Can't Wait Wednesday: The London Restoration by Rachel McMillan

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

This week I'm featuring The London Restoration by Rachel McMillan releasing August 18.

About the Book

From author Rachel McMillan comes a richly researched historical romance that takes place in post-World War II London and features a strong female lead.

Determined to save their marriage and the city they love, two people divided by World War II’s secrets rebuild their lives, their love, and their world.

London, Fall 1945. Architectural historian Diana Somerville’s experience as a codebreaker at Bletchley Park and her knowledge of London’s churches intersect in MI6’s pursuit of a Russian agent named Eternity. Diana wants nothing more than to begin again with her husband Brent after their separation during the war, but her signing of the Official Secrets Act keeps him at a distance.

Brent Somerville, professor of theology at King’s College, hopes aiding his wife with her church consultations will help him better understand why she disappeared when he needed her most. But he must find a way to reconcile his traumatic experiences as a stretcher bearer on the European front with her obvious lies about her wartime activities and whereabouts.

Featuring a timeless love story bolstered by flashbacks and the excavation of a priceless Roman artifact, The London Restoration is a richly atmospheric look at post-war London as two people changed by war rebuild amidst the city’s reconstruction. 

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Review: The Heart of Mercy by Tanya Eavenson

About the Book
To one, hope is a gift. To the other, a lie. To both, it's what binds them.

Mercy Cunningham runs a homeless shelter and soup kitchen in Atlanta. Dismissive of her noble work among the destitute, her father continually pesters her to work for his Fortune-500 corporation. A bedraggled stranger visits the soup kitchen and catches Mercy’s attention. Not because of the piercing gaze almost hidden behind his facial hair, but because something seems off about him.

Noah Allen is not the pastor, or even the man, he once was. The single-blow death of his wife and child made sure of that, as did a raging opioid addiction. Blaming himself for their deaths, he wanders the country without a destination and without a desire to find one.

Then, Mercy finds him.

Amazon / Goodreads 

My Thoughts

This was another great story from author Tanya Eavenson. I always look forward to new reads from her with great anticipation and this one did not disappoint.

The characters were endearing and realistic. Mercy was instantly likable. She's got a heart of gold who, despite objections from her father, is following the Lord's calling by working at a soup kitchen and helping homeless people get back on their feet again. Noah's faced so many hardships and been through so much. The pain was almost unbearable. I was really rooting for him.

The Heart of Mercy was a moving story full of hope, mercy, second chances, and finding peace in the Lord's everlasting love.

I received a copy of this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

Five Stars

Review: The Raven (Coffey & Hill #2) by Mike Nappa

About the Book

"A thrill ride into the stark territory between grace and the letter of the law."--Tosca Lee, New York Times bestselling author

As part of his regular street performance, a deception specialist who goes by the name The Raven picks his audience's pockets while they watch. It's harmless fun--until he decides to keep the spare wallet a city councilman doesn't seem to miss, hoping for a few extra bucks. When he finds not money but compromising photos of the councilman and his "personal assistants," The Raven hatches a plan to blackmail the man. However, he quickly finds himself in over his head with the Ukrainian Mafia and mired in a life-threatening plot code-named, "Nevermore."

Private investigators Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill must scramble to sort out the clues--and their complicated feelings for each other--to rescue The Raven and save hundreds of lives from a wildcard bent on revenge.

Mike Nappa snags readers from the first page of this fast-paced thriller--and he never lets go until the end.

Amazon / Goodreads 

My Thoughts

I didn't plan on rereading The Raven. I was going to read something else after I finished my reread of Annabel Lee, but I couldn't resist. I wanted more of Coffey and Hill, more of that non-stop, heart-pounding suspense. And I loved it. It was just as great as I remembered. Not quite as good as Annabel Lee, but I'm not sure any thriller will ever be able to top that one for me. The new characters were great. The Raven and Mama Bliss were so memorable, multi-dimensional, and realistic. There were so many twist and turns. Most I remembered, but there were a few that slipped my mind and surprised me all over again.

I thought I'd go ahead and share my original review for The Raven because I still feel the same.

I've been super excited to read The Raven from the moment I finished Annabel Lee and, I've gotta say, it did not disappoint!

Some books have a way of transporting you and The Raven is exactly that kind of book! Quite a few times, I could've sworn I was in Atlanta, but then I'd hear a noise that didn't belong, look up and realize that no... I was not actually in Atlanta, but still in my room.

Mike Nappa has a way of creating such interesting, realistic, and three dimensional characters that seem to jump off the page!

The Raven was a superb suspense novel that I highly recommend! I can't wait for book three!

Five Stars

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: The White Rose Resists by Amanda Barratt

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

This week I'm featuring The White Rose Resists by Amanda Barratt, a powerful and inspiring must read book that's based on a true story.

About the Book

Inspired by the incredible true story of a group of ordinary men and women who dared to stand against evil

The ideal of a new Germany swept up Sophie Scholl in a maelstrom of patriotic fervor--that is, until she realized the truth behind Hitler's machinations for the fatherland. Now she and other students in Munich, the cradle of the Nazi government, have banded together to form a group to fight for the truth: the White Rose. Risking everything to print and distribute leaflets calling for Germans to rise up against the evil permeating their country, the White Rose treads a knife's edge of discovery by the Gestapo.

Annalise Brandt came to the University of Munich to study art, not get involved with conspiracy. The daughter of an SS officer, she's been brought up to believe in the Führer's divinely appointed leadership. But the more she comes to know Sophie and her friends, the more she questions the Nazi propaganda.

Soon Annalise joins their double life--students by day, resisters by night. And as the stakes increase, they're all forced to confront the deadly consequences meted out to any who dare to oppose the Reich.

A gripping testament to courage, The White Rose Resists illuminates the sacrifice and conviction of an unlikely group of revolutionaries who refused to remain silent-no matter the cost.

Book Beginnings

My future is waiting, a spark in the distance burning steadily brighter as the train approaches the city.

Friday 56

What is the measure of my life if I stand by and do nothing? Does the blood of Jews stain my hands any less because mine did not pull the trigger? How can I go on, day after ceaseless day, occupied with study, friends, concerts, lectures?

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Annabel Lee (Coffey & Hill #1) by Mike Nappa

About the Book

Fourteen miles east of Peachtree, Alabama, a secret is hidden. That secret's name is Annabel Lee Truckson, and even she doesn't know why her mysterious uncle has stowed her deep underground in a military-style bunker. He's left her with a few German words, a barely-controlled guard dog, and a single command: "Don't open that door for anybody, you got it? Not even me."

Above ground, a former Army sniper called The Mute and an enigmatic "Dr. Smith" know about the girl. As the race begins to find her, the tension builds. Who wants to set her free? Why does the other want to keep her captive forever? Who will reach her first?

Private investigators Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill need to piece together the clues and stay alive long enough to retrieve the girl--before it's too late.

Amazon / Goodreads 

My Thoughts

I read Annabel Lee years ago and loved it. I remember it being one of my favorite books of that year. With the release of the long-awaited third book in this series, I thought I'd revisit Annabel Lee. It was just as good as I remembered.

Here's my review from my first readthrough: 

Annabel Lee is an edge of your seat suspense that consumed all of my attention. Time passed super fast while I was reading it and I had a hard time putting it down when 'real life' interfered.

I've got to say that Annabel and the Mute are two of the best (and quite possibly favorite) characters I've read about in a while.

I was sad to see this novel end, but am VERY much looking forward to the next Coffey & Hill suspense, The Raven! 

Yep, I still feel all those things. Annabel and the Mute are hands down some of my favorite characters ever. They're so likable and unforgettable. From the very first line of the book, I knew there was no other character quite like Annabel. She has a very unique “voice” and I loved seeing things from her perspective. It was so great revisiting her and all the rest of the characters.

I can't recommend this book highly enough. It's pretty much a perfect suspense. Even though I knew how it all ended this time around, I was still racing through the pages and my anxiety was still through the roof. I began to wonder if I actually did remember it correctly, after all, because, my goodness, there's some dicey moments! Be prepared for an epic book hangover when you finish. I had planned to read something different next, but there's no way I can leave this world. And now, off to The Raven I go! 

Five Stars

Can't Wait Wednesday: Acceptable Risk (Danger Never Sleeps #2) by Lynette Eason

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

This week I'm featuring Acceptable Risk (Danger Never Sleeps #2) by Lynette Eason releasing August 4.

About the Book

Sarah Denning is a military journalist with the Army in the Middle East when her convoy is attacked and she's taken hostage. When former Army Ranger Gavin Black is asked by his old unit commander--Sarah's imposing father--to plan an extremely risky rescue, he reluctantly agrees and successfully executes it.

Back in the US, Sarah is livid when she's discharged on a false psychiatric evaluation and vows to return to the Army. Until she learns of her brother's suicide. Unable to believe her brother would do such a thing, she puts her plans on hold and enlists Gavin to help her discover the truth. What they uncover may be the biggest story of Sarah's career--if she can survive long enough to write it.

Strap in for another breakneck nail-biter from bestselling romantic suspense author Lynette Eason that will have you up turning pages long into the night.

Why I Need It

I love Lynette Eason's books. They're always fast paced and hard to put down. This one sounds like another great one. I'm very curious about what really happened to Sarah's brother.

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Review: The Immortal Conquistador by Carrie Vaughn

About the Book
From the author of the beloved Kitty Norville werewolf talk-show host series, the last full tale in the series: the vampire origins of Kitty’s famed ally, Rick—and his sudden turn to darkness in the seventeenth century. More than 500 years before his friendship with Kitty, noble Ricardo de Avila met a fate-changing twist, where his morally-complex, blood-soaked existence as an immortal began.

Before being turned, Ricardo de Avila would have followed Coronado to the ends of the earth. Instead Ricardo met with the end of his mortal life—and a new one, as the renegade vampire, Rick.

For over five hundred years, Rick has infuriated the demon world. He has ferociously protected his found-family from marauding vampires, joined forces with a legendary gunslinger, appointed himself the Master of Denver, and called upon a church buried under the Vatican.

The life of a vampire is frequently long, but for Rick, it is never easy.

Now, whether you are new to Vaughn’s fan-favorite novels, or a longtime reader, you’ll be riveted by the final full-length tale of the series.

About the Kitty Norville series:

Carrie Vaughn’s series, about a werewolf who hosts a talk radio advice show for the supernaturally disadvantaged, began with Kitty and the Midnight Hour. The series will end with the The Immortal Conquistador, and the forthcoming collection Kitty’s Mix-Tape. 

Amazon / Goodreads 

My Thoughts

The Immortal Conquistador is a collection of four novellas set in the Kitty Norville universe that follows vampire Rick. It was an absolutely fascinating read. Rick was always one of my favorite characters in the series, so I was ecstatic to learn more about him and his past. I liked him even more after finishing this.

Rick is a vampire who never wanted to be one. After he was turned against his will, he strove to be better than those that made him. He did his best to control the monster that he had become. He was afraid he lost his soul, afraid that he lost his connection to God forever when he became a vampire. So he was constantly searching, looking for answers, never giving up hope. He kept fighting for his soul.

These four stories take the reader on Rick's journey from when he first became a vampire to finding the answers he was searching for. It's a must read for fans of Kitty Norville, but even if you haven't read the series yet, this book stands alone just fine. 

Five Stars

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Annabel Lee (Coffey & Hill #1) by Mike Nappa

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

This week I'm featuring Annabel Lee (Coffey & Hill #1) by Mike Nappa. This is a reread for me. The long-awaitied third book in the series is finally out and I wanted to refresh my memory before diving into it. 

About the Book

Fourteen miles east of Peachtree, Alabama, a secret is hidden. That secret's name is Annabel Lee Truckson, and even she doesn't know why her mysterious uncle has stowed her deep underground in a military-style bunker. He's left her with a few German words, a barely-controlled guard dog, and a single command: "Don't open that door for anybody, you got it? Not even me."

Above ground, a former Army sniper called The Mute and an enigmatic "Dr. Smith" know about the girl. As the race begins to find her, the tension builds. Who wants to set her free? Why does the other want to keep her captive forever? Who will reach her first?

Private investigators Trudi Coffey and Samuel Hill need to piece together the clues and stay alive long enough to retrieve the girl--before it's too late.

Book Beginning

Uncle Truck keeps a German shepherd on his farm that'll eat human fingers if you feed 'em to it just right.

I know this because I have seen that dog. And I have seen them fingers.

Friday 56

Trudi smiled inside. She had to admit that she missed this, missed the daily give-and-take of having Samuel as her partner in an investigation. He was a good thinker, and someone with natural initiative. Then her mind wandered to his faults, reminding her of his, um, other entanglements in the Middle Eastern world. She felt suddenly tired again. And just a little bitter.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Between Walls (The City Between #6) by W.R. Gingell

About the Book

Don’t get too close to humans.

That’s rule number one. Well, it is if you’re an emotionally constipated fae lord. As far as I’m concerned, the vampire could do a better job of keeping his distance, but he’s never been that good at following the rules.

G’day. I’m Pet. Schrödinger’s Pet, these days; depends who’s asking.

I’m human, but when you hang around with enough Behindkind, it starts getting dangerous for the other humans around you. Humans like my friend Morgana. I tried to stay away, but now she needs my help and don’t get too close to humans isn’t exactly gunna cut it anymore.

I’ve got the feeling I’m about to find out why it’s such a bad idea.

Amazon / Goodreads 

My Thoughts

This book left me speechless. I don't even know where or how to begin. There's so many things I could mention, but they'd be massive spoilers and so I won't do that. But oh my gosh, we get some answers to some long held questions. And wow, did they blow my mind or what!

There was a ton of humor, as usual. I laughed so hard, so many times, especially about the tie. Just trust me, it's absolutely hilarious. I'm laughing again now just thinking about it. It wasn't all fun and games, though. There were serious moments, twists I didn't see coming, and some shocking revelations.

Despite a slow start, Between Walls ended up being a fantastic read. If you're a fan of urban fantasy, check this series out. Start with book one and you'll be hooked!

Four Stars

Wondering Wednesdays #4

In addition to my usual Can't Wait Wednesday post today, I'm also participating in a new weekly meme, Wondering Wednesdays hosted by A Baker's Perspective. This is a fun way to get to know fellow bloggers by answering different questions.

This week's question is: Who was your favorite musician or band when you were a teenager?

My taste in music was all over the place. Still is, lol. I was a massive Backstreet Boys fan. Loved 98 Degrees, Britney Spears, and Christina Aguilera, too. (Boo, NSYNC 😉) But I also really enjoyed rock music. Sevendust was, and still is, my absolute favorite. Disturbed, Godsmack, and The Red Hot Chili Peppers were faves, too. 

Who were your favorites?

Can't Wait Wednesday: Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes

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

This week I'm featuring Set the Stars Alight by Amanda Dykes releasing June 30.

About the Book

Lucy Clairmont's family treasured the magic of the past, and her childhood fascination with stories of the high seas led her to become a marine archaeologist. But when tragedy strikes, it's Dashel, an American forensic astronomer, and his knowledge of the stars that may help her unearth the truth behind the puzzle she's discovered in her family home.

Two hundred years earlier, the seeds of love are sown between a boy and a girl who spend their days playing in a secret sea cave, while the privileged young son of the estate looks on, wishing to join. As the children grow and war leads to unthinkable heartbreak, a story of love, betrayal, sacrifice, and redemption unfolds, held secret by the passage of time.

As Lucy and Dash journey to a mysterious old estate on the East Sussex coast, their search leads them to a community of souls and a long-hidden tale that may hold the answers--and the healing--they so desperately seek.

Why I Need It

I was a huge fan of this author's first novel, Whose Waves These Are, and have been so impatient for her next one. These characters sound really interesting. I've never read about a forensic astronomer before, so that'll be fascinating to learn about. Plus, it's a dual timeline and I always love those.

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Review: The Case of the Beleaguered Bride by Debra E. Marvin

About the Book

Can’t Heather go anywhere without being caught up in a murder investigation?

After enduring an unexpected test to her sleuthing skills in Edinburgh, American Heather Munro looks forward to attending a restful family wedding in County Cork, Ireland. But delight turns to dilemma when the bride’s ex-fiancé shows up pleading for a second chance…then dies under mysterious circumstances.

Heather’s travel itinerary didn’t include snooping through family secrets or being caught up in international politics, but she can’t stand by when a rush to judgment points the blame at an innocent man and derails the upcoming nuptials. An outsider in the stunning harbor town of Cobh, Heather’s determined search for answers is thwarted at every turn. But Heather has never been one to give up, and she’ll do all she can to get the wedding back on track and the murderer behind bars before he or she strikes again. Even at the risk of her own life.

Inspired by the famous Girl Detective, the members of the Olentangy Heights Girls' Detective Society, affectionately known as the Nosy Parkers, spent their formative years studying criminology, codes, and capers. Opportunities to practice their unique skills were thin in their little corner of post-war suburbia, so they eventually grew up to pursue more sensible careers. Yet mysteries seem to follow them wherever they go.

Amazon / Goodreads 

My Thoughts

What a great historical cozy! I had a blast reading it.

I loved the setting. It was almost like I was actually there in County Cork Ireland. The descriptions were so vivid and painted such a lovely picture in my mind.

The mystery was a good one. There were twists and turns and plenty of suspects, all of whom, at one time or another, I guessed was the guilty party.

This fast-paced read is sure to delight cozy mystery and historical fans alike.

I received a copy of this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

Four Stars

Book Beginnings + Friday 56:Between Walls (The City Between #6) by W.R. Gingell

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

This week I'm featuring Between Walls (The City Between #6) by W.R. Gingell.

About the Book

Don’t get too close to humans.

That’s rule number one. Well, it is if you’re an emotionally constipated fae lord. As far as I’m concerned, the vampire could do a better job of keeping his distance, but he’s never been that good at following the rules.

G’day. I’m Pet. Schrödinger’s Pet, these days; depends who’s asking.

I’m human, but when you hang around with enough Behindkind, it starts getting dangerous for the other humans around you. Humans like my friend Morgana. I tried to stay away, but now she needs my help and don’t get too close to humans isn’t exactly gunna cut it anymore.

I’ve got the feeling I’m about to find out why it’s such a bad idea.

Book Beginning

Change is a funny thing. Sometimes it creeps up on you like someone's flamin' pong of a cologne, overtaking the room in miniscule, unseen increments until it's in your lungs and hair and clothes, tinging the air in the room with a faint blue cast.

Friday 56

Maybe the idea of meeting the murderer out on the street left me more uneasy than I thought, because when I left Morgana's room I could have sworn a dark shadow flitted up the hall from the direction of the stairs heading for the roof.

Hosted by Billy @ Coffee Addicted Writer

How do you keep track of books you will be reviewing or reading? 

I have a notepad where I write down the books I receive for review. I make sure to include the release date and other important information. I keep it on my desk in plain sight so I'll see it everyday and won't forget about them. And then I cross them off the list once I'm finished and I've got my review up and everything. 

Goodreads also really helps me keep track of all of my books. I have pretty detailed shelves so it's easy to find books in certain genres when I'm in the mood for them.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Storing Up Trouble by Jen Turano

About the Book

When Miss Beatrix Waterbury's Chicago-bound train ride is interrupted by a heist, Mr. Norman Nesbit, a man of science who believes his research was the target of the heist, comes to her aid. Despite the fact that they immediately butt heads, they join forces to make a quick escape.

Upon her arrival in Chicago, Beatrix is surprised to discover her supposedly querulous Aunt Gladys shares her own suffragette passions. Encouraged by Gladys to leave her sheltered world, Beatrix begins working as a salesclerk at the Marshall Field and Company department store. When she again encounters Norman on a shopping expedition, he is quickly swept up in the havoc she always seems to attract.

But when another attempt is made to part Norman from his research papers, and it becomes clear Beatrix's safety is also at risk, they soon discover the curious way feelings can grow between two very different people in the midst of chaos.

Amazon / Goodreads 

My Thoughts

There's not much that lifts my spirits and puts a big smile on my face quite like a Jen Turano book. With everything going on in the world, and with my anxiety so high, this was a great read to escape into. I laughed so much. There's so many hilarious mishaps and shenanigans. It's zany, outrageous, and an absolute delight. 

I loved the characters. From Beatrix to Norman, Theo, Aunt Gladys, and Edgar, and so many more, the cast of characters were a bunch of wonderfully quirky and likable personalities that jumped right off the page.

If you're in need of a good laugh, you'll love this humorous escape back to the Gilded Age.

Four Stars

Wondering Wednesdays #3

In addition to my usual Can't Wait Wednesday post today, I'm also participating in a new weekly meme, Wondering Wednesdays hosted by A Baker's Perspective. This is a fun way to get to know fellow bloggers by answering different questions.

This week's question is: What TV show would you binge watch right now?

It's so hard to narrow it down. I'm always in the mood to binge watch Boy Meets World. That was my favorite show when I was growing up and it's so much fun to revisit it.

I've been wanting to rewatch Lost for awhile now. I loved that show, but it was a little confusing at times. I'm curious if it'd make more sense if I binged the whole thing. 

I've also been wanting to rewatch Monk. I've always felt a sorta kinship with Mr. Monk and his germophobic ways, but I'm feeling it even more now since this virus popped up. You don't even want to know how obsessive I've become with trying to sanitize everything. It's ridiculous, lol. 

What about you? What show would you binge watch?

Can't Wait Wednesday: Molly: A Sweet Romantic Comedy (Sewing in SoCal #1) by Sarah Monzon

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

This week I'm featuring Molly: A Sweet Romantic Comedy (Sewing in SoCal #1) by Sarah Monzon releasing July 2.

About the Book

If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that I absolutely refuse to tell a lie no matter the consequences. So don’t ask me a direct question unless you’re prepared for a direct answer—that’s something my SoCal sewing girlfriends have learned the hard way.
But who would have thought my honesty policy would get me fired from my job at the preschool? Or that a desperate—and not to mention devastatingly handsome—single father of one of my (now-former) students would hire me that same day as a nanny for his daughter?

I’m an education professional. How hard can taking care of a four-year-old and her over-stressed, over-worked father be?

Why I Need It

This sounds like a book that'll be full of laughs and that's just the type of read I need. 

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Review: Milkshake Up (Crime à la Mode #2) by Christy Barritt

About the Book

When ice cream lady Serena Lavinia’s best customer doesn’t show up to buy his daily treats, she has no choice but to find out if he’s okay.

She didn’t expect to find him lying dead amid the wrappers of her wares.

As an investigation begins and all the evidence points to Serena, she has no choice but to clear her name. With the help of her trusty dog Scoops and her new frenemy Webster Newsome, she’s determined to find the bad guy before her life gets the ultimate shake up and she spends the rest of her days behind bars . . . and not of the frozen indulgence variety.

Amazon / Goodreads 

My Thoughts

Milkshake Up is the second installment in Christy Barritt's fun new Crime a la Mode mystery series. It's a quick and refreshing read that I finished in an afternoon.

Serena's such an entertaining character to read about. She's quirky, full of spunk, and definitely keeps things lively. This time around, she finds one of her best customers murdered and becomes the primary suspect when all the evidence points to her being the killer. To prove her innocence, and with the help of her friends and her loyal dog Scoops, she sets out to solve this mystery and clear her name.

The mystery was great and had me stumped. I had no clue who could've done it and was quite shocked when the reveal came. I'm excited for book three to see what kind of mischief Serena finds herself in next time. 

Four Stars

Book Beginnings + Friday 56: Storing Up Trouble by Jen Turano

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

This week I'm featuring the always hilarious Jen Turano's newest release, Storing Up Trouble.

About the Book

When Miss Beatrix Waterbury's Chicago-bound train ride is interrupted by a heist, Mr. Norman Nesbit, a man of science who believes his research was the target of the heist, comes to her aid. Despite the fact that they immediately butt heads, they join forces to make a quick escape.

Upon her arrival in Chicago, Beatrix is surprised to discover her supposedly querulous Aunt Gladys shares her own suffragette passions. Encouraged by Gladys to leave her sheltered world, Beatrix begins working as a salesclerk at the Marshall Field and Company department store. When she again encounters Norman on a shopping expedition, he is quickly swept up in the havoc she always seems to attract.

But when another attempt is made to part Norman from his research papers, and it becomes clear Beatrix's safety is also at risk, they soon discover the curious way feelings can grow between two very different people in the midst of chaos.

Book Beginning

The truth of the matter was this - she, Miss Beatrix Waterbury, had been banished from New York, and all because she'd had the great misfortune of landing herself in jail...twice.

Friday 56

"I lost my traveling companion, Miss Munn, before I even got out of New York, and then acquired the company of Mr. Nesbit when we ran afoul of some train robbers."

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Synapse by Steven James

About the Book

Thirty years in the future, when AI is so advanced that humans live side by side with cognizant robots called Artificials, Kestrel Hathaway must come to terms not just with what machines know, but with what they believe.

Soon after experiencing a personal tragedy, Kestrel witnesses a terrorist attack and is drawn into a world of conspiracies and lies that she and Jordan, her Artificial, have to untangle. With a second, more brutal attack looming on the horizon, their best chance of stopping it is teaming up with federal counterterrorism agent Nick Vernon. But the clock is ticking—and all the while, Jordan is asking questions Artificials were never meant to ask.

Deftly weaving suspense and intrigue into a rich, resonant tale that explores faith and what it really means to be human, Steven James offers us a glimpse into the future—and into our own hearts.

Synapse is an unforgettable, gripping story of dreams shattered, truth revealed, and hope reborn.

Amazon / Goodreads 

My Thoughts

Synapse was a thought-provoking, multilayered, and infinitely compelling read. Action-packed and full of shocking twists, I couldn't read it fast enough. There came a point where I couldn't stop for anything. I had to know what was going to happen next.

A lot of really intriguing and deep questions were asked. It made me stop and think about things I'd never thought of before while making me see other things in a different light. Is this a glimpse into our future? It's not that far out of the realm of possibilities.

I'll definitely be thinking about this book for a long time to come. I hope it's the beginning of a new series because even though there is a satisfying conclusion, I'd love to visit this world and these characters again.

Five Stars

Can't Wait Wednesday: Rebel Spy by Veronica Rossi

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

This week I'm featuring Rebel Spy by Veronica Rossi releasing June 23.

About the Book

A reimagining of the story behind Agent 355--a New York society girl and spy for George Washington during the Revolutionary War--perfect for fans of Tatiana de Rosnay's Sarah's Key and the novels of Julie Berry.

Rebellious Frannie Tasker knows little about the war between England and its thirteen colonies in 1776, until a shipwreck off her home in Grand Bahama Island presents an unthinkable opportunity. The body of a young woman body floating in the sea gives Frannie the chance to escape her brutal stepfather--and she takes it.

Assuming the identity of the drowned Emmeline Coates, Frannie is rescued by a British merchant ship and sails with the crew to New York. For the next three years, Frannie lives a lie as Miss Coates, swept up in a courtship by a dashing British lieutenant. But after witnessing the darker side of the war, she realizes that her position gives her power. Soon she's eavesdropping on British officers, risking everything to pass information on to George Washington's Culper spy ring as agent 355. Frannie believes in the fight for American liberty--but what will it cost her? Inspired by the true "355" and rich in historical detail and intrigue, this is the story of an unlikely New York society girl turned an even unlikelier spy.

Why I Need It

I've always been fascinated with the Culper Ring, so this book automatically appealed to me for that reason. But another reason it did is because of Veronica Rossi. I've loved several of her books and am excited to check this new one out.

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Review: Serving Up Love: A Four-in-One Harvey House Brides Collection by Tracie Peterson, Karen Witemeyer, Regina Jennings, & Jen Turano

About the Book

Bestselling novelist Tracie Peterson joins Karen Witemeyer, Regina Jennings, and Jen Turano in this collection of four novellas, each featuring a Harvey Girl heroine. From Kansas to Texas, the Grand Canyon to New Mexico, the stories cross the country with tales of sweet romance and entertaining history.

In Karen Witemeyer's "More Than a Pretty Face," a young woman works her hardest to escape poor choices from her youth. Tracie Peterson offers "A Flood of Love," where reuniting with an old flame after more than a decade offers unexpected results. Regina Jennings's "Intrigue a la Mode" delights with a tale of a young woman determined to help support her family, despite warnings of danger nearby. And Jen Turano's "Grand Encounters" heads to the Grand Canyon with a tale of a society belle intent on finding a new life for herself.

Amazon / Goodreads

My Thoughts

Serving Up Love was a great collection of historical novellas. I loved learning about the Harvey Houses and Harvey Girls. I didn't know anything about them beforehand, so I found it all really interesting. If you're a fan of historical romance, I highly recommend checking out this sweet collection. 

A Flood of Love by Tracie Peterson was a story of second chance love between old flames Gretchen and Dirk who get a little help along the way from his rambunctious daughter Katiann. I loved this sweet story and can't believe it's my first time reading anything by Tracie Peterson. It flowed really well and was the perfect length. It didn't feel too short at all. I loved the characters and enjoyed getting to know some real history. (4.5 Stars)

More Than a Pretty Face by Karen Witemeyer was a novella of overcoming the past and embracing hope and the future God has planned. I had a hard time connecting with the characters in this one, but the story had a good message and, in the end, I liked it. (3 Stars)

Intrigue a la Mode by Regina Jennings was so much fun! I pretty much loved everything about it. The characters were wonderful, the mystery was intriguing, and I loved the undercover elements. It's my first book by this author and I'm really excited to check out some of her other books. This was a prequel to Jennings' new series and you can be sure that the first book is high on my wish list. (5 Stars)

Grand Encounters by Jen Turano was an entertaining and hilarious read that had me doubled over in laughter numerous times. I can always count on Turano's books to brighten my day and bring a smile to my face. This one did just that. It was pretty much perfection. (5 Stars)

Four Stars