but “While the City Sleeps” was absolutely fantastic! It was another informative and highly entertaining historical romance from Elizabeth Camden.<br /> <br />I liked Jonathan and Katherine instantly. Katherine was a sweet and humble dentist. It was interesting to get a peek inside the life of a lady dentist in 1913. I also thought it was cool that Katherine wrote a monthly newspaper article that highlighted and celebrated fellow New Yorkers who kept the city running “while the city sleeps." Jonathan was a bit of a mystery at the beginning. He was polite yet kinda standoffish, and very private about his personal life. He had secrets, and I was so eager to find them out!<br /> <br />I was completely invested in the mystery. It was intriguing and dangerous, and it kept me turning the pages as fast as I could.<br /> <br />I didn’t want this story to end! It was so good! If you’re a fan of historical romances that feature an intriguing mystery, you’ll love this book! I highly, highly recommend it!<br /> <br />I received a copy of this book via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion. <br /> <br /><i>Favorite Quote</i>: "Don't ever doubt in the darkness what is true in the light. If God is good and trustworthy in the easy times, you need to trust him during the dark nights of the soul as well."<div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>FIVE STARS</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><br /></b></div>Ashley Sapphttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14398599355275934867noreply@blogger.com4